From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell); O"Brien, James (McConnell) Bourbon/Scott County BUILD Thursday, July 19, 2018 4:13:00 PM Bourbon County BUILD 2018.pdf Hi Tonya, Please see the Leader’s support letter for Bourbon and Scott Counties’ BUILD grant application. We would appreciate it if you could confirm receipt. Thanks! Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000001 DOT_Am.Oversight-000001 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES : AGR ICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 - 1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION Jul y 18, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Ass ista nt Secretary for Governmental Affa irs U.S. Depar tme nt of Tra nsportat ion 1200 New Jersey Aven ue, SE Washington , DC 20590 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on be half of my const ituents in Bourbon and Scot t Counti es regard ing the ir compet itive grant app lication with the U.S. Department of Tran sportation 's (DO T) Fiscal Year 20 18 BUILD Discretion ary Gra nt Pro gram. My co nstitu en ts have inform ed me that if awarded, thi s fundin g wo uld he lp suppo rt motorist's safe ty along U.S. 460 to 1-75. Spec ifically, I am told funding wou ld support expand ing the wid th of the road which wi ll help provid e a quicker and safe r route for my con stituents trave ling from Par is to Georgetown, Kentu cky. Funding wi ll also imp rove freight mo ve ment and suppo rt ot her safe ty mod ificat ions to the road. As our nation continue s on a path of un sustainable debt , it is more impo rtant than eve r that we in Congress, and you in the Adm ini strat ion, wo rk to ensure every tax dollar is spe nt wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Bourbon and Scott Co unty ' s app lication, whic h I believe merit s your full and fair review. Thank yo u for you r attention to this matter. Sincere ly, ~~~ y ~,~ ~: CONNELL UNITED STAT ES SENATOR MM /jo FEDERAL BUILDING 241 EAST MAIi'/ STREET O~ 1885 DIXIE HIGHWAY SUITE 345 FORT WRIGHT, KY 41011 -s G H5f 78-0188 771 CORPORATEDRIVE SUITE 108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 (859) 224-8286 300 SOUTH MAIN SUITE 310 LONOON, KY 4074 1 (606) 864-2026 601 W EST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (502) 582 - 6304 100 FOUNTAIN AV ENUE SUITE 300 PAOUCAH, KY 42001 (270) 442-4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000002 DOT_Am.Oversight-000002 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) BUILD--City of Georgetown Letter of Support Monday, August 06, 2018 11:44:00 AM Grant letter, City of Georgetown .pdf Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached letter of support for the City of Georgetown. If you could confirm receipt, we would appreciate it,   Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000003 DOT_Am.Oversight-000003 MITCH McCONNELL MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY tO M MITTEES A GRICULT URE 317 R USSELL S ENA T E OFF IC E B U ILD IN G DC 205 10- 1702 1202) 224-2541 WA SHIN GTO N , APPROPRIAT ION S ~nih ~o ~±ates ~ettate RULES AND ADM INISTRATION August 2, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secreta ry for Governmenta l Affairs U.S. Departmen t of Transporta tion 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Wash ington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. McMaster : I write on behal f of my const ituents in the City of Georgetown , Kentucky, regarding their com petitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Trans portation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. My cons tituents inform me that if awarded, this funding will-among other th ings- support the extension of Lexus Way and improve Old Oxford Road in Georgetown, Kentucky. Specifically, I am told these improvements will increase roadway safety for cyclists and pedestrians , and allow for better roadway visibility. I am also told that these improvements will allow for more economic development opportunit ies for the City of Georgetown. As our nation continues on a path of unsusta inable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Admin istration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to the City of Georgetown's ap plicat ion, which I believe merits your full and fair review . Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincere ly, ~;-~~~ ~~~ NNEL L UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/jo FrDfRAt. BUILDING 24 1 EAST MAI N Srnst r ROOM 102 BOWLING GRUN, KY 42101 {'70) 781 1673 AMf HICAr\ 1885 DIXIE HIGIIWAY SUITl 345 FORT W R1G1 Cc: Richards, Max (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Paducah BUILD Letter of Support   Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well!  Please see attached for Senator McConnell’s letter of support for Paducah’s BUILD grant application.  If you would please confirm receipt and pass along to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.   Best,     Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000005 DOT_Am.Oversight-000005 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSE LL SENATE OFFICE 8UILOING WASH INGTON, DC 20510---1702 APPROPRIATIONS (202) 224--2541 RULES AND ADMINISTRATION Julyl7,20 18 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590-0001 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents with the City of Paducah (Paducah)-in coordination with the Paducah -McC racken County Riverport Authority (PMCRA)-regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. As you may know , Paducah, Kentucky-w hich lies at the confluence of the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers and is in close proximity to the Mississippi River-serves as the center of our country's vital inland waterways network. Moreover, the U.S . government designated the area a Foreign Trade Zone due in part to Paducah 's importance to the movement of goods in our country. In 20 17, the Paducah Riverport also received a "Marine Highway " designation from the U.S. Maritime Administration for its container on barge service along the M-55 and M-65 Marine Highway Corridors. I was proud to support both of these well-deserved designations , and today l write in support of Paducah's BUILD grant application. My constituents have informed me that if awarded, this funding would support Paducah' s "Riverfront to Riverport: Investing in Paducah's Maritime Hub" project. I am told the funding would facilitate the development of a now vacant space-known as Paducah Commons-on the riverfront to provide greater accessibility between Paducah 's downtown and the river to encourage economic development. As part of this project, funding would also support the construction of an excursion dock and steamboat landing on the river to address transportation needs and build on prior public-pri vate investments. Finally, I am told funding would support the development of nine acres of property for a container and general cargo trans-loading yard in an effort to further attract economic development-such as manufacturing and distribution centers-to Western Kentucky. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Paducah's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. FEDERAL 8UILOING 1885 01 X 1E HiGHWAY 771 CORPORATE DRIVE './41EAST SutTE 345 foR1 WR 1C1-1T,KY 41011 Sum 108 M ,\tN STRl!E RObu 102 5780 188 pveRS1G HT LEXINGTON, KY 40503 18591224-8 286 300 SOUTH MAIN Surrt 310 601 Wes, BROADWAY Su11c 630 LONOON, KY 40741 (606) 864 2026 LOU1SVILLE,KY 40202 (5021 582-6304 100 FouNTA1N AvENU£ SUITE 300 PADU(.A", KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000006 (2701442--4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000006 Page 2 July 17, 2018 Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely , ~d~t'---P - ? ~M cCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR -- MM/mr AMt::HICAr\ pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000007 DOT_Am.Oversight-000007 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell); O"Brien, James (McConnell) Hart County BUILD Letter of Support Thursday, July 19, 2018 4:15:05 PM Grant letter, Hart County .pdf Hi Tonya,   Please see the Leader’s letter of support for Hart County’s BUILD application.   We would appreciate it if you could confirm receipt. Thanks!   Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000008 DOT_Am.Oversight-000008 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES, AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 - 1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRA TION July 18, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affai rs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Hart Cou nty, regarding their competitive gran t app lication with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant P rogram. My constituents have informed me that if awarded , this funding would help improve safety, mobility and connectivity between 1-65 and U.S. 31 W. I am told that the intersection of th e industrial site in Horse Cave is prone to traffic congestion and is partial to potential crashes. Accordi ng to my constituents, address ing commercial and industrial traffic m ove ments will impro ve traffic in the area. As our nation co ntinue s on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you ·in the Admi nistration, wo rk to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Hart County's app lication, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~~,r:?..u ~~rc ;; ~c~ ONNELL UN ITED STATES SENATOR MM /jo FEDERAL BUILD ING 1885 DI XIE HI GHWAY 24 1 EAST M AIN STREET SUITE 345 G~tsE, YS DIGH T' ~~1 Tat4101 , 771 CORPORA TE DRIVE SUITE 108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 1859) 224- 8286 300 SOUTH MAIN SUITE 310 LONOON, KY 40741 1606) 864- 2026 601 W EST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE. KY 40202 (502) 582-6304 100 FOUNT A IN AV ENU E SUITE 300 PADUCAH. KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000009 (270) 442-455 4 DOT_Am.Oversight-000009 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Oldham County BUILD Letter of Support Monday, August 13, 2018 4:54:41 PM BUILD Grant - Oldham County.pdf Hi Tonya,   See the support letter for Oldham County’s BUILD application.   We would appreciate it if you could confirm receipt. Thanks!   Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000010 DOT_Am.Oversight-000010 MITCH McCON NELL M AJO RITY LEADER K-ENTUCK ' COMMITTEES AG RICU LT URE 317 RUSSE LL SE NAT E W AS HINGTON , OFFICEB U ILDING A PPROPRIATIO NS DC 20510- 1702 (202) 224-25 41 RULES A ND A DM INISTRA TION August 13, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 -0001 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Oldham County, Kentucky , regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. It is my understanding that, if awarded, this funding will be used to support a new interchange system on 1-71 by constructing four access ramps . I am told this project aims to improve safety, relieve congestion, and provide access to a planned business-campus development called Oldham Reserve . Increasing access to the interstate will enable more economic development in the region , which will be very beneficial to the community . As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress , and you in the Admin istration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Oldham County's app lication , which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. ~~t'w .... P-<---- MITCH McCONNELL UNIT ED STATES SENA TOR MM/sd FEDERAL BUI LDING 1885 D1x 11 H1f >HWAY 771 CU APORATE DRIVE 241 EA~T MA ROOM 102 Su m3 4 5 FOAT WAI GHT, KY 4 10 11 (859 ) 578--0188 SUITT 108 LO IN(, TON, KY 40503 ,i St Rll I BOWLING GAU:N , KY 4210 1 (270) 781 1673 AMf HICAr\ pVERSIGHT (8591224 8286 300 SOUTH M AIN SUITE 3 10 LONOON, KY 40741 (60 6) 86 4 2026 601 Wlsr B1<0AOWAY Sum 630 LUlllSV lllf , KY 40202 (502! 582 6304 100 FO UNTAIN AV£NUf Sum ; 300 PADUCAH. KY 42001 (2701442-4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000011 DOT_Am.Oversight-000011 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Letter of Support--Leitchfield BUILD Grant Wednesday, August 01, 2018 6:22:00 PM Thanks!!!! J   From: Richards, Max (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2018 6:16 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Letter of Support--Leitchfield BUILD Grant   Tonya,   Please see Senator McConnell’s letter of support for Leitchfield, Kentucky’s application for DOT’s Build Grant Program.   If you could please confirm receipt, we would appreciate it.   Thank you!   -Max    AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000012 DOT_Am.Oversight-000012 MITCH McCONNELL MAJOR ITY LEADER KENTU( KV COMMITTtES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE. Orne( BUILDING DC 20510 1702 (202) 224 2541 WASHINGlON, ~niteo APPROPRIATIONS ~tai.ef. ~.enat.e RULES AND ADMINISTRATION August I, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590-0001 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Leitchfield, Kentucky, regardin g their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 20 18 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. My constituents inform me that, if awarded, this funding will support the construction of safety improvemen ts to the William Thomason Byway Extension (KY 3155). Specifically, I am told improvements to this corridor will relieve congestion and improve access to a significant number of manufacturers and quarries west of Leitchfield, as well as Grayson County High School and Oran P. Lawler Elementary School. Moreover, I am told, these improvements will enhance traffic flow, improve highway access for trucks, and enhance system efficiency and connections. It is my understanding that this extension will allow vehicles west of Leitchfield to reach KY 259, while avoiding a congested downtown area. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administrat ion, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Leitchfield's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Sincerely, MM/mr 771 CORPORA 1 E DAIVE 300 S(!UTH MAIN Su11c 108 Sum 310 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864 2026 1869)224 -8286 601 WEST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUt5VtLLE, KY 40202 100 Fo, ... AtN AV(r.u, Suns 300 15021582-6304 12701442 4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000013 PADUCAH, KY 42001 DOT_Am.Oversight-000013 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) RE: Letter of Support--Owensboro Riverport Authority BUILD Grant Friday, July 20, 2018 12:25:19 PM Many thanks Tonya. We appreciate it,   Andrew M. Swafford Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) Sent: Friday, July 20, 2018 12:23 PM To: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Richards, Max (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Letter of Support--Owensboro Riverport Authority BUILD Grant   Hello Andrew – I’m acknowledging receipt!  Sorry for my delay.  L   v/r,   Tonya   Tonya Gross Senior Governmental Affairs Specialist U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary (202) 366-4563     From: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2018 12:37 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Richards, Max (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Letter of Support--Owensboro Riverport Authority BUILD Grant   Hi Tonya,   Please see the Leader’s letter of support for Owensboro Riverport Authority’s BUILD Grant.   If you could please confirm receipt, we would appreciate it,   Andrew M. Swafford AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000014 DOT_Am.Oversight-000014 Director of Projects and Counsel Office of Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building p: (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000015 DOT_Am.Oversight-000015 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Support Letter--Grayson County Build Grant Thursday, July 26, 2018 12:42:00 PM Confirming Receipt!!!  J   From: Richards, Max (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, July 26, 2018 11:10 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Support Letter--Grayson County Build Grant   Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letter from Senator McConnell addressing Grayson County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   -Max   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000016 DOT_Am.Oversight-000016 MITCH McCONNELL MA J ORITY LEADER Kr'NTUCKY COMMITTHS AGRICU LTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASH INGTON, DC 20510- 1702 APPROPRIATIO NS (202) 224-254 1 RULES AND ADM INISTRATION July25 ,2 018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secreta ry for Governmental Affa irs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington , DC 20590 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf ofmy constituents in Grayson County, Kentucky, regard ing their compet itive grant applica tion with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program . My constituents inform me that if awarded, this funding will support the extension of the southern leg of the William Thomason Byway of KY 3155 . I am told its extension will improve traffic flow and safety, especially for my constituents who are moving to and from a local high school and elementary school in the area. I am also told that these improvements will support eco nomic development, highway access and operations in the regio n. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Adm inistration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Grayson Count y' s applicat ion, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attentio n to this matter. Sincerely , ~~t:?..~ ~: CONNELL UN ITED ST A TES SENA TOR y ~; MM/jo FEDERAL Bt tOiNG 1885 DIXIE: HtC~tWAY 771 CORPORATE DRIVE 2'11 EAST MAIi\ STREfT SUH[ 345 300 SOUTH MAIN Sum 310 601 WEST BROADWAY St IU 108 KY 40503 18591 224 8286 LONDON,KY 40741 LOUISVllLf, ROOM 102 FORT WttlbllT, Bow, ING GREEN, 12701 781 1673 KY 42101 AMf HICAr\ (8591 578-0188 pVERSIGHT KY 41011 l[XINUTON, 1606) 864--2026 Sl TE630 KY 40202 1502) 582 6304 100 fOUNJAIN A\/f~UE Sum300 PADU<:AH, KY 4200 1 (270) 442 -4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000017 DOT_Am.Oversight-000017 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Support Letter--Madison County BUILD Grant Wednesday, July 25, 2018 4:35:00 PM Got it!  thanks Max J   From: Richards, Max (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2018 10:15 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Support Letter--Madison County BUILD Grant   Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letter from Leader McConnell addressing Madison County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   -Max   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000018 DOT_Am.Oversight-000018 MITCH McCONN ELL MA JO RITY LEAD ER K£NIWl.K COMM PECS AGRICULT URE 317 Ru sSHL SENATE OmcE Bu1101 NG WASHINGTON. DC 20510 1702 APPROPRIATIONS (202) 224-25 41 RULES AND AD M INISTRATION July 25, 20 18 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Madison County regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. My constituents inform me that if awarded, this funding would support the relocation of KY 52 from Wallace Mill road to Duncannon Lane. I am told its relocation will improve operations, connectivity and safety- the existing KY 52 configuration consist of I 0-foot lanes with no shoulders and numerous visibility issues. I am also told that these improvements will improve traffic flow and economic development in the region. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainabl e debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely . It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Madison County's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review . Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, MITCH McCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/jo FEDE AAL BUILDING 1885 2 4 1 EA.Sl M AIN ST AFFT Sum 345 Fom-WR1G1rr, ROOM 102 BOWi P Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Support Letter--Meade/Breckenridge County Build Grant   Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letter from Leader McConnell addressing Meade County’s and Breckenridge County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   Thanks and have a great weekend,   -Max   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000020 DOT_Am.Oversight-000020 MAJO RITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMM ITTEES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL S ENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHIN GTON, DC20510 - 1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION July 20, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue, SE Washington, D.C . 20590-000 I Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Meade and Breckenridge Counties in Kentucky, regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. I am told that, if awarded, this funding will allow for the reconstruction of KY 79 between Irvington and Brandenburg, Kentucky. Specifically , funding will be used to improve safety and access by widening lanes and shoulders. My constituents also inform me these improv ements will aid in the facilitation of truck traffic and improve access to the new riverport. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Meade and Breckenridge Counties' application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~_l-~~~-l p' / ~; ~ cCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/mr FEO£AAL 8u1LOING 24 1 EAS1 M111>1STREET R.ll~ M 102 1 885 DIXIE HIGHWAY 771 CORPORATE DRIVE 300 SOUTH MAI~ 601 WEST BROADWAY 100 FOUNTAIN SUITE 345 FUkT WRI0HT, KY 41011 18 0188 Suire 108 SUJTl 310 LONDO"-, KY 40741 1606) 864 2026 SUITE630 Sum300 KY 40202 15021582--ii304 KY 42001 (270) 442 4554 p veRS 1G HT - KY 40503 (859) 224-8286 LEX INGTON , PADUCAH, DOT-18-0010-A-000021 LOUISVILLE, DOT_Am.Oversight-000021 AVENUE From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Two Letters of Support--Boone/Kenton County, City of Frankfort Wednesday, August 01, 2018 10:26:00 AM THANK YOU!!!  J   From: Richards, Max (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 5:20 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Two Letters of Support--Boone/Kenton County, City of Frankfort   Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letters from Senator McConnell addressing Kenton County’s/Boones County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant, as well as the City of Frankfort’s.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   Thanks,   -Max AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000022 DOT_Am.Oversight-000022 MAJORITY LEADE R MITCH McCONNELL K ENTUCKY COMMITTEES : AGRIC ULTURE 317 RU SSELL S ENAT E OFFICE BUI LDIN G W AS HINGTON , DC 205 10- 1702 (202 ) 224 - 2541 AP PROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTR AT ION July 31, 2018 Mr. Sean McMast er Assistant Secretary for Gov ernmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue, SE Wash ington , D.C. 20590 -0001 Dear Mr. McMaster : I write on behalf of my constituents in Frankfort, Kentucky , rega rding thei r competit ive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation 's (DOT) Fiscal Year 20 18 BUILD Discr etionary Grant Program. My constituents have informed me that if awarded, this funding will support the rev italization of the Holme s Street Corridor, an economically distressed area that serves as an entry to the community from the east and north. Specifically , funding wi ll assist the City of Frankfort 's efforts in prepa ring infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety by calming traffic, increa sing ped est rian opportunities, and improvin g safety. Fina lly, I am to ld these infra struct ure improvements will ultimately promote furthe r econom ic deve lopment in the surrounding area. As our nation continues on a path of w1sustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax do llar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attent ion to Frankfo rt's application, wh ich I be lieve merit s your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to thi s matter. Sincere ly, ~-,,:,e.p :i;z;;~: C~NNELL UN ITED STATES SENATOR MM /k b FEDERAL BU ILDIN G 1885 24 1 EAST SUITE 345 FORT WR IG HT, M A IN SlllEET ()ij:E ·Y S IG 0 1 OIX IE HIGHWA Y 78-0188 KY4 10 11 771 CORPORAT E DR IVE SUI TE 108 L EX INGTON, KY 40503 (859 ) 224- 8286 300 SOUTH M AIN Sum 310 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864- 2026 60 1 W EST BROADWAY SU ITE 630 100 FOUNTAIN AVEN UE SUITE 300 DOT-18-0010-A-000023 KY 40202 PA DU CAH, KY 42001 LOUI SVILL E. 1502) 582- 6304 (270) 442-4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000023 MAJOR ITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENT UCKY COMMlm ES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFF ICE BU ILDI NG APPROPRIATIONS DC 20510- 1702 (202)224-2541 WASH IN GTON, RULES A ND AD MINIS TRATION July31,20 18 Mr. Sean McMas ter Assistan t Secretary for Gove rn me ntal Affa irs U.S. Depart ment of Transp or tat ion 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Was hing ton, D.C . 20590 -000 I Dear M r. McMaste r : I ¼Tite on behalf of my constitue nts in Kenton and Boone coun t ies rega rding the ir competitive grant application w ith t he U.S . Department o f Transpor tatio n ·s (DOT) Fisca l Year 2018 BUILD Discre ti ona ry Grant Program . !Vlyconstitue n ts inform me that if awm·dcd, this funding w ill support the cons truction of safety improvements to the KY 536 corridor from US 25 to KY 17. I am to ld improvements to this corridor wou ld prov ide a d.irect link for the city of Indepe ndence - a city of over 2 7,000 -t o 175 . It is my understanding the C ity of Independence has grown more than 65% ove r the last decade, and consequently. traffic congestion has increased. Mo reover, l am told , due to narrow lanes and sha rp cur ves, KY 536 is not cond ucive to t he m ov eme nt of fre ight. Furthermore, it is my understanding the current corrido r is inadequate to se rvice the school bus traffic traveling to and from Simon Kenton High School, which is located at the intersect ion of KY 536 and KY 17. Finally . 1 am told the reconstruction of the cor ridor wi ll further spur economic development by facilitating the Krog.er Distribution Center and industries located along Tocbben Drive. As our nation con tinues on a path of uns ustai nable de bt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensu re every tax do llar is spent wisely. lt is ,vith this in mind that I draw your atten tion to Kento n and Boone co unties· app lication, ,.,foc h I belie ve merits your full and fair review . Since rely, MM/m r FEDERAL 8UILOING 1885 DIXIE HIGHWAY 771 CORPORATE DRIVE 241 µst M~ /I StAE'l;l' Su m 345 SU ITE j)if;RSf G H T~;t;1ra:V41011 108 300 SOUTH MA IN SUITE 310 601 WEST 630 B ROADWAY 100 FOUNTAIN AVE N UE SUITE Sum300 KY 42001 1270) 447-4554 PADUCAH, KY 40202 DOT-18-0010-A-000024 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 LONDON, KY 40741 Lou,svu~. (859) 224--8286 (606) 864 2026 1502) 582-630 4 DOT_Am.Oversight-000024 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) Richards, Max (McConnell) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Two Letters of Support--Toddy County, Barren County Friday, July 27, 2018 2:28:00 PM HI Max – I’m confirming receipt of this as well as the letters for Calloway and Pulaski Counties sent last night.  Have a great weekend!   Tonya       From: Richards, Max (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, July 27, 2018 1:29 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Two Letters of Support--Toddy County, Barren County   Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letters from Senator McConnell addressing Todd County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant, as well as Barren County’s.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   Thanks, and have a great weekend!   -Max   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000025 DOT_Am.Oversight-000025 MA JO RITY LEAD ER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY CO MMI TTEES: AG RICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING W ASHINGTON, DC 20510 - 1702 (202) 224 - 2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND A DMINISTRATION July27 , 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistan t Secretary for Gove rnm ental Affa irs U,S, Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave nu e, SE Wash ington, D,C. 20590 -000 1 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Barren Cou nty, Kentucky , regarding their compet itive grant application with the U.S . Department of Transportation ' s (DOT) Fisca l Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program, My cons tituents inform me that if awarded, this funding wou ld support the construc tion of a new interchange on Louie B. Nunn Cumbe rland Parkway. I am tol d the new interchange will enhance connec tivity to the ce ntral business district, as well as the Barren County Pu blic School Campus and Western Kentucky Unive rsity's Glasgow Ca mpu s. Finally, I am told this project will greatly improve safety and alleviate traffi c by providing mor e alternatives for motorists, and more spec ifically, schoo l bus and emerge ncy vehicl es. As our nation continues on a path of un susta inab le debt, it is more impor tant than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Ad mini strat ion, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wise ly. It is wit h thi s in mind that I draw your atte nti on to Barren Count y's app licatio n, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank yo u for your time and attent ion to this matter. Sincerely, ~?f:~ I'v1ITCH McCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM /kb FEDERA L BU ILDING 241 EASTM A IN 0 ¥ 02~! , 1885 D IXIE HI GHWAY vSolGHT~~;,r STREET SUITE 345 88KY 410 11 77 1 COR PORA TE DRI VE SU ITE 108 LEX IN GTON, KY 40503 (859 1224- 8286 300 SOUTH M A IN S UITE 3 10 LO NDO N, KY 40741 (606) 864- 2026 601 W EST S U ITE 630 B ROADWAY 100 FOU NTA IN A VENU E SUI TE 300 PADU CAH , KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000026 L OUI SVILLE, KY 40202 (270) 442-4554 (502) 582- 6304 DOT_Am.Oversight-000026 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENT UCKY COMMITTEES, AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 205 10-1702 1202) 224 - 2541 ~nit.en ~tat.es ~.enat.e APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADM INISTRATION July27,2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assista nt Secretary for Gove rnment al Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Aven ue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 -0001 Dear Mr. McMaster: I write on behalf of my constituents in Todd County, Kentucky , regarding their comp etitive grant app lication with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 20 18 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. My constituents have informed me that if awarded, this fund ing would suppo11 the reconstruction of US- 79 to add ress some major safety concerns . Specifica lly, funding will support the construct ion of turn lanes, widen road shoulders, and widen the bridge over the CSX Railroad. Additiona lly, I am told that reconstruction ofUS-79 will create greater mobility in the region by provid ing an improved route to I-24 , just ten miles from the state line. As our nation continu es on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Admini strat ion, wo rk to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attent ion to Todd County's app lication, which I believe mer its your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matte r. Since rely, -'-"'•~,c?'_p M CH McCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/kb FEDERAL BUILDING 18 85 DIXIE HIGHWAY 77 1 CORPORATE DRIVE 241 EAST M AIN STREET ROOM 102 SUITE 345 FORTWRIGHT, KY 41011 SUITE 108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 (859) 224-8286 OYE ..S G ti 578- 0188 300 SOUTH M AIN SUITE 31 0 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864- 20 26 601 W EST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (502) 582-6304 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE SUITE 300 PADUCAH, KY 42001 (270) 442-4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000027 DOT_Am.Oversight-000027 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Richards, Max (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Two Letters of Support--Calloway County, Pulaski County Thursday, July 26, 2018 5:34:56 PM BUILD Grant - Calloway County.pdf BUILD Grant - Pulaski County.pdf Hi Tonya,   Please see the attached support letters from Senator McConnell addressing Calloway County’s application for DOT’s BUILD Grant, as well as Pulaski County’s.   If you could please confirm receipt, I would appreciate it.   Thank you for all of your help over the last week!   -Max   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000028 DOT_Am.Oversight-000028 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KF .. lUCKY COMMITTEES: AGRICULTURE 317 RUSS£LL SENATE OmcE BUIWIN G WASHINGTON, DC 20510-1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION July 25, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S . Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590-0001 Dear Mr. McMaster, I write on behalf of my constituents in Calloway County regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S . Department ofTranspo1tation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. It is my understanding that, if awarded, this funding will be used to expand the section of US 641 between Murray and Hazel, KY to four lanes. I am told that the current corridor has a high fatal crash rate and does not meet the transportation needs of the region's agriculture and manufacturing businesses. The expansion of the 5.7 mile section will increase the safety and capacity of the highway and allow for more economic development in the region . As our nation continues on a path of unsustainab le debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Calloway County's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attent ion to this matter. Sincerely, ~.-/f.'C?__p --· MITCH McCONNELL UNITE STATES SENATOR MM/sd FrorRAL. Bu1LDIN"G 1885 2418;,;s'l!M/\IN~Rlj\T Rqo,i, 10? SUITE 345 A j)9E7RYSOI G 01x1E H1mtwAY FORTWs1c;H1, KY 41011 771 CORPORATEDRIVE Sum 108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 1859) 224 8286 601 Wun BROADWAY Sune 630 100 FOUNTAIN AVEN Sum 310 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864 2026 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (502) 582 6304 KY 42001 1270) 442--4554 300 SOUTH MAIN SUrTE300 PAO\JCAH, DOT-18-0010-A-000029 HT78-0188 DOT_Am.Oversight-000029 Ut MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KE NTUf: KY COMM,m~ s AGRICUL TURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUIL DING WASHINGTON, DC 205 10- 17 02 APPROPRIAT IONS 1202)224-254 1 RULES A ND A DM INISTRA TIO N July 25, 2018 Mr. Sean McMaster Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S . Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington , DC 20590-0001 Dear Mr. McMaster, I write on beha lf of my constituents in Pulaski County regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S . Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2018 BUILD Discretionary Grant Program. It is my understanding that, if awarded , th is funding will improve the KY 80 and KY 461 intersection, a heavily trafficked area leading into t he Lake Cumberland region. This project aims to improve safety at the intersection - which I am told has been listed on the High Crash Intersections list multiple times - by developing a grade separated intersection. It will also expand KY 461 to four lanes, providing increased capacity and allowing for more economic development in the region. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Adm inistration, work to ensu re every tax dollar is spen t wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Pulaski Coun ty' s application , wh ich I believe merits your full and fair rev iew. Thank you for your attent ion to this matter. Sincerely, ~?f:t:?./£ .. MITCH McCONNELL UNITE ST AT ES SENA TOR MM/sd FEDERAL BUILDING 1885 D lX I[ HICiHWA'f" 24 1 EAS1 MAIN Srnr n ROO M 102 80WUN G GREfN , KY42 10 1 Sum 345 Foar WAt Gl-fT, KY 41011 (859) 578 0188 77 1 CoAPORATt DRIVE SUITE 108 ~ XtN GTO N, KY 40503 (859' 224 8286 300 SOlJTH MA ,_, 601 WEST BROADWAY 100 Fot., NTAIN AVENUE sum 310 Su 1rr 630 Lou,sv 11LE , KY 40202 1502)582 6304 sum LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864 2026 300 PADUCAH, KY 4 2001 (270) 442 -4554 (270 1 781 1673 AMf HICAr\ pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000030 DOT_Am.Oversight-000030 From: To: Subject: Date: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Fastlane grants Friday, January 27, 2017 3:10:57 PM Hi, Tonya – I hope you are doing well.  I was wondering if you might have time for a quick call.   Many thanks,   Phil (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000031 DOT_Am.Oversight-000031 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) FASTLANE Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6:22:42 PM Hi Tonya,   I hope you are doing well. We have a letter of support we are sending for a constituent who applied for FASTLANE II in December. Would it be correct to address the letter to you as “Acting Assistant Secretary”? Currently you are listed online as Director of governmental affairs so I just wanted to make sure we had the correct title.   We are aware of the situation with FASTLANE but would still like to submit a letter nonetheless.   Thank you for your help, as always.   Best,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll Legislative Correspondent U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000032 DOT_Am.Oversight-000032 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) INFRA Grants Tuesday, February 13, 2018 11:11:35 AM Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well.  I was wondering if I could give you a call sometime today regarding any updates with the INFRA grant program.  Particularly where things are at with reviewing applications and when we could be expecting award announcements.  Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated.   Thanks so much.   Hunt AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000033 DOT_Am.Oversight-000033 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) Owensboro Riverport Authority INFRA Thursday, November 09, 2017 4:20:27 PM Owensboro Riverport Authority Letter from Sen McConnell to Ms Tonya Gross re INFRA Grant 11.17.pdf Hi Tonya,   Please see attached for a letter of support from Senator McConnell regarding the Owensboro Riverport Authority’s INFRA grant application.  If you would please confirm receipt and route this to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.    Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000034 DOT_Am.Oversight-000034 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KfNlUCl Subject: RE: City of Frankfort TIGER Letter of Support   HI Hunt – We’ll get this one logged in and routed accordingly.    v/r, Tonya   Tonya V. Gross Senior Career Gov’t Affairs Specialist U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary Governmental Affairs (202) 366-4563   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2017 5:57 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: City of Frankfort TIGER Letter of Support   Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well!  Please see attached for Senator McConnell’s letter of support for the City of Frankfort’s TIGER grant application.  If you would please confirm receipt and pass along to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you, Tonya.    Best,   Hunt AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000036 DOT_Am.Oversight-000036   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000037 DOT_Am.Oversight-000037 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTU(:KY COMMITTfES AGR ICULTURE 317 Russeu SENATf OFFICEBUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510-1702 APPROPRIATIONS (202) 224 2541 RULES AND ADMINISTRATION December 14, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assista nt Secre tary for Governmental Affairs U.S . Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590-0001 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constit uents with The City of Frankfort (Frankfort) regarding their competit ive grant applicat ion with the U.S. Departmen t of Transportation ' s (DOT) Fiscal Year 2017 TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. I am told that, if awa rded , this funding will help Frankfort conduct infrastruc ture improvements along its Second Street Corridor (U.S. 60). Specifically, funding will be used for sidew alk replacemen t and ex pansion, the installation of bike lanes, traffic signal replacement , the rep lacement of a combined sewer system, and storm wa ter control. My constituen ts inform me that , by applying DOT with matchi ng local and State funding, the Secon d Street Corr idor impro vements will support economic development in a distressed neighborhood, increase access ibility, and prov ide functio nal transport ation alternatives to residents in the South Frankfort neighborhood. I am told these improvements will also enhance safety for my constituents-particular ly for children who attend a local eleme ntary school - who cross the Second Street Co 1Tidor. As our nation continues on a path of unsusta inable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Admin istrat ion, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw you r attention to Fran kfort's applica tion , which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~~t:?_✓~ y ~:: CONN ELL UNITED ST ATES SENATOR MM/hv ffOERAI A 1•Rd<',.. 1885 DIXIE 1i1C.HWAY St11rL345 FORT WRl Subject: RE: Mason County FASTLANE Grant Letter of Support- McConnell   Got it!  Let me know if you need anything else.    v/r,   Tonya       --- --- From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 4:47 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: Mason County FASTLANE Grant Letter of Support- McConnell   Hi Tonya,   Please see attached for a letter of support from Senator McConnell regarding Mason County Fiscal Court’s FASTLANE grant application. Please let me know if there are any questions.   Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll Legislative Correspondent U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000039 DOT_Am.Oversight-000039 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCON NELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 3 17 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHIN GTON, DC 20510 - 1702 (202) 224-2541 ~nite.o ~tates ~,enate APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADM INISTRATION March 29, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590-000 I Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Mason County Fiscal Court (MCFC) and the Maysville Mason County Port Authority, regarding their competitive grant application with the Department of Transportation's Fostering Advancements in Shipping and Transportat ion for the Long-term Achievement of National Efficiencies (FASTLANE) grant program (CFDA# 20.934). I am told that, if awarded, MCFC would use these funds to create a tri-modal port on the Ohio River, in Mason County, Kentucky with the goal of attracting businesses, manufacturing, and employers to the area. My constituents have informed me that this funding would allow MCFC to acquire land for the proposed port site, develop infrastructure, and implement the necessary steps to construct the port. It is my understanding that a port in Mason County would assist MCFC with its goal of bringing large scale economic development to the area. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to MCFC's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~-;l'f:f:?_u y ~:r~ CONNELL UNITED STATES SENA TOR MM/hv 241 EAv,-MAlf'JSm;.ET 1885 0 1X1C HIGHWAY Sum 345 771 CORPORATEDRlVE SUITE 108 l,IQ91'4J02 FORTWRIGHT,KY4 LLXINGTON, KY 40503 FEDERALBUILDING GVE~SIG 14T0188 1011 (859) 224--8286 300 Saum MAIN su,rc 310 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864-2026 601 WEST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (5021582 - 6304 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE SUITE 300 PAOUCAH, KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000040 (2701 442-4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000040 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) RE: McConnell INFRA Grant Letters of Support Thursday, November 02, 2017 8:11:54 AM Thank you, Tonya!   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2017 6:24 PM To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: McConnell INFRA Grant Letters of Support   Thanks Hunt!  I’ll get these on the record.    Tonya   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 10:45 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: McConnell INFRA Grant Letters of Support   Good Morning, Tonya   I hope you are doing well.  Please see attached for three letters of support from Senator McConnell for the below applicants’ INFRA grant applications.  Copies have been placed in the mail as well.  If you would please confirm receipt and route these to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000041 DOT_Am.Oversight-000041 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Swafford, Andrew (McConnell) McConnell INFRA Grant Letters of Support Wednesday, November 01, 2017 10:45:05 AM KYTC INFRA #1 (INT 71,75) 10.17.pdf KYTC INFRA #2 (KY-ICAP) 10.17.pdf LRAA INFRA 10.17.pdf Good Morning, Tonya   I hope you are doing well.  Please see attached for three letters of support from Senator McConnell for the below applicants’ INFRA grant applications.  Copies have been placed in the mail as well.  If you would please confirm receipt and route these to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000042 DOT_Am.Oversight-000042 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATEOFFICEBUILDING WASHINGTON,DC 205 10-1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND A DM INISTRATION October 30, 2017 Ms . Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmenta l Affairs U.S. Department of Transportatio n 1200 New Jersey A venue, S.E . Washington, D.C. 20590 -0001 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on beha lf of my constituents at the Kentucky Transportation Cabine t (KYTC) regard ing their competi tive grant applica tion with the Department of Transportation's Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program. I am told that this funding, if awarded, would allo w KYTC to construct a new roadway design along a 4.8-mile section of Interstate 75/Interstate 71 in Boone County, Kentucky. T he design would include a new double crossove r diamond interchange and new auxiliary lanes. I am told these improvements would reduce congest ion and better accommoda te passenge r vehicles and freight trucks in a high volume region. As our nation continues on a path of unsus tainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw you r attention to KYTC's app lication, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attentio n to this matter. Sincerely, ~~~#.'f::_/L ~~; ONNELL UNITED STAT ES SENA TOR MM /hv FtOCML 8UllOING 241 EA~T MAIN STA\ FJ ~v~~s 1885 OtXIE HIGHWAY 345 S t ll Tt G I ~ T~1 T~KY 4 1011 771 CORPORATEDRIVE SUITE 108 LEXINGTON,KY 40503 \859) 224-8286 300 Soun< MAIN Surrc 310 LONDON, KY 4074 1 (606) 864- 2026 601 WEST BROAOWAY Sum 630 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE SUITE 300 PADUCAH, KY 42001 (270 ) 442 -4554 DOT-18-0010-A-000043 LOUISVILLC,KY 40202 (502) 582--,,30 4 DOT_Am.Oversight-000043 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KrnTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BU ILDING DC 20510- 1702 (202) 224-2541 ~nit.en ~hti.ez ~.enat.e WASHINGTON, APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION October 3 I, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmen tal Affairs U.S. Depa,tment of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue, S .E. Washington, D.C . 20590-0001 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Kentucky Trans portation Cabinet (K YTC) regarding their competitive grant app licat ion with the Department ofTrans p01tation's Infrastructure for Re building America (INFRA) grant program. My cons tituents inform me that, if awar ded, this fun ding will be used by KYTC as a pa rt of Kentucky's Isolated Com munity Access Preservation (KY-ICAP) Program. Spec ifically, KYTC will combine this DOT fund ing wit h matching state funding to repai r or replace 296 structurally defic ient bridges across the Commo nwea lth that are locate d on Cr itical Rural Freight Corridors, and thu s, se rve as the sole link to individual rural areas and communities. I am told tha t ap prox imate ly 79% of these bridges are in cou nt ies designated as economically distressed by the Appa lachia n Reg iona l Commission. T hus, the funding of th is project wou ld continue to ensure my co nstitue nts' access to essential services. As you are a lso like ly aware, due to high rates of poverty in the region, the federa l government in 2014 designate d parts of eastern Kentucky-including Be ll, Clay, Harlan , Knox, Les lie, and Perry Counties as a Promise Zone . As such, K.YTC will provide impo1tant infras tru cture invest ment for residents inside designated areas, if awa rded this fu nding. As our nation continues on a path of uns ustainable debt , it is more impo rtant than ever that we in Co ngress, and yo u in the Administration, work to ensure every tax do llar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attent ion to KYTC's appl icatio n, wh ich I bel ieve me rits your full and fa ir review. Tha nk you for your attention to this matter . Sincere ly, .,4'/f_d#.~a P' :~~ ONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/ hv fEOCAAL BUILDING 241 E;A~TMAIN S>R, q 1885 DIXIE HIGHWAY SurrE 345 ~v~~s IG ~ Tc;1rs:V 41011 771 CORPORATE Omvr LEXINGTON. KY 40503 300 SOUlH M A IN SUITE 3 10 LONDON. KY 40741 (859) 224-8286 (606) 864-Z026 SUITE 108 601 WEST BROADWAY SVITC 630 LOUISVII.LE.KY 40202 (5021 582-6304 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE Su1rt 300 PADUCAH, KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000044 1270) 442--4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000044 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 317 RUSS ELL SENATE OFF ICE BUILD ING WASHINGTON, DC 20510-1702 APPROPRIAT IONS 1202) 224-254 1 RULES AND ADMINISTRATIO N October 31, 20 17 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S . Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue , S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 -000 1 Dear Ms. Gross: I wr ite on behalf of my constituents at the Louisville Regional Airport Autho rity (LRAA) regarding their competitive grant application with the Department of Transportation's Infrastructure for Rebuilding Ame rica (INFRA) grant program. My const ituents infonn me that, if awarded, this funding will be used by LRAA to create a secondary access point at the Louisville Renaissance South Business Park (Business Park). Specifically, LRAA will combine this DOT funding with matching funding to construc t an interchange and ma ke necessary infrastructure improvements in order to support the increased freight, cargo, and commerce activities of the Business Park. I am told that this project will improve mobi lity and help alleviate conges tions resulting from increased business act ivity in the area. As our nation cont inues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administratio n, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw you r attention to LRAA's application, which I believe mer its your full and fair review . Thank you for your attent ion to this matter. Sincerely, ~_]-~~f:Z_p P' ~;; cCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/hv FEOFRAL 8UILOING 1885 DIXIE HIGHWAY 241 ~1\ltT11/!All'I Smu ~ SulTC 345 GVE~s IG ITT~t/ssKY4 1011 771 CORPORATE DRIVE Su11c108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 300 SOUTHMAIN SUITE310 LONOON, KY 40741 601 WFST BROADWAY (859) 224-8286 (606) 864-2026 1502) 582-6304 SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE, 100 FOUNTAIN AV ENUE SUITE 300 PADUCAH, KY 42001 KY 40202 DOT-18-0010-A-000045 (2701442 - 4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000045 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) RE: McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support Tuesday, October 17, 2017 11:53:43 AM Wonderful.  Thank you, Tonya.  Talk to you soon!   Hunt   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 11:52 AM To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support   Yes of course. I'm leaving a meeting now and headed to grab some lunch. Call me anytime between 1pm and 3pm. I'll be at my desk.  366-4563.   Sent with Good (www.good.com) From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 11:45:34 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: RE: McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support   Hi, Tonya   Would you have a couple of minutes today for a quick phone call regarding a constituent inquiring about their TIGER grant application.    Thank you,   Hunt   (b) (6)   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, October 13, 2017 4:39 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: RE: McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support   Hi Hunt – All is well over here on this fine Friday.  I’ll get these logged into our system and routed accordingly.    Have a fantabulous weekend!! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000046 DOT_Am.Oversight-000046   Tonya     From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, October 13, 2017 4:09 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support   Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well!  Please see attached for letters of support from Senator McConnell for the below constituents’ TIGER grant applications.  If you would please confirm receipt and make sure it reaches the appropriate contact, that would be great.   Louisville Metro Government Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Paducah McCracken County Riverport Authority McCreary County Fiscal Court Nicholas County Fiscal Court   Please let me know if there are any questions and have a great weekend!   Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000047 DOT_Am.Oversight-000047 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) McConnell TIGER Grant Letters of Support Friday, October 13, 2017 4:09:31 PM Louisville Metro Government TIGER Grant 10.17.pdf Kentucky Transportation Cabinet TIGER LOS 10.17.pdf Paducah McCracken County Riverport Authority TIGER Grant LOS 10.17.pdf McCreary County Fiscal Court TIGER LOS 10.17.pdf Nicholas County Fiscal Court TIGER LOS 10.17.pdf Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well!  Please see attached for letters of support from Senator McConnell for the below constituents’ TIGER grant applications.  If you would please confirm receipt and make sure it reaches the appropriate contact, that would be great.   Louisville Metro Government Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Paducah McCracken County Riverport Authority McCreary County Fiscal Court Nicholas County Fiscal Court   Please let me know if there are any questions and have a great weekend!   Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000048 DOT_Am.Oversight-000048 M AJOR ITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTU CKY COMMITTEES AGRICUL TURE 317 RUSSEL L SENATE OFFICEBUILD ING WASHINGTON, DC 20510-1702 (202) 224-2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION October 12, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affa irs U.S. Depaitment of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Louisville Metro Government (LMG) regarding their competitive grant application with the U .S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. I am told that, if awarded, this funding will help LMG with its East Market Street National Highway System (U .S. 3 lE) Project to convert the one-way U.S. 3 IE into a functional "complete street" in an effort to serve the diverse travel needs of neighborhoods adjacent to downtown Louisville. It is my understanding that the U.S. 3 1E corridor also serves as the hub for the "Louisville Innovation District" which contains a campus for the University of Louisvi lle, as well as a number of small, local businesses . My const ituents inform me that by applying DOT and match ing local funding, the U.S. 31E convers ion will allow LMG to support economic growth in the area and provide functional transportation alternatives in the heart of downtown Louisville . As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more importan t than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administrat ion, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wise ly. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to LMG's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~,4~l MITCH McCONNELL UNITED STAT ES SENATOR MM/hv FEDERAL BUILDING ?41 E,i1!f'T'M1<1>,Sl'll&T\. f'\ f\OOM102 Ml-.,. 1885 D1x1tH!GltWAV SUITE 345 771 CORPORATE DRIVE FoaTWRJGHT,KY 41011 LEXINGTON,KY 40503 (8591 224--8286 0VERS IG ~T-0,sa 4 SUITE 108 300 SOU TH MAIN SUITE 310 LONDON, KY 40741 601 WEST BROADWAY 100 FOUNTAIN AVl:.NUt SU ITE 630 LOUISVllLC , KY 40202 SUITE 300 (6061 864-2026 (5021 582--6304 1270) 442-4554 PADUCAH , KY 4W01 DOT-18-0010-A-000049 DOT_Am.Oversight-000049 MAJOR ITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY CO MM ITT EES, AGRICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING W ASHINGTON, DC 20510-1702 (202) 224--2541 ~nit.eb ~tales ~.enat.e APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMIN ISTRAT ION October 13, 2017 Ms, Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Kentucky Transportat ion Cabinet (K YTC) regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportat ion' s (DOT) Fiscal Year 2017 TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. I am told that, if awarded, this funding will be used by KYTC as a part of the Commonwealth of Kentucky Pavement Management Program. My constituents inform me that-if awardedKYTC will combine DOT funding with matching state funding to conduct preventive pavement maintenance treatments to roadways throughout the Commonwealth-includ ing projects within various counties designated as economically distressed by the Appalach ian Regional Commission - in an effort to extend the life of vital roads and highways in the region .. As you are also likely aware, the federal government in 2014 designated parts of eastern Kentucky-i ncluding Bell, Clay, Harlan, Leslie, and Wolfe Counties-as a Prom ise Zone due to high rates of poverty in the region, It is my understanding that, if awarded this funding, KYTC will provide important infrastructure investment for residents inside the designated Promise Zone. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to KYTC's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~_;-~~~ P' ~:CcoNNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/hv 1885 O1x lL Hl@WAV FEDEHAL BUILDING ;141 EA~ l\,tAN ROOM10'< S;rm,u f'\ Su1TF 345 • ..... FORT WRIGHT, KY 41011 GVEASIG ~T--Ol8S 4 771 CORPORATEDRIVE Sum, 108 LFXINGTON, KY 40503 (8591 224 8286 300 Sourn MAIN SUITE310 LONDON, KY 40741 (606) 864 - 2026 601 WEST BROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (502) 582 6304 100 FOUNTAIN A VENUE Su,n300 PADUCAH, DOT-18-0010-A-000050 KY 420 0 1 (270) 442-4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000050 MAJOR ITY LEADER MITCH McCONNE LL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGRICULTURE 3 17 RUSSELL SENATE OFF ICE BU ILDING APPROPR IAT IONS DC 20510--1702 (202) 224--2541 WASHIN GTON , RULES AND ADM IN ISTRA T ION October 12, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Paducah-McCracken County Riverport Authority (PMCRA) regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2017 TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. As you may know, Paducah, Kentucky - which lies at the confluence of the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers and is in close proximity to the Mississippi River- serves as the center of our country's vital inland waterway s network. Due in part to Paducah's importance to the movement of goods in our country , the area recently received Foreign Trade Zone designation by the U.S. government. The Paducah Riverport also received last year "Marine Highway" designation from the U.S. Maritime Administration for its container on barge service along the M-55 and M-65 Marine Highway Corridors. I was proud to support both of these well-deserved designations and today I write in support of PMCRA's TIGER grant application . My constituents have infonned me that if awarded , this funding would support the development of a container and general cargo trans-loading yard in an effort to attract economic development - such as manufacturing and distribution centers-to Western Kentucky. It is my understanding that nine acres of Riverport property are available to support this project which would also include the construction of truck lane interchanges to support cargo and container operations. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to PMCRA 's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~~~L MITCH McCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/hv FEDERAL BUILDING 1885 DIXIE HIGHWAY ?4 1 E'j',:rMAl"j frRlSCT.i\ Rod/',<1!>2 f'\ Ml..... Sum 345 FORTWRIGHT,KY 41011 0188 Si'ERSIG AT 771 CORPORATEDRIVE SUITE 108 LEXINGTON, KY 40503 (859) 224-8286 300 Sou, H MAIN SUITE 310 LONDON, KY 40741 (606} 864- 2026 601 WEST BROADWAY SUl1E 630 LOUISVILLE, KY 40202 (502) 582 6304 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE Su11cJOO PADUCAH, KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000051 (270) 442-4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000051 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY C0MMITTHS AG RICULT URE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING W ASHI NGTON, DC 20 510-1 702 (202 ) 22 4-254 1 A PPROPRIATIO NS RUL ES A ND A DMINISTRAT ION October 13, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey A venue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the McCreary County Fiscal Court (MCFC)-in conjunction with the McCreary County Heritage Foundation-regarding their competitive grant application with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Fiscal Year 2017 TIGER Discretionary Grant Program. I am told that, if awarded, this funding will be used by MCFC to repair and restore the Big South Fork Scenic Railway in Stearns, Kentucky. Specifically, funding would be used to fund tie and track replacements, retaining wall and drainage improvements, locomotive repairs, rail yard refurbishment, as well as RV trail improvements. My constituents inform me that, if awarded, these improvements would help MCFC with their goal of revitalizing properties in Stearnsparticularly those listed on the National Register of Historic Places- in an effort to increase tourism around the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area as well as to support economic growth in the region. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to MCFC's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, M CH McCONNELL UNITED ST ATES SENA TOR MM/hv FlOERAl BUILDING ;!41 EAST MA,.,SIBEET fl; Newman, Philip (OST) Nabozny, Amy (McConnell) HCTC support letter Friday, December 22, 2017 11:13:21 AM HCTC. UAS Pilot.pdf Please see the attached support letter for the Hazard Community and Technical College’s application for the FAA UAS Integration Pilot program. A hard copy will be put in the mail today.  Thanks!   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000055 DOT_Am.Oversight-000055 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKi COMMITTE-f-S AGR ICULTURE 317 RUSSELL StNATE OrncE BUlLDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 1702 (202) 224-2641 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMINISTRATION December 22, 2017 The Honorable Michae l Huerta Administrator Federal Aviation Administration 800 Independence Avenue, S.W. Wash ington, D.C. 20591-0001 Dear Administrator Huerta: I write on behalf of my constituents in Hazard, Kentucky, regarding their proposal for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Integration Pilot Program. As you may know, Kentucky is emerging as a center for aerospace innovation with a drone port located in Hazard, Kentucky, which is in the heart of central Appalachia. USA Drone Port- which pa1tners with Hazard Community and Technica l College (HCTC)- offers a unique model of innovation in the UAS industry. In fact, the first drone integration training in the Commonwealth took place at the USA Drone Po1t. Since its creat ion, many businesses have utilized the drone port, spurring economic development in the region. I am told my constituents involved with USA Drone Port of Kentucky have submitted a proposal to participate in the FAA UAS Integration Pilot Program. It is my understanding that this pilot program would build on the opportunities the drone port is currently offering. Specifically, the pilot would create research and development opportunities for small and large businesses, higher education, and other entities. This pilo t program would also support USA Drone Port's overall objective of bolstering economic development and enhancing Kentucky's status as a lead expo1ter in the aerospace industry. Consistent with all applicable Senate Ethics Rules, I appreciate your review of HCTC's proposal, which I believe merits your full and fair consideration. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Sincere ly, ~#.~~ MITCH McCONNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/arn 771 CORPORA rr DRM SUITE 108 Lt XIN(;l ON. KY 40503 1859) 224 -8286 300 Sou TH MAIN SUll[ 310 LON OD'<, KY 407 41 16061864 2026 601 Wrsr 8ROA0WAV Suire 630 Lou,svn u, KY 40202 (502) 582 6304 100 FOUl",ffAIN AVENUE su,rr 300 PAOUCAH, KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000056 (270) 442 4554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000056 From: To: Cc: Bcc: Subject: Date: Attachments: OST Government Affairs OST Government Affairs Fraser, Bobby (OST); McMaster, Sean (OST) (b) (6) @murkowski.senate.gov; (b) (6) @murkowski.senate.gov; (b) (6) @sullivan.senate.gov; (b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strange.senate.gov; (b) (6) @boozman.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cotton.senate.gov; (b) (6) @flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) @flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mccain.senate.gov; (b) (6) @rubio.senate.gov; (b) (6) @rubio.senate.gov; (b) (6) @ernst.senate.gov; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @blunt.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @manchin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cassidy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cassidy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @kennedy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @kennedy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cochran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @wicker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @burr.senate.gov; (b) (6) @tillis.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hoeven.senate.gov; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @sasse.senate.gov; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; Gentile, Karen (PHMSA); (b) (6) @inhofe.senate.gov; (b) (6) @lankford.senate.gov; (b) (6) @lgraham.senate.gov; (b) (6) @lgraham.senate.gov; (b) (6) @scott.senate.gov; (b) (6) @scott.senate.gov; (b) (6) @rounds.senate.gov; (b) (6) @thune.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cornyn.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cruz.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hatch.senate.gov; (b) (6) @lee.senate.gov; (b) (6) @capito.senate.gov; (b) (6) @barrasso.senate.gov; (b) (6) @enzi.senate.gov; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @crapo.senate.gov; (b) (6) @risch.senate.gov; (b) (6) @donnelly.senate.gov; (b) (6) @young.senate.gov; (b) (6) @moran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @roberts.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; (b) (6) @paul.senate.gov; (b) (6) @blunt.senate.gov; (b) (6) @heitkamp.senate.gov; (b) (6) @heitkamp.senate.gov; (b) (6) @heitkamp.senate.gov Invitation to DOT - This Thursday 11/16: US DOT Launches Forces to Flyers Research Initiative Monday, November 13, 2017 12:55:00 PM Forces to Flyers Save the Date_Final.pdf Good afternoon,   We cordially invite you to attend a Special Event with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao on Thursday, November 16, 2017, regarding the launch of the Department’s new Forces to Flyers Research Initiative.   At the event, Secretary Chao will provide details about the research initiative and how it will help our veterans transition into the next phase of their careers.   Event Details:                      Forces to Flyers Research Initiative Launch   U.S. Department of Transportation                                            1200 New Jersey Avenue SE                                            Media Center                                            Washington, DC 20590 Thursday, November 16, 2017 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.     Please RSVP by emailing events@dot.gov.   Thank you.     DOT-18-0010-A-000057 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000057 THE U.S. SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION Event: Time: Location: Forces to Flyers Research Initiative Launch with U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao 3:00 p.m. U.S. Department of Transportation Headquarters Media Center 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Please RSVP by November 13, 2017 at events@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-A-000058 DOT_Am.Oversight-000058 From: To: Subject: Date: McMaster, Sean (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) RE: bipartisan Senate EPW/Commerce—DOT briefing on MAP-21/FAST Friday, February 16, 2018 7:22:00 PM Terry, the bipartisan briefing is scheduled for February 27th at 2pm in Russell 253   Please let me know if there is anything you need.   Have a great weekend.   Best, Sean   Sean McMaster Deputy Assistant Secretary - Congressional Affairs  U.S. Department of Transportation  (202) 366-0443       From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 4:06 PM To: McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: RE: bipartisan Senate EPW/Commerce—DOT briefing on MAP-21/FAST Thank you. Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) From: McMaster, Sean (OST) [mailto:sean.mcmaster@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 3:59 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; 'Herrgott, Alex H. (b) (6) EOP/CEQ' < >; Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO (b) (6) < > Cc: Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO <(b) (6) > Subject: RE: bipartisan Senate EPW/Commerce—DOT briefing on MAP-21/FAST We don’t have anything on the books but we can definitely move forward with this briefing.    Let me reach out to folks and let you all know.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000059 DOT_Am.Oversight-000059 From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 2:31 PM To: 'Herrgott, Alex H. EOP/CEQ' <(b) (6) >; McMaster, Sean (OST) ; Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO <(b) (6) > (b) (6) Cc: Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO < > Subject: RE: bipartisan Senate EPW/Commerce—DOT briefing on MAP-21/FAST Sean, is there plan to do the same bipartisan briefing for EPW and/or HSGAC? Would love to participate if so. If you need me to help somehow, please let me know. Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) From: Herrgott, Alex H. EOP/CEQ [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 11:19 AM To: sean.mcmaster@dot.gov; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO <(b) (6) Cc: Lai, Joseph G. EOP/WHO <(b) (6) > Subject: Re: bipartisan Senate EPW/Commerce—DOT briefing on MAP-21/FAST > Sent from my iPhone On Jan 30, 2018, at 11:06 AM, Herrgott, Alex H. EOP/CEQ (b) (6) < > wrote: Hey Sean, Connecting you with Majority Leader’s point man on infra, Terry. I just talked to him about how well House meeting went. Hopefully we get that same successful briefing result as you delivered on House side yesterday. Alex Sent from my iPhone AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000060 DOT_Am.Oversight-000060 From: To: Subject: Date: Gross, Tonya (OST) VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) RE: McConnell Lextran Letter of Support Wednesday, August 09, 2017 8:38:00 AM Hello Hunt – My huge apologies for just responding.  I received this last week and routed it accordingly but I just realized that I didn’t acknowledge receipt.  Ugg!    Have a great day.    Tonya   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 02, 2017 4:12 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: McConnell Lextran Letter of Support   Hi, Tonya   I hope you are doing well and have had a pleasant summer thus far.  Please see attached for a letter of support from Senator McConnell to FTA Executive Director Welbes regarding Lextran’s No Emissions Vehicle Program grant application.  If you could please confirm receipt and make sure this gets to the appropriate contact, it would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you,   Hunt     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000061 DOT_Am.Oversight-000061 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL KENTUCKY COMMITTEES AGR ICULTURE 317 RUSSELL SrnATE OFFICEBUIL DING W ASHINGTON, DC 205 10- 1702 1202) 224--2541 APPROPR IATIONS ~nit.en ~hd.es ~.enat.e RULES AND ADMINISTRATION August 2, 2017 Mr. Matthew Welbes Executive Director Federal Transit Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, D.C. 20590-000 1 Dear Mr. Welbes: I write on behalf of my constituents at Lextran-in partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), Proterra, and the Center for Transit and the Environment -r egarding their competitive grant application with the Department of Transporta tion Office of Federal Transit Administration's Low or No Emissions Vehicle Program Grants (CFDA #20.526). It is my understanding that, if awarded, this funding wou ld allow Lextran to purchase and deploy ten fully-electric, zero-emission transit buses as well as install two on-route charging stations to service the UK campus, the City of Lexington, and Fayette County . I am told that with these additional electric buses, Lextran hopes to reduce emiss ions, improve air quality, and decrease operation and maintenance costs. As our nation cont inues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to Lextran ' s application, wh ich I believe merits your full and fair review. Sincerely, _,4ff~~~f:?_a ~~ ~ NNELL UNITED STATES SENATOR MM/hv FEDERAL BU ILDING 1885 DIXIE Hi<;HWAY 241 l;AJT MA't' Sm1..r,fl◊O"l 102 SUITE345 GV!~SIG ~~rr FORl WRIGHT, KY 41011 0 188 771 CORPORATEDRIVE SUITE 108 LEXINGT ON, KY 40503 1859) 224-8286 300 SOUTH MAIN 601 W ESTBROADWAY SUITE 630 LOUISVILLt, KY 40202 100 FOUNTAIN AVENUE S UITE 310 LONDON , KY 40741 (606) 864-2026 1502) 582 - 6304 1270) 442 4554 SUJTF300 PADUCAH,KY 42001 DOT-18-0010-A-000062 DOT_Am.Oversight-000062 From: To: Subject: Date: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) Newman, Philip (OST) RE: UAS pilot program Wednesday, December 13, 2017 3:12:04 PM Hi! Have you heard yet if you all have a mechanism for receiving support letters from the hill? Thank you!   From: Newman, Philip (OST) [mailto:philip.newman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, December 8, 2017 4:22 PM To: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: RE: UAS pilot program   Shoot, sorry about that. I just sent you a separate email. I’m happy to chat at 202-617-1167.   From: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, December 08, 2017 4:22 PM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Cc: Newman, Philip (OST) Subject: RE: UAS pilot program   Great! Phil- let me know if you are able to jump on the phone either today (I’m here until 5) or Monday.   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, December 8, 2017 4:21 PM To: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Newman, Philip (OST) Subject: RE: UAS pilot program   HI Natalie – Im connecting you to Phil right now.   From: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, December 08, 2017 3:55 PM To: 'Tonya.Gross@dot.gov' Subject: RE: UAS pilot program   Hi Tonya! I just thought I would check in before the weekend!   From: McIntyre, Natalie (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, December 7, 2017 3:37 PM To: 'Tonya.Gross@dot.gov' Subject: UAS pilot program   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000063 DOT_Am.Oversight-000063 Hi Tonya,   Would you be able to connect me to the right person working on the  11/8/17 notice titled, “Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Pilot Program-Announcement of Establishment of Program and Request for Applications”? Thank you!!   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000064 DOT_Am.Oversight-000064 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) Voicemail Tuesday, June 05, 2018 4:13:23 PM Hi, Tonya   I just gave you a ring, if you wouldn’t mind giving me a call back when you have a chance, it would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you!   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000065 DOT_Am.Oversight-000065 From: Bcc: Bedell, Anthony (OST) (b) (6) @ldclmcc.com; (b) (6) ilchamber.org; (b) (6) @tsa.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) @irtba.org; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) @senseinc.com; (6) (b) (6) @muskotech.con; (b) (6) @hobbsstraus.com; (b) (6) @dowl.com; (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) MISTYLAKE CONSULTING SERVICES LLC (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; vadadc (b) (6) vadadc.org); (b) (6) @mmm.com; (b) (6) @T-Mobile.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @lasvegasnevacla.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @BXALL.com; (b) (6) @HATCH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @maii.house.gov; (b) (6) @atr.org; (b) (6) @lowes.oom; (b) (6) @THEMITCHELLFIRM.COM; (b) (6) @BOOZMAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @fairfaxcounty.gov;(b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @CORLEYDC.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; (b) @arialestrategies.coin; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @entergy.com; (b) (6) @amac.us; (b) (6) @ALCALDE-FAY.COM; (b) (6) @COCHRAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) @purplestrategies.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) @eckertseamans.coni; (b) @stevescalise.cotn; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (6) (b) (6) @BentzStrategies.com; (b) (6) @altria.com; (b) (6) @cuna.com; (b) (6) @jmpa.us; (b) (6) @spottsfainconsulting.com; (b) (6) @thune.senate.gov; (b) (6) @LEE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) EASTGATE (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @riponsodety.org; (b) (6) eHeafth, Inc. (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @BLUNT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @wal-mart.com; (b) (6) @BUSINESSCOUNCIL.COM; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) YOUNGSTOWN CITY(b) (6) (b) (6) @ysu.edu; (b) (6) @hii-nns.com; (b) (6) @greenwoodsearch.com; (b) (6) @Lamar- Consulting.com; (b) (6) @us.ibm.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @bankaturion.com; @equifax.com; (b) (6) @gsk.com; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @citi.com; @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @YOUNG.SENATE.GOV; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @alta.org; (b) (6) @riba5conGUlting.com; (b) (6) FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF MINNEAPOLIS ; kirk.bell@dot.gov; (b) (6) @YRCI.com; (b) (6) @GEORGETOWN.EDU; @fisglobal.com; (b) (6) @chemserv.com; (b) (6) @sunflowersystems.com; @williamblair.com; (b) (6) @53.com;(b) (6) @SBC.SENATE.GOV; @sbc.senate.gov; (b) (6) @transurban.com; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @ysu.edu; @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) AMERICAN investment council (b) (6) @lucerooliveoil.com; (b) (6) @ALLIANCE-CONSULTANTS.COM; @wellmed.net; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @santafecommunications.com; @ci.manteca.ca.us; (b) (6) @ahip.org; (b) (6) @walgreens.com; (b) (6) @nfi.org; @nafcu.org; (b) (6) @riteaid.com; (b) @dgsr-lc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) (6) crocker strategy (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @anthem.com; (b) (6) @ici.org; (b) (6) @MILLFIELDGLOBAL.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.MIL; (b) (6) @experian.com; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @bah.com; (b) (6) @navigatorsglobal.com; (b) (6) @GULAGRAHAM.COM; (b) (6) @CLGDC.COM; (b) (6) @usa.redcross.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @carper.senate.gov; (b) (6) @motorolasolutions.com; (b) (6) @MagnumEntertainmentGroup.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @dunnassoc.com; (b) (6) @johanns.senate.gov; (b) (6) @PurpleStrategies.com; GOV; (b) (6) @raytheon.com; (b) (6) @tma.toyota.com; (b) (6) @electran.org; (b) (6) @helenmilby.com; (b) (6) @angelenterprisesdc.com; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAII-.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @HeaitlaiidStratcgies.coin; (b) (6) @americancrossroads.org; (b) (6) @agc.org; kgallant@aduston.com; (b) (6) National Cattlemen"s Beef Association (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @USA.net; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @verizon.com; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @quickenloans.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ntu.org; (b) (6) @redskins.com; (b) @nvtc.org; (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOTJSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @vachamber.com; (b) (6) @Flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN STEPHEN FINCHER (.house.gov); (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) @mail.kouse.gov; (b) (6) @thec2group.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @scllaw.com; (b) (6) @michigan.gov;(b) (6) @mzacompany.com; (6) (b) (6) @franchise.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @CAPITO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @ena.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @attglobal.net; (b) (6) @sbc.senate.gov; (6) (b) (6) @sba.gov; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @sjgov.org; (b) (6) @ci.tracy.ca.us; (b) (6) @yahoo.com; (b) (6) @cbrt.org; (b) (6) @ci.manteca.ca; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @IRIonline.org; (b) (6) @aep.conn;(b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCOTT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @814Consulting.com; (b) (6) Global Automakers (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) ; @OB-CGROUP.COM; (b) (6) @gdsstrategies.oom; (b) (6) ; (b) @4lanes4nebraska.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (b) (6) @score.org; (b) (6) @thehartford.com; (b) (6) @interdigital.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) Smiths Group (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @ubs.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000066 DOT_Am.Oversight-000066 @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @safnow.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @Emerson.com; (b) (6) @YourPoliticalAdvantage.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @finance.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warner.senate.gov; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ronjohnson.senate.gov; @toomey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b @newpartners.com; ) (b) (6) @nfib.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) (b) (6) @RUBIO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @fah.org; (b) (6) Cognizant ; ) (b) (6) @aflac.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @acli.com; @att.com; wpb.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) nam.org; (b) (6) @GMAIL.COM; Brand, Lauren (MARAD); (b) (6) @ROTHSCHILDPP.COM; @forestresources.org; (b) (6) @blakey-agnew.com; (b) (6) blakeyagnew.com; (b) (6) blakey-agnew.com; Furst, Tony (FHWA); @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @bradley.com; (b) (6) @hassan.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCHAT2.SENATE.GOV; @SCHATZ.SENATE.GOV; (b) @AASHTn.ORG; (b) (6) @kotzebue.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (6) (b) (6) denvergov.org; (b) (6) @ND.gov; (b) (6) @springfield.il.iis; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @clecaturil.gov; (b) (6) @gtlaw.com; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @umw.com; (b) (6) - Ogilvy GOVERNMENT RELATIONS (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @ogilvygr.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @Sawiana.com; (b) (6) @dfat.gov.au; (b) (6) @galvanassociates.com; (b) (6) @MacombCountyChamber.com; (b) (6) - DEPARMENT OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (b) (6) ); (b) (6) msn.com; (b) (6) @audi.com; (b) (6) - OFFICE OF SENATOR MITCH MCGONNELL, KENTUCKY (b) (6) @MCCONNELL.SENATE.GOV); (b) (6) @GSA.GOV; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @bhfs.com; (b) (6) @SBA.GOV; (b) (6) @fbtlaw.com; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cookcountyil.gov; (b) (6) @nscorp.com; (b) (6) @schlickman.conn; (b) (6) up.com; (b) (6) @peoplesgasdelivery.com; (b) (6) @aar.org; (b) (6) @sewrpc.org; (b) (6) @allianceRD.org; (b) (6) @schlicknnan.com; (b) (6) nirpc.org; (b) (6) cmap.illinois.gov; (b) @5bfriedman.com; (b) (6) @kpmg.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (6) (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @cardinalinfrastructure.com; (b) (6) @osmre.gov; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (6) (b) (6) @ci.gary.in.us;(b) (6) @portsmouthva.gov; (b) (6) @GarlandTx.gov; (b) (6) @suddenlink.net; (b) (6) @miamigov.com;(b) (6) @nd.gov; (b) (6) @ndus.edu; (b) (6) @go-metro.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @unitecl.com; (b) (6) @united.com; (b) (6) @dol.gov; (b) (6) .EOP.GOV; (b) (6) @trin.net; (b) (6) @amstedrail.com; (b) (6) @statewidepublicaffairs.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @aar.oraIwww.aar.org; (b) (6) Global Automakers (b) (6) ; King, Heidi (NHTSA); (b) (6) @Illinois.gov; (b) (6) @NANA.COM; (b) (6) - NANA REGIONAL CORPORATION, INC. (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @yuroknibe.nsn.us; (b) (6) - YUROK TRIBE (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @HLPADVOCACY.COM; (b) (6) @ryanalaska.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (6) (b) (6) @OKEEFFESTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) @EPW.SENATE.OOV; (b) (6) @epw.senate.gov; (b) @GOJAY.ORG; (b) (6) @privia.com; (b) (6) @TREASURY.GOV; (b) (6) - The Hershey (6) Company (b) (6) ; (b) (6) simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @starkcountyohio.gov; (b) (6) @pascocountyfl.net; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @madisongr.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @stancog.org; (b) (6) @maderactc.org; (b) @co.mercedca.us; (6) (b) (6) @mcagov.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @cityofhanfordca.com; (b) (6) - Paducah Chamber (b) (6) ); @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @AMPQ.ORG; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @miarriichamber.com; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) - STR Trade (b) (6) ); (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.co; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) scspa.com; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (b) (6) - National Conference of State Legislatures (b) (6) (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @MARYLAND.GOV; (b) (6) --' -@sso.org; @scna.net; -(b) (6) --= ..______. __ hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @att.net; (b) @uwa.edu; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) hklaw.com; (b) (6) - SQUIRE Patton Boggs LLP (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @cityhall.nyc.gov; (b) (6) @osu.edu; (b) @mmodc.com; (b) (6) L:====; ....__ ..I,;=== ~ (6) 1::-- phbpa.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (6) (b) (6) solutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @eliomotors.com; (b) @eliomotors.com; Williams, Jane (FTA); (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; CMC-01 (OST); (b) (6) @DPS.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @intait.com; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) (6) @MNCHAMBER.COM; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @KUTAKROCK.COM; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org;(b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @ferc.gov; (b) (6) @nouveaucorp.com; (b) (6) @sas.com; (b) (6) @emrgroup.com; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov;(b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @Alaska.Gov; (b) (6) @WDC.CA.GOV; (b) (6) @plasticsindustry.org; (b) (6) @ci.woodlake.ca.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @bdnreit.com; (b) (6) @WATERLOOLOBBY.COM; (b) (6) @isi-consulting.com; (b) (6) @bcbsa.com; (b) (6) @RagnarResearch.com; (b) (6) @govemor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @macquarie.com; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @MARYLAN0.G0V; (b) (6) @rga.org; (b) (6) @MOMARKDEVELOPMENT.COM; (b) (6) @3pointpaitneis.com; (b) (6) @austinbank.com; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV;(b) @gilmorestrategy.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000067 DOT_Am.Oversight-000067 (b) (6) @hntb.com; (b) (6) - HNTB Corporation (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @mwcllc.com; (b) (6) @MACADVANCED.CaM; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @transcanada.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) - PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @TAMPABAY.ORG; (b) (6) @pinellascounty.org; (b) (6) @asdd.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @StrategiesDC.com; (b) (6) @georgewaters.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @akerman.com; McCarthy, Jodi ; (b) (6) @dlapiper.com; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @le.utah.gov; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org;(b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @PHIL_A.GOV; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @willcountyilliiiis.com; (b) (6) @ctia.org; (b) (6) @ALEXANDER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @muscatineiowa.gov; (b) (6) @sbia.org; (b) (6) @hamiltonps.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @capitol.tn.gov; (b) (6) @johnhowe.us; (b) (6) @hclrinc.com; Criman, Branden (MARAD); Serassio, Helen (FTA); Hill, Damon (PHMSA); Vaughn, Colleen (OST); (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @pillsburYlaw.com; (b) (6) @greensboro-nc.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @BOOKER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) - Indian Health Service (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @x.team; (b) (6) @texaschemistry.org; (b) (6) @iupat.org; (b) (6) @autoalliance.org; (b) (6) @jonesmetalinc.com; (b) (6) @americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @mnchamber.com; (b) (6) @greatermankato.com; (b) (6) @TACaNITE.aRE; (b) @twinwest.com; (b) (6) @Toyota.com; (b) @ibew146.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) = - ----==-== ---:----- ~ - ~ Decatur Chamber - ---- I:== ===--- -~ @decaturchairibercom); @decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @laborers159.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @hu5chblackwell.com; (b) (6) @hq.doe.gov; (b) (6) @CITYOFLAKEFOREST.COM; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @co.tulare.ca.us; (b) (6) @visalia.cit; (b) (6) @duininck.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @LHBcorp.com;(b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) - OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Stop1220);(b) @columbuspartnership.com; (6) (b) (6) @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @DURBIN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mwcapitol.com; (b) (6) - AMERICAN ASSOCIATION (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @its.jnj.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @auburn.edu; (b) (6) @ntsb.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hq.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @live.com; (b) (6) @CCH-LLC.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) - Sitka Tribe of Alaska Tribal Government for Sitka, AK (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @waknet.org; (b) (6) @puebloofacoma.org; (b) (6) @puebloofpojoaque.org; Kenley, Erin (FHWA); (b) (6) @ftbelknap.org; (b) (6) @ashiwi.org; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) @philbest.net; (6) (b) (6) @grriail.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @alvarezandmarsal.com; (b) (6) @swapa.org; (b) (6) @COMMERCE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @commerce.senate.gov; (b) (6) @GOMMERCE.SKNATE.OOV; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.Virginia.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV;(b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (b) @nga.org; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) @dubersteingToup.corn;(b) (6) @dow.com; (b) (6) @siemens.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov;(b) (6) @gopro.com; (b) @uark.edu;(b) (6) @dji.com; (b) (6) @alta.org; (6) (b) (6) @pegcc.org;(b) (6) @deloitte.com; (b) (6) @AventueStategies.com; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @lacrty.org; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) 11111 -- -----==-- -- --- --- ----J ____, ~ - - cityofpleasantonca.gov; (b) (6) @danville.ca.gov; (b) (6) @cityoflivermore.net; (b) (6) dublin.ca.gov;(b) (6) @townsendPA.com; (b) (6) @nexxusconsulting.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (b) (6) @walmart.com; (b) (6) @OSEC.USDA.GOV; (6) (b) @DMMSTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) - Hance Scarborough, LLP (b) (6) ); (b) (6) (6) (b) (6) (LAHOOD.HOUSE.GOV); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) naco.org; (b) (6) - Bucks (b) (6) County Industrial Development Corporation (b) (6) @uss.com; =-: -); ~ (b) (6) @AASHTa.aRE; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @AmericanHort.org; (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) Kentucky Capital Development Corporation (b) (6) ); (b) (6) americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @trucking.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @nnwo.org; (b) (6) @bmexpl.com; (b) (6) @houstontx.gov; (b) (6) @shell.com; (b) (6) @buckscounty.org; (b) (6) @kindermorgan.com;(b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @cahcc.conn; (b) (6) @latinodigitalsolutions.com; (b) (6) @saGyr.com; (b) (6) btbv.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @tfi.org; (b) (6) @navient.com;(b) (6) @EFBAdvocacy.com; (b) (6) @LHGDC.COM; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @cityofpascagoula.com; (b) (6) @fortworthtexas.gov; (b) (6) @tampagov.net; (b) (6) @gulfport-ms.gov; (b) (6) @cityofpensacola.com; (b) (6) @raleighnc.gov; (b) (6) - Colorado Springs ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) - City of Gastonia (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @lowellnc.com; (b) (6) @cityolgastonia.com; (b) (6) @usgs.gov; (b) (6) @temeculaca.gov; (b) (6) @davidturch.com; (b) akingump.com;(b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov;(b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) aapa-ports.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @agtrans.org; (b) (6) @crshq.com; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @ustollingcoalition.org; (b) (6) @abc.org; (b) (6) @PGE.COM; (b) (6) @doc.gov; (b) (6) edmondswa.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) @allianceportregion.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; ==-~=- ~~ =-- ------= AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) =- - --~ ~-- :::J_~~;--;=== =-------- =~ DOT-18-0010-A-000068 DOT_Am.Oversight-000068 @klgates.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; (b) (6) @ups.com; @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; @capitaledge.com; (b) (6) @dean.net;(b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @cityofirving.org; @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; @COJ.NET; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @verizon.net;(b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; @fticonsulting.com; Chris Cox; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; Stevens, Michael H.; @ehi.com; (b) (6) @bighornpublicaffairs.com; (b) @flyravn.com; (b) (6) @whitmerworrall.com; (6) @tgsgroup.com; (b) (6) @tgsgroup.com; Eric Dell; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; Ed McDonald; (b) (6) @maryland.gov); (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strategics.consulting; (b) (6) @pwchamber.oeg; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @cityofws.org; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @senate.virginia.gov; Dan Scandling; (b) (6) @vectrecorp.com; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) @thefiorentinogroup.com;(b) (6) @cfmdc.com; (6) (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) ODOT.org; (b) (6) odot.state.or.us; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) scdot.org; (b) (6) state.sd.us; (b) (6) tn.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.vi.gov; (b) (6) gmail.com; (b) (6) utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) wsdot.wa.gov; (b) (6) wv.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.as.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @alaska.gov; (b) (6) @hotmail.com; (b) (6) @dudinskyassociates.com; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @wdc.ca.gov; (b) (6) @state.co.us; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) (6) state.de.us; (b) (6) @eog.myflorida.com; (b @rubicondc.com; (b) (6) @guam.gov; ) (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) (6 @gov.idaho.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @hohlt.com; (b) (6) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) ) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) @vikingnav.com; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @maine.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @state.ma.us; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @state.mn.us; (b) (6) @governor.ms.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @mt.gov; (b) (6) @nebraska.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (6) (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @gov.state.nj.us; (b) (6) @nj.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) @nd.gov; (6) (b) (6) @governor.ohio.gov; (b) (6) @gov.ok.gov; (b) (6) @oregon.gov; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @prfaa.pr.gov; (b) (6) @governor.ri.gov; (b) (6) @gov.sc.gov; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @tn.gov; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @lgo.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) @wv.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @co.bucks.pa.us; (b) (6) @hsr.ca.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @decaturil.gov;(b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @phila.gov; (b) (6) @thecityofportland.net; (b) (6) @springfield.il.us;(b) (6) @thomasvilleal.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @wenatcheewa.gov; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; (b) (6) @ecipd.org; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; (b) (6) @grantcounty.net; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.com; (b) (6) @miamichamber.com; (b) (6) @cs.com; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) portla.org; (b) (6) @warren-county.net; (b) (6) @willcountyillinois.com; (b) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @rockdalecounty.gov; (b) (6) @cityofLakeForest.com; (6) (6) (b) @hillsboroughCounty.org; (b) (6) @rockdalecountyga.ga; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @goplainfield.com; (b) (6) @goplainfield.com;(b) (6) @aol.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @sandyspringsga.gov; (b) (6) torranceca.gov; (b) (6) TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @torranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @franklincountyky.com; (b) (6) @frankfort.ky.gov; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) naco.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) (6) (6) usmayors.org;(b) (6) aashto.org; (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @alec.org; (b) (6) csg.org; (b) (6) @nasao.org; (b) (6) @westgov.org; (b) (6) @alcalde-fay.com; (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @dc.bhb.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @hoganlovells.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @madisongroup.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) peyser.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @turnberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @wolfsonbolton.com; (b) (6) cchllc.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) phbpa.com; (6) (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @daleypg.com; (b) (6) @strategiesdc.com; (b) (6) aztec.us; (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @scrra.net; (b) (6) @sso.org; (b) aashto.org; (6) (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; @ally.com; @blyncsy.com; @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) csx.com;(b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ipaper.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) asdd.com; (6) (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @kycapitaldevelopment.com; (b) (6) @UnitedBankKY.com USDoT infrastructure booklet Monday, March 05, 2018 5:47:00 PM (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: Date: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000069 DOT_Am.Oversight-000069 Attachments: image002.png Please find the link below to access the new USDoT booklet titled “The President’s initiative for Rebuilding Infrastructure in America.”   Let me know if you have any questions.   https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/briefing-room/305216/infrastructureinitiative-booklet.pdf   Anthony R. Bedell Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 202-366-0913 (b) (6) mobile     DOT-18-0010-A-000070 DOT_Am.Oversight-000070 From: To: Bcc: Subject: Date: Attachments: OST Government Affairs OST Government Affairs (b) (6) @crapo.senate.gov; (b) (6) @risch.senate.gov; (b) (6) @duckworth.senate.gov; (b) (6) @duckworth.senate.gov; (b) (6) @durbin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @donnelly.senate.gov; (b) (6) @young.senate.gov; (b) (6) @moran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @roberts.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; (b) (6) @paul.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cassidy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cassidy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @kennedy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @markey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warren.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cardin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cardin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @vanhollen.senate.gov; (b) (6) @collins.senate.gov; (b) (6) @king.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; @franken.senate.gov; t @klobuchar.senate.gov; (b) (6) @commerce.senate.gov; (b) (6) @blunt.senate.gov; (b) (6) @McCaskill.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cochran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @crapo.senate.gov; (b) (6) @risch.senate.gov; (b) (6) @duckworth.senate.gov; (b) (6) (b) (6) @durbin.senate.gov; @donnelly.senate.gov; (b) (6) @young.senate.gov; @moran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @roberts.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; (b) (6) @paul.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cassidy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @kennedy.senate.gov; (b) (6) @markey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warren.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cardin.senate.gov; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @vanhollen.senate.gov; @collins.senate.gov; @king.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) @franken.senate.gov; (b) (6) @klobuchar.senate.gov; (b) (6) @blunt.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mccaskill.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cochran.senate.gov INFRA FAQ and NOFO Thursday, June 29, 2017 10:11:00 AM INFRA Grant Program FAQs.pdf Good Morning:   Attached are the INFRA grant program frequently asked questions. The NOFO has been posted this morning at this link: www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/INFRAgrants   Thank you, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Governmental Affairs AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000071 DOT_Am.Oversight-000071 INFRA Grant Program FAQs Why is the Department changing the existing program? The current system is not working: 1. Evidence has shown that, in the past, when some State and local governments receive and spend federal funding for infrastructure, they divert future funding away from key infrastructure needs towards other uses – leading to little or no net benefit to infrastructure. With nearly $9.8 billion in funding requested in FY 2016 for FASTLANE, we need to take steps to get more bang for the buck. By getting more of our partners to use federal funding as a supplement — not a substitute — we seek to increase the amount of overall funding that goes to infrastructure. 2. Many necessary projects get caught in red tape more related to the bureaucratic checking of a box than to protecting environmental and community outcomes. 3. Oftentimes projects are launched without a real plan to account for future operations and maintenance costs for the life-cycle of the project — leading to the crumbling infrastructure that plagues our country today. The American Society of Civil Engineers estimated that the U.S. has over $4.5 trillion in infrastructure needs[1]. The Department believes that we can’t afford to continue making the mistakes of the past. In addition to the program name, what has changed in the new INFRA competition? The program goals and selection criteria have changed substantially from FASTLANE. Under the INFRA program, projects that use innovative approaches to make each the federal dollar go further and encourage more parties to put skin in the game through higher leverage, are willing implement innovative approaches to permitting and project delivery, and project sponsors willing to measure their performance and hold themselves accountable will all find something to like in the new NOFO. The Department intends to provide careful consideration to projects that address transportation needs in rural areas of varying sizes. [1] ASCE 2017 Infrastructure Report Card. Retrieved June 23, 2017, from http://www.infrastructurereportcard.org/ DOT-18-0010-A-000072 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000072 What stayed the same from previous FASTLANE competitions? The eligible costs, project types, cost share, project sizes and other requirements defined by the statute have not changed. The program still focuses on projects that generate national or regional economic, mobility, and safety benefits. Will the Department have a separate FY 2018 competition? No. Subject to availability, FY 2018 funds for Large and Small Projects are included in this INFRA NOFO. How does the INFRA Grant program focus on safety? Safety is the top priority of the Department, and this program supports our continued commitment to safety. The Department seeks applications that are likely to yield safety benefits. Projects with significant safety benefits will be competitive under the Economic Vitality criterion. In addition, the Department is considering innovative approaches to transportation safety, particularly projects which incorporate innovative design solutions, enhance the environment for automated vehicles, or use technology to improve the detection, mitigation, and documentation of safety risks, as part of the Innovation selection criterion. Why isn’t the Department making Large Project selections from the existing applicant pool for FY 2017 funding? The Department believes that with the right incentives, project sponsors across the country can make dramatic, long-term improvements in the way projects are delivered and maintain our transportation infrastructure. The INFRA Grant program represents an opportunity to provide those incentives. While this has required the development of updated selection criteria, the program still adheres to statutory requirements. The new criteria represent a significant improvement over the status quo, so the Department will provide applicants an opportunity to apply under the new criteria. If the INFRA program is such a significant improvement from FASTLANE, why does the Department intend to make FY 2017 Small Project awards under the FASTLANE selection criteria? Due to the comparatively small amount of funding statutorily reserved for Small Projects, $78.88M of the total, the Department will move forward with making Small Project selections from previously submitted applications under the FASTLANE criteria, while AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000073 DOT_Am.Oversight-000073 reserving the bulk of the funding to be awarded under the improved INFRA Grant criteria. We’re finalizing our Small Project selections in the hopes of getting those projects underway soon, while at the same time focusing efforts on the new Administration’s priorities. When does the Department anticipate notifying Congress with proposed selections for FY 2017 FASTLANE Small Projects? The Department recognizes the efforts applicants took to apply and fully understands the great transportation needs facing communities throughout America. The Department anticipates notifying Congress of proposed FY 2017 Small Project awards soon. Why is the Department publishing the INFRA NOFO now, rather than waiting until the FASTLANE FY 2017 Small Project selections have been made? Publishing the INFRA NOFO now provides applicants with additional time to understand the new selection criteria, receive technical assistance from the Department, and submit new applications which best address the INFRA selection criteria and program goals. To help accommodate applicants, particularly Small Projects awaiting the outcome of their submission, the Department is extending the application window to 120 days, compared with 45 days in the FY 2017 FASTLANE competition. For applicants that have already submitted a previous FASTLANE application and have limited resources to develop new INFRA applications, can they resubmit their old application? The new INFRA NOFO specifically allows applicants to resubmit their old applications if they believe their project aligns with the new INFRA criteria. In these cases, applicants may submit an appendix with their previous application. The appendix will describe how their project aligns with the new INFRA criteria and include any required supplemental information not included in their original application. Will the Department provide feedback or debriefs on previous applications? Once the FASTLANE FY 2017 Small Projects selections have been made and the Congressional notification period has ended, the Department will continue its policy of providing technical debriefs on those applications. Because the FASTLANE evaluations for Large Projects were not completed, feedback on those applications will be more limited. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000074 DOT_Am.Oversight-000074 Will the INFRA program make freight projects a priority? The Department anticipates that in addition to meeting statutory requirements, the INFRA program’s focus on economic vitality, leverage (including private sector participation), innovation, and performance, means that freight projects will be competitive. How will INFRA Grants address the needs of rural areas? The new INFRA program preserves the statutory requirement to award at least 25% of funding for rural projects. It calls on the Department to consider an equitable balance in funding for geographic diversity among recipients. This means accounting for the impact of transportation funding for the economic revitalization of rural and disadvantaged communities. The Department will give full consideration to the unique needs of rural areas. In addition, while the INFRA program emphasizes the leveraging of non-federal and private sector funding as a selection criteria, the Department understands that rural areas may not have access to the same resources as those available to wealthier, more populous areas. The Department intends to consider constraints on an applicant’s ability to generate, attract, or otherwise draw on non-federal or private sector funding when considering each project’s financial plan. The Department also recognizes that it can better balance the needs of rural and urban communities if it does not take a binary view of urban and rural, and accordingly the Department will consider the actual population of the community that each project serves, in addition to whether it meets the urban or rural definition described in the law. This means rural areas with a population of 10,000 people will not be treated the same as rural areas with 190,000 people. How do the INFRA Grants address access and mobility issues? The Economic Vitality criterion considers projects that reduce barriers separating workers from employment centers and ones that connect peripheral regions to urban centers or job opportunities. This also supports projects that bridge gaps in service in rural areas and projects that attract private economic development. Many of the related principles that were captured in the Community and Environmental Outcomes criterion in FASTLANE remain in the Economic Vitality criterion in the INFRA Grant program. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000075 DOT_Am.Oversight-000075 What does the Department mean by the term “leverage”? The term leverage, as used in the INFRA NOFO, refers to the degree to which a project uses non-federal sources of funding to pay for construction. This can include State, local, and private sector funding, projects that raise revenue directly, projects that benefit from local self-help, and projects that pair INFRA grants with broader-scale innovative financing, including federal credit assistance such as Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) and Railroad Rehabilitation Improvement Financing (RRIF) loans. Why is leverage good? The Department’s interest is that by awarding projects that leverage non-federal sources, the pool of resources being used to build and restore infrastructure will be expanded. How does the evaluation process work? First, technical evaluation teams made up of Departmental staff will determine whether projects satisfy statutory requirements and rate how well they address the selection criteria outlined in the NOFO. The Senior Review Team, comprised of Departmental leadership, will then consider the applications and the technical evaluations to determine which projects to advance to the Secretary for consideration. The Secretary will ultimately make the final selection for awards, consistent with the statutory requirements for INFRA Grants and the selection criteria in the NOFO. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000076 DOT_Am.Oversight-000076 From: To: Cc: Bcc: Subject: Date: Attachments: OST Government Affairs OST Government Affairs McMaster, Sean (OST); Newman, Philip (OST); Fraser, Bobby (OST) Goldner, Bob (OST); Schlemmer, Kevin (OST); (b) (6) @bennet.senate.gov; (b) (6) @gardner.senate.gov; (b) (6) @capito.senate.gov; (b) (6) @manchin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @capito.senate.gov; (b) (6) @manchin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @casey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @toomey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @ernst.senate.gov; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cardin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cardin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @alexander.senate.gov; (b) (6) @corker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @vanhollen.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @gillibrand.senate.gov; (b) (6) @schumer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @schumer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @sasse.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; (b) (6) @paul.senate.gov; (b) (6) @brown.senate.gov; (b) (6) @brown.senate.gov; (b) (6) @portman.senate.gov; (b) (6) @portman.senate.gov; (b) (6) @flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) @flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) @mccain.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cornyn.senate.gov; (b) (6) @cruz.senate.gov; (b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strange.senate.gov; (b) (6) @feinstein.senate.gov; (b) (6) @harris.senate.gov; (b) (6) @harris.senate.gov; (b) (6) @harris.senate.gov; (b) (6) @harris.senate.gov; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @moran.senate.gov; (b) (6) @roberts.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) @merkley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @wyden.senate.gov; (b) (6) @wyden.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hatch.senate.gov; (b) (6) @lee.senate.gov; Valaitis, Ada (OST) Order Tentatively Terminating Certain EAS Communities Friday, September 29, 2017 5:33:00 PM Order 2017-9-23 Final EAS show cause Order for FY2016_for DOCKETS.PDF Good afternoon,   By the attached Order, the U.S. Department of Transportation has tentatively determined that all 27 communities listed on the first page of the Order did not meet one or two statutory eligibility criteria required to remain in the Essential Air Service (EAS) program. The Department has tentatively determined that these 27 communities did not enplane an average of 10 or more passengers per day during Fiscal Year 2016, as required by 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B), and/or required a rate of subsidy per passenger of more than $200 (the “Subsidy Cap”). The Department is directing interested persons to show cause why the Department should not terminate the eligibility of the 19 communities listed in the first group of communities identified in the caption of this Order.   All 27 communities may file objections and/or petition for waivers, and the Department will not terminate subsidized service until objections and petitions for waivers are reviewed and a final Order is issued granting or denying petitions for waivers.   Also by this Order, the Department tentatively grants a waiver to the eight communities listed in the second group identified in the caption of this Order due to their extended service hiatus during Fiscal Year 2016, as further discussed below. The Department directs interested parties to show cause why the Department should not grant these communities a waiver on its own initiative.   Objections to the Department’s tentative decision and petitions for waivers from these requirements are due within 20 days of the service date of this Order. Additionally, DOT-18-0010-A-000077 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000077 communities that required a subsidy per passenger in excess of the Subsidy Cap during Fiscal Year 2016 may work with an air carrier to submit a proposal to the Department that complies with the Subsidy Cap, as further described in this Order.   The Department will issue the Order today.  Please let us know if you have any questions.     Thank you, Office of Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000078 DOT_Am.Oversight-000078 Order: 2017-9-23 Served: September 29, 2017 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on the 29th day of September, 2017 Essential Air Service at ALAMOSA, COLORADO ALTOONA, PENNSYLVANIA BRADFORD, PENNSYLVANIA CLARKSBURG/FAIRMONT, WEST VIRGINIA DUBOIS, PENNSYLVANIA FORT DODGE, IOWA FRANKLIN/OIL CITY, PENNSYLVANIA HAGERSTOWN, MARYLAND JACKSON, TENNESSEE JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK JOHNSTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA KEARNEY, NEBRASKA LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA MASON CITY, IOWA OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA/MARIETTA, OHIO PRESCOTT, ARIZONA SCOTTSBLUFF, NEBRASKA VICTORIA, TEXAS DOT-OST-1997-2960 DOT-OST-2002-11446 DOT-OST-2003-14528 DOT-OST-2005-20736 DOT-OST-2004-17617 DOT-OST-2001-10682 DOT-OST-1997-2523 DOT-OST-2006-25228 DOT-OST-2000-7857 DOT-OST-2003-14950 DOT-OST-2002-11451 DOT-OST-1996-1715 DOT-OST-2002-11450 DOT-OST-2001-10684 DOT-OST-2000-7855 DOT-OST-2005-20734 DOT-OST-1996-1899 DOT-OST-2003-14535 DOT-OST-2005-20454 MUSCLE SHOALS, ALABAMA EL CENTRO, CALIFORNIA PUEBLO, COLORADO MACON, GEORGIA SALINA, KANSAS TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI PENDLETON, OREGON VERNAL, UTAH DOT-OST-2000-7856 DOT-OST-2008-0299 DOT-OST-1999-6589 DOT-OST-2007-28761 DOT-OST-2002-11376 DOT-OST-2009-0305 DOT-OST-2004-19934 DOT-OST-1997-2706 Tentatively terminating eligibility Under 49 U.S.C. § 41731 et seq. and proposing a waiver from certain requirements for a class of communities DOT-18-0010-A-000079 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000079 -2- ORDER TENTATIVELY TERMINATING ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE ELIGIBILITY AND TENTATIVELY GRANTING A WAIVER FOR COMMUNITIES THAT EXPERIENCED A SERVICE HIATUS Summary By this Order, the U.S. Department of Transportation (the Department) has tentatively determined that all 27 communities listed on the first page of this Order did not meet one or two statutory eligibility criteria required to remain in the Essential Air Service (EAS) program. The Department has tentatively determined that these 27 communities did not enplane an average of 10 or more passengers per day during Fiscal Year 2016, as required by 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B), and/or required a rate of subsidy per passenger of more than $200 (the “Subsidy Cap”). The Department is directing interested persons to show cause why the Department should not terminate the eligibility of the 19 communities listed in the first group of communities identified in the caption of this Order. All 27 communities may file objections and/or petition for waivers, and the Department will not terminate subsidized service until objections and petitions for waivers are reviewed and a final Order is issued granting or denying petitions for waivers. Also by this Order, the Department tentatively grants a waiver to the eight communities listed in the second group identified in the caption of this Order due to their extended service hiatus during Fiscal Year 2016, as further discussed below. The Department directs interested parties to show cause why the Department should not grant these communities a waiver on its own initiative. Objections to the Department’s tentative decision and petitions for waivers from these requirements are due within 20 days of the service date of this Order. Additionally, communities that required a subsidy per passenger in excess of the Subsidy Cap during Fiscal Year 2016 may work with an air carrier to submit a proposal to the Department that complies with the Subsidy Cap, as further described in this Order. Background The FAA Modernization and Reform Act, Pub. L. No. 112-95 (Feb. 14, 2012) (FAA 2012), amended 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a) to change the definition of “eligible place” for the purpose of receiving EAS by adding a new subsection (1)(B). Subsection (1)(B) states that, to be an eligible place for EAS, a community must have averaged 10 or more enplanements per service day, as determined by the Secretary, during the most recent fiscal year beginning after September 30, 2012. This requirement does not apply to locations in Alaska and Hawaii and communities that are more than 175 driving miles from the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. 1 The Secretary may waive the 10-enplanement requirement, on an annual basis, if the community demonstrates to the Secretary’s satisfaction that the reason the location averages fewer than 10 enplanements per day is due to a temporary decline in enplanements. 2 1 See 2 See 49 U.S.C. § 41731(c) and (d). 49 U.S.C. § 41731(e). DOT-18-0010-A-000080 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000080 -3The Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2000, Pub. L. No. 106-69 (Oct. 9, 1999), prohibits the Department from subsidizing EAS for communities located within the 48 contiguous States when per passenger subsidy amounts exceed $200, unless the communities are located more than 210 miles from the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. On October 9, 2014, the Department issued a Notice of Enforcement Policy announcing how the Department intended to enforce compliance with the Subsidy Cap. 3 FAA 2012 authorized the Secretary of Transportation to waive the Subsidy Cap, subject to the availability of funds, on a case-by-case basis, for a limited period of time. Methodology and Enplanement History To determine whether an EAS community is subject to the 10-enplanement-per-day and Subsidy Cap requirements, the Department must determine the community’s distance, by driving miles, to the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. The Department measures the shortest driving distance from the center of the EAS community to the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. 4 In calculating enplanements per day, the Department has taken total annual origin and destination passenger numbers for Fiscal Year 2016, divided by two, to show passengers in one direction (enplanements at the EAS community), and then divided by 313 days to get average daily enplanements at the EAS community. The Department does not use 365 days per year in its calculations because the typical EAS contract provides for the equivalent of six-day-a-week service. 5 The subsidy per passenger was calculated by taking the annual subsidy paid and dividing by the total number of enplanements plus deplanements at the EAS community on the subsidized EAS air carrier for Fiscal Year 2016, i.e., from October 1, 2015, through September 30, 2016. In addition, the Department calculated the average subsidy per passenger using actual subsidies paid at each of the communities and appears in Appendix C. 6 Decision First, the Department has tentatively determined that all 27 communities at issue here are within either 210 miles or 175 miles of a large- or medium-hub airport and, thus, are subject to either the Subsidy Cap or the ten-enplanement eligibility standard, or both. 3 On May 1, 2014, the Department published a Notice of Proposed Enforcement Policy for the Subsidy Cap in the Federal Register, 79 Fed. Reg. 24632, for comment. After a 60-day public comment period and review, the Department issued the Final Notice of Enforcement Policy on October 9, 2014, 79 Fed. Reg. 60951. 4 This method of calculating distance to the nearest large- or medium-hub airport is consistent with longstanding Department practice. See 54 Fed. Reg. 52766 (Dec. 22, 1989) (amending 14 CFR Part 398). 5 For example, the Department typically subsidizes two round trips a day Monday through Friday and two round trips over the weekend (12 round trips a week) or three round trips each weekday and over the weekend (18 a week). Using 313 days (52 weeks x 6 days = 312 + one day = 313), instead of 365 days, has the effect of raising the average daily enplanements by 17 percent. 6 The Notice of Enforcement Policy stated that the Department would consider the actual subsidies paid to assess a community’s average per passenger subsidy, upon request. For efficiency, the Department has decided to rely on its calculation of actual subsidies paid in this enforcement action. For 26 communities, the average subsidy per passenger based on actual subsidies paid is lower than the annual subsidy contract amounts because of flight completion rates. Macon’s subsidy per passenger is not calculable because they had no passengers and no subsidy. Thus, the Department finds that all communities subject to enforcement in this Order benefit from the use of actual subsidies paid. Comments are welcome on this. DOT-18-0010-A-000081 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000081 -4- Appendix B shows the communities that the Department has tentatively determined to have averaged fewer than 10 enplanements per day in Fiscal Year 2016, and includes the average enplanements per day, the distance to the nearest large- or medium-hub, and total passenger levels for Fiscal Year 2016. Appendix C lists the communities that the Department has tentatively determined to have required a subsidy per passenger more than the Subsidy Cap and includes the actual subsidy paid to carriers providing EAS, the Fiscal Year 2016 passenger levels (enplanements plus deplanements at the EAS community), and the distance to the nearest large- or medium-hub. Second, the Department finds that the eight communities listed on Appendix A experienced a service hiatus during FY 2016. After careful consideration of this matter, the Department has tentatively decided to terminate the eligibility of the 19 communities listed in the first group in the caption to this Order. The Department also tentatively grants a waiver to the following eight communities: El Centro, CA; Macon, GA; Muscle Shoals, AL; Pendleton, OR; Pueblo, CO; Salina, KS; Tupelo, MS; and Vernal, UT. Appendix A lists the service hiatus dates for these communities. The tentative waivers for these communities are discussed further below. As further discussed below, the Department will give interested persons 20 days after the service date of this Order to submit objections and/or petitions for waivers. Objections Objections submitted in response to this Order should be strictly limited to disputing the tentative findings contained in this Order, should be fully documented, and contain complete information on the data used by the parties objecting. Waivers Waiver petitions should comport with the procedures described below. Waiver procedures Communities that have had their EAS eligibility tentatively terminated by this Order may petition for a waiver. The Department will consider petitions for a waiver of 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B) under the authority provided in 49 U.S.C. § 41731(e). The petition should state that it is a request for waiver from 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B) and include an explanation of the nature and extent of the relief sought and any information and arguments available to the petitioner to support the petition for waiver. Petitions should provide facts and circumstances to aid the Secretary’s consideration of whether the “reason the location averages fewer than ten enplanements per day is due to a temporary decline in enplanements.” The Secretary also has authority to grant waivers from the Subsidy Cap. Section 426 of Public Law 112-95 states, “subject to the availability of funds, the Secretary may waive, on a case-bycase basis, the subsidy-per-passenger cap established by section 332 of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2000 (Public Law 106–69; 113 Stat. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000082 DOT_Am.Oversight-000082 -51022). A waiver issued under this subsection shall remain in effect for a limited period of time, as determined by the Secretary.” Petitions should include any information the petitioner deems relevant to the Secretary’s consideration of the petition. Communities that are identified as being potentially non-compliant with both the 10enplanement requirement and the per-passenger subsidy cap, should also include, in their petitions how they plan to reach the targets if waivers are granted. Petitions for waivers from either requirement must be filed in accordance with 49 CFR § 5.11(b). 7 All petitions for a waiver must be submitted within 20 days of the service date of this Order, with the title “Petition of (EAS community) for a waiver from the 10-enplanement statute and/or $200 per passenger cap, Docket DOT-OST-(appropriate Docket number from page 1 of this Order),” to ensure timely consideration in accordance with 49 CFR § 5.11(b). All petitions must be filed electronically to EAS@dot.gov or by FAX to 202-366-7638. The Department will consider each petition for waiver based upon the individual merits and circumstances of that community. Each petition received by the Department will be made available at http://www.regulations.gov. Proposals for Service that Comply with Subsidy Cap 49 U.S.C. § 41733(f)(2) states that the Secretary must establish procedures to permit a community to work directly with an air carrier to submit a proposal that would not exceed the Subsidy Cap prior to termination of eligibility for non-compliance with the Subsidy Cap. Communities are encouraged to work with the air carrier providing subsidized EAS to submit a proposal that complies with the minimum service requirements at 49 U.S.C. § 41732(b) for a subsidy below the Subsidy Cap. Carriers should express a willingness to amend their current Order for EAS service to reduce the subsidy, consistent with the submitted proposal. Communities wishing to submit a proposal in accordance with 49 U.S.C. § 41733(f)(2) should submit the proposal no later than 20 days following the service date of this Order. Appendix D shows the maximum subsidy level at the 19 communities that had continuous service during Fiscal Year 2016 that are required to be in compliance with the Subsidy Cap, assuming that enplanements remain constant at Fiscal Year 2016 levels. If the Department determines that a proposal is reasonable, the Department will amend the community’s current Order for EAS service to align with the proposal, and take no further action based on the community’s Fiscal Year 2016 non-compliance with the Subsidy Cap. Tentative Waiver for Communities that Experienced a Service Hiatus The EAS program contemplates that eligible communities will receive EAS on a continuing basis. 8 Nevertheless, the Department recognizes that eight of the 27 communities at issue 7 Because the Secretary has specific statutory authority to waive both the 10-enplanement and Subsidy Cap requirements, the Department would be exercising its statutory waiver authority through its petition for exemption process set forth in 49 CFR § 5.11. 8 See, e.g., Frontier Airlines, Inc. v. CAB, 621 F.2d 369 (10th Cir. 1980) (noting that “it is the intent of Congress that no small community shall be left without essential air services, on a continuing basis, by virtue of a certificated airline leaving the field after merely giving 90 days’ notice”); see also H.R. Rep. No. 95-1779, at 32 (1978) (Conf. Rep.) (“The conference substitute guarantees continued air transportation . . . . To insure such service the substitute establishes a new subsidy program . . . .”). DOT-18-0010-A-000083 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000083 -6experienced an extended service hiatus in Fiscal Year 2016 9 during which time the communities did not receive basic EAS for some or all of the Fiscal Year. Of these eight communities, the Department tentatively finds that two, Pueblo, CO and Macon , GA, did not enplane an average of ten or more passengers per service day during Fiscal Year 2016. The Department also tentatively finds that the following seven communities failed to comply with the Subsidy Cap: Muscle Shoals, AL; El Centro, CA; Pueblo, CO; Salina, KS; Tupelo, KS; Pendleton, OR; and Vernal, UT. Each of these seven communities experienced a hiatus in service when its EAS carrier abruptly ceased operations, without a replacement carrier identified or in place. SeaPort Airlines, Inc. ceased operations at Muscle Shoals on October 23, 2015, at El Centro and Salina on January 16, 2016, and at Pendleton on September 20, 2016. SkyWest Airlines, Inc. (SkyWest) terminated operations at Pueblo in June 2015 and Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd. (Great Lakes) did not begin service until November 2015. SkyWest terminated service at Vernal in April 2015; Great Lakes was selected to replace SkyWest, but never began service. A new carrier selection was made and Boutique Air, Inc. began service in March 2016. Macon had no air service for the entire fiscal year. See Appendix A. Because of the service hiatus, these communities endured a unique hardship during Fiscal Year 2016 that may have materially and substantially impaired their ability to comply with the 10 enplanement and Subsidy Cap requirements. Seven of these communities previously petitioned the Department for a waiver, which the Department granted having found that the requirements for such waiver were sufficiently demonstrated by the petition. 10 Due to the extensive service hiatus experienced by all eight of these communities in Fiscal Year 2016, they have been unable to return to their normal EAS operations and restore enplanements. Thus, the Department tentatively finds that Pueblo, CO and Macon, GA have demonstrated to the Secretary’s satisfaction that their decline in enplanements is temporary because of the extended service hiatus they experienced during Fiscal Year 2016. In addition, the Department tentatively grants a waiver from the Subsidy Cap requirement due to the unique circumstance of an extended service hiatus to Muscle Shoals, AL; El Centro, CA; Pueblo, CO; Salina, KS; Tupelo, KS; Pendleton, OR; and Vernal, UT. Next Steps If the Department finalizes the tentative findings to terminate a community’s EAS eligibility in a subsequent Order, the Department will specify an effective date for termination of EAS at that community. In that event, if a specific carrier providing EAS at one of the affected communities decides to suspend service upon the effective date, the Department will expect it to contact all passengers who hold reservations for flights that will be suspended to inform them of the suspension and assist them in arranging alternative transportation or to provide a refund of the ticket price, without penalty, if requested. The Department reminds carriers that their contracts and service obligations remain in full force until the completion of this process. In the meantime, the Department hereby requires the incumbent carriers to provide EAS at the 9 El Centro, CA; Macon, GA; Muscle Shoals, AL; Pendleton, OR; Pueblo, CO; Salina, KS; Tupelo, MS; and Vernal, UT. 10 Although Vernal was not tentatively found to be out of compliance previously, similar circumstances apply. Like Pueblo, SkyWest Airlines terminated service prior to a replacement carrier beginning service. DOT-18-0010-A-000084 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000084 -7communities until further notice, which will be included in the Department’s Final Order on this matter. Carriers that fail to continue providing EAS at their respective communities may be referred to the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings for appropriate handling. This Order does not preclude carriers from starting or continuing air service at these communities without subsidy. This Order is issued under authority delegated in 49 CFR 1.25a(b)(6)(ii)(D). ACCORDINGLY, 1. The Department tentatively finds that the eight communities listed in Appendix B averaged fewer than 10 enplanements per day during Fiscal Year 2016 and are within 175 miles from the nearest large- or medium-hub, as specified on Appendix B, and therefore, did not comply with 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B). Except for Pueblo and Macon which experienced a service hiatus, the Department tentatively terminates the EAS eligibility of these six communities; 2. The Department tentatively finds that the 26 communities listed in Appendix C required a rate of subsidy per passenger in excess of $200 during Fiscal Year 2016 and are located fewer than 210 miles from the nearest large-or medium hub, as specified on Appendix C, and therefore, did not comply with Section 332 of Public Law 106-69. Except those communities identified in Appendix A, the Department tentatively terminates the EAS eligibility of these communities; 3. For Fiscal Year 2016, the Department tentatively finds that Pueblo, CO, and Macon, GA, are within 175 miles of a large- or medium-hub airport, enplaned an average of fewer than ten enplanements a day, but experienced a service hiatus during Fiscal Year 2016. The Department tentatively finds that the temporary decline in enplanements was due to the extended service hiatus and tentatively waives 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B) for these communities for Fiscal Year 2016; 4. For Fiscal Year 2016, the Department tentatively waives Section 332 of Public Law 106-69 (the “Subsidy Cap”) for the eight communities listed in Appendix A; 5. The Department directs all interested persons to show cause within 20 days of the date of service of this Order why the Department should not make final the tentative findings and conclusions set forth above and/or file a petition for a waiver from 10-enplanement/Subsidy Cap requirements. Objections and petitions for waivers should be filed electronically to Kevin.Schlemmer@dot.gov, EAS@dot.gov, or by FAX at 202-366-7638; 6. The Department directs communities that exceed the Subsidy Cap that wish to submit proposals for EAS that comply with the Subsidy Cap to submit such proposals within 20 days of the date of service of this Order. Compliant proposals should be filed electronically to Kevin.Schlemmer@dot.gov, EAS@dot.gov, or by FAX at 202-366-7638; 7. The Department will afford full consideration to the matters and issues raised in any timely and properly filed objections and petitions for waivers before taking further action; 8. These dockets will remain open until further order of the Department; and A\11 f C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000085 DOT_Am.Oversight-000085 -89. The Department will serve copies of this Order on the civic officials of all communities listed on Page 1 of this Order and Boutique Air, Inc., Corporate Flight Management, Inc. d/b/a Contour Airlines, Great Lakes Aviation, Ltd., Hyannis Air Service, Inc. d/b/a Cape Air, Mokulele Flight Service, Inc. d/b/a Mokulele Airlines, Multi-Aero, Inc. d/b/a Air Choice One, Peninsula Airways, Inc., SkyWest Airlines, and Southern Airways Express, LLC. By: SUSAN MCDERMOTT Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available at http://www.regulations.gov A\11 f C,/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000086 DOT_Am.Oversight-000086 Appendix A EAS Communities with a service hiatus during Fiscal Year 2016 Colum F # State EAS Community Start date End date 10/1/2015 2/23/2016 10/23/2015 9/30/2016 AL Muscle Shoals AL Muscle Shoals AL Muscle Shoals CA El Centro 1 CA CA El Centro El Centro 1 CO Pueblo 1 GA Macon Salina Salina Salina 10/1/2015 6/15/2016 1 KS KS KS Tupelo Tupelo Tupelo 10/1/2015 4/5/2016 1 MS MS MS 1 OR Pendleton 1 8 UT Vernal 1 10/1/2015 5/23/2016 11/15/2015 Days of Service Days of Service at 6/7th* (Colum F times (6/7)) Notes 22 SeaPort ceased ops 10/23/2015 220 Boutique started 2/23/16 Total 242 207 1/16/2016 9/30/2016 Total 107 130 237 203 9/30/2016 320 274 Great Lakes started 11/15/2015 0 0 No service during FY16 SeaPort ceased ops 1/16/2016 Mokulele started 5/23/2016 SeaPort ceased ops 1/16/2016 Great Lakes started 6/15/2016 1/16/2016 9/30/2016 Total 107 107 214 10/23/2015 9/30/2016 Total 22 178 200 171 10/1/2015 9/20/2016 355 304 SeaPort ceased ops 9/20/16 3/30/2016 9/30/2016 184 158 Boutique Air started 3/30/16 183 SeaPort ceased ops 10/23/2015 Contour started 4/5/16 *Prorated service days are based on 6-day a week service (EAS minimum service requirements). DOT-18-0010-A-000087 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000087 Appendix B EAS Communities tentatively determined to have fewer than 10 enplanements per service day in Fiscal Year 2016 State CO GA NY PA PA PA PA TX EAS Community Pueblo* Macon* Jamestown Altoona Bradford DuBois Franklin/Oil City Victoria Colum C Colum D Colum E YE 09/30/16 Passenger Totals Passengers (Both directions) Average per Passengers Enplanements Days of day (Colum (Inbound and (Colum C Service at D divided by Outbound) divided by 2) 6/7th** Colum E) 2,053 1,027 274 3.7 3,092 1,546 313 4.9 3,230 1,615 313 5.2 5,274 2,637 313 8.4 5,463 2,732 313 8.7 3,614 1,807 313 5.8 4,253 2,127 313 6.8 Miles to Nearest Lg. Nearest Lg. or or Med Hub Med. Hub DEN 121 ATL 82 BUF 76 PIT 112 BUF 77 PIT 112 PIT 85 AUS 119 All of these communities except Macon, GA also have been tentatively found to have a subsidy per passenger that exceeds $200; See Appendix C. * Indicates communities that experienced a service hiatus. ** Prorated service days are based on 6-day a week service (EAS minimum service requirements). DOT-18-0010-A-000088 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000088 Appendix C Applicable EAS Communities tentatively determined to have per-passenger subsidies in excess of $200 Colum C State AL AZ CA CO CO IA IA KS KY MD MS NE NE NY OR PA PA PA PA PA PA TN TX UT WV WV EAS Community Muscle Shoals* Prescott El Centro* Alamosa Pueblo* Fort Dodge Mason City Salina* Owensboro Hagerstown Tupelo* Kearney Scottsbluff Jamestown Pendleton* Altoona Bradford DuBois Franklin/ Oil City Johnstown Lancaster Jackson Victoria Vernal* Clarksburg Parkersburg YE 09/30/16 Passenger Totals (Both directions) Passengers (Inbound and Outbound) 7,164 6,244 5,687 6,764 2,053 13,240 15,186 3,227 7,815 7,469 7,917 7,735 5,860 3,092 6,985 3,230 5,274 5,463 3,614 8,516 6,633 6,457 4,253 4,750 9,041 8,434 Colum D Actual Subsidy Paid $ 1,739,712 $ 2,568,486 $ 1,311,518 $ 2,005,395 $ 925,980 $ 3,724,020 $ 3,658,230 $ 762,982 $ 1,867,985 $ 1,797,260 $ 2,158,222 $ 1,643,804 $ 1,564,931 $ 2,027,122 $ 1,659,090 $ 2,371,850 $ 2,082,430 $ 2,252,184 $ 1,547,632 $ 2,396,358 $ 2,512,692 $ 2,054,950 $ 2,288,151 $ 1,583,235 $ 2,305,224 $ 3,420,872 Annual Subsidy per Miles to Enplanement Nearest Nearest Lg. (Colum D Lg. or or Med. divided by Colum C Med Hub Hub $ 243 BNA 122 PHX 102 $ 411 $ 231 SAN 114 $ 296 ABQ 199 $ 451 DEN 121 $ 281 OMA 156 $ 241 MSP 133 MCI 186 $ 236 $ 239 BNA 138 IAD 78 $ 241 BNA 203 $ 273 $ 213 OMA 181 DEN 192 $ 267 $ 656 BUF 76 $ 238 PDX 203 $ 734 PIT 112 $ 395 BUF 77 PIT 112 $ 412 $ 428 PIT 85 PIT 84 $ 281 $ 379 PHL 86 $ 318 BNA 139 $ 538 AUS 119 $ 333 SLC 150 PIT 96 $ 255 $ 406 CMH 110 * Indicates communities that experienced a service hiatus. Macon, GA is not listed here; the community has no service for all of FY2016 DOT-18-0010-A-000089 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000089 Appendix D Maximum annual subsidy to be compliant with $200 per passenger subsidy cap EAS Community State AL AZ CA CO CO IA IA KS KY MD MS NE NE NY OR PA PA PA PA PA PA TN TX UT WV WV Muscle Shoals* Prescott El Centro* Alamosa Pueblo* Fort Dodge Mason City Salina* Owensboro Hagerstown Tupelo* Kearney Scottsbluff Jamestown Pendleton* Altoona Bradford DuBois Franklin/ Oil City Johnstown Lancaster Jackson Victoria Vernal* Clarksburg Parkersburg YE 09/30/16 Passenger Totals Maximum (Both directions) Actual Subsidy Annual Subsidy Passengers Paid Amount to be (Inbound and Compliant Outbound) 7,164 6,244 5,687 6,764 2,053 13,240 15,186 3,227 7,815 7,469 7,917 7,735 5,860 3,092 6,985 3,230 5,274 5,463 3,614 8,516 6,633 6,457 4,253 4,750 9,041 8,434 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 1,739,712 2,568,486 1,311,518 2,005,395 925,980 3,724,020 3,658,230 762,982 1,867,985 1,797,260 2,158,222 1,643,804 1,564,931 2,027,122 1,659,090 2,371,850 2,082,430 2,252,184 1,547,632 2,396,358 2,512,692 2,054,950 2,288,151 1,583,235 2,305,224 3,420,872 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 1,432,800 1,248,800 1,137,400 1,352,800 410,600 2,648,000 3,037,200 645,400 1,563,000 1,493,800 1,583,400 1,547,000 1,172,000 618,400 1,397,000 646,000 1,054,800 1,092,600 722,800 1,703,200 1,326,600 1,291,400 850,600 950,000 1,808,200 1,686,800 * Indicates communities that experienced a service hiatus DOT-18-0010-A-000090 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000090 From: Bcc: Bedell, Anthony (OST) (b) (6) @ldclmcc.com; (b) (6) ilchamber.org; (b) (6) @tsa.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) @irtba.org; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) @senseinc.com; (6) (b) (6) @muskotech.con; (b) (6) @hobbsstraus.com;(b) (6) @dowl.com; (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) - MISTYLAKE CONSULTING SERVICES LLC (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) nevadadc.org); (b) (6) @mmm.com; (b) (6) @T-Mobile.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @lasvegasnevacla.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @BXALL.com; (b) (6) @HATCH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @maii.house.gov; (b) (6) @atr.org; (b) (6) @lowes.oom; (b) (6) @THEMITCHELLFIRM.COM; (b) (6) @BOOZMAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @fairfaxcounty.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @CORLEYDC.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; (b) @arialestrategies.coin; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @entergy.com; (b) (6) @amac.us; (b) (6) @ALCALDE-FAY.COM; (b) (6) @COCHRAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) @purplestrategies.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) @eckertseamans.coni; (b) @stevescalise.cotn; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (6) (b) (6) @BentzStrategies.com; (b) (6) @altria.com; (b) (6) @cuna.com; (b) (6) @jmpa.us; (b) (6) @spottsfainconsulting.com; (b) (6) @thune.senate.gov; (b) (6) @LEE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) - EASTGATE ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @riponsodety.org; (b) (6) eHeafth, Inc. (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @BLUNT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @wal-mart.com; (b) (6) @BUSINESSCOUNCIL.COM; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) YOUNGSTOWN CITY (b) (6) youngstownohio.gov); (b) (6) @ysu.edu; (b) (6) @hii-nns.com; (b) (6) @greenwoodsearch.com; (b) (6) @Lamar- -- -Consulting.com; r==;::f ~ ~~ ~ r::~ == =-=niiii■ ~~ =-=:::::::=-■---@us.ibm.com; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; @bankaturion.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @equifax.com; (b) (6) @gsk.com; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @citi.com; @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @YOUNG.SENATE.GOV; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @alta.org; (b) (6) @riba5conGUlting.com; (b) (6) FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF MINNEAPOLIS .frb.org); kirk.bell@dot.gov; (b) (6) @YRCI.com; (b) (6) @GEORGETOWN.EDU; @fisglobal.com; (b) (6) @chemserv.com; (b) (6) @sunflowersystems.com; @williamblair.com; (b) (6) @53.com; (b) (6) @SBC.SENATE.GOV; @sbc.senate.gov; (b) (6) @transurban.com; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @ysu.edu; @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) - AMERICAN investment council ainvestmentcouncil.org); (b) (6) @lucerooliveoil.com; (b) (6) @ALLIANCE-CONSULTANTS.COM; @wellmed.net; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @santafecommunications.com; @ci.manteca.ca.us; (b) (6) @ahip.org; (b) (6) @walgreens.com; (b) (6) @nfi.org; @nafcu.org; (b) (6) @riteaid.com; (b) @dgsr-lc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) (6) crockerstrategy.com); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @anthem.com; (b) (6) @ici.org; (b) (6) @MILLFIELDGLOBAL.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.MIL; (b) (6) @experian.com; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @bah.com; (b) (6) @navigatorsglobal.com; (b) (6) @GULAGRAHAM.COM; (b) (6) @CLGDC.COM; (b) (6) @usa.redcross.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @carper.senate.gov; (b) (6) @motorolasolutions.com; (b) (6) @MagnumEntertainmentGroup.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @dunnassoc.com; (b) (6) @johanns.senate.gov; (b) (6) @PurpleStrategies.com; GOV; (b) (6) @raytheon.com; (b) (6) @tma.toyota.com; (b) (6) @electran.org; (b) (6) @helenmilby.com; (b) (6) @angelenterprisesdc.com; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAII-.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @HeaitlaiidStratcgies.coin; (b) (6) @americancrossroads.org; (b) (6) @agc.org; (b) (6) @aduston.com; (b) (6) National Cattlemen"s Beef Association (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @USA.net; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @verizon.com; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @quickenloans.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ntu.org; (b) (6) @redskins.com; (b) @nvtc.org; (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOTJSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @vachamber.com; (b) (6) @Flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN STEPHEN FINCHER (.house.gov); (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) @mail.kouse.gov; (b) (6) @thec2group.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @scllaw.com; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @mzacompany.com; (6) (b) (6) @franchise.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @CAPITO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @ena.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @attglobal.net; (b) (6) @sbc.senate.gov; (6) (b) (6) @sba.gov; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @sjgov.org; (b) (6) @ci.tracy.ca.us; (b) (6) @yahoo.com; (b) (6) @cbrt.org; (b) (6) @ci.manteca.ca; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE (b) (6) .ca.gov); (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @IRIonline.org; (b) (6) @aep.conn; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCOTT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @814Consulting.com; (b) (6) Global Automakers (6) (b) (6) globalautomakers.org); (b) (6) @OB-CGROUP.COM; (b) (6) @gdsstrategies.oom; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) @4lanes4nebraska.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (b) (6) @score.org; (b) (6) @thehartford.com; (b) (6) @interdigital.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) - Smiths Group (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @ubs.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT ~ -- DOT-18-0010-A-000091 DOT_Am.Oversight-000091 @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @safnow.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @Emerson.com; (b) (6) @YourPoliticalAdvantage.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @finance.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warner.senate.gov; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ronjohnson.senate.gov; @toomey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b @newpartners.com; ) @nfib.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) @RUBIO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @fah.org; (b) (6) - Cognizant cognizant.com); ) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @aflac.com; @acli.com; @att.com; wpb.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; @txdot.gov; (b) (6) nam.org; (b) (6) @GMAIL.COM; Brand, Lauren (MARAD); @ROTHSCHILDPP.COM; (b) (6) @forestresources.org; (b) (6) @blakey-agnew.com; (b) (6) blakeyagnew.com; (b) (6) blakey-agnew.com; Furst, Tony (FHWA); (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @bradley.com; (b) (6) @hassan.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCHAT2.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @SCHATZ.SENATE.GOV; (b) @AASHTn.ORG; (b) (6) @kotzebue.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (6) (b) (6) denvergov.org; (b) (6) @ND.gov; (b) (6) @springfield.il.iis; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @clecaturil.gov; (b) (6) @gtlaw.com; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @umw.com; (b) (6) Ogilvy GOVERNMENT RELATIONS (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @ogilvygr.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @Sawiana.com; (b) (6) @dfat.gov.au; (b) (6) @galvanassociates.com; (b) (6) @MacombCountyChamber.com; (b) (6) DEPARMENT OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (b) (6) ; (b) (6) msn.com; (b) (6) @audi.com; (b) (6) OFFICE OF SENATOR MITCH MCGONNELL, KENTUCKY ((b) (6) @MCCONNELL.SENATE.GOV); (b) (6) @GSA.GOV; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @bhfs.com; (b) (6) @SBA.GOV; (b) (6) @fbtlaw.com; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cookcountyil.gov; (b) (6) @nscorp.com; (b) (6) @schlickman.conn; (b) (6) up.com; (b) (6) @peoplesgasdelivery.com; (b) (6) @aar.org; (b) (6) @sewrpc.org; (b) (6) @allianceRD.org; (b) (6) @schlicknnan.com; (b) (6) nirpc.org; (b) (6) cmap.illinois.gov; (b) @5bfriedman.com; (b) (6) @kpmg.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (6) (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @cardinalinfrastructure.com; (b) (6) @osmre.gov; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (6) (b) (6) @ci.gary.in.us; (b) @portsmouthva.gov; (b) (6) @GarlandTx.gov; (b) (6) @suddenlink.net; (6) (b) (6) @miamigov.com; (b) (6) @nd.gov; (b) (6) @ndus.edu; (b) (6) @go-metro.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @unitecl.com; (b) (6) @united.com; (b) (6) @dol.gov; (b) (6) EOP.GOV; (b) (6) @trin.net; (b) (6) @amstedrail.com; (b) (6) @statewidepublicaffairs.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @aar.oraIwww.aar.org; (b) (6) Global Automakers (b) (6) globalautomakers.org); King, Heidi (NHTSA); (b) (6) @Illinois.gov; (b) (6) @NANA.COM; (b) (6) NANA REGIONAL CORPORATION, INC. (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @yuroknibe.nsn.us; (b) (6) YUROK TRIBE (jjamesyuroktribe.nsn.ib); (b) (6) @HLPADVOCACY.COM; (b) (6) @ryanalaska.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (6) (b) (6) @OKEEFFESTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) @EPW.SENATE.OOV; (b) (6) @epw.senate.gov; (b) @GOJAY.ORG; (b) (6) @privia.com; (b) (6) @TREASURY.GOV; (b) (6) - The Hershey (6) Company (b) (6) ; (b) (6) simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @starkcountyohio.gov; (b) (6) @pascocountyfl.net; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @madisongr.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @stancog.org; (b) (6) @maderactc.org; (b) @co.mercedca.us; (6) (b) (6) @mcagov.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @cityofhanfordca.com; (b) (6) - Paducah Chamber (b) (6) @paducahchamberorg); (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @AMPQ.ORG; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @miarriichamber.com; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) - STR Trade (b) (6) ); (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.co; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) scspa.com; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (b) (6) - National Conference of State Legislatures (b) (6) @ncsiorg); (b) (6) @MARYLAND.GOV; (b) (6) @sso.org; (b) (6) @scna.net; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @att.net;(b) @uwa.edu; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) hklaw.com; (b) (6) - SQUIRE Patton Boggs LLP ((b) (6) @squirepbxom); (b) (6) @cityhall.nyc.gov; (b) (6) @osu.edu; (b) @mmodc.com; (b) (6) (6) phbpa.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (6) (b) (6) @Tumberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @eliomotors.com; (b) @eliomotors.com; Williams, Jane (FTA); (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; CMC-01 (OST); (b) (6) @DPS.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @intait.com; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) (6) @MNCHAMBER.COM; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @KUTAKROCK.COM; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @ferc.gov; (b) (6) @nouveaucorp.com; (b) (6) @sas.com; (b) (6) @emrgroup.com; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @isri.org; (b) (6) @isri.org; (6) (b) (6) @Alaska.Gov; (b) (6) @WDC.CA.GOV; (b) (6) @plasticsindustry.org; (b) (6) @ci.woodlake.ca.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @bdnreit.com; (b) (6) @WATERLOOLOBBY.COM; (b) (6) @isi-consulting.com; (b) (6) @bcbsa.com; (b) (6) @RagnarResearch.com; (b) (6) @govemor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @macquarie.com; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @MARYLAN0.G0V; (b) (6) @rga.org; (b) (6) @MOMARKDEVELOPMENT.COM; (b) (6) @3pointpaitneis.com; (b) (6) @austinbank.com; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) .sierra-ortega_(b @senate.texas.gov; ) (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) (6 @gilmorestrategy.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT (6) ) DOT-18-0010-A-000092 DOT_Am.Oversight-000092 (b) (6) @hntb.com; (b) (6) HNTB Corporation (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) _sc@senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @mwcllc.com; (b) (6) @MACADVANCED.CaM; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @transcanada.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) - PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @TAMPABAY.ORG; (b) (6) @pinellascounty.org; (b) (6) @asdd.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @StrategiesDC.com; (b) (6) @georgewaters.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @akerman.com; McCarthy, Jodi ; (b) (6) @dlapiper.com; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @le.utah.gov; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @PHIL_A.GOV; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @willcountyilliiiis.com; (b) (6) @ctia.org; (b) (6) @ALEXANDER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @muscatineiowa.gov; (b) (6) @sbia.org; (b) (6) @hamiltonps.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @capitol.tn.gov; (b) (6) @johnhowe.us; (b) (6) @hclrinc.com; Criman, Branden (MARAD); Serassio, Helen (FTA); Hill, Damon (PHMSA); Vaughn, Colleen (OST); (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @pillsburYlaw.com; (b) (6) @greensboro-nc.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @BOOKER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) Indian Health Service (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @x.team; (b) (6) @texaschemistry.org; (b) (6) @iupat.org; (b) (6) @autoalliance.org; (b) (6) @jonesmetalinc.com; (b) (6) @americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @mnchamber.com; (b) (6) @greatermankato.com; (b) (6) @TACaNITE.aRE; (b) @twinwest.com; (b) (6) @Toyota.com; (b) @ibew146.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) = - ----==-== ---:----- ~ - ~ - Decatur Chamber - ---- I:== ===--- -~ @decaturchairibercom); @decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @laborers159.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @hu5chblackwell.com; (b) (6) @hq.doe.gov; (b) (6) @CITYOFLAKEFOREST.COM; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @co.tulare.ca.us; (b) (6) @visalia.cit; (b) (6) @duininck.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @LHBcorp.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) - OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (b) (6) ; (b @columbuspartnership.com; ) (b) (6) (b) (6) @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) (b) (6) @mwcapitol.com; (b) (6) @DURBIN.SENATE.GOV; - AMERICAN ASSOCIATION ) ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @its.jnj.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @auburn.edu; (b) (6) @ntsb.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hq.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @live.com; (b) (6) @CCH-LLC.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) - Sitka Tribe of Alaska Tribal Government for Sitka, AK (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @waknet.org; (b) (6) @puebloofacoma.org; (b) (6) @puebloofpojoaque.org; Kenley, Erin (FHWA); (b) (6) @ftbelknap.org; (b) (6) @ashiwi.org; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) @philbest.net; (6) (b) (6) @grriail.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @alvarezandmarsal.com; (b) (6) @swapa.org; (b) (6) @COMMERCE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @commerce.senate.gov; (b) (6) @GOMMERCE.SKNATE.OOV; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.Virginia.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (b) @nga.org; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) @dubersteingToup.corn; (b) (6) @dow.com; (b) (6) @siemens.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @gopro.com; (b) @uark.edu; (b) (6) @dji.com; (b) (6) @alta.org; (6) (b) (6) @pegcc.org; (b) (6) @deloitte.com; (b) (6) @AventueStategies.com; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @lacrty.org; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) ~-- -----==-- -- --- --- ----J ____, ~ - - cityofpleasantonca.gov; (b) (6) @danville.ca.gov; (b) (6) @cityoflivermore.net; (b) (6) dublin.ca.gov; (b) (6) @townsendPA.com; (b) (6) @nexxusconsulting.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (b) (6) @walmart.com; (b) (6) @OSEC.USDA.GOV; (6) (b) @DMMSTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) Hance Scarborough, LLP ((b) (6) @hslawmaiLcom); (b) (6) (6) (LAHOOD.HOUSE.GOV); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) naco.org; (b) (6) - Bucks County Industrial Development Corporation (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @uss.com; (b) (6) @AASHTa.aRE; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @AmericanHort.org; (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) Kentucky Capital Development Corporation (b) (6) ; (b) (6) americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @trucking.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @nnwo.org; (b) (6) @bmexpl.com; (b) (6) @houstontx.gov; (b) (6) @shell.com; (b) (6) @buckscounty.org; (b) (6) @kindermorgan.com; Knopp, Martin (FHWA); (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @cahcc.conn; (b) (6) @latinodigitalsolutions.com; (b) (6) @saGyr.com; (b) (6) btbv.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @tfi.org; (b) (6) @navient.com; (b) (6) @EFBAdvocacy.com; (b) (6) @LHGDC.COM; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @cityofpascagoula.com; (b) (6) @fortworthtexas.gov; (b) (6) @tampagov.net; (b) (6) @gulfport-ms.gov; (b) (6) @cityofpensacola.com; (b) (6) @raleighnc.gov; (b) (6) - Colorado Springs (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) - City of Gastonia (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @lowellnc.com; (b) (6) @cityolgastonia.com; (b) (6) @usgs.gov; (b) (6) @temeculaca.gov; (b) (6) @davidturch.com; (b) akingump.com; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) aapa-ports.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @agtrans.org; (b) (6) @crshq.com; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @ustollingcoalition.org; (b) (6) @abc.org; (b) (6) @PGE.COM; (b) (6) @doc.gov; (b) (6) edmondswa.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) @allianceportregion.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000093 DOT_Am.Oversight-000093 @klgates.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; (b) (6) @ups.com; @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; @capitaledge.com; (b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @cityofirving.org; @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; @COJ.NET; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; @fticonsulting.com; Chris Cox; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; Stevens, Michael H.; @ehi.com; (b) (6) @bighornpublicaffairs.com; (b) @flyravn.com; (b) (6) @whitmerworrall.com; (6) @tgsgroup.com; (b) (6) @tgsgroup.com; Eric Dell; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; Ed McDonald; (b) (6) @maryland.gov); (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strategics.consulting; (b) (6) @pwchamber.oeg; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @cityofws.org; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @senate.virginia.gov; Dan Scandling; (b) (6) @vectrecorp.com; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) @thefiorentinogroup.com; (b) @cfmdc.com; (6) (6) (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us FW: Today"s Infrastructure Announcement - Highlights, Factsheet, & Press Call Transcript Monday, February 12, 2018 11:31:00 AM Highlights - Infrastructure Building a Stronger America.pdf Infrastructure - Initiative Framework Factsheet.pdf Transcript - Background Press Call on Infrastructure_02-11-2018.pdf image002.png (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: Date: Attachments: FYI… you may have already received these attachments from the White House. But here they are again.   Let me know if you have any questions.   Anthony R. Bedell Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 202-366-0913 (b) (6) mobile     DOT-18-0010-A-000094 DOT_Am.Oversight-000094 BUILDING A STRONGER AMERICA: PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP’S AMERICAN INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE “We will build gleaming new roads, bridges, highways, railways, and waterways all across our land. And we will do it with American heart, and American hands, and American grit.” – President Donald J. Trump BUILDING AMERICA’S INFRASTRUCTURE: Today, President Donald J. Trump released his legislative goals to rebuild our Nation’s crumbling infrastructure. The six principles include:       $200 billion in Federal funds to spur at least $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments with partners at the State, local, Tribal, and private level. New investments will be made in rural America, which has been left behind for too long. Decision making authority will be returned to State and local governments. Regulatory barriers that needlessly get in the way of infrastructure projects will be removed. Permitting for infrastructure projects will be streamlined and shortened. America’s workforce will be supported and strengthened. STIMULATE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT: President Trump’s plan will lead to at least $1.5 trillion in investments to rebuild our failing infrastructure and develop innovative projects.    $200 billion in Federal funds will spur at least $1.5 trillion in new infrastructure investments. o Federal infrastructure spending will promote State, local, and private investments and maximize the value of every taxpayer dollar. Of the $200 billion, $100 billion will create an Incentives Program to spur additional dedicated funds from States, localities, and the private sector. o Applications for the Incentives Program will be evaluated on objective criteria, with creating additional infrastructure investment being the largest factor. o The Incentives Program will promote accountability, making Federal funding conditional on projects meeting agreed upon milestones. $20 billion will be dedicated to the Transformative Projects Program. o This program will provide Federal aid for bold and innovative projects that have the potential to dramatically improve America’s infrastructure. o The program will focus on projects that could have a significant positive impact on States, cities, and localities but may not attract private sector investment because of the project’s unique characteristics. DOT-18-0010-A-000095 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000095    $20 billion will be allocated to expanding infrastructure financing programs. o Of the $20 billion, $14 billion will go to expanding a number of existing credit programs: TIFIA, WIFIA, RRIF, and rural utility lending. o $6 billion will go to expanding Private Activity Bonds. $10 billion will go to a new Federal Capital Revolving Fund, which will reduce inefficient leasing of Federal real property which would be more cost-effective to purchase. A new fund will allow some incremental revenues from energy development on public lands to pay for the capital and maintenance needs of public lands infrastructure. INVEST IN RURAL AMERICA: Rural America’s infrastructure has been left behind for too long, and President Trump’s plan will make sure it is supported and modernized.  $50 billion of the $200 billion in direct Federal funding will be devoted to a new Rural Infrastructure Program to rebuild and modernize infrastructure in rural America. o The bulk of the dollars in the Rural Infrastructure Program will be allocated to State governors, giving States the flexibility to prioritize their communities’ needs. o The remaining funds will be distributed through rural performance grants to encourage the best use of taxpayer dollars. INCREASE STATE AND LOCAL AUTHORITY: President Trump’s proposal will return decision-making authority to State and local governments, which know the needs of their communities.    Funds awarded to State and local authorities, such as through the Incentives Program and the Rural Infrastructure Program, will be allocated to infrastructure projects they prioritize. o This empowers States and localities to make more infrastructure investment decisions and prioritize projects based on the needs of their communities The plan will expand processes that allow environmental review and permitting decisions to be delegated to States. The plan will also allow Federal agencies to divest assets that can be better managed by State or local governments or the private sector. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000096 DOT_Am.Oversight-000096 ELIMINATE REGULATORY BARRIERS: The President’s plan would eliminate barriers that prevent virtually all infrastructure projects from being efficiently developed and managed.  The President’s plan will: o Provide more flexibility to transportation projects that have minimal Federal funding but are currently required to seek Federal review and approval. o Incentivize the efficient development and management of water infrastructure, in part, by providing more flexibility to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its partners. o Give the Department of Veterans Affairs the flexibility to use its existing assets to acquire new facilities by allowing it to retain property sale proceeds and exchange existing facilities for construction of new facilities. o Expand funding eligbility for land revitalization projects through the Superfund program and establish tools to help manage their legal and financial matters. STREAMLINE PERMITTING: President Trump’s infrastructure proposal will shorten and simplify the approval process for infrastructure projects.  Working with Congress, we will: o Establish a “one agency, one decision” structure for environmental reviews. o Shorten the lengthy environmental review process to two years while still protecting the environment. o Eliminate certain redundant and inefficient provisions in environmental laws. o Create two new pilot programs to test new ways to improve the environmental review process. INVEST IN OUR COUNTRY’S MOST IMPORTANT ASSET – IT’S PEOPLE: The President is proposing reforms so Americans secure good-paying jobs and meet the needs of our industries.  The President’s plan would reform Federal education and workforce development programs to better prepare Americans to perform the in-demand jobs of today and the future. This includes: o Making high-quality, short-term programs that provide students with a certification or credential in an in-demand field eligible for Pell Grants. o Reforming the Perkins Career and Technical Education Program to ensure more students have access to high-quality technical education to develop the skills required in today’s economy. o Better targeting Federal Work-Study funds to help more students obtain important workplace experience, including through apprenticeships. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000097 DOT_Am.Oversight-000097 HIGHLIGHTS INFRASTRUCTURE “BUILDING A STRONGER AMERICA” ____________________________________ Why focus on Infrastructure now?   Infrastructure is obviously a critical component to the functioning of our economy. A lot of America's success is a result of the quality of the infrastructure we've had historically. But the current system is fundamentally broken, and it's broken in two different ways: 1. We are under-investing in our infrastructure 2. we have a permitting process that takes so long that even when funds are adequate, it can take a decade to build critical infrastructure. Putting the Federal Government’s Role in Infrastructure in Perspective:    The federal government plays a huge role in permitting infrastructure. Virtually 100 percent of major infrastructure in the U.S. requires some form of federal permitting, However, the federal government plays a much smaller role when it comes to funding o The federal government funds about 14 percent of infrastructure costs, and owns even less. The President’s plan will ensure infrastructure is done in a way that accountable, local, and where people can see tangible benefits for the investments that they're applying. President’s Four Overarching Objectives:     To stimulate $1.5 trillion in new investment and infrastructure from $200 billion direct federal spending derived (paid for) from savings from other areas of the federal budget. To shorten the permitting process into two years. To invest in rural infrastructure. To make improvements in training our workforce so Americans are prepared to take advantage of the jobs that will be created as we build out and improve our infrastructure. Process:   The President's whole team has spent the last year meeting with members and staff from both parties, both sides of the Hill, keeping them apprised of the plan, and incorporating their feedback to ensure that the principles we're presenting on Monday have the best chance for success. Since March of 2017, when we started formally tracking this, they've had over 40 meetings with members or their staff on infrastructure, many of which were with caucuses or other larger groups. Polling/Popularity:    According to a poll from Harvard-Harris: o 84 percent of Americans believe that the U.S. needs an investment in infrastructure o 76 percent believe that funding should come from a combination of public funds, bonds, and public-private partnerships, all of which would be available under the President's plan. That same poll thinks that passing an infrastructure bill should be the second-highest priority for Congress, only behind stimulating American jobs, which, the President’s plan also does. It's not surprising that members of both parties are aligned with us in a lot of places. On Wednesday, the President will be hosting a group of bipartisan members of Congress to discuss AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000098 DOT_Am.Oversight-000098 THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary ________________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release February 10, 2018 BACKGROUND PRESS CALL BY SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS ON THE PRESIDENT'S INFRASTRUCTURE PRINCIPLES Via Teleconference 1:07 P.M. EST MS. STROM: Thank you. And, guys, I'm sorry if you're hearing a little extra noise on the line. That might just be me. But we'll make sure that's taken care of, and we'll also have a transcript of this later. So reach out to me if you want that. But thanks for joining us on Saturday afternoon to talk about the upcoming release of the President's infrastructure principles. On the line with me is [senior administration official], and he'll start off by running through a summary of the infrastructure principles which will be released Monday morning, and then we'll open it up to your questions. The information on this call is embargoed until 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, February 11. So without further ado, I'll let [senior administration official] take it away so we can all get back to our Saturday as quickly as possible. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you, Natalie, and thank you everyone for joining for this. As Natalie mentioned, I'm going to walk through just, kind of, high-level overview of what we'll be releasing on Monday, and then we can open it up for questions and answers for anybody who wants more detail than what I cover initially. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000099 DOT_Am.Oversight-000099 So let me start by just talking about why are we doing this. Infrastructure is obviously a critical component to the functioning of our economy. A lot of America's success is a result of the quality of the infrastructure we've had historically. But the current system is fundamentally broken, and it's broken in two different ways: We are under-investing in our infrastructure, and we have a permitting process that takes so long that even when funds are adequate, it can take a decade to build critical infrastructure. So the President's vision is to have a permanent fix for the problems that plague us in terms of under-investing and the length of the permitting process, and not just kick the can down the road and pass things over for a couple of years, which has been the habit in infrastructure policy for the last couple of decades. So before we start talking about what we're doing, I think it's important to understand the context in which we're operating and understanding in terms of how infrastructure is currently funded and developed. The federal government plays a huge role in permitting infrastructure. So virtually 100 percent of major infrastructure in the U.S. requires some form of federal permitting, but we play a much smaller role when it comes to funding in that we only fund about 14 percent of infrastructure costs, and we own even less; we own in the single digits in terms of -- if you think of all the infrastructure in the U.S. and what does the federal government own. While we fund 14 percent, the other 86 percent is relatively evenly split between state and local governments and the private sector. So while the federal government is an important component, we're a minority player when it comes to investing in infrastructure. All of infrastructure is paid for by taxpayers, by users of the infrastructure. And we have done -- if you go and ask the public what their preference is, they would prefer to invest locally as opposed to sending money to Washington. And so the President's proposal, sort of, builds on what it is that the public is asking for, and that is an opportunity to improve their infrastructure but do it in a way that's accountable, do that in a way it's local, do that in a way where they can see AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000100 DOT_Am.Oversight-000100 tangible benefits for the investments that they're applying to infrastructure. So with that as a background, the President's proposal that will be rolled out on Monday has four major overarching objectives: We want to stimulate $1.5 trillion in new investment and infrastructure. We want to shorten the permitting process into two years. We want to invest in rural infrastructure. And we want to making improvements in training our workforce so Americans are prepared to take advantage of the jobs that will be created as we build out and improve our workforce. So the $1.5 trillion in new investment comes from an incentives package that we're proposing and from enhancing our loan programs federally. So the way that the $200 billion in new federal funds will be spent is it will be split down into -$100 billion will be spent on incentives. And there, what we will do is we will match dollars that state and local governments are spending on infrastructure. So if they're creating new revenue streams and they want to build something, we will partner with them to help them to match and fulfill that one final gap in terms of financing infrastructure. And then, in addition to that, we get there through a $20 billion expansion in our loan programs and in private activity bonds. So, currently, our lending programs include TIFIA, WIFIA, and RRIF. TIFIA is a transportation lending program; WIFIA for water; RRIF for rail. In the case of TIFIA, one federal taxpayer dollar of investment generates $40 of project being built. And so that is a great return in terms of taxpayer dollars to projects overall. That's how we get from a $100 billion investment in incentives and the $20 billion investment expanding our loan programs, to $1.5 trillion in new investment infrastructure nationwide. In addition, we want to invest $50 billion in rural infrastructure. That will be funded differently. The incentives programs will be applications that come to agencies asking for matching grants. The rural program will be block grants to governors, to allow governors to select what the priorities of infrastructure are in their respective states. One thing that -- the consistent feedback that we get from those that are interested in investing more in infrastructure is AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000101 DOT_Am.Oversight-000101 they would like to set their own priorities as opposed to have the federal government set priorities for them. So the rural program does that. We will also have $20 billion for transformative programs. That ensures that we're not focusing on just patching up the infrastructure that we have currently, but will we also have a vision towards the future, towards projects that can lift the American spirit, that are the next-century-type of infrastructure as opposed to just rebuilding what we have currently. And then, finally, we're setting aside and proposing that Congress spend $10 billion and put it into a capital financing fund. That fund -- that helps us with those governmental accounting rules. And I can get more details if somebody wants to. In essence, it's a just more responsible way for us to actually fund the office-building infrastructure that the federal government is building currently. In addition to that, we also have a section that focuses on workforce, where we are removing obstacles and disincentives for people who don’t want to go to a four-year college, and prefer to move in some type of trade, by expanding Pell eligibility, changing the license requirements, and adding more flexibility. So if you're licensed to perform a trade in one part of the country, you can move to another part of the country and transfer that license, and then expand out the use of apprenticeships to help those that are interested in going to trades, develop their skills, and move more gradually into the workforce. So that's where the funding component of this is going. An equally significant component of what the President will be proposing on Monday touches on the environmental permitting process. You've heard him talking -- and he's mentioned it several times, in the State of the Union most recently -- that the process that we have in the U.S. just takes way too long, and it's not really focused on outcomes in terms of making sure we build projects responsibly and understand the environmental impact. It's focused more on preparing for litigation and building up massive documents. And so we want to shorten the process but, at the same time, preserve all of the environmental protections that current law has. And so we're going to move towards a process that we call "One Agency, One Decision," where we will create a lead AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000102 DOT_Am.Oversight-000102 federal agency that will have the authority to establish and move through a process so that that agency, working with the permitting agencies, can reach a collective decision. They would all sign a record of decision. That process would be done in 21 months, and then the permitting would be done within three months after that. So we're making a number of changes that allow us to get there. And I can go into more detail about those if anyone is interested. But, really, the primary mission is having -- the primary way we get there is to have one agency lead, and then remove a whole series of duplicative requirements that are in law, where we will have one federal agency make a decision, and that decision will then be second-guessed by a second federal agency, which, of course, creates inevitable conflicts and inevitable delays as you have multiple agencies trying to make the same decision. So what we're going to do is, for every decision that needs to be made, find the agency that has the best expertise in terms of making that decision, give them the authority to make that decision, and then have other agencies partner with them and execute on that decision that's been made. We also would look to expand more delegation to states. Currently, we delegate relatively heavily for some highway permitting decisions. So the states would still be required to comply with federal requirements, but they would be able to do that and do the analysis themselves. And we would create some pilot programs to expand better ways to do environmental compliance than the way we're doing currently. Again, as I mentioned before, to circle back to how do we spend funds in a way to help us protect and enhance the environment as opposed to spending hundreds of millions of dollars on lawyers and accountants and engineers, to pull together massive documents that are limited utility in terms of helping the public understand the environmental impact that a specific project would have. Let me close with the fact that we're very excited to be rolling this proposal out, and that we envision this will be a bipartisan push. And if you look at the proposals that have been out to date in terms of -- from Senate Democrats and House Democrats, and the Problem Solvers Caucus in the House -- it is a remarkable overlap in terms of the objective that we want to accomplish. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000103 DOT_Am.Oversight-000103 So in all of these programs we talk about, sort of, fixing the Highway Trust Fund and having stable funding for that; that we want to have competitive grants; increase loan funding; focus on waterways, on rural programs like broadband; to improve public lands; to have better facilities for veterans. So we find it quite encouraging that, if you look at our proposal, there's a significant amount of overlap in terms of the objectives that we want to accomplish. There's obviously a disagreement of the best way to get to those objectives, but I think that a debate around the method, as opposed to objective, is much more likely to be successful. And so we're encouraged by the fact that, to date, Republicans, Democrats, independents all seem to share in terms of what ought to be done to resolve the problem that the nation currently has with infrastructure. So with that as a high-level overview, I'll be happy to open it up and answer any questions. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks. Just before I open it up for questions, I wanted to quickly touch on the extensive outreach that DJ Gribbin, Gary Cohn, obviously, and the team at the NEC, the White House Office of Legislative Affairs, and really the President's whole team have been doing on the Hill, on this issue. I know it isn’t like them to brag, but the President's whole team has spent the last year meeting with members and staff from both parties, both sides of the Hill, keeping them apprised of the plan (inaudible), and incorporating their feedback to ensure that the principles we're presenting on Monday have the best chance for success. Since March of 2017, when we started formally tracking this, they've had over 40 meetings with members or their staff on infrastructure, many of which were with caucuses or other larger groups. Overwhelmingly, these numbers recognize the American people are calling for change from Washington when it comes to infrastructure. According to a poll from Harvard-Harris, 84 percent of Americans believe that the U.S. needs an investment in infrastructure, and 76 percent believe that funding should come from a combination of public funds, bonds, and public-private partnerships, all of which would be available under the President's plan. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000104 DOT_Am.Oversight-000104 That same poll thinks that passing an infrastructure bill should be the second-highest priority for Congress, only behind stimulating American jobs, which, by the way, this plan also does a lot for as well. So it's not surprising that members of both parties are aligned with us in a lot of places. On Wednesday, the President will host a bipartisan group of members, including Republican and Democrat leadership, as well chairmen and ranking members from many of the relevant committees, to continue this conversation at the White House. Also on the line with us is [senior administration officials] from the White House Office of Legislative Affairs to work on the Senate and House side, respectively, on infrastructure. And they'll be available to answer some questions related to the legislative process on this, and some of that outreach. And they'll also be speaking as senior White House officials. So with that, we will open it up for questions. Q Thanks for having the call today. Two questions. Can you walk us through how you get to the $1.5 trillion or more in net infrastructure spending? And can you tell us what took so long? You mentioned you've been talking to people for a year. At one point, this plan was thought to come out last summer or fall. Walk us to through what led to the timing of the release on Monday. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Okay, so how do we get to the $1.5 trillion. As I mentioned before, some of the incentives package is designed to provide matching funds for states and localities who are, sort of, struggling to identify capital to expand on their infrastructure. So, for example, if a state says, hey, we want to build a certain project and we want to use this revenue stream for it, then they would come to us with that as a package. And the funds would be broken down into Department of Transportation, EPA, Corps of Engineers. So if it's a transportation project, they'd go to DOT -not unlike what they do currently with TIGER and with INFRA -and say, here's the project that we are proposing; here are the funds that we'd like to spend on it. Federal government, we'd like you to pull out a match for that. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000105 DOT_Am.Oversight-000105 But the match -- the way that we get to $1.5 trillion is we could be putting 10 percent of -- or 20 percent in terms of the cost of that project. So if it's 10 percent, that would be 10 to 1; 20 percent would be 5 to 1. And so we envision that what we'll be doing is we'll be -- great return for federal taxpayer dollars, and that allows those dollars to go much, much further than the hundred billion dollars that's incentives. And then, in addition, on the lending side, as I mentioned before, TIFIA has a 40 to 1 ratio. So $10 billion in TIFIA could be leveraged up to $400 billion in projects because of the way that TIFIA works. I can walk through that if you want me to. So that's how -- so the focus is whether it's a trillion or 1.5, or a trillion higher, what that number represents is what do we think that state and local governments -- how will they likely respond to this program. And the reason we want from a trillion to $1.5 trillion is because we've actually received a, sort of, more enthusiastic response than we anticipated from state and local governments coming to us and saying, hey, we have this project, we have funding identified, but we'd love to participate in incentives to get that match to help finish up the project and build the whole thing. And in terms of what took so long, I'll leave that up to the leg affairs team to answer. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Very simply, we got tax reform done last fall, and we're excited about rolling out on Monday. Q Hi, thanks for the call. Can you explain how the private activity bonds will be expanded or more utilized? And will there be any, sort of, specific funding for projects of regional or national importance, like the Gateway Program? Or is that just going to be eligible for matching funds under the grant program that you described? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So on the private activity bonds, or the PAB fund, what we're going to do is expand eligibility for them and increase the amount -- in fact, we'd lift the state volume of caps. So, currently, PABs apply to a broad array of asset classes that include governmental and not necessarily governmental infrastructure. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000106 DOT_Am.Oversight-000106 And so the thinking is, to the extent that we're applying them to governmental infrastructure, and therefore not distorting the market -- which is the concern that you have with PABS if you're operating outside of governmental infrastructure -- that we would lift the cap on those and then we would expand it to all governmental infrastructure. And in terms of the projects of regional and national significance, one of the underlying or overlaying themes of this whole thing is for the federal government not to pick and choose between projects, but to allow states and localities to advance what their priorities are. So the Gateway project would certainly be eligible for the incentives program, and, kind of, depending on what they do, they could potentially be eligible for the transformative project -- program, as well. But we want to stay away from what has been historical precedent and what undermines the public's trust in sending money to Washington, and that is Washington picking and choosing what we think priorities ought to be for states and communities across the country. Q Thanks for doing this call. Can you give us some more guidance on how the $200 billion in new money, how that will be paid for? Does that, kind of, come from shifting other resources in the federal budget around? Or will there be a specific plan for new revenue sources in this proposal? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yes, so the $200 billion is in the President's budget, which will also be released on Monday. And the budget, as you know, includes a whole series of places where the administration is suggesting reducing funding and just a few places where it's suggesting increasing funding. And so the way it's currently envisioned is that we would pay for the $200 billion out of savings from other areas of the federal budget. Q Hi, good afternoon. Thanks so much for doing this call. I wanted to follow up on the last question -- and sorry I missed the top part. To clarify, $200 billion will be direct spending. Please clarify that. And then my other question is, what happens if states that do have infrastructure needs actually don’t have the money to pay their half of it? What is the alternative in that scenario? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, yeah, there is $200 billion in direct spending as part of the budget. The rural AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000107 DOT_Am.Oversight-000107 funds are advanced and moved faster. So there's a frontloading of the rural funds, but there's a typical, sort of, bell-shaped curve over the 10 years of how the $200 billion would be spent. And then, sorry, what was the second half of your question? I think we lost Renee. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I think the second half was related to if there are state and local governments who can't raise the funds, what their alternative would be. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you. Yeah, so, going back to -- what I did mention at the top was, this is a program that sits on top of existing programs. So we're not going to -- we're not proposing eliminating the Highway Trust Fund, or changing the state revolving funds. So to the extent that communities are eligible for federal funds already, that eligibility remains. What this is, is for communities that say, hey, listen, we want to increase the revenue that we're raising and we'd like to the federal government to help match in that process. Q Hey, guys, a couple questions. One, you mentioned that this is supposed to be a sustainable effort, not just kicking the can. If it's paid for by offsets, by cuts in other programs, is that really sustainable, the idea to find $200 billion every 10 years or so? And my other question is about the legislative strategy. Does this move through appropriations committees? And if so, how does the permitting part of it work? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So in terms of sustainability, when we're thinking of revenues at the state and local level, that could be property taxes; it could be user fees; it would be sales taxes. It could be a wide range of things. So a good case study would be Measure M in Los Angeles, where in the last year they passed ballot initiatives that ultimately will generate $120 billion in funding for infrastructure. That sales tax does not expire, so that is, kind of, the ultimate sustainable source of revenue for projects. One of the problems with federal funding, as you know, is it's very intermittent. So we'll throw money at it and then we'll back off. I mean, at one stage, we weren’t spending everything; it was in the Highway Trust Fund. Now we're AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000108 DOT_Am.Oversight-000108 spending $10 billion, $12 billion over what comes in the Highway Trust Fund. So moving towards a more stable platform for funding is part of this initiative. And that more stable platform is at the state and local level. And then couple that with the fact that the public has said, hey, we prefer to invest at the state and local level. And so we should move -- if you're looking for sustainability, we should move -- you know, the federal government continues to play an important role, but we should move and rely more heavily on what state and local governments are doing. Q Is there a second part of that? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Sure. This is [senior administration official, White House leg, specifically the House side. Just to, kind of, try and answer the second part of the question here -- and I'll turn it over to my counterpart who handles the Senate -- the House of Representatives will have, probably, at least six committees that will have parts of the infrastructure plan -- anywhere from the T&I committee to Education and Workforce, Veterans Affairs, Natural Resources, Energy and Commerce, and the Agriculture committee. So you can see that the plan will be a broad group of committees in the House that will have, hopefully, their own lanes and maybe some overlapping issues, like rural infrastructure and broadband that can touch T&I, ag, and energy and commerce. Within our discussions with members of Congress, staff directors, and chiefs of staff, everybody shares the goal that something has to be done. My colleagues spoke on the polling numbers that, I think, it was something about 84 percent of Americans know that infrastructure needs to be upgraded in this country. So there certainly is a desire to get something done this year. The permitting process -- again, my colleague and I have talked to either very conservative or very liberal members of Congress who understand and know that permitting needs to be reformed in this country. So there is an absolute desire to fix some of these issues and these problems to make America more innovative and competitive around the world. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000109 DOT_Am.Oversight-000109 So our committees, they'll be up and ready to go and running as soon as we transmit stuff out this week. So that's, kind of, my pitch on the House side. I'll turn it over to my colleague of the Senate. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: From the Senate standpoint, we're looking at, at least, five core committees or jurisdictions. The two primary committees, I would say, out of those five would be the committee on environment and public works and the commerce committee. So the permitting side will cross those committees. Over the last year, my colleague and I, and other administration officials, have done extensive outreach to the Senate on a bipartisan basis. We've met with committee staff for all of the relevant committees or jurisdictions. We've met with the chairmen, we've met with rank-and-file members. We have briefed committee members and groups. We've done extensive lunches at the White House with key stakeholders from Capitol Hill, senators, and senior staff members. So we feel that we've accomplished a lot in terms of socializing our plan and getting feedback, incorporating that feedback, and making changes in our plan as well. But we also want to emphasize that, with Monday's rollout, our plan is our opening in terms of providing ideas to Capitol Hill. And we look forward to working with the relevant committees through the regular-order process, through hearings and through additional feedback, through the markup process. And what we anticipate after we have hearings, after the committees write their bills, we'll be working very closely with Senator McConnell's team to determine a final legislative vehicle where we can put everything together and get it passed into law. Q Hi, thanks for doing this. I was wondering if you could be more specific about the programs that are being cut in order to come up with the $200 billion -- if you could give us some examples of that. And then, also, on the incentives grants, am I correct that states and local governments would be eligible to -- they would have to provide at least 80 percent, and the government would do no more than 20? So I was hoping you could address those two issues. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So in terms of the programs being cut for the $200 billion, they're not matched. So it's not like we have $200 billion for AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000110 DOT_Am.Oversight-000110 infrastructure and these are the programs that we're cutting to pay for that $200 billion. That's not the way the budget works. We just have a list of cuts, and then some increases on the other side. So they're not paired. There are some reductions in things like transit funding and TIGER grants, and things where the administration thinks that infrastructure funds haven’t been spent efficaciously. And so, therefore, we want to do it in a better, more focused way. So there's not that matching. In terms of incentives, and state and local governments providing at least 80 percent, there is -- thank you for asking that question, because there is, sort of, counter-narrative that's going on right now in terms of what the federal government traditionally funds. Some critics of our approach have said we're going to move from an 80-20 formula to a 20-80 -- you know, 80 percent federal to just 20 percent federal. That comment is, sort of, indicative of the problem that we have in the way that Washington currently thinks about infrastructure, because that comment is not talking about infrastructure, it's not talking about transportation, it's not talking about highways. It's talking about federal-aid highways that are a small component of infrastructure overall that currently are eligible for an 80-20 mix. If you just look at highways -- not federal-aid highways, but highways in the U.S. as a total, 28 percent of the funding is federal, 72 percent is non-federal. If you look at water projects, 4 percent is federal, 96 percent is non-federal. So part of this is a little bit of an expectations game. What we need to understand is, if we're saying to state and local governments, who are currently spending the vast majority of funds on infrastructure, that if you, sort of, increase what you're doing already, we want to partner and match with you. And a lot of communities have been doing this for a decade now, so there's a trend that's accelerating where they're increasing their investment in infrastructure. That's a very healthy trend and we want to encourage that trend. So the way the incentive program works is, come with revenue and come with a project, and your score is higher based upon the share of non-federal revenue that you have in your project. So there's not a 20 percent minimum, or maximum AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000111 DOT_Am.Oversight-000111 federal, but it's all about how do we get people to compete around in projects that they truly care about. And how do we know they truly care about them? Well, because they've got a lot of skin in the game on the project -- as opposed to, a lot of comments I've received since starting this job are people who are going, this is an absolutely critical project, it has to be done, it's vital to our community; our economy will boom if we do this. And I ask how much you've invested in it. And they're like, no, we're not investing in anything; we'd like you to invest in it. So we, kind of, changed that dynamic and that culture to one -- since we talked about the (inaudible) more sustainable. The whole 80-20 is a little bit of a throwaway line that applies to a subset of a subset of a subset of infrastructure overall. Q Hi, thanks for holding the call. A couple weeks ago, there was a document that -- a leaked document that detailed a number of potential environmental permitting changes. I wanted to -- the White House said that that was an old document. I want to know specifically what changes need to be made through legislation that this proposal will do, that you couldn’t already do through administrative deference. And then also, I wanted to know whether there were any, sort of, new requirements put in any of this infrastructure proposal that relates to some of the flooding and hurricanes that we saw this past fall, and with an eye towards reducing damage and better preparing communities for those types of events. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Good questions. So, on the permitting side, we're taking a four-pronged approach to helping with permitting: statutory changes, regulatory changes, policy changes, and cultural changes. And you really can't -- I mean, our process is so byzantine and so inefficient that we really can't address it short of doing activities on all four levels. So, unfortunately, even if we did the culture changes, the policy changes, or the regulatory changes, there are still components of code that need to be changed to help align this up better. And I should start by saying that we are not touching any of the fundamental requirements of any of the core infrastructure acts. We're not saying you can have a bigger impact on dangerous species, or the water can be dirtier or the AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000112 DOT_Am.Oversight-000112 air can be dirtier, or anything like that. So the core acts stay the same. We're talking about the process that's used to do the analysis around the environmental impact. So, some example are, we're going to require -- and we've actually done this administratively -- require everyone to sign a record of decision. So if you're an agency and you're looking at a project, and you're working with a lead federal agency, you need to be part of that team and sign off on the analysis, and not come back around after the record of decision is done, and say, "Oh, to issue my permit I need the following six additional things to do my analysis." So just getting people more coordinated upfront. Currently, statute allows the EPA to do the 306 and 209 review of environmental impact statements. And that gets to the point where, if the federal government has gone through a process and made a decision, we don’t want another component to second-guess that. You currently have, in 4(f), in (inaudible) property, you have overlapping jurisdictions of the Department of Interior, USDA, and HUD. They're all doing very similar analysis on 4(f). Sometimes we require an agency like the Corps of Engineers to do a 404 analysis and a 408 analysis, which essentially are looking at exactly the same things, but they have to be done separately because they're two different sections of the code. So the statutory changes really are focused on let's eliminate the duplicative analysis and let's be clear in terms of who has the decision-making responsibility, and let's be clear in deferring to agencies' expertise and not have agencies second-guessing other agencies. In terms of the flooding and the hurricane, there are provisions in here that expand the ability of the Corps of Engineers to partner with local communities and be more proactive. So, currently, if you're a community and there's a levee that's protecting your community, and you want to raise it a couple of feet, and you're willing to pay for all of it, the federal government will require you to jump through years and years and years of hoops before you're able to do that. We just think that's crazy and that -- there's going be limited Corps funding; there's been limited Corps funding for generations. It's likely that's going to continue. Let's give the Corps flexibility to allow others to participate in the improvement of that infrastructure. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000113 DOT_Am.Oversight-000113 In terms of specific funding for flooding and hurricane, obviously that's for legislation. That's not part of this bill. Q Hello, thanks again for having the call. I guess, I was hoping to get another reaction to potential criticism of this proposal. The heartburn I'd been hearing from expectations about the plan was both the 80-20 match, switching to the, perhaps, 20-80, and also the notion of just finding cuts elsewhere in the budget, rather than finding a new channel of funding such as raising the gas tax. So basically, more simply, is the federal government walking away from its responsibilities to contribute to state and local construction projects? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you, Bart. That's a great question. So, as I mentioned before, the 80-20/20-80 is just not accurate and it's wildly inaccurate. The federal government does not fund 80 percent of infrastructure in the U.S. Again, if you look at infrastructure overall, transportation, highways, federal-aid highways -- you get all the way down to federal-aid highways, then you see some 80-20 responsibility for specific projects. But even then you have states spending without that federal match on highways. So I think that we're going to keep existing programs in place for the most part; we are going to eliminate a few things here and there. But for the most part, we're keeping everything stable. And the President has said that he is open to new sources of funding. And I should also say that we are going to roll out this package. We want it to be bipartisan. The President has four clear objectives that he wants to accomplish. And we will be quite flexible in terms of how we accomplish those objectives. So this isn’t -- this in no way, shape, or form should be considering a take-it-or-leave-it proposal. This is the start of a negotiation -- bicameral bipartisan negotiation -- to find the best solution for infrastructure in the U.S. But we are not -- not only are we not walking away from the federal responsibility; we're taking even more responsibility to ensure that we get infrastructure funding and permitting on a sustainable track for generations. Q Great, thanks. I have two questions. First, the President is always your best salesman. How are we going to see the President selling this? Will we see him taking trips to places with bridges crumbling and so on? And secondly, let me AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000114 DOT_Am.Oversight-000114 push back a little bit on the notion that the federal government won't be picking projects. The President has talked repeatedly, during the campaign and since, about this embarrassment at the state of American airports. Are we not going to see that priority by the President reflected at all? SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So in terms of the best salesman -- I mean, absolutely, the President will be traveling. You'll see the Cabinet traveling. We will be talking about infrastructure all across the nation. I mean, unfortunately, we have infrastructure challenges in almost every corner of our country, so we'll be spending a lot of time talking about that. In terms of not picking projects, the President has mentioned airports. And the last administration, as you recall, highlighted the challenge we have with airports as well. That is a longstanding struggle. What we're doing as part of this package is making it easier -- and you'll see the provisions in there -- making it easier for airport projects to get permitted, to get approved, to get funded, and to get financed. So again, we're providing the opportunity and tools that currently are constraining infrastructure (inaudible) from improving and bettering their infrastructure. So a large part of the problem, currently, is that the federal government's rules and restrictions get in the way of building a better America. So we want to get out of the way in that regard. And then, in addition that, with our matching fund and incentive program, we want to boost the amount of revenue that's flowing to infrastructure all across the nation. And one of the problems, when you pick specific projects, is that you then tend to pool federal resources in select areas, and everyone else gets left out. We're getting out of the project-picking primarily because we want everyone to have access to federal funds in terms of help, and to federal permitting systems. SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: And let me just piggyback a little bit on the answer to the first question. I think -you mentioned specifically would the President be going to places with infrastructure challenges. I think we're also looking for him to go to places where we can highlight the positive steps that a lot of state and local governments have already taken in order to really address this problem at the state and local level, and highlight them and hold them up, and AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000115 DOT_Am.Oversight-000115 show them as examples of things that we would like to see more of, and how this plan will enable more of those types of projects to find success. END AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 1:48 P.M. EST DOT-18-0010-A-000116 DOT_Am.Oversight-000116 From: Bcc: Bedell, Anthony (OST) (b) (6) @ldclmcc.com; (b) (6) ilchamber.org; (b) (6) @tsa.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) @irtba.org; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) @senseinc.com; (6) (b) (6) @muskotech.con; (b) (6) @hobbsstraus.com; (b) (6) @dowl.com; (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) - MISTYLAKE CONSULTING SERVICES LLC (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) nevadadc.org); (b) (6) @mmm.com; (b) (6) @T-Mobile.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @lasvegasnevacla.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @BXALL.com; (b) (6) @HATCH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @maii.house.gov; (b) (6) @atr.org; (b) (6) @lowes.oom; (b) (6) @THEMITCHELLFIRM.COM; (b) (6) @BOOZMAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @fairfaxcounty.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @CORLEYDC.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; (b) @arialestrategies.coin; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @entergy.com; (b) (6) @amac.us; (b) (6) @ALCALDE-FAY.COM; (b) (6) @COCHRAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) @purplestrategies.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) @eckertseamans.coni; (b) @stevescalise.cotn; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (6) (b) (6) @BentzStrategies.com; (b) (6) @altria.com; (b) (6) @cuna.com; (b) (6) @jmpa.us; (b) (6) @spottsfainconsulting.com; (b) (6) @thune.senate.gov; (b) (6) @LEE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) EASTGATE (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @riponsodety.org; (b) (6) eHeafth, Inc. (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @BLUNT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @wal-mart.com; (b) (6) @BUSINESSCOUNCIL.COM; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) YOUNGSTOWN CITY (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @ysu.edu; (b) (6) @hii-nns.com; (b) (6) @greenwoodsearch.com; (b) (6) @Lamar- -Consulting.com; r==;::f ~ ~~ ~ @us.ibm.com; ~---- r::~ ====n -- -=--=----,~=-==--=-:=7 LJ_ (b) (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @bankaturion.com; @equifax.com; (b) (6) @gsk.com; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @citi.com; @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @YOUNG.SENATE.GOV; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @alta.org; (b) (6) @riba5conGUlting.com; (b) (6) FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF MINNEAPOLIS .frb.org); kirk.bell@dot.gov; (b) (6) @YRCI.com; (b) (6) @GEORGETOWN.EDU; @fisglobal.com; (b) (6) @chemserv.com; (b) (6) @sunflowersystems.com; @williamblair.com; (b) (6) @53.com; (b) (6) @SBC.SENATE.GOV; @sbc.senate.gov; (b) (6) @transurban.com; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @ysu.edu; @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) AMERICAN investment council ); (b) (6) @lucerooliveoil.com; (b) (6) @ALLIANCE-CONSULTANTS.COM; @wellmed.net; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @santafecommunications.com; @ci.manteca.ca.us; (b) (6) @ahip.org; (b) (6) @walgreens.com; (b) (6) @nfi.org; @nafcu.org; (b) (6) @riteaid.com; (b) @dgsr-lc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) (6) crocker strategy (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @anthem.com; (b) (6) @ici.org; (b) (6) @MILLFIELDGLOBAL.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.MIL; (b) (6) @experian.com; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @bah.com; (b) (6) @navigatorsglobal.com; (b) (6) @GULAGRAHAM.COM; (b) (6) @CLGDC.COM; (b) (6) @usa.redcross.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @carper.senate.gov; (b) (6) @motorolasolutions.com; (b) (6) @MagnumEntertainmentGroup.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @dunnassoc.com; (b) (6) @johanns.senate.gov; (b) (6) @PurpleStrategies.com; GOV; (b) (6) @raytheon.com; (b) (6) @tma.toyota.com; (b) (6) @electran.org; (b) (6) @helenmilby.com; (b) (6) @angelenterprisesdc.com; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAII-.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @HeaitlaiidStratcgies.coin; (b) (6) @americancrossroads.org; (b) (6) @agc.org; (b) (6) @aduston.com; (b) (6) National Cattlemen"s Beef (b) (6) Association (b) (6) @USA.net; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @verizon.com; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @quickenloans.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ntu.org; (b) (6) @redskins.com; (b) @nvtc.org; (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOTJSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @vachamber.com; (b) (6) @Flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN STEPHEN FINCHER (.house.gov); (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) @mail.kouse.gov; (b) (6) @thec2group.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @scllaw.com; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @mzacompany.com; (6) (b) (6) @franchise.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @CAPITO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @ena.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @attglobal.net; (b) (6) @sbc.senate.gov; (6) (b) (6) @sba.gov; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @sjgov.org; (b) (6) @ci.tracy.ca.us; (b) (6) @yahoo.com; (b) (6) @cbrt.org; (b) (6) @ci.manteca.ca; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @IRIonline.org; (b) (6) @aep.conn; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCOTT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @814Consulting.com; (b) (6) Global Automakers (6) (b) (6) globalautomakers.org); (b) (6) @OB-CGROUP.COM; (b) (6) @gdsstrategies.oom; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) @4lanes4nebraska.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (b) (6) @score.org; (b) (6) @thehartford.com; (b) (6) @interdigital.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) Smiths Group (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @ubs.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000117 DOT_Am.Oversight-000117 @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @safnow.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @Emerson.com; (b) (6) @YourPoliticalAdvantage.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @finance.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warner.senate.gov; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ronjohnson.senate.gov; @toomey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b @newpartners.com; ) @nfib.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) @RUBIO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @fah.org; (b) (6) Cognizant ); ) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @aflac.com; @acli.com; @att.com; wpb.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; @txdot.gov; (b) (6) nam.org; (b) (6) @GMAIL.COM; Brand, Lauren (MARAD); @ROTHSCHILDPP.COM; (b) (6) @forestresources.org; (b) (6) @blakey-agnew.com; (b) (6) blakeyagnew.com; (b) (6) blakey-agnew.com; Furst, Tony (FHWA); (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @bradley.com; (b) (6) @hassan.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCHAT2.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @SCHATZ.SENATE.GOV; (b) @AASHTn.ORG; (b) (6) @kotzebue.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (6) (b) (6) denvergov.org; (b) (6) @ND.gov; (b) (6) @springfield.il.iis; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @clecaturil.gov; (b) (6) @gtlaw.com; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @umw.com; (b) (6) Ogilvy GOVERNMENT RELATIONS (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @ogilvygr.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @Sawiana.com; (b) (6) @dfat.gov.au; (b) (6) @galvanassociates.com; (b) (6) @MacombCountyChamber.com; (b) (6) DEPARMENT OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (b) (6) ); (b) (6) msn.com; (b) (6) @audi.com; (b) (6) OFFICE OF SENATOR MITCH MCGONNELL, KENTUCKY ((b) (6) @MCCONNELL.SENATE.GOV); (b) (6) @GSA.GOV; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @bhfs.com; (b) (6) @SBA.GOV; (b) (6) @fbtlaw.com; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cookcountyil.gov; (b) (6) @nscorp.com; (b) (6) @schlickman.conn; (b) (6) up.com; (b) (6) @peoplesgasdelivery.com; (b) (6) @aar.org; (b) (6) @sewrpc.org; (b) (6) @allianceRD.org; (b) (6) @schlicknnan.com; (b) (6) nirpc.org; (b) (6) cmap.illinois.gov; (b) @5bfriedman.com; (b) (6) @kpmg.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (6) (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @cardinalinfrastructure.com; (b) (6) @osmre.gov; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (6) (b) (6) @ci.gary.in.us;(b) (6) @portsmouthva.gov; (b) (6) @GarlandTx.gov; (b) (6) @suddenlink.net; (b) (6) @miamigov.com; (b) (6) @nd.gov; (b) (6) @ndus.edu; (b) (6) @go-metro.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @unitecl.com; (b) (6) @united.com; (b) (6) @dol.gov; (b) (6) EOP.GOV; (b) (6) @trin.net; (b) (6) @amstedrail.com; (b) (6) @statewidepublicaffairs.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @aar.oraIwww.aar.org; (b) (6) Global Automakers (b) (6) globalautomakers.org); King, Heidi (NHTSA); (b) (6) @Illinois.gov; (b) (6) @NANA.COM; (b) (6) NANA REGIONAL CORPORATION, INC. (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @yuroknibe.nsn.us; (b) (6) YUROK TRIBE (b) (6) yuroktribe.nsn.ib); (b) (6) @HLPADVOCACY.COM; (b) (6) @ryanalaska.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (6) (b) (6) @OKEEFFESTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) @EPW.SENATE.OOV; (b) (6) @epw.senate.gov; (b) @GOJAY.ORG; (b) (6) @privia.com; (b) (6) @TREASURY.GOV; (b) (6) The Hershey (6) Company (b) (6) ); (b) (6) simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @starkcountyohio.gov; (b) (6) @pascocountyfl.net; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @madisongr.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @stancog.org; (b) (6) @maderactc.org; (b) @co.mercedca.us; (6) (b) (6) @mcagov.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @cityofhanfordca.com; (b) (6) Paducah Chamber (b) (6) @paducahchamberorg); (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @AMPQ.ORG; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com;(b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @miarriichamber.com; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) STR Trade (b) (6) ; (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.co; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) scspa.com; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; Gallagher, KellyAnne;(b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (b) (6) National Conference of State Legislatures (b) (6) (b) (6) @ncsiorg); (b) (6) @MARYLAND.GOV; (b) (6) --' -@sso.org; @scna.net; -(b) (6) --= ..______. __ hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @att.net; (b) @uwa.edu; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) hklaw.com; (b) (6) SQUIRE Patton Boggs LLP ((b) (6) @squirepbxom); (b) (6) @cityhall.nyc.gov; (b) (6) @osu.edu; (b) @mmodc.com; (b) (6) L:====; ....__ ..I,;=== ~ (6) 1::-- phbpa.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (6) (b) (6) @Tumberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @eliomotors.com; (b) @eliomotors.com; Williams, Jane (FTA); (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; CMC-01 (OST); (b) (6) @DPS.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @intait.com; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) (6) @MNCHAMBER.COM; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @KUTAKROCK.COM; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @ferc.gov; (b) (6) @nouveaucorp.com; (b) (6) @sas.com; (b) (6) @emrgroup.com; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov;(b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @Alaska.Gov; (b) (6) @WDC.CA.GOV; (b) (6) @plasticsindustry.org; (b) (6) @ci.woodlake.ca.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @bdnreit.com; (b) (6) @WATERLOOLOBBY.COM; (b) (6) @isi-consulting.com; (b) (6) @bcbsa.com; (b) (6) @RagnarResearch.com; (b) (6) @govemor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @macquarie.com; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @MARYLAN0.G0V; (b) (6) @rga.org; (b) (6) @MOMARKDEVELOPMENT.COM; (b) (6) @3pointpaitneis.com; (b) (6) @austinbank.com; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) _sc@senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) @gilmorestrategy.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000118 DOT_Am.Oversight-000118 (b) (6) @hntb.com; (b) (6) HNTB Corporation (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) _sc@senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @mwcllc.com; (b) (6) @MACADVANCED.CaM; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @transcanada.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @TAMPABAY.ORG; (b) (6) @pinellascounty.org; (b) (6) @asdd.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @StrategiesDC.com; (b) (6) @georgewaters.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @akerman.com; McCarthy, Jodi ; (b) (6) @dlapiper.com; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @le.utah.gov; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @PHIL_A.GOV; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @willcountyilliiiis.com; (b) (6) @ctia.org; (b) (6) @ALEXANDER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @muscatineiowa.gov; (b) (6) @sbia.org; (b) (6) @hamiltonps.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @capitol.tn.gov; (b) (6) @johnhowe.us; (b) (6) @hclrinc.com; Criman, Branden (MARAD); Serassio, Helen (FTA); Hill, Damon (PHMSA); Vaughn, Colleen (OST); (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @pillsburYlaw.com; (b) (6) @greensboro-nc.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @BOOKER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) Indian Health Service ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @x.team; (b) (6) @texaschemistry.org; (b) (6) @iupat.org; (b) (6) @autoalliance.org; (b) (6) @jonesmetalinc.com; (b) (6) @americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @mnchamber.com; (b) (6) @greatermankato.com; (b) (6) @TACaNITE.aRE; (b) @twinwest.com; (b) (6) @Toyota.com; (b) @ibew146.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) = - ----==-== ---:----- ~ - Decatur Chamber ~ - -~ @decaturchairibercom); ---- I:== ===--@decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @laborers159.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @hu5chblackwell.com; (b) (6) @hq.doe.gov; (b) (6) @CITYOFLAKEFOREST.COM; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @co.tulare.ca.us; (b) (6) @visalia.cit; (b) (6) @duininck.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @LHBcorp.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (b) (6) ; (b @columbuspartnership.com; ) (b) (6) (b) (6) @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) (b) (6) @mwcapitol.com; (b) (6) @DURBIN.SENATE.GOV; AMERICAN ASSOCIATION ) (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @its.jnj.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @auburn.edu; (b) (6) @ntsb.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hq.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @live.com; (b) (6) @CCH-LLC.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) Sitka Tribe of Alaska Tribal Government for Sitka, AK ((b) (6) ; (b) (6) @waknet.org; (b) (6) @puebloofacoma.org; (b) (6) @puebloofpojoaque.org; Kenley, Erin (FHWA); (b) (6) @ftbelknap.org; (b) (6) @ashiwi.org; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) @philbest.net; (6) (b) (6) @grriail.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @alvarezandmarsal.com; (b) (6) @swapa.org; (b) (6) @COMMERCE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @commerce.senate.gov; (b) (6) @GOMMERCE.SKNATE.OOV; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.Virginia.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (b) @nga.org; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) @dubersteingToup.corn; (b) (6) @dow.com; (b) (6) @siemens.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @gopro.com; (b) @uark.edu; (b) (6) @dji.com; (b) (6) @alta.org; (6) (b) (6) @pegcc.org; todavis@deloitte.com; (b) (6) @AventueStategies.com; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @lacrty.org; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) cityofpleasantonca.gov; (b) (6) @danville.ca.gov; (b) (6) @cityoflivermore.net; (b) (6) dublin.ca.gov; (b) (6) @townsendPA.com; (b) (6) @nexxusconsulting.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (b) (6) @walmart.com; (b) (6) @OSEC.USDA.GOV; (6) (b) @DMMSTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) Hance Scarborough, LLP (b) (6) @hslawmaiLcom); (b) (6) (6) (LAHOOD.HOUSE.GOV); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) naco.org; (b) (6) - Bucks County Industrial Development Corporation (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @uss.com; (b) (6) @AASHTa.aRE; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @AmericanHort.org; (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) Kentucky Capital Development Corporation (b) (6) ); (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) americanchemistry.com; @trucking.org; @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @nnwo.org; (b) (6) @bmexpl.com; (b) (6) @houstontx.gov; (b) (6) @shell.com; (b) (6) @buckscounty.org; (b) (6) @kindermorgan.com; (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @cahcc.conn; (b) (6) @latinodigitalsolutions.com; (b) (6) @saGyr.com; (b) (6) btbv.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @tfi.org; (b) (6) @navient.com; (b) (6) @EFBAdvocacy.com; (b) (6) @LHGDC.COM; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @cityofpascagoula.com; (b) (6) @fortworthtexas.gov; (b) (6) @tampagov.net; (b) (6) @gulfport-ms.gov; (b) (6) @cityofpensacola.com; (b) (6) @raleighnc.gov; (b) (6) Colorado Springs (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) City of Gastonia ((b) (6) ; (b) (6) @lowellnc.com; (b) (6) @cityolgastonia.com; (b) (6) @usgs.gov; (b) (6) @temeculaca.gov; (b) (6) @davidturch.com; (b) akingump.com; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) aapa-ports.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @agtrans.org; (b) (6) @crshq.com; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @ustollingcoalition.org; (b) (6) @abc.org; (b) (6) @PGE.COM; (b) (6) @doc.gov; (b) (6) edmondswa.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) @allianceportregion.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000119 DOT_Am.Oversight-000119 @klgates.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; (b) (6) @ups.com; @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; @capitaledge.com; (b) (6) @dean.net;(b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @cityofirving.org; @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; @COJ.NET; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; @fticonsulting.com; Chris Cox; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; Stevens, Michael H.; @ehi.com; (b) (6) @bighornpublicaffairs.com; (b) @flyravn.com; (b) (6) @whitmerworrall.com; (6) @tgsgroup.com; (b) (6) @tgsgroup.com; Eric Dell; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; Ed McDonald; (b) (6) @maryland.gov); (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strategics.consulting; (b) (6) @pwchamber.oeg; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @cityofws.org; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @senate.virginia.gov; Dan Scandling; (b) (6) @vectrecorp.com; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) @thefiorentinogroup.com; (b) @cfmdc.com; (6) (6) (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) ODOT.org; (b) (6) odot.state.or.us; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) scdot.org; (b) (6) state.sd.us; (b) (6) tn.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.vi.gov; (b) (6) gmail.com; (b) (6) utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) wsdot.wa.gov; (b) (6) wv.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.as.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @alaska.gov; (b) (6) @hotmail.com; (b) (6) @dudinskyassociates.com; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) l@wdc.ca.gov; (b) (6) @state.co.us; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) (6) state.de.us; (b) (6) @eog.myflorida.com; (b @rubicondc.com; (b) (6) @guam.gov; ) (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) (6 @gov.idaho.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @hohlt.com; (b) (6) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) ) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) @vikingnav.com; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @maine.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @state.ma.us; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @state.mn.us; (b) (6) @governor.ms.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @mt.gov; (b) (6) @nebraska.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (6) (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @gov.state.nj.us; (b) (6) @nj.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) @nd.gov; (6) (b) (6) @governor.ohio.gov; (b) (6) @gov.ok.gov; (b) (6) @oregon.gov; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @prfaa.pr.gov; (b) (6) @governor.ri.gov; (b) (6) @gov.sc.gov; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @tn.gov; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @lgo.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) @wv.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @co.bucks.pa.us; (b) (6) @hsr.ca.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @phila.gov; (b) (6) @thecityofportland.net; (b) (6) @springfield.il.us; (b) @thomasvilleal.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @wenatcheewa.gov; (b) (6) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; (b) (6) @ecipd.org; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; (b) (6) @grantcounty.net; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.com; (b) (6) @miamichamber.com; (b) (6) @cs.com; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) portla.org; (b) (6) @warren-county.net; (b) (6) @willcountyillinois.com; (b) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @rockdalecounty.gov; (b) (6) @cityofLakeForest.com; (6) (6) (b) @hillsboroughCounty.org; (b) (6) @rockdalecountyga.ga; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @goplainfield.com;(b) (6) @goplainfield.com; (b) (6) @aol.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @sandyspringsga.gov; (b) (6) torranceca.gov; (b) (6) TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @torranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @franklincountyky.com; (b) (6) @frankfort.ky.gov; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) naco.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) (6) (6) usmayors.org; (b) (6) aashto.org; (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @alec.org; (b) (6) csg.org; (b) (6) @nasao.org; (b) (6) @westgov.org; (b) (6) @alcalde-fay.com; (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @dc.bhb.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @hoganlovells.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @madisongroup.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) peyser.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @turnberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @wolfsonbolton.com; (b) (6) cchllc.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com;(b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) phbpa.com; (6) (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com;(b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @daleypg.com; (b) (6) @strategiesdc.com; (b) (6) aztec.us; (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @aqmd.gov;(b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @scrra.net; (b) (6) @sso.org; (b) aashto.org; (6) (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; @ally.com; @blyncsy.com; @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ipaper.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) asdd.com; (6) (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @kycapitaldevelopment.com; (b) (6) @UnitedBankKY.com; "James Ray (OST) (Jim.Ray@dot.gov)" FY19 USDoT budget highlights (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000120 DOT_Am.Oversight-000120 Date: Attachments: Tuesday, February 13, 2018 5:15:00 PM US DOT FY19 Budget Highlights.pdf image003.png Please see attached. Let me know if you have any questions.   Anthony R. Bedell Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 202-366-0913 (b) (6) mobile     DOT-18-0010-A-000121 DOT_Am.Oversight-000121 3 US. Department of Transportation HIGHLIGHT 7 Fiscal Year Elaine L. Chao ecretary of Transportgtion TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 3 6 8 11 14 16 18 26 31 I' v1 f > c,I\N pVERSIGHT Overview of the President’s FY 2019 Budget 35 Secretarial Priorities and DOT Accomplishments 39 Infrastructure Plan Principles 42 Enhancing Accountability Through Regulatory Reform 45 Promoting Innovation and Technology 48 Management Reforms 51 Department of Transportation Budgetary Resources 53 Federal Aviation Administration 57 Federal Highway Administration Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 59 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Federal Transit Administration Federal Railroad Administration Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Maritime Administration Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Office of the Secretary Office of Inspector General Supporting Summary Tables Acronyms: CR Continuing Resolution FTE Full Time Equivalent GF General Fund TF Trust Fund SF Special Fund FAST Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act of 2015 (P.L. 114–94) DOT-18-0010-A-000123 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000123 1 OVERVIEW OF THE PRESIDENT’S FY 2019 BUDGET DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION u The President is requesting $76.5 billion for the Department of Transportation (DOT). This is about $500 million less than FY 2017. u The FY 2019 resources support 54,714 personnel, which is 38 more than FY 2017. u The Department’s budget is composed of approximately 20 per­cent discretionary general fund dollars and 80 percent ­mandatory trust fund dollars. u The Department’s mandatory programs are funded at $60.9 billion, which is about $2.3 billion more than in FY 2017.  The budget fully funds surface transportation programs consistent with the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act authorized funding.  The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Grants are also funded at the authorized level of $3.4 billion. u The Department’s discretionary programs are funded at $15.6 billion, which is about $2.9 billion less than FY 2017. This primarily reflects reductions in Amtrak, the elimination of funding for the National Infrastructure Investments (otherwise known as TIGER) grant program, and cuts to the transit Capital Investment Grants program. u The President’s Budget includes $200 billion to support his Infrastructure Proposal. This funding is not included with the Department of Transportation funding recommendations but is included in the President’s overall request. u The President’s Budget also proposes to begin a multiyear effort to modernize FAA by creating a new independent cooperative organization that will work closely with the Department. t u The President’s Budget proposes to modernize and reform the Essential Air Service program. v11f-HICAN 2 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000124 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000124 SECRETARIAL PRIORITIES AND DOT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Secretarial Priority Safety, the highest priority DOT Accomplishments In 2017, numerous cities and States were faced with unforeseen accidents and disasters that severely affected transportation networks essential to the dayto-day activities of millions of Americans. In these instances, the Department of Transportation, in coordination with Federal partners and State and local agencies, responded rapidly to begin the work necessary to reestablish the safe movement of people, goods, and services. For instance: u In 2017, the Department awarded $197 million in Positive Train Control (PTC) grants for 17 projects in 13 States to assist intercity and commuter railroads with moving forward with the implementation of this life-saving rail safety technology. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) continue to collaborate with rail stakeholders to work towards implementing PTC as broadly as possible before the December 31, 2018 statutory deadline. u On March 31, 2017, a fire caused the collapse of a bridge and about 700 feet of I-85 in Atlanta, GA. Within hours, Secretary Chao and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) assisted Georgia in conducting a supply chain audit identifying materials close by to rebuild the bridge. Within 12 hours, after approvals from the President and Secretary Chao, the FHWA awarded Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) $10 million in quick release Emergency Relief (ER) funds to support cleanup, immediate emergency repairs, and traffic management operations. The immediate release of these funds enabled GDOT to initiate repairs within 36 hours. FHWA provided technical support to GDOT throughout the process including sources of materials. The rapid release of these funds enabled the repairs to begin within days and, through a series of innovative best value contracts and quick response actions, the bridge reopened under budget and ahead of schedule on May 18, 2017. u When Hurricanes Harvey, Maria, and Irma devastated areas of Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, numerous DOT agencies promptly responded to aid in the ongoing recovery. FHWA quickly awarded nearly $100 million in ER funding to begin rebuilding affected roads and highways, and both FHWA and FTA personnel were on-site in all affected areas to assist local agencies in developing damage assessments. Likewise, the FAA immediately began assessing damage and establishing interim solutions to reestablish air traffic control services to Puerto Rico. The Maritime Administration (MARAD) Strategic Sealift efforts were also critical to the Hurricane response as multiple training ships were quickly deployed to provide beds, meals, and support services to Federal responders, as well as deliver supplies and emergency equipment. DOT-18-0010-A-000125 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000125 3 SECRE TA R I A L P R I O R I TI E S AND DO T ACCO MPL I SHME NTS Secretarial Priority Safety, the highest priority (continued) DOT Accomplishments u When the Federal Biscay, a bulk freighter vessel, became frozen in place in the St. Lawrence Seaway at the end of the 2017 navigation season, the dedicated staff of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC) worked around the clock for several days using pressurized steam to free the vessel. SLSDC’s efforts ensured that four other ships did not likewise become stranded on the Seaway, and allowed SLSDC to properly winterize a lock system that contributes to over $30 billion in annual economic activity. u In 2017, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) implemented a new Underground Natural Gas Storage safety program. In standing up the new program, PHMSA established industry-wide standards, developed new inspector training, and provided technical assistance to stakeholders to ensure proper compliance with program requirements. Secretarial Priority Revitalizing and rebuilding our critical infrastructure DOT Accomplishments In 2017, the Department continued its efforts to coordinate with State and local partners to deliver critical infrastructure projects that localities depend on for timely commutes and delivery of goods. The Department has also made a point of ensuring that rural communities benefit from infrastructure funding. A few of the many infrastructure initiatives include: u This past summer, DOT launched the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant program with criteria that aims to increase investment by non-Federal stakeholders. The INFRA Grant program also ensures that at least a quarter of available INFRA Grant funding will be awarded to deliver critical infrastructure projects benefiting rural communities. u In 2017, the Department’s Build America Bureau obligated nearly $300 million in Transportation Infrastruc­ture Finance and Inno­vation Act (­TIFIA) subsidy funds, which supported more than $13 billion in rail, highway, and transit projects. u In 2017, in addition to providing $56 billion in formula grants for America’s highways, airports, and transit systems, the Department awarded over $2 billion in discretionary grant funding to support numerous transportation infrastructure projects, including aviation infrastructure, capital transit projects, and small shipyards. Secretarial Priority Preparing for the future by encouraging innovation 4 DOT Accomplishments In 2017, the Department worked closely with various stakeholders to continue to advance promising innovative transportation technologies that have the potential not only to save lives, but to reduce the cost and increase the speed of the movement of people and goods. Examples include: DOT-18-0010-A-000126 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000126 SEC RETARIAL PRIORIT IES AN D DOT AC C O M P LI S H M EN TS Secretarial Priority Preparing for the future by encouraging innovation (continued) DOT Accomplishments u In September 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released new guidance, Automated Driving Systems (ADS): A Vision for Safety 2.0, to further promote the advancement of automated vehicles. This non-­regulatory approach will continue to facilitate innovation that promises to not only reduce roadway injuries and fatalities, but to improve transportation access and reduce travel times. u In September 2017, FHWA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) successfully conducted a demonstration of automated truck platooning and inspection technologies. The demonstration, using cooperative adaptive cruise control, allowed three freight trucks in the DC metro area to drive as close as 50 feet apart at 55 miles an hour. Potential benefits of such technology include lower shipping costs and improved fuel economy while maintaining safety. u This past fall, FAA launched the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Integration Pilot Program to accelerate the integration of drones into the national airspace. This program, which represents an opportunity for local governments to partner with leading private sector entities, will allow communities to explore advanced UAS services such as package deliveries or commercial aerial surveys. Secretarial Priority DOT Accomplishments Enhancing Accountability By working to reduce regulatory burdens, DOT has accelerated project delivery Through Regulatory and reduced project costs. Reform u This past fall, the Department withdrew the cumbersome Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Coordination rule, which was previously ­repealed by Congress. The withdrawal of the MPO coordination rule ensures that local officials retain the ability to properly plan local infrastructure initiatives, and will save localities across the country over $86 million annually. u FHWA, FRA, and FTA released guidance highlighting new environmental review flexibilities. This guidance clarifies the FAST Act’s amendments to their statutory environmental review process (23 U.S.C. 139), which is designed to reduce environmental evaluation times and accelerate project approvals. u FTA’s newly proposed Private Investment Project Procedures for capital transit projects will lead to more effective approaches in encourag­ing private investment in areas such as project planning, construction, maintenance, and operations. A\11 C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000127 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000127 5 INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN PRINCIPLES T he President has called for at least $1 trillion in infrastructure investment nationwide that will connect people to jobs, increase the efficiency of delivering goods, and improve the safety and well-being of all Americans. This goal will not be achieved by Federal investment alone, but rather requires States, local governments, and the private sector to share responsibility and accountability in contributing to our Nation’s future. To achieve the President’s target of at least $1 trillion in infrastructure investment, the Administration has proposed $200 billion in Federal funding for core infrastructure. The Administration’s proposed investments and reforms will modernize our infrastructure, strengthen our economy, increase our international competitiveness, and improve the quality of life of all Americans. The Administration’s plan makes targeted investments and reforms designed to transform our transportation system. Key actions include: u Dedicate Federal Funding to Rural Needs: The Administration is committed to a­ ddressing the infrastructure needs of rural America by dedicating at least 25 percent of the proposed Federal infrastructure funding to grants that support rural projects, I' including funding to U.S. territories and Tribal communities. By improving upon and expanding existing programs, the Administration will be able to improve economic competitiveness, and quality of life for rural Americans. u Establish an Infrastructure Incentives Initiative: This com­ peti­tive program will provide targeted Federal funding to projects that demonstrate innovative revenue generation, life-­cycle cost management, and cost-effective approaches to project delivery. This initiative will begin to address the challenges presented by our outdated funding structure, developing projects that will accelerate the modernization of our infrastructure. u Initiate a Transformative Proj­ects Program: This competitive program would provide Federal investments and technical assistance to private firms and non­profit organizations that use transfor­mative technologies and techniques to improve or reduce the costs of transportation services. This program will quickly fill innovation gaps, and yield technologies that may solve our critical issues sur­round­ing safety, congestion, and efficiency. DOT-18-0010-A-000128 6 pVERSIGHT U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000128 IN F RAST RU C T U RE PL A N P R I N C I P LES u Leverage Federal Funds for Federal Projects of Regional and National Significance: By leveraging Federal funding, the Department expects to expand the total resources used to build and restore infrastructure, rather than have Federal dollars merely substitute for non-Federal funds. To leverage Federal transportation funding, the Administration proposes a set of reforms including: eliminating prohibitions on tolling of Federal-aid highways; removing restrictions on com­ mercialization of interstate rest areas; expanding Federal credit A pVERSIGHT and innovative finance programs such as TIFIA, private activity bonds (PABs), and the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing Program (RRIF), and encouraging the use of value capture and private investment in transit. u Accelerate Environmental Review and Permitting: To accelerate the delivery of much-needed transportation projects, the Administration calls for the modernization of the environmental review and permitting process through a series of reforms. DOT-18-0010-A-000129 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000129 7 ENHANCING ACCOUNTABILITY THROUGH REGULATORY REFORM O n February 24, 2017, Presi­ dent Trump signed an execu­ tive order direct­ing each Federal agency to take specific actions to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens. In response, the Department of Transportation formed a Regulatory Reform Task Force, named a Regulatory Reform Officer, and quickly began work on regulatory reform. The Regulatory Reform Task Force, along with the Department’s own Infrastructure Task Force, meets regularly and works closely with the Operating Administrations to identify and facilitate the elimination of unnecessary regulatory burdens without compromising the Department’s core safety mission. The Department has made and will continue to make significant progress in implementing the President’s regulatory reform agenda without compromising safety. Key actions include: u Reduce Unnecessary Regulatory Burden: Rules issued under this Administration in FY 2017 resulted in $21.9 million in annualized cost savings for the U.S. economy, and eliminated or significantly revised more than a dozen regulations. These cost savings were not only due to decisions to halt costly and inefficient rules from going forward, but were also a result of a significant increase in deregulatory I' actions. This progress in advanc­ ing regulatory reform was accomplished through several measures, always with an eye on preserving safety and based on sound economic analysis, including: (1) reviewing and reconsidering several proposed regulatory actions that were pending on January 20, 2017; (2) identifying d­ eregulatory actions and instituting new procedures to vet new rulemaking proposals; and (3) seeking stakeholder input to assist in eliminating unnecessary regulatory burdens. Today, in stark contrast to the situation in 2016, most of the Department’s active rulemakings are deregulatory in nature. u Streamline Infrastructure Permitting: In conjunction with its efforts on infrastructure, the Department’s Regulatory Reform and Infrastructure Task Forces will continue to work together to identify and eliminate rules that unnecessarily impose costly and time-consuming burdens on those seeking permits to build new infrastructure. By these meas­ures, the Department expects to accelerate environmental review and permitting, and thereby help ensure that scarce taxpayer resources are spent in a better and more efficient manner. DOT-18-0010-A-000130 8 pVERSIGHT U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000130 EN H AN C IN G AC C OU N TABILIT Y T H ROU GH REGU LATORY R EFOR M u Enable Innovation: This Administration is committed to fostering innovation by lifting regulatory barriers to entry and enabling inno­vative and exciting new uses of transportation tech­ nology. The Department has a number of pending deregulatory or enabling regulatory actions that will further support innovation in the transpor­tation sector. For example, NHTSA is working on reducing regulatory barriers to technology innovation, including the development of autonomous vehicles. Similarly, the FAA is working to enable, safely and efficiently, the integration of unmanned aircraft systems into the National Airspace System. In both cases, the Depart­ment hopes to be proactive in provid­ ing ­innovators the guidance they need to make long-term invest­ments, while eliminating regulatory barriers otherwise facing new entrants into the transportation space. u Rationalize Fuel Economy Standards: NHTSA is currently taking steps to ensure that its Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards better reflect current trends in the automotive, technological, and energy markets, while also working to ensure that consumers can choose safe, affordable, and efficient vehicles that meet their families’ needs. In July 2017, NHTSA requested A . . ... pVERSIGHT comment on whether to revise CAFE penalty rates that the agency had proposed to increase significantly in 2016, and the agency anticipates issuing a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on this issue soon. In addition, NHTSA is currently working with the Environmental Protection Agency on new standards that appropriately account for consumer demand, vehicular safety, affordability, economic impacts on domestic manufacturing, fuel savings, and emissions reductions. The agency expects to issue an NPRM in the spring of 2018. u Continue Making Deregulatory Progress: Going forward, the Department remains focused on alleviating unnecessary regulatory burdens to spur economic activity and foster innovation without com­promising the Department’s safety mission. In particular, the Department plans to: (1) continue to monitor progress on existing deregulatory initiatives and continue to evaluate DOT regulations to ensure they do not impose an undue burden on the public without compromising the Department’s safety objectives; (2) formalize regulatory reform as a strategic objective by including it in the U.S. DOT Strategic Plan; and (3) evaluate and implement, where appropriate, the more than 2,800 comments received DOT-18-0010-A-000131 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000131 9 ENHAN C I N G A C C O U N TAB I L I TY THR O UG H R E G UL ATO RY REF ORM from the pub­lic in response to an October 2, 2017 Federal Register notice asking for public input on actions that may alleviate or eliminate regulatory burdens or burdens on domestically produced energy r­ esources. The A . . ... 10 pVERSIGHT Department expects to finalize dozens of deregulatory actions in 2018 alone, and now anticipates that its new rules will, in present value terms, realize hundreds of millions of dollars in net savings during FY 2018. DOT-18-0010-A-000132 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000132 PROMOTING INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY U nder Secretary Chao’s guidance, DOT is leading the development and deployment of innovative practices and technologies that improve the safety and performance of the Nation’s transportation system. The following are highlights of efforts supported by the President’s FY 2019 Budget request. Automated Driving System (ADS) Technology u The Office of the Secretary is spear­head­ing the Department’s efforts to enable the safe testing and deploy­ment of automated driving technology by engaging with stakeholders and industry to identify regulatory barriers through requests for comments and request for information as part of the Automated Vehicle Guidelines (AV) 3.0 initiative. In parallel, AV 3.0 also seeks input from stakeholders and industry to identity near-term research, pilot programs, and exemptions needed to accelerate the deployment of AVs across all modes of transportation. u The budget for NHTSA includes $10 million to accelerate the safe testing and deployment of ADS, commonly referred to as automated or self-driving vehicles. The program funds the development of new tools and methods allowing NHTSA to evaluate rapidly emerging technologies I' pVERSIGHT from both a crash avoidance and occupant protection perspective. NHTSA is developing advanced simulation methods and surrogate vehicles that can be used on closed course test tracks. The Agency is also adapting existing crash test dummies and associated crash tests. Long term, NHTSA will develop system safety per­ formance tests for ADSs, address occupant protection safety for ­alternative seating con­figurations, evaluate individual component and sub-function safety of ADSs, and adapt safety standards for compatibility with future ADSs. u In conjunction with NHTSA, FHWA’s Connected Vehicle (CV) program is conducting research on both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-­to-infrastructure (e.g., traffic signals). FHWA is looking comprehensively at ways to improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bikers, as well as to reduce traffic congestion on roads and highways. FHWA’s research addresses key technological and institutional barriers to integrating automation technologies into today’s transportation system. The Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployment Program funds the deployment of new technologies in select commun­ities to test CV systems in real world environments. u For FY 2019, the budget for FMCSA requests $4.6 million DOT-18-0010-A-000133 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000133 11 PROMO T I N G I N N O VAT I O N AND TE CHNO L O G Y for an ADS initiative to enable the safe oper­ation of highly auto­ mated commercial vehicles on the Nation’s highways. Building on the experience from prior truck platooning demonstrations, FMCSA will support research on technologies that evaluate vehicle automation such as testing critical brake performance. FMCSA will also develop safety performance baseline data to better assess ­autonomous-related vehicle performance during pilot deployments. u As part of its $6 million Mobility Innovation Program, FTA will assess and prioritize vehicle automation technologies for use in the public transportation sector. FTA will develop plans for future transit automation that will include the demonstration projects of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and automated transit shuttles. Drones u The budget for FAA includes $73 million to develop standards for the safe operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), com­ monly referred to as drones. Innovations in UAS technology have fueled dramatic growth, with FAA’s UAS registry recently logging 1 million users. FAA is taking an incremental approach to UAS integration, seeking to balance public safety and security concerns with the flexibility for innovation. 12 u To simplify and streamline the authorization of UAS operations, FAA is implementing new sys­tems including UAS F ­ acility Maps and a Low-Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC). LAANC is the first UAS tool that delivers drone information to air traffic control and is the first step in developing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management System (UTM). LAANC is a prototype system that FAA expects will ultimately provide near real-time processing of airspace authorization requests for UAS operators nationwide. The system automatically approves most requests to operate in specific areas of airspace below designated altitudes. u FAA is also working with National Aeronautics and Space Administra­tion and industry to research an UTM system to manage UAS traffic. The focus of this research is small UAS operations, primarily below 400 feet, in airspace that contains low-density manned aircraft operations. Future phases of UAS work will facilitate UAS operations over people, beyond the operator’s visual range, as well as the transportation of people and property. Infrastructure u Through its Every Day Counts initiative, FHWA advances DOT-18-0010-A-000134 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000134 PROM OT IN G IN N OVAT ION AN D TEC H N OLOG Y innova­tions to speed the construction of highway projects. For example, FHWA is championing e-Construction technology, which is a paperless construction administration delivery process that saves time and money by eliminating paperwork and ­improving communication through faster approvals, e­ nhanced docu­ ment tracking, and increased transparency. u FHWA is also advancing innovative engineering solutions such as Slide-in Bridge Construction (SIBC). SIBC entails building a new bridge next to an existing bridge, out of the way of traffic. This approach allows bridge replacement to take a matter of hours or days instead of months, and saves drivers from dealing with lane closures and detours. u As part of its $5 million infrastructure research effort, FTA will test the use of advanced sensor technologies to monitor the “health” of transit infrastruc­ ture assets. New materials includ­ing nanoparticles, recycled polymers, and composites plus innovative construction techniques, give transit agencies new asset monitoring options. Major advances in sensor technology include strain gauges and unmanned vehicles coupled with increased data analytic tools such as hand-held field devices. These tools promise to yield real-time data about fixed and moving infrastructure, which can be used to complement existing visual inspections. u The budget for PHMSA’s Pipe­line Safety request includes $6 million for research and devel­opment that continues to target innovative solutions that create measurable improvements in pipeline safety. Among the initiatives continuing into FY 2019 are those that ­address corrosion, a common cause of pipeline failure. PHMSA will continue research efforts into the development and implementation of new high-performance multi­func­tional composite coat­ ings, aiming for lifetime prevention and mitigation of internal pipeline corrosion for onshore gas and liquid transmission pipelines. PHMSA will also continue work on the development of internal pipeline inspection tools for small diameter pipelines that are not accessible with current technologies. u FRA will invest $2 million in autonomous track inspection technologies that work with trains using unattended instruments with minimal direct involvement from operators. The technology increases inspection frequencies and the amount of track inspected annually at significantly reduced cost compared to manned inspection vehicles, thereby improving the overall safety of the Nation’s rail system. DOT-18-0010-A-000135 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000135 13 MANAGEMENT REFORMS T he Administration is undertaking a bold management agenda to improve the performance of Federal agencies and provide results to American taxpayers. The Department of Transportation is leading the way by reorganizing its programs, consolidating the delivery of shared services, and comprehensively evaluating the performance of its programs. The President’s budget incorporates key reforms in support of Executive Order 13781, which requires each agency to prepare a plan to reorganize the agency to improve its efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability. DOT proposes to: u Modernize Air Traffic Management: The Administration seeks a multiyear reauthorization of FAA that shifts the sizeable air traffic control function out of the FAA to an independent nongovernmental cooperative organization. This proposal will make the Nation’s aviation system more efficient and innovative while continuing to preserve safety. u Explore Options for Commercializing the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC): In 1998, Canada commercialized the management and operations of the Canadian portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway on behalf of its federal I' government. The Department is ­examining the feasibility of adopting a similar model for the U.S. portion of the Seaway. u Transfer Job Training Programs to the Department of Labor: DOT will explore the transfer of two transportation job training programs (the highways On the Job Training/Supportive Services program and the Innovative Public Transportation Frontline Workforce Development program) to the Department of Labor, which is best equipped to provide this service. DOT has already begun to implement the following reforms: u Shared Services Models: DOT is implementing a shared services model for delivering its acquisitions, human resources, and information technology functions. DOT is taking steps to consolidate similar work that is currently being performed throughout the modal Operating Administrations and the Office of the Secretary. This will stream­ line management and ensure policies and practices are applied consistently throughout the Department. Further, it provides opportunities to procure goods and services on a larger, more strategic scale, which should increase the value to the Government. DOT-18-0010-A-000136 14 pVERSIGHT U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000136 M AN AGEMEN T R EFOR M S u Program Evaluation: DOT is also systematically evaluating the performance of its programs and activities. The objective is to enhance DOT’s enterprise-wide ability to analyze program effectiveness and DOT’s delivery of a fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and convenient transportation A pVERSIGHT system. The effort entails data analyses, including deep-dive analyses of select programs based on defined criteria. The effort will foster more informed future budget decision-making processes based on data and information. DOT-18-0010-A-000137 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000137 15 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BUDGETARY RESOURCES Budgetary Resources Account FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Federal Aviation Administration $16,407.4 $16,295.9 $16,122.3 Operations (GF/TF) Facilities & Equipment (TF) Research, Engineering & Development (TF) Grants-in-Aid for Airports (Oblim) (TF) 10,025.9 2,855.0 176.5 3,350.0 9,957.8 2,835.6 175.3 3,327.3 9,931.3 2,766.6 74.4 3,350.0 Federal Highway Administration 43,097.1 42,805.5 45,790.6 Federal-Aid Highways (Oblim) (TF) Exempt Obligations (TF) Emergency Relief (TF) Emergency Relief (GF) (Non-Add) Limitation on Administrative Expenses (TOTAL) (Non-Add) Rescissions/Cancellations 43,266.1 594.9 93.1 1,532.0 435.8 – 857.0 42,972.3 596.8 93.4 0.0 432.8 – 857.0 45,268.6 639.0 100.0 0.0 449.7 – 217.0 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 644.2 639.8 665.8 Motor Carrier Safety Operations & Programs (Oblim) (TF) Motor Carrier Safety Grants (Oblim) (TF) 277.2 367.0 275.3 364.5 284.0 381.8 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 911.3 905.2 914.7 Operations and Research (GF) Operations and Research (TF) Highway Traffic Safety Grants (Oblim) (TF) 180.1 145.9 585.4 178.9 144.9 581.4 152.4 152.1 610.2 Federal Transit Administration I' v1 Dollars in Millions 12,414.5 12,330.2 11,118.6 Capital Investment Grants (GF) Washington Metro (GF) Administrative Expenses (GF) Technical Assistance & Training (GF) Transit Formula Grants (Oblim) (TF) Cancellations 2,412.6 150.0 113.2 5.0 9,733.7 0.0 2,396.2 149.0 112.4 5.0 9,667.6 0.0 1,000.0 120.0 111.7 0.0 9,939.4 – 52.6 Federal Railroad Administration 1,851.4 1,838.8 854.0 Northeast Corridor Grants to Amtrak (GF) National Network Grants to Amtrak (GF) Railroad Research & Development (GF) Safety & Operations (GF) Safety User Fee (GF) Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (GF) State of Good Repair (GF) Restoration and Enhancement Grants (GF) Cancellations 328.0 1,167.0 40.1 218.3 0.0 68.0 25.0 5.0 0.0 325.8 1,159.1 39.8 216.8 0.0 67.5 24.8 5.0 0.0 200.0 537.9 19.6 202.3 – 50.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 – 55.7 C,I N 16 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000138 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000138 DEPART M EN T OF T RAN SPORTAT ION BU DGETARY R ES OU R C ES Budgetary Resources (continued) Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 260.4 260.6 254.3 Operational Expenses (GF) Hazardous Materials Safety (GF) Emergency Preparedness Grants (SF) Pipeline Safety (SF) Pipeline Safety (TF) 22.5 57.0 26.4 134.3 20.3 22.3 56.6 26.4 135.1 20.2 23.7 52.1 28.3 127.2 23.0 $522.6 $519.0 $396.4 175.6 34.0 10.0 300.0 3.0 174.4 33.8 9.9 298.0 3.0 152.4 30.0 0.0 214.0 0.0 Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation 36.0 35.8 28.8 Inspector General (GF) 90.2 89.5 91.5 Account Maritime Administration Operations and Training (GF) Ship Disposal (GF) Assistance to Small Shipyards (GF) Maritime Security Program (GF) Maritime Guaranteed Loans (Title XI) (GF) Office of the Secretary 948.1 951.5 390.1 Salaries and Expenses (GF) Nat’l Surface Transp. and Innovative Finance Bureau (GF) Transportation Planning, Research & Development (GF) Office of Civil Rights (GF) Financial Management Capital (GF) Essential Air Service (SF) Payments to Air Carriers (GF) National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER) (GF) Research and Technology (GF) Cyber Security Initiative (GF) Small and Disadvantaged Business Utiliz. & Outreach/MBRC 114.0 3.0 12.0 9.8 4.0 121.8 150.0 500.0 13.0 15.0 5.6 113.2 3.0 11.9 9.7 4.0 130.8 149.0 496.6 12.9 14.9 5.5 113.8 3.0 7.9 9.5 2.0 140.2 93.0 0.0 7.0 10.0 3.7 – 134.3 – 135.1 – 127.2 $77,048.9 $76,536.8 $76,500.0 18,487.5 58,561.5 1,532.0 18,356.1 58,180.7 0.0 15,606.4 60,893.6 0.0 PHMSA User Fee Offsetting Receipt Total Budgetary Resources Discretionary Subtotal Mandatory Subtotal Federal-Aid Highways Emergency Relief Emergency Supplemental GF = General Fund, TF = Trust Fund, SF = Special Fund. Budgetary Resources include appropriations, obligation limitations, and FHWA and OST mandatory programs. A\11 C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000139 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000139 17 FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Operations (GF/TF) Facilities & Equipment (TF) Research, Engineering & Development (TF) Grants-in-Aid for Airports (Oblim) (TF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET / v1 FY 2019 President’s Budget $10,025.9 $9,957.8 $9,931.3 2,855.0 2,835.6 2,766.6 176.5 175.3 74.4 3,350.0 $16,407.4 3,327.3 $16,295.9 3,350.0 $16,122.3 45,547 45,517 45,147 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the principal Federal agency responsible for providing the safest and most efficient aerospace system in the world. Since 1958, the FAA has regulated and overseen all aspects of civil aviation in the United States, running the largest and safest air traffic control system in the world, and ensuring the safety of the traveling public. FAA is dedicated to achieving new levels of safety, innovation, and efficiency with about 45,000 FTEs supporting the Nation’s air travel. The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $16.1 billion for FY 2019 to invest in the FAA’s infrastructure and in the NextGen effort to modernize the Nation’s air traffic control system. The request also protects safety by providing the funding necessary to support critical workforces at the FAA—air traffic c­ ontrollers and aviation safety inspectors. The President’s Budget furthers these investments in safety and innovation. For example, $73.2 million is requested for unmanned aircraft systems including developing policies and setting safety standards for the National Airspace System. In addition, for commercial space flight the Budget requests an increase of C,I N 18 pVERSIGHT FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution DOT-18-0010-A-000140 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000140 F EDERAL AVIAT ION AD M I N I S TR ATI ON HIGHLIGHTS $2 million to speed the processing of licenses and approvals, stream­ of the FY 2019 line regulatory requirements, and keep pace with industry demands PRESIDENT’S for products and services. BUDGET Our aviation system is stronger and safer than ever, giving us the opportunity to ask critical questions about the future. The FAA’s current authorization expires on March 31, 2018, and the President has proposed a multiyear reauthorization that shifts the air traffic control function of the FAA to an independent, nongovernmental cooperative organization. This proposal will make the Nation’s aviation system more efficient and innovative while continuing to preserve safety. Key Components of the Request Include Operations: $9.9 billion is requested for the operation, maintenance, communications, and logistical support of the air traffic control and air navigation systems. u Air Traffic Organization (ATO): $7.5 billion is requested to provide safe, secure, and cost-effective air traffic services to commercial and private aviation. FAA forecasts $54 million in savings by modernizing the delivery of flight and weather services. u Aviation Safety (AVS): $1.3 billion is requested to ensure the continued safety of the air transportation system. u Security and Hazardous Materials Safety (ASH): $105.6 million is requested to protect AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT the FAA’s critical infrastructure, deliver emergency operations and contingency planning, and ensure the safe transportation of hazardous materials in air commerce. u Commercial Space Transportation (AST): $21.6 million is requested to protect the public, private property, as well as for National security during commercial space launch and reentry activities. This request includes additional funding for the AST workforce so FAA can keep pace with the industry’s growing licensing and permitting needs. u NextGen (ANG): $58.5 million is requested to manage FAA’s NextGen effort and the day-to-day operations and maintenance of DOT-18-0010-A-000141 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000141 19 F ED ER A L AV I AT I O N A D MI NI STR ATI O N the FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center campus in Atlantic City, New Jersey. u Finance and Management (AFN): $771.0 million is requested to manage and deliver core services to the FAA’s lines of business and staff offices. u Staff Offices: $202.7 million is requested for executive leadership, policy and planning, legal counsel, security services, and other administrative services in support of the FAA’s mission. u Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): The President’s Budget includes $51 million in Operations funding to develop the policies, procedures, and standards for safe UAS operations in the National Airspace System. Funds will also be used to work with law enforcement agencies, airports, and other government agencies (federal, state and local) to ensure public safety and security; to coordinate with stakeholder groups, advisory groups and other government agencies (federal, state and local) to identify UAS priorities and educate on UAS rules and guidance and to review applications for specific UAS operations to ensure their safety. Facilities and Equipment (F&E): $2.8 billion is requested to both maintain the capacity and safety of the current National Airspace System AMf-f HCAN 20 pVERSIGHT while continuing its investment in transformative technology. Within this total, $832.6 million is for NextGen capital investments. The FAA is working together with industry through the NextGen Advisory Committee to identify NextGen priorities that can deliver immediate benefits. Examples of specific NextGen projects include: u Air-to-Ground Data Commun­ ica­tions (Data Comm): $114 million is ­requested to modernize communications between air traffic controllers and pilots by replac­ing some traditional voice communica­tions with digital information exchanges. The result is reduced delays while improving controller and pilot efficiency, reducing radio frequency congestion, and reducing the likeli­hood of communication errors that can occur from voice exchange. Data Comm has already resulted in substantial time savings at major airports for the airline industry. u Decision Support Systems: $140 million is requested for programs that give air traffic controllers tools to optimize traffic flow across the National Airspace. Of this total, $119 million is for Terminal Flight Data Manager (TFDM), which shares real-time data among controllers, aircraft operators, and airports so they can better manage arrivals and departures. Another $21 DOT-18-0010-A-000142 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000142 F EDERAL AVIAT ION ADM I N I S TR ATI ON million is for Time Based Flow Management (TBFM), which uses time instead of distance to help controllers sequence air traffic. Compared to the traditional process for separating aircraft, TBFM provides a more efficient traffic flow that reduces fuel burn, lowers exhaust emissions, and increases traffic capacity. u System-Wide Information ­Man­age­­ment (SWIM): $59 million is requested to implement an information-sharing platform that allows members of the avia­tion community to access the specific information they need, in the way that they need it, to facilitate an innovative and efficiently run National Airspace System. Industry has made sig­nifi­cant advancements in sharing data using SWIM. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines are providing 11 surface data elements to improve surface efficiency, and other airlines are in the testing and development phase. u Performance Based Naviga­tion (PBN): $20 million is requested to optimize the use of airspace and procedures in large metropolitan areas. The PBN framework enables safer and more efficient flight paths, separating traffic between airports, arrival and departure paths, and nearby routes. The use of PBN pro­ cedures results in increased safety, fuel savings, and a reduction in aircraft emissions. AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT The remainder of the F&E budget, $1.9 billion, will sustain the FAA’s current infrastructure and systems including its aging physical infrastructure, power systems, information technology, navigational aids, communica­tions and surveillance equipment, and weather systems. The FAA is aggressively pursuing satellite-based technology as part of its NextGen effort, but the current infrastructure must remain in place until the full transition occurs, and certain elements will remain permanently to provide operational resiliency. Examples of specific investments in current infrastructure and systems include: u Air Traffic Control Facilities Strategic Sustainment Plan: $524 million is ­requested to improve FAA infrastructure facilities. This undertaking will address the FAA’s air traffic control towers and other air traffic control facilities, improv­ing the condition of buildings that protect the FAA workforce and critical systems of the N ­ ational Airspace. Investments will also improve electrical power systems, unmanned facilities, employee protections, and temporary facilities that are used during emergency responses and heavy air traffic situations. u Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems (STARS): $76 million is ­requested to complete the ­deployment of STARS DOT-18-0010-A-000143 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000143 21 F ED ER A L AV I AT I O N A D MI NI STR ATI O N technology that will modernize and standardize the automation systems used by air traffic controllers who manage air traffic close to large airports. This funding will also provide updates to the original STARS systems first deployed in 2000. u Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): The budget also requests $18 million in Facilities and Equipment funding to allow integration of UAS without impact to manned aircraft operations or creating disruptions or delays. Funds will be used to support Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability that provides an automated near real-time solution for small UAS operators and FAA Air Traffic Control to comply with the Part 107 Small UAS Rule and for development of a proposed Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system, which is a separate, but complementary system to the Air Traffic Management system and will automate UAS airspace access. Research, Engineering & Devel­ op­ment (RE&D): $74 million is requested to support work in NextGen, safety, and other research areas. Highlighted research programs include: u Fire Research and Safety: $4.9 million is requested to research aircraft fire safety, including fire tests for interior materials, AMf-f HCAN 22 pVERSIGHT fire detection and suppression systems, firefighting procedures and guidance material, and safeguards to protect against fires involving lithium batteries, fuel cells, and hazardous materials. For example, the FAA’s research will support establishing criteria for systems that can detect fires in hidden areas of an aircraft and that discriminate between actual fires and nonthreatening sources of fumes or odors. u Commercial Space Transportation Safety: $2.5 million is requested for ­Office of Commercial Space Transportation to continue its work on improvements for the safe integration of commercial space operations into the National Air Space (NAS). FY 2019 research will focus on integration of launch and reentry activity into the NAS, advanced safety assessment methods, advanced vehicle safety methodologies, and human spaceflight safety. It will develop methods to automatically declare aircraft hazard areas in real-time during launch or reentry and will develop recommended practices for crew in suborbital winged commercial spaceflight vehicles. u Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): The budget requests $3.3 million for RE&D funding to study safety implications of new UAS operational concepts and technologies, and to support the DOT-18-0010-A-000144 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000144 F EDERAL AVIAT ION ADM I N I S TR ATI ON development of new and modification of existing regulatory standards. This UAS research will focus on the areas of control and communications, training devices, and detection and avoidance technologies. Grants-in-Aid for Airports (also called Airport Improvement Program [AIP]): $3.35 billion is requested in obligation limitation for AIP. u Grant funding will support safety-­ related development projects, including reducing runway incursions, as well as projects that improve capacity, efficiency, noise mitigation, and infrastructure conditions. u The Budget includes $500,000 to establish a permanent field office and hire two new employees in Puerto Rico. This office will provide planning, environmental, engineering, and compli­ance AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT services to support infrastructure improvements at the 12 airports in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands that are a part of the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). These functions are currently performed by personnel at the FAA’s regional office in Atlanta, Georgia. The new office will ­allow the FAA to achieve savings and provide better service. u The Budget also includes $4.4 million for upgrades to FAA data systems to improve its analytical capabilities and airports’ access to data, and $2 million to the Airports Technology Research Program for advanced materials testing. u Unmanned Aircraft ­Systems (UAS): $1 million is requested in Airport funding for research on how to safely integrate UAS operations and airport operations at airports. DOT-18-0010-A-000145 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000145 23 F ED ER A L AV I AT I O N A D MI NI STR ATI O N Facilities & Equipment Programs Account Dollars in Millions FY 2018 Annualized FY 2019 FY 2017 Continuing President’s Actual Resolution Budget Activity 1—Engineering, Development, Test and Evaluation Advanced Technology Development and Prototyping William J. Hughes Technical Center Programs NextGen Pre-Implementation Portfolios Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) $157.0 24.8 32.2 100.0 — $151.1 26.8 31.0 74.8 18.5 $166.9 33.0 33.0 86.9 14.0 Activity 2—Air Traffic Control Facilities and Equipment Data Communications in Support of NG Air Transportation System ADS-B NAS Wide Implementation En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM)—System Enhancements & Tech Refresh Next Generation Very High Frequency Air/Ground Communications (NEXCOM) System-Wide Information Management Time Based Flow Management Portfolio NextGen Weather Processors Oceanic Automation System Terminal Flight Data Manager (TFDM) Terminal Automation National Airspace System Voice System (NVS) Collaborative Air Traffic Management Technologies Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) for GPS Facilities Infrastructure Sustainment Improve Automation Systems Sustain Communication Systems Sustain Flight Services for General Aviation Navigation and Landing Runway Safety Areas—Navigational Mitigation Sustain Surveillance Systems Improve Weather Systems Other 1,791.7 232.0 154.8 78.0 50.5 43.8 50.6 27.8 24.0 42.2 180.8 48.4 13.8 111.6 406.3 44.3 34.1 5.7 38.5 14.0 62.9 29.0 95.7 1,783.3 178.1 139.2 86.3 54.0 50.1 40.5 35.5 23.1 90.4 161.3 68.8 9.0 104.3 457.5 26.6 54.5 16.7 38.0 1.6 35.5 22.6 90.2 1,681.2 113.9 123.7 102.1 50.0 58.8 21.2 24.7 17.5 119.3 84.4 43.2 17.7 96.3 480.6 42.3 61.8 12.8 57.4 2.0 29.2 25.2 97.4 Activity 3—Non-Air Traffic Control Facilities and Equipment Hazardous Materials Management Information Security Facility Security Risk Management National Air Space (NAS) Recovery Communications (RCOM) Aeronautical Center Infrastructure Modernization Safety Database and Computer Systems Other 182.9 31.0 25.0 21.0 12.0 14.0 61.7 18.3 192.0 35.3 20.7 20.4 12.0 14.0 72.0 17.6 201.9 29.8 16.0 18.6 12.2 14.3 81.1 29.9 Activity 4—Facilities and Equipment Mission Support Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (CAASD) Facility Leases Technical Support Contracts Aeronautical Information Management Program Logistics and Acquisition Support Services Other 237.4 60.0 65.9 82.1 10.4 11.0 8.0 226.5 57.0 66.7 78.6 6.2 11.0 7.0 227.0 57.0 67.2 78.0 6.8 11.0 7.0 Activity 5—Personnel and Related Expenses 486.0 482.7 489.6 $2,855.0 $2,835.6 $2,766.6 Total Facilities & Equipment A\11 C,I N 24 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000146 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000146 F EDERAL AVIAT ION ADM I N I S TR ATI ON NextGen Programs Account Facilities & Equipment NextGen—Separation Management Portfolio NextGen—Traffic Flow Management Portfolio NextGen—Improved Surface NextGen—On Demand NAS Portfolio NextGen—Improved Multiple Runway Operations Portfolio NextGen—NAS Infrastructure Portfolio NextGen—Support (NIEC, Test Bed) Portfolio NextGen—System Safety Management Portfolio NextGen—Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) NextGen—Enterprise, Concept Development, Human Factors & Demonstration Portfolio Performance Based Navigation and Metroplex Portfolio NextGen—Communications in Support of NextGen En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM)—System Enhancements System-Wide Information Management (SWIM) ADS-B NAS Wide Implementation Collaborative Air Traffic Management (CATMT) Portfolio Terminal Flight Data Manager (TFDM) Tactical Time-Based Flow Management (TBFM) Next Generation Weather Processor (NWP) NAS Voice System (NVS) SBS Advanced Surveillance Enhanced Procedural Separation Flight Interfacility Data Interface (FIDI) Modernization Aeronautical Information Management Program (AIM) Cross Agency NextGen Management Activity 5 F&E PCBT—NextGen Staffing Research Engineering and Development (RE&D) NextGen—Alternative Fuels for General Aviation NextGen—Flight Deck Data Exchange Requirements NextGen—Information Security NextGen—Wake Turbulence NextGen—Air Ground Integration NextGen—Weather in the Cockpit NextGen—Environmental Research, Aircraft Technologies, Fuels and Metrics Unmanned Aircraft Systems Research Operations NextGen Staffing NextGen Unmanned Aircraft System Performance Based Navigation (PBN) Activities Total NextGen Programs A\11 C,I N pVERSIGHT Dollars in Millions FY 2018 Annualized FY 2019 FY 2017 Continuing President’s Actual Resolution Budget $900.4 32.8 0.0 2.0 11.5 6.5 17.7 12.0 17.0 0.0 0.0 17.5 232.0 78.0 43.8 154.8 13.8 42.2 50.6 27.8 48.4 0.0 13.0 10.4 2.0 66.6 76.4 7.0 0.0 1.0 8.6 8.5 4.1 27.2 20.0 97.7 33.0 51.1 13.7 $907.5 13.5 10.8 0.0 12.0 0.0 17.5 12.0 16.2 18.5 9.0 20.0 178.1 86.3 50.1 139.2 9.0 90.4 40.5 35.5 68.8 5.3 0.0 6.2 1.0 67.9 75.7 6.9 0.0 1.0 8.5 8.5 4.0 26.9 19.9 98.2 33.6 50.8 13.8 $832.6 16.6 14.0 0.0 20.5 0.0 13.5 12.8 14.7 14.0 9.5 20.0 113.9 102.1 58.8 123.7 17.7 119.3 21.2 24.7 43.2 0.0 0.0 6.8 1.0 64.8 19.5 0.0 1.0 1.2 3.5 1.3 1.5 7.6 3.3 100.5 31.2 50.8 18.5 $1,074.5 $1,081.4 $952.6 DOT-18-0010-A-000147 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000147 25 FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Federal-aid Highways (Oblim) (TF) Exempt Obligations (TF) Emergency Relief (TF) FY 2019 President’s Budget $43,266.1 $42,972.3 $45,268.6 594.9 596.8 639.0 93.1 93.4 100.0 435.8 432.8 449.7 Cancellations/Rescissions—Multiple Accounts (TF) Total – 857.0 $43,097.1 – 857.0 $42,805.5 – 217.0 $45,790.6 Emergency Relief Supplemental Appropriation (GF) 1,532.0 0.0 0.0 2,700 2,720 2,713 Limitation on Administrative Expenses (TOTAL) (Non-add) Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET / v1 FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution C,I N 26 pVERSIGHT The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) supports State and local gov­ernments in the design, construction, and maintenance of the Nation’s highway system and various Federally and Tribal-­ owned lands. Through financial and technical assistance to State and local governments, FHWA is responsible for ensuring that America’s roads and bridges continue to be among the safest and most technologically sound in the world. In addition to its headquarters office, FHWA has personnel in each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that work with State, local, and other Federal transportation agencies. The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $45.8 billion for the ­Federal-aid Highway Program in FY 2019 to invest in the Nation’s highway and bridge infrastructure. The request, which reflects the fourth year of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, will enable FHWA to invest in projects that improve roadway safety, repair aging bridges and highways, and promote the movement of freight. DOT-18-0010-A-000148 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000148 F EDERAL H IGH WAY AD M I N I S TR ATI ON HIGHLIGHTS The Budget will provide States and localities flexibility to invest in of the FY 2019 the projects that best meet local needs while improving the perfor­ PRESIDENT’S mance of the national infrastructure network. Further, through BUDGET streamlined environmental permitting processes, FHWA will accelerate project delivery to reduce the time required to complete construction projects. Key Components of the Request Include FHWA’s request supports the Secretary of Transportation’s key priorities of safety, infrastructure, innovation, and accountability. Safety Safety is FHWA’s top priority. In 2016, 37,461 people died in motor vehicle crashes on our Nation’s highways. FHWA’s Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) has played a significant role in achieving reductions in highway fatalities and serious injuries since 2005, the year HSIP was enacted. A total of $2.6 billion is requested for the HSIP for FY 2019. In addition to the human impact, the annual societal burden of highway crashes is estimated to be more than $800 billion. No amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one or lessen a family member’s suffering. However, quantify­ing the economic and societal costs of motor vehicle crashes demonstrate even further the importance of investing in highway AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT safety. FHWA estimates that highway safety improvement projects return up to $7 of benefits for every dollar invested. FHWA will continue to conduct rigorous evaluations of new safety technologies and practices, and champion life-­saving innovations. Recent successes include the release of a new group of “Proven Safety Countermeasures”—infrastructure-­ oriented safety treatments and strategies, chosen based on proven effectiveness and benefits. For example, a new strategy to reduce left turn conflict intersections has been shown to reduce serious crashes by up to 54 percent. Infrastructure FHWA will continue to improve the condition and performance of our national transportation infrastructure by providing States and localities flexible funding that will empower recipients to invest in the projects that best meet local needs. DOT-18-0010-A-000149 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000149 27 F ED ER A L H I G H WAY A DMI NI STR ATI O N u National Highway Performance Program: $23.74 billion is requested to preserve and modernize the National Highway System (NHS). The NHS is composed of 220,000 miles of rural and urban roads serving major population centers, border crossings, intermodal transportation facilities, and major travel destinations. This includes the Interstate Highway System, all principal arterials, intermodal connectors, and roads important to mobility, commerce, national defense, and intermodal connectivity. This program addresses all areas of the United States ensuring that improvements to the NHS benefit both urban and rural areas. u $1.34 billion is requested for the National Highway Freight Program and $950 million for the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects Program. Through these pro­ grams, FHWA will advance nationally significant freight projects that will improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people. AMf-f HCAN 28 pVERSIGHT u Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG): $11.88 billion is requested to provide flexible funding to States and localities to target priority areas and areas of greatest need. STBG funds can be used on the approximately 1,000,000 miles of the Federal-aid highway system. This includes projects to improve or preserve condition and performance on any Federal-­ aid highway; bridge and safety projects on any public road; and facilities for nonmotorized transportation. This program improves mobility, access to com­munity resources, and quality of life. u Federal Lands and Tribal Programs: $1.13 billion is requested to improve access to and within Federal and Tribal lands. These projects will provide multimodal access to basic community services for Federally recognized sovereign Tribes, improve multimodal access to recreational areas on public lands, and expand economic development and transportation accessibility in and around Federal and Tribal lands. u Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ): $2.45 billion is requested to help States, local governments, and private-sector sponsors reduce highway congestion and harmful emissions. u Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) Program: $300 million is requested to support critical infrastructure projects across the Nation. TIFIA leverages both public and private investment in transportation infrastructure, which improves the economy DOT-18-0010-A-000150 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000150 F EDERAL H IGH WAY AD M I N I S TR ATI ON through job creation, improves mobility, enhances transportation options, and improves access in local and rural communities. Historically, each dollar of TIFIA funding authority provides approximately $14 billion in credit assistance, resulting in infrastructure investment of up to $40 billion when accounting for other State, local, and private sector investments. This request will also ensure that ­investment continues in the vital areas of emergency relief following disasters or catastrophic failures ($100 million); metropolitan planning ($350 million); highway programs in Puerto Rico and United States Territories ($200 million); and the Ferry Boat Program ($80 million), which provides vital connections on the network of Federal-aid highways. Innovation A total of $420 million is requested for the Research, Technology, and Education Program, which focuses on highway research and development, and technology and innovation deployment. FHWA’s contributions to researching and implementing transformative inno­vations and technologies are changing the way roads, bridges, and other facilities are planned, designed, built, managed, and maintained across the country to be more responsive to current and future needs. AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT FHWA is committed to promoting inno­vation to address current and emerging transportation issues. Notably, FHWA, in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is at the forefront of automated vehicle research. Through the Intelligent Transportation Systems Program (ITS), FHWA is playing a significant role in addressing key technological and institutional barriers to ensure the safe, efficient, and equitable integration of automation into the transportation system. A flagship effort of the ITS program is the Connected Vehicle (CV) Pilot Deployment Program which is funding large-scale CV system implementation efforts. Through its Every Day Counts initiative, FHWA works with State and local transportation agencies and industry stakeholders to identify a new collection of innovations to champion every two years. Innova­ tions are selected collaboratively by stakeholders, taking into consideration market readiness, impacts, benefits and ease of adoption. For example, e-Construction, an FHWA championed technology, is a paperless construction administration delivery process that saves time and money through elimination of the cumbersome paper-based approach, and improves communication through faster approvals, enhanced document tracking, and increased transparency. DOT-18-0010-A-000151 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000151 29 F ED ER A L H I G H WAY A DMI NI STR ATI O N FHWA will continue to focus on innovative solutions such as Slide-in Bridge Construction (SIBC). SIBC accelerates bridge construction whereby a new bridge is built next to an existing bridge out of the way of traffic. Under SIBC, the bridge can be replaced in a matter of hours or days, instead of drivers dealing with lane closures and/or detours for months. Accountability This request demonstrates FHWA’s commitment to accountability. FHWA continues to examine regulations to identify those that should be modified, streamlined, or repealed to reduce costs or eliminate bureaucratic obstacles to ­efficient project delivery. FHWA recently repealed certain burdensome planning regulations pertaining to the establishment of metropolitan AMf-f HCAN 30 pVERSIGHT planning area boundaries and the coordination among metropolitan planning organiza­tions. In addition, FHWA is working with the Office of the Secretary and modal partners through the Regulatory Reform Task Force to identify high-­impact ideas to speed project development and delivery. FHWA will continue to pursue a multi­faceted strategy to accelerate project delivery while also upholding safety and protecting the environment. This includes initiatives, whether legislatively or agency-driven, to encourage inter­agency collaboration and to significantly shorten project delivery timeframes. Examples include reducing duplication by linking the planning and environmental review and exploring new categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act. DOT-18-0010-A-000152 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000152 FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Motor Carrier Safety Operations & Programs (Oblim) (TF) $277.2 $275.3 $284.0 Motor Carrier Safety Grants (Oblim) (TF) Total 367.0 $644.2 364.5 $639.8 381.8 $665.8 1,161 1,202 1,202 Account Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview / v1 C,I N pVERSIGHT The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) mission is to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related crashes, fatalities, and injuries. Activities of the agency provide safety oversight of motor carrier (truck and bus companies) operations through focused enforcement of safety regulations; intervening with high-risk carriers and commercial motor vehicle drivers; improving safety information systems and data collection; facilitating the safe testing and deployment of advanced commercial motor vehicle technologies; strengthening commercial motor vehicle equipment and operating standards; and increasing safety awareness. To accomplish these activities, FMCSA collaborates with Federal, State, and local enforcement agencies, the motor carrier industry, labor, safety interest groups, and others. In carrying out its safety mandate, FMCSA: (1) develops and ­implements data-­driven regulations that balance motor carrier safety with operational efficiency; (2) enforces safety regulations focusing on high-risk carriers; (3) targets educational messages to carriers, commercial drivers, and the traveling public; and (4) works in partnership with stakeholders including other Federal, State, and local government agencies, the motor carrier industry, safety groups, and organized labor to identify and implement strategies to reduce bus and truck-related crashes. DOT-18-0010-A-000153 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000153 31 F ED ER A L M O T O R C A R R I E R SAFE TY ADMI NI STR ATI O N To execute its mission, FMCSA employs approximately 1,200 safety professionals, with 28 percent providing operational support in headquarters and 72 percent strategically deployed in field offices in each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. FMCSA also provides grants to State and local partners to fund, train, and equip more than 12,000 local enforcement officers and inspectors to increase commercial motor vehicle safety oversight nationwide. HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $665.8 million to invest in motor carrier and commercial motor vehicle safety innovation, outreach, enforcement, and research operations. Key Components of the Request Include Motor Carrier Safety Operations and Programs: $284 million is ­requested to fund research, innova­ tion, and advanced driver systems, and programs that reduce serious injuries and deaths resulting from commercial motor vehicle crashes. Funds will also be used for administrative expenses to develop and implement safety oversight programs. General Operations: $240.1 million is requested to carry out FMCSA’s safety mission and required support functions. This includes: u $3.5 million is requested for inno­vation, technology, and rulemaking improvements with a focus on FMCSA data transparency and collaboration with AMf-f HCAN 32 pVERSIGHT industry, and overall commercial vehicle safety on America’s Highways. u $6 million is requested for invest­ments in facilities along the southern border and in high priority domestic offices to improve collaboration with other border agencies and to ensure safe operating conditions for FMCSA personnel as well as for truck and bus drivers. Research & Technology: $9.1 million is requested for multiyear Research and Technology p­ rograms focused on producing safer commercial vehicles, drivers, and carriers. The FY 2019 Budget emphasizes developing autonomous vehicle DOT-18-0010-A-000154 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000154 F EDERAL M OT OR C ARRIER SAF ET Y ADM I N I S TR ATI ON technology. The budget request for FMCSA is $4.6 million for an Auto­mated Driving System (ADS) initiative to enable the safe operation of highly automated commercial ­vehicles on the Nation’s transportation system. The multifaceted initiative will speed the use of automatic emergency braking systems in commercial motor vehicles, develop uniform interstate standards for truck platoon deployments, and provide Federal oversight and support for State pilot programs. FMCSA will also test new inspection tools for ADS-equipped vehicles and test electronically controlled brake systems. Information Management (IM): $34.8 million is requested for multiyear information technology projects in four key safety process areas—Registration, Inspection, Compliance, and Enforcement (“R-I-C-E”). FMCSA’s broad safety mission requires delivering innovative and integrated technology solutions that effectively manage information and support essential mission-oriented activities. u $2.5 million to continue development of the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and the Entry-Level Driver Training Provider Registry. AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT u $28.0 million to advance projects such as increasing the resilience and capacity of the overall information technology infrastructure that sup­ports electronic logging devices and inspection modernization efforts. u $4.3 million for the continued development of FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This system includes significant personally identifiable information, which requires FMCSA to provide security and protection of information. Motor Carrier Safety Grants: $381.8 million is requested for the Motor Carrier Safety Grants program. This funding is consistent with the updated program structure provided in the FAST Act. This new structure reduces the application and compliance burden on grantees and lessens FMCSA’s administrative costs. Grant dollars fund States’ motor carrier investigations, roadside driver and vehicle safety inspections, and the identification and apprehension of traffic violators. FMCSA also provides competitive grant funding which spurs innovative ideas and supports technol­ogical advancements through high priority safety initiatives, commercial drivers’ license program improvements, and driver training facilities. u Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP): $304.3 million is requested for formula grants to support State safety programs, including roadside inspections, new entrant safety audits, investigations, and targeted traffic enforcement. State partners best understand their safety needs and can target additional resources to rural areas and high-risk corridors. DOT-18-0010-A-000155 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000155 33 F ED ER A L M O T O R C A R R I E R SAFE TY ADMI NI STR ATI O N These funds also support existing safety technology programs and border safety operations. u High Priority Activities Program (HP): $44.0million is requested for safety programs that improve motor carrier compliance and safety through State and local law enforcement programs. FMCSA’s HP program encourages best practices in enforcement and safety initiatives at the State and local level. The HP grant program also supports State implementation of FMCSA’s Performance and Registration Information Systems Management (PRISM) program. PRISM is a critical national safety system utilized by both Federal and State law enforcement agencies to identify and intercept commercial motor vehicles that pose serious safety risks. AMf-f HCAN 34 pVERSIGHT u Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Program Implementation: $32.5 million is requested for grant funding to States and others to ensure that only safe and qualified commercial drivers receive and retain a commercial drivers’ license (CDL). The request will help fund updates to State information systems and enable them to comply with CDL requirements related to implementing the Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration, Entry-Level Driver Training, and the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. u Commercial Motor Vehicle ­Oper­ator Safety Training: $1 million is requested to train individuals to become commercial operators, with an attention to training Veterans and their families. DOT-18-0010-A-000156 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000156 NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Operations and Research (GF) Operations and Research (Oblim) (TF) Highway Traffic Safety Grants (Oblim) (TF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET A\11 C,I N pVERSIGHT FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $180.1 $178.9 $152.4 145.9 144.9 152.1 585.4 $911.3 581.4 $905.2 610.2 $914.7 541 626 626 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) works every day to help Americans drive, ride, and walk safely. NHTSA does this by promoting vehicle safety innovations, identifying and addressing vehicle defects, setting safety standards for cars and trucks, and educating Americans to help them make safer choices when driving, riding, or walking. The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $914.7 million for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to invest in initiatives that reduce traffic crashes and fatalities, and improve safety for American motorists. This request will support NHTSA’s mission through ongoing programs and safety efforts while keeping pace with innovations and rapidly emerging roadway trends. NHTSA’s research and investment in cutting edge technologies, such as automated driving systems, has the potential to dramatically reduce serious car crashes, most of which are attributed to driver error or choice. DOT-18-0010-A-000157 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000157 35 NAT IO N A L H I G H WAY T R AFFI C SAFE TY ADMI NI STR ATI O N Key Components of the Request Include Operations and Research: $304.5 million is requested for Operations and Research activities including: u $13.5 million is requested for the safe development and deployment of automated vehicle technologies:  Vehicle Electronics and Emerging Technology: $3.5 million is requested to support core agency Automated Driving Systems (ADS) research, including vehicle electronics reliability, safety-critical system software assessments, and cybersecurity activities. These efforts aim to enhance the safety and security of automotive electronic control systems, which are heavily reliant on the use of complex systems, software, artificial intelligence, and at times, various forms of connectivity. These activities are safety critical as vehicles are increasingly reliant on complex software and electronic systems. This program will also closely coordinate NHTSA’s advanced crash avoidance, human factors research, and ADS programs.  Automated Driving Systems: $10 million is requested for a new program aimed at accelera­ting the safe AMf-f HCAN 36 pVERSIGHT deployment of ADS. The research funded by this request will advance agency decisions on regulatory updates to enable innovation, develop new tests, tools, and procedures to properly evaluate the safety of new vehicle cockpits and, inform consumer acceptance efforts to address public confidence issues that may slow deployment of these life-saving technologies. The research conducted under this program will also support the deployment of systems on commercial vehicles. u Office of Defects Investigation (ODI): $9.1 million is requested to identify safety defects, work with manufacturers to implement remedies promptly, and quickly inform the public of critical information. u New Car Assessment Program (NCAP): $12.0 million is requested to maintain test coverage of approx­imately 85 percent of the new model year fleet while incorporating more advanced crash avoidance technologies into the program. This non-­regulatory program helps consumers make more informed purchasing decisions and encourages vehicle manufacturers to voluntarily improve vehicle safety. DOT-18-0010-A-000158 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000158 N AT ION AL H IGH WAY T RAF F IC SAF ET Y ADM I N I S TR ATI ON u Corporate Average Fuel Econ­ omy (CAFE): $7.4 million is requested to support fuel economy and effici­ency rulemaking programs includ­ing the passenger car and light-duty truck CAFE standards. NHTSA will be the lead Agency on CAFE matters and will continue to work with the Environmental Protection Agency to evaluate emission standards and develop fuel efficiency standards that advance energy independence consistent with safety needs. u Biomechanics: $8.2 million is requested to complete detailed crash and medical investigations that improve the Agency’s understanding of injuries and their causes. u Crash Avoidance: $8.3 million is requested to address safety issues related to driver inatten­ tion, enhance the Agency’s understanding of driver-vehicle interface issues, and assess the development of advanced technologies intended to prevent or mitigate crashes. AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT u Vehicle Safety Systems Research: $5.2 million is requested to evaluate new vehicle designs, safety countermeasures, and equipment to make occupants safe in a crash. Research conducted in FY 2019 will center on understanding the implications of vehicle automation and increasingly light-weight and fuel-efficient vehicle design on occupant safety; frontal, side, and rear crash safety; occupant containment; and occupant restraint designs for a wide range of occupants. u Highway Safety Programs: $61.8 million is requested to support NHTSA’s safety efforts through behavioral research, program devel­opment, demonstrations, and technical assistance to States. NHTSA provides national leadership relating to alcohol and drug countermeasures, occupant protection, distraction, traffic law enforcement, motorcycle riders, pedestrian and bicycle safety, and younger and older driver safety programs. NHTSA coordinates these efforts with numerous Federal partners, States, local government safety associations, and other organizations. u National Center for Statistics and Analysis: $40.3 million is requested to collect critical crash data and to operate NHTSA’s data systems (Fatality Analysis Reporting System, State Data Systems, Special Crash Investigations systems, Crash Report Sampling System, and the Crash Investigation Sampling System). These systems are necessary for collecting and analyzing nation­wide crash data. NHTSA uses the information to identify national trends and interventions. NHTSA will also analyze data and take steps to improve their quality and reliability. DOT-18-0010-A-000159 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000159 37 NAT IO N A L H I G H WAY T R AFFI C SAFE TY ADMI NI STR ATI O N Highway Traffic Safety Grants: The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $610.2 million for Highway Traffic Safety Grants. These include: u State and Community Highway Safety Grants (Section 402): $270.4 million is requested for the State and Community Highway Safety grants program, which is the backbone of NHTSA’s State Highway Safety initiatives. These formula grants provide flexibility to States to address pervasive and emerging highway safety problems. The grants also fund the comprehensive State Traffic Safety Enforce­ment program critical to maintaining State traffic safety improvements. AMf-f HCAN 38 pVERSIGHT u National Priority Safety Pro­ grams (Section 405): $283.0 million is requested to address occupant protection and impaired driving, improve State traffic safety information systems, and oversee grant programs aimed at encouraging States to adopt Graduated Driver Licensing laws and Distracted Driving laws. u High Visibility Enforcement: $30.2 million is requested to promote and administer the highly successful annual Click It or Ticket mobilizations to increase seatbelt use around Labor Day and in December, as well as the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over impaired driving initiatives. DOT-18-0010-A-000160 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000160 FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Capital Investment Grants (GF) $2,412.6 $2,396.2 $1,000.0 Washington Metro (GF) 150.0 149.0 120.0 Administrative Expenses (GF) 113.2 112.4 111.7 5.0 5.0 0.0 9,733.7 9,667.6 9,939.4 0.0 $12,414.5 0.0 $12,330.2 – 52.6 $11,118.6 555 574 563 Technical Assistance & Training (GF) Transit Formula Grants (Oblim) (TF) Cancellations—Multiple Accounts (GF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) oversees transit safety and provides financial and technical assistance to more than 1,000 local public transit systems that operate buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, trolleys, and ferries. FTA also conducts innovative technology research and demonstrations. Since 1964, FTA has been assigned to help local governments and States create and enhance public transportation systems. FTA now provides approxi­mately $11 billion annually to support transit service across the country. This investment helps modernize the Nation’s urban public transportation network and supports transit service in small cities and rural communities as well. In 2016, more than 10 billion trips were taken on public transit nationwide. / v1 C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000161 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000161 39 F ED ER A L T R A N S I T A D MI NI STR ATI O N HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $11.1 billion to strengthen transit safety oversight, help bring our Nation’s bus and rail transit infrastructure into a state of good repair, and provide expanded transit systems to several communities. The President’s request makes strategic investments in public transportation infrastructure through both formula-driven and competitive funding opportunities to help address the capital needs of urban and rural communities. Key Components of the Request Include Transit Formula Grants: $9.9 billion is requested for grants that support transit capital investments, state of good repair, safety, planning, research, technical assistance and workforce development, bus and railcar purchases and maintenance, and transit operations in small urban and rural areas. help individuals with disabilities to independently plan, navi­gate and use transportation options. It will leverage recent advances in vehicle, infrastructure, and pedestrian-based technologies, as well as accessible data, mobile computing, robotics, artificial intelligence, object detection, and navigation. Within this amount is $28 million for FTA research that advances public transportation innovation. FTA’s research activities prioritize safety, infrastructure, and mobility innovation to find ways to increase public transportation safety, effectiveness, and efficiency. Transit automation demonstrations will comple­ment emerging private-sector advance­ment in autonomous vehicle and mobility technology, potentially leading to job creation in new businesses and technologies. In addition, through the Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI) FTA will develop technologies that Capital Investment Grants: $1.0 billion is requested for the construction of major capital projects that provide new and expanded transit service, economic benefits to communities, and help address existing fixed-guideway transit corridors that are at or near capacity. The Budget requests funding for 10 transit projects that have existing full funding grant agreements under the Capital Investment Grant Program. AMf-f HCAN 40 pVERSIGHT Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA): $120 million is requested for capital projects that address the transit DOT-18-0010-A-000162 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000162 F EDERAL T RAN SIT ADM I N I S TR ATI ON agency’s highest safety priorities and its maintenance backlog. The Federal 10-year authorization that helps support WMATA’s capital improvement program expires in FY 2018. The Budget continues the program in FY 2019 to assist WMATA in carrying out safety improvements throughout the WMATA system. This funding is in addition to the more than $310 million it receives annually from FTA formula funds. Administrative Expenses: $111.7 million is requested to support FTA’s core lines of business—namely the staff needed to manage and oversee its grant-making and safety oversight activities. Capital Investment Grants FY 2019 President’s Budget Existing New Starts Full Funding Grant Agreements Regional Connector Westside Subway Section 1 Westside Subway Section 2 Mid-Coast Corridor Transit Project Green Line Extension Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail Project TEX Rail National Capital Purple Line Dollars in Millions Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA San Diego, CA Boston, MA Portland, OR Fort Worth, TX Maryland Total Existing New Starts Full Funding Grant Agreements $100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 150.0 65.7 100.0 120.0 835.7 Existing Core Capacity Full Funding Grant Agreements Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project Red and Purple Line Modernization Project Phase One Total Existing Core Capacity Full Funding Grant Agreements San Carlos, CA 100.0 Chicago, IL 100.0 200.0 Oversight Activities Total1 10.5 $1,046.2 The FY 2019 Budget requests $1 billion in new budget authority and $46.2 million of anticipated prior year recoveries for a total of $1,046.2 million in program funding. 1 A\11 C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000163 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000163 41 FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Northeast Corridor Grants to Amtrak (GF) $328.0 $325.8 $200.0 National Network Grants to Amtrak (GF) 1,167.0 1,159.1 537.9 Account Railroad Research & Development (GF) 40.1 39.8 19.6 218.3 216.8 202.3 0.0 0.0 – 50.0 Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (GF) 68.0 67.5 0.0 State of Good Repair (GF) 25.0 24.8 0.0 5.0 5.0 0.0 0.0 $1,851.4 0.0 $1,838.8 – 55.7 $854.0 919 933 927 Safety & Operations (GF) Safety User Fee (GF) Restoration and Enhancement Grants (GF) Cancellations—Multiple Accounts (GF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET / v1 The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) mission is to enable the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of people and goods for a strong America, now and in the future. FRA executes this mission by developing and enforcing minimum safety standards, promoting non-regulatory safety activities, investing in rail services and infrastructure, and researching and developing innovations and technology solutions. The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $854.0 million for programs that advance rail safety, reliability, and efficiency for long-term U.S. economic growth. The request directly aligns with the Secretary’s priorities. C,I N 42 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000164 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000164 F EDERAL RAILROAD AD M I N I S TR ATI ON HIGHLIGHTS Safety of the FY 2019 The President’s Budget addresses railroad safety comprehensively PRESIDENT’S by funding safety inspectors and specialists, research and develop­ BUDGET ment, and oversight, e­ nforcement, outreach, and training. FRA will continue to target its resources at the most pressing safety challenges: implementation of positive train control, grade crossing safety and trespass prevention, train accidents, safe transportation of energy products by rail, and drug and alcohol use by railroad personnel. Infrastructure FRA oversees the safety of the Nation’s railroad infrastructure— including track, bridges, and equipment. In addition, FRA provides funding to Amtrak to support investments on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and National Network. Innovation FRA collaborates closely with the railroad industry to leverage Federal investments in innovative technologies and practices to improve rail safety, reliability, and efficiency. Funding requested for FY 2019 will advance transformative, next-generation safety technology initiatives, with a focus on safely automating railroad operating and inspection functions. Accountability In FY 2019, FRA will expeditiously move publicly and privately proposed high-speed passenger rail systems through the project development process and ensure the systems provide adequate levels of safety. Because some systems under consideration do not align with existing railroad industry standards and regulatory requirements, FRA will need to develop tailored Rules of Particular Applicability. AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000165 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000165 43 F ED ER A L R A I L R O A D A DMI NI STR ATI O N Key Components of the Request Include Safety and Operations: $202.3 million is requested for FRA’s core safety pro­grams and activities. The request includes resources to provide technical assistance and monitor railroads’ imple­mentation of positive train control (PTC). Requested funding will also enable FRA to improve its A ­ utomated Track Inspec­ tion Program, which uses advanced technology to assess track conditions on routes that carry passengers and hazardous materials, among other priorities. The President’s Budget dedicates $5.9 million to support FRA’s work to help railroads ­implement PTC—including approving PTC safety plans, monitoring and enforcing compliance with statutory requirements, and providing technical assistance. The President’s Budget also proposes to reestablish a fee on railroads to reimburse FRA for a portion of the cost of rail safety inspectors and activities. Like other regulated industries, railroads benefit directly and indirectly from the Government’s efforts to ensure high safety standards, and it is therefore a­ ppropriate for railroads to help shoulder these costs. Under this proposal, FRA will collect $50 million in fees in FY 2019, resulting in a net appropriation to the Safety and Operations account of $152.3 million. AMf-f HCAN 44 pVERSIGHT Research and Development: $19.6 million is requested for FRA’s activities to advance rail safety innovation concentrating on future needs and emerging areas. FRA will work collaboratively with industry and the private sector to focus research and development on advancing automation in the rail industry without introducing new safety risk. Amtrak: $737.9 million is requested for Amtrak capital, operating, and debt service needs. Funding includes $200 million for infrastructure investment on the Northeast Corridor and $537.9 million to support the continued operations of Amtrak’s National Network. The President’s Budget proposes reforms to rationalize the Amtrak system, improve efficiency, and reduce costs, including implementing State contributions equal to the Federal Government’s for operating long distance routes through their communities. Amtrak’s long-distance routes have poor ­on-time performance, account for only 4.7 million of Amtrak’s nearly 32 million annual passengers, and incur annual operating losses of more than $500 million. DOT-18-0010-A-000166 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000166 PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $22.5 $22.3 $23.7 Hazardous Materials Safety (GF) 57.0 56.6 52.1 Emergency Preparedness Grants (SF) 26.4 26.4 28.3 Pipeline Safety (SF) 134.3 135.1 127.2 Pipeline Safety (TF) Total 20.3 $260.4 20.2 $260.6 23.0 $254.3 540 581 581 Account Operational Expenses (GF) Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview I' v1 C,I N pVERSIGHT The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) over­sees the safe movement of hazardous materials, including energy products, transported in the United States by pipeline, highway, rail, air, and water. PHMSA develops standards for the classifying, handling and packaging of more than 1 million daily shipments of hazardous materials within the United States. PHMSA promotes safety in the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and spill response planning of America’s 2.7 million miles of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines. Collectively PHMSA supports the delivery of nearly all of our Nation’s energy products and the safe arrival of hazardous materials such as lithium batteries, propane gas, and other products used daily in homes and businesses. PHMSA operates under rapidly changing conditions. The United States continues to experience increasing energy market growth that has seen production nearly double since 2000. Almost all product is moved without incident from points of extraction to refineries and to consumer markets. The Energy Information Administration forecasts record natural gas production in 2018 along with an expected rise in electricity generation from natural DOT-18-0010-A-000167 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000167 45 PIPELI N E A N D H A Z A R DO US MATE R I AL S SAFE TY ADMI NIST RAT ION gas-fired power plants and a 23 percent increase in U.S. natural gas exports. ­PHMSA’s responsibility has also grown as natural gas is increasingly liquefied to reduce its volume, and then moved by surface transportation modes to points of use, export, or storage for later use. PHMSA’s work is guided by the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which calls for improving the safe movement of hazardous products such as liquefied natural gas, crude oil by rail, and lithium batteries often shipped by air. Similarly, the Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety (PIPES) Act of 2016 calls for developing safety standards for underground natural gas storage facility operators to safely store natural gas in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and salt caverns while it awaits market demand, helping our Nation’s economic growth, energy development and energy exports. HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $254.3 million to invest in the safe transportation of hazardous materials including energy products. This funding will support Pipeline Safety, Hazardous Materials Safety, Emergency Preparedness Grants, and Operational Expenses. AMf-f HCAN 46 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000168 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000168 PIPELIN E AN D H AZARDOU S M AT ERIALS SAF ET Y ADM I N I S TR ATI ON Key Components of the Request Include u Pipeline Safety: $150.2 million is requested to support the movement of energy products safely to market. The Pipeline Safety program promotes the safe construction and operation of new infrastructure and the safe operation, maintenance and repair of existing pipelines. Both rapid expansion and aging infrastructure present challenges to safety. u Hazardous Materials Safety: $52.1 million is requested to support the safe movement, by packagers and shippers, of hazardous materials to the homes and businesses that use them. This includes support for energy products moving by rail, and the movement and storage of liquefied natural gas being used ­domestically and shipped abroad. The request includes a new investment of $1.0 million for a AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT Voluntary Compliance System Pilot Program that encourages companies to adopt safety management systems. u Emergency Preparedness Grants: $28.3 million is requested to help communities develop hazardous materials emergency response plans and to train first responders to deal with releases of hazardous materials near homes and businesses. u Operational Expenses: $23.7 million is requested for operational expenses to support the safety management organization including $2.5 million for grants to communities affected by pipeline and hazardous material routes. The request includes proposals to consolidate and focus grant programs in support of eco­nomic growth and underserved rural areas. DOT-18-0010-A-000169 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000169 47 MARITIME ADMINISTRATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $175.6 $174.4 $152.4 Ship Disposal (GF) 34.0 33.8 30.0 Assistance to Small Shipyards (GF) 10.0 9.9 0.0 300.0 298.0 214.0 3.0 $522.6 3.0 $519.0 0.0 $396.4 732 814 813 Account Operations and Training (GF) Maritime Security Program (GF) Maritime Guaranteed Loans (Title XI) (GF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview The Maritime Admin­istration (MARAD) program strengthens and promotes the economic competitiveness, efficiency, and productivity of the U.S. maritime transportation system and help to ensure sealift capability and capacity is available to support the military defense and economic security needs of the Nation. MARAD works in a variety of areas involving shipyards, ports, waterways, ships and shipping, vessel operations, national security and strategic mobility, ship disposal, and maritime education. MARAD is responsible for maintaining the health of the Merchant Marine since commercial mariners are vital for supporting our economic and national security. The agency operates the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and supports six State Maritime Academies (SMAs). It also partners with the Department of Defense (DoD) to maintain a fleet of cargo ships in reserve to provide surge sealift during war and national emergencies. Further, MARAD is responsible for disposing of noncombatant Government ships as they become obsolete. I' v1 C,I N 48 pVERSIGHT A strong, resilient marine transportation system is required to keep the United States competitive in the global economy and to maintain our military strength. DOT-18-0010-A-000170 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000170 M ARIT IM E AD M I N I S TR ATI ON HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $396.4 million to invest in ­MARAD’s program activities and initiatives. Key Components of the Request Include u Operations and Training: $152.4 million is requested to support the USMMA, the SMAs, and MARAD Operations and Programs. This fund­ing is used to educate and graduate highly trained merchant mariners to support the economic security and national defense needs of the Nation, and will provide for agency infrastructure, staff and programs supporting maritime initiatives.  United States Merchant Marine Academy: $74.6 million is requested for the USMMA to provide mission-essential program requirements to support the highest standards of excel­lence in education for the Mid­shipmen, including $70.6 million for operating expenses and $4 million for priority capital repairs AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT and improvements to the Academy’s buildings and infrastructure.  State Maritime Academies: $24.4 million is requested to support the SMAs including $22 million for school ship maintenance and repair to main­tain the six SMA training ships in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard and American Bureau of Shipping requirements, and $2.4 million for student tuition assistance program support.  Operations and Programs: $53.4 million is requested to support MARAD Operations and Programs and provide the agency infrastructure and professional staff for its operating mission and support programs. DOT-18-0010-A-000171 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000171 49 MARITI M E A D M I N I S T R ATI O N u Maritime Security Program: $214 million is requested for the Maritime Security Program (MSP) to ensure the maintenance of a commercial fleet of militarily useful vessels. The MSP provides assured access to sealift and intermodal logistics capability during times of conflict, national emergencies, and other contingency situations. The MSP fleet has the capacity to move and sustain the heaviest armored units to support DoD operational requirements. The MSP fleet provides employment for 2,400 highly trained, qualified U.S. Merchant Mariners, who are critical to manning the U.S. AMf-f HCAN 50 pVERSIGHT surge sealift fleet during national contingency situations. Additionally, the MSP program supports more than 5,000 shoreside maritime industry jobs. u Ship Disposal: $30 million is requested for the Ship Disposal Program, which includes $3 mil­ lion to maintain the Nuclear Ship SAVANNAH (NSS) in protective storage according to Nuclear Regulatory Commission license requirements. The request also includes $25 million to dismantle and decontaminate the defueled nuclear power plant on board the NSS. The remaining $2 million is for MARAD salaries and administrative costs. DOT-18-0010-A-000172 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000172 SAINT LAWRENCE SEAWAY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $36.0 $35.8 $28.8 132 144 144 The Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC), a wholly owned Government corporation, is responsible for the operations, maintenance, and infrastructure renewal of the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway between Montreal and Lake Erie. This responsibility includes maintaining and operating the two U.S. Seaway locks located in Massena, New York, and performing vessel traffic control operations in areas of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. The SLSDC remains dedicated to safely and efficiently operating the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway, while also promoting the economic benefits of the marine mode, attracting new cargoes to the Great Lakes Seaway System, and leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the system’s performance and safety. The SLSDC coordinates its activities with its Canadian counterpart, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, particularly with respect to rules and regulations, overall day-to-day waterway and lock operations, traffic management, and trade and economic development programs. Since the 15-lock binational waterway’s opening in 1959, nearly 3 billion metric tons of cargo has moved on the St. Lawrence Seaway valued at more than $450 billion. Maritime commerce on the / v1 C,I N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000173 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000173 51 SAINT L AW R E N C E S E AWAY DE V E L O PME NT CO R PO R ATI ON Great Lakes Seaway System is responsible for annually sustaining more than 125,000 U.S. jobs and $18 billion in revenues for U.S. transportation-related businesses. As part of the Administration’s “Reforming Government” efforts, a study will be completed in FY 2018 to examine the feasibility of privatizing or commercializing SLSDC operations. The Canadian government commercialized Canadian Seaway operations in 1998. HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $28.8 million from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to support the continued safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway, including the two U.S. Seaway locks in Massena, New York. SLSDC activities in this request support the Secretary’s priorities of safety, infrastructure, innovation, and mission efficiency. Key Components of the Request Include u Agency Operations: $19.1 million is requested for the operations and maintenance of the U.S. portion of the binational St. Lawrence Seaway. This program includes funding for all 144 SLSDC FTEs. AMf-f HCAN 52 pVERSIGHT u Asset Renewal Program (ARP): $9.7 million is requested to fund infrastructure-related capital expenses as part of the SLSDC’s ongoing ARP, which includes $5 million for the completion of the ongoing tugboat replacement project, and $2.5 million for the continuation of maintenance dredging in the U.S. sections of the St. Lawrence River. DOT-18-0010-A-000174 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000174 OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Salaries and Expenses (GF) Nat’l Surface Transp. and Innovative Finance Bureau (GF) FY 2019 President’s Budget $114.0 $113.2 $113.8 3.0 3.0 3.0 12.0 11.9 7.9 Office of Civil Rights (GF) 9.8 9.7 9.5 Financial Management Capital (GF) 4.0 4.0 2.0 Transportation Planning, Research & Development (GF) Essential Air Service (SF) 121.8 130.8 140.2 Payments to Air Carriers (GF) 150.0 149.0 93.0 National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER) (GF) 500.0 496.6 0.0 Research and Technology (GF) 13.0 12.9 7.0 Cyber Security Initiative (GF) 15.0 14.9 10.0 5.6 $948.1 5.5 $951.5 3.7 $390.1 1,439 1,588 1,582 Small and Disadvantaged Business Utiliz. & Outreach/MBRC (GF) Total Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview / v1 FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution C,I N pVERSIGHT The Office of the Secretary (OST) oversees the formulation of national transportation policy, promotes intermodal transportation, and manages significant financial assistance programs. OST provides research, analysis, technical and statistical information, and assessments to inform policy development and decision making. In addition to furthering the Secretary’s priorities of safety, infrastructure, and innovation, other OST responsibilities include exploring ways to use data to reduce transportation-related fatalities, enforcing airline consumer protection regulations, issuing regulations to prevent alcohol and ­illegal drug use in the transportation sector, preparing transportation legislation, and negotiating and implementing international transportation agreements. OST also implements key infrastructure grant and loan programs, including the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program as wells as the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and DOT-18-0010-A-000175 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000175 53 OF F ICE O F T H E S E C R E TARY Innovation Act (TIFIA) and Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) loan programs. In addition, OST aims to foster a regulatory environment that allows for reduced regulatory burden and the deployment of innovative technologies throughout transportation sectors. HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s request is $390 million to invest in the programs and activities of the Office of the Secretary. The request includes funding for core oversight and policy activities as well as investment in the National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau, cyber security initiatives, and research and technology programs. OST is driving innovative solutions in FY 2019. For example, OST will expand the existing Departmental Technology Transfer Program to accelerate deployment of innovative research results, continue the Safety Data Initiative, applying innovative data analysis tools to address transportation safety problems, and provide insights and analysis to encourage the safe development, testing and deploy­ ment of automated vehicle technologies across all modes of transportation and gather input from stakeholders and industry to identify regulatory barriers through request for comments and request for information as part of the Automated Vehicle (AV) 3.0 initiative. AMf-f HCAN 54 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000176 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000176 OF F IC E OF TH E S EC R ETA RY Key Components of the Request Include u Operations (Salaries and ­Expenses): $113.8 million is requested for salaries and expenses of the Office of the Secretary. This request funds oversight, policy development, and administration of Departmentwide management. u Financial Management Capital: $2 million is requested for implementation of the electronic authentication solution to enable vendors to electronically certify and register for access to the eInvoicing system. By extending these capabilities to the vendor community, we will eliminate current manual processes and reduce costs, increase timeliness of payments, and improve data quality. u Small and Disadvantaged Busi­ ness Utilization: $3.5 million is requested for the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization and Outreach (OSDBU) to provide the small business community training, counseling, and procurement assistance for transportation-­ related contracts. OSDBU ensures that small busi­nesses have an equitable opportunity to participate in DOT’s direct procurement and Federal financial assistance programs. The Budget also includes $250 thousand to create a new financial education program while discontinuing the AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT Short-Term Lending Program that is duplicative of resources the Small Business Administration provides. u Transportation Planning, Research and Development (TPR&D): $7.9 million is requested for activities and studies to support the Secretary’s responsibilities in the formulation of national and international transportation policy, as well as in implementing the Department’s multimodal programs. TPR&D will also be a major contributor to furthering autonomous vehicle research and development, continu­ing the Department’s Safety Data Initiative, as well as research focused on other emerging technologies and their impact on the Nation’s transportation systems. ­Additionally, the request includes $1.0 million for DOT’s Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center including the Permitting Dashboard that is designed to improve the transparency and accountability of the permitting process. u Cyber Security Initiatives: $10 million is requested to strengthen the Department’s ability to identify and remediate cybersecurity risks through advanced data collection, integration and reporting, and continuous monitoring. DOT-18-0010-A-000177 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000177 55 OF F ICE O F T H E S E C R E TARY u Research and Technology: $7.0 million is requested for the Office of the Assistant Secretary for ­Research and Technology (OST-R) to strengthen research and technology initiatives across all Operating Administrations. To better coordinate research across the Department, the FY 2019 budget reflects that OST-R is relocated under the Office of the Under Secretary for Policy. This Office also receives $26 million for the Bureau of Transportation Statistics and $77.5 million for the University Transportation Centers grant program through the Highway Trust Fund. u National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau (Bureau): $3 million is requested for the Bureau. Established under the FAST Act, the Bureau continues to facilitate targeted Federal investments in infrastructure by streamlining the Department’s innovative finance programs. The funding will allow OST to further build on its initial progress of consolidating these credit programs, continuing to develop and promote best ­practices for innovative financing AMf-f HCAN 56 pVERSIGHT and public-­private partnerships. For FY 2019, the Budget pro­ poses that the Bureau assume responsibility for overseeing existing loans made by the Federal Ship Financing Program (Title XI), which is currently located within MARAD. Given the program’s history of troubled performance, the Budget requests no funding for Title XI and pro­ poses terminating its authorization. u Essential Air Service/Payments to Air Carriers: $93 million in discretionary appropriations is requested in addition to the $140.2 million provided through mandatory budget authority. OST looks forward to working with Congress on reforms to the EAS program. The Budget proposes to reform the EAS pro­gram by adjusting EAS eligibility based on driving distance to nearby airports; increasing the subsidy cap from $200 to $250 per passenger for EAS communities located within 210 miles from a large or medium hub airport, and eliminating the waiver for this requirement; and, placing limits on the waiver authority for the 10-enplanement requirement. DOT-18-0010-A-000178 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000178 OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL Budgetary Resources Dollars in Millions Account Inspector General (GF) Full Time Equivalent Employment Overview ROI compares DOT-OIG appropriations to the revenue and other savings generated through our findings. Find­ings are comprised of court-­ordered fines, restitutions, recoveries of improper payments, recommended cost savings, and recommendations for funds put to better use. 1 v1 C,I N pVERSIGHT FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $90.2 $89.5 $91.5 410 410 416 The Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG) is committed to providing relevant and timely information about transportation issues to Congress, the Department, and the American public. We accomplish this by fulfilling our statutory responsibilities under the Inspector General Act of 1978, as amended, while supporting DOT’s mission and strategic goals, particularly its emphasis on safety. We work closely with Members of Congress, the Secretary, and senior Department officials to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of DOT programs through cost savings, recoveries, and efficiency gains. DOT-OIG’s mission is to improve the performance and integrity of DOT’s programs to ensure a safe, efficient, and effective national transportation system and detect and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. Our audit recommendations lead to substantial financial, programmatic and safety improvements. Addition­ally, our investigations enhance safety by thwarting criminal activities that put lives at risk, and protect taxpayer investments through court-ordered fines, restitutions and recoveries. During FY 2017, DOT-OIG issued 107 audit reports containing 337 recommendations. We concluded investigations resulting in 79 indictments and 68 convictions. From FY 2013 through FY 2017, OIG achieved an average return on investment (ROI)1 of $35 for every appropriated dollar. DOT-18-0010-A-000179 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000179 57 OF F ICE O F I N S P E C T O R G E NE R AL Our 5-year Strategic Plan covering FY 2017 through FY 2021 describes the goals, strategies, and performance measures for achieving our mission and maintaining the core values of OIG’s work—safety, accountability, and integrity. Safety is DOT’s highest priority and central to OIG’s mission. OIG is committed to conducting effective audits and investigations of DOT’s programs and operations to reduce fatalities and injuries across all modes of transportation. Accountability is at the heart of OIG’s work. Through independent and fair audits and investigations, OIG seeks to ensure that all DOT agencies are accountable for their results and for the resources invested in them. Integrity is OIG’s foundation. OIG maintains the highest standards of integrity in its work for the American people, Congress, the Secretary, and senior Department officials, and strives to set the example for objectivity, independence, accuracy, and transparency. HIGHLIGHTS of the FY 2019 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET The FY 2019 President’s Budget requests $91.5 million to support the Office of Inspector General. These funds will be used to support the OIG’s independent and objective oversight of the Department’s programs and activities to provide the Secretary, Congress and the Public with relevant analyses necessary to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department’s operations AMf-f HCAN 58 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000180 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000180 SUPPORTING SUMMARY TABLES Appropriations, Obligation Limitations, and FHWA Budgetary Resources and OST Mandatory Programs (Dollars in Millions) Administration Federal Aviation Administration Federal Highway Administration FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $16,407.4 $16,295.9 $16,122.3 43,097.1 42,805.5 45,790.6 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 644.2 639.8 665.8 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 911.3 905.2 914.7 12,414.5 12,330.2 11,118.6 1,851.4 1,838.8 854.0 Federal Transit Administration Federal Railroad Administration Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 260.4 260.6 254.3 Maritime Administration 522.6 519.0 396.4 36.0 35.8 28.8 948.1 951.5 390.1 90.2 89.5 91.5 (134.3) (135.1) (127.2) $77,048.9 $76,536.8 $76,500.0 Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Office of the Secretary Office of Inspector General PHMSA User Fee Offsetting Receipts Total DOT Budgetary Resources Totals may not add due to rounding. Totals do not reflect transfers. Budget Authority FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $16,414.3 $16,318.7 $16,122.3 43,177.5 43,052.4 44,510.6 644.2 657.8 665.8 1,012.6 1,024.7 914.7 13,850.5 13,696.3 12,418.6 1,853.2 1,939.2 854.0 Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 260.4 260.6 254.3 Maritime Administration 523.7 526.2 397.4 Administration Federal Aviation Administration Federal Highway Administration Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Federal Transit Administration Federal Railroad Administration Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Office of the Secretary Office of Inspector General Offsetting Receipts Total DOT Budget Authority Totals may not add due to rounding. Totals do not reflect transfers. v1 Dollars in Millions C,I N pVERSIGHT 36.0 35.8 28.8 948.3 951.5 390.1 90.2 89.5 91.5 – 1,233.2 – 1,881.0 – 723.5 $77,577.7 $76,671.7 $75,924.7 DOT-18-0010-A-000181 B UDGET HI GHLI GHTS FI SCA L YE A R 2019 DOT_Am.Oversight-000181 59 SUPPO RT I N G S U M M A RY TAB L E S Outlays Administration Federal Aviation Administration Federal Highway Administration Dollars in Millions FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget $15,867.1 $16,761.5 $16,643.2 44,167.1 44,731.4 45,467.5 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 562.2 608.1 666.3 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 946.7 1,042.0 1,049.0 12,263.3 13,322.0 13,226.0 Federal Transit Administration Federal Railroad Administration 4,601.6 2,264.0 1,075.0 Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 242.9 299.3 284.1 Maritime Administration 466.6 579.9 475.8 25.6 52.0 43.8 767.9 1,179.0 926.0 89.1 91.0 91.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 Offsetting Receipts – 1,233.2 – 1,881.0 – 723.5 Total DOT Outlays $78,767.4 $79,049.2 $79,224.2 FY 2017 Actual FY 2018 Annualized Continuing Resolution FY 2019 President’s Budget Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation Office of the Secretary Office of Inspector General Surface Transportation Board Totals may not add due to rounding. Full Time Equivalent Employment Administration 45,547 45,517 45,147 Federal Highway Administration Federal Aviation Administration 2,700 2,720 2,713 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1,161 1,202 1,202 541 626 626 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Federal Transit Administration 555 574 563 Federal Railroad Administration 919 933 927 Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 540 581 581 Maritime Administration 732 814 813 Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation 132 144 144 1,439 1,588 1,582 410 410 416 54,676 55,109 54,714 Office of the Secretary Office of Inspector General Total DOT Full Time Equivalent Employment Totals may not add due to rounding. A\11 C,I N 60 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000182 U. S . D E PA R T M E N T O F T RANS P OR TAT ION DOT_Am.Oversight-000182 U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington DC 20590 DOT-18-0010-A-000183 DOT_Am.Oversight-000183 From: Bcc: Bedell, Anthony (OST) (b) (6) @ldclmcc.com; (b) (6) ilchamber.org; (b) (6) @tsa.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) @irtba.org; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) @senseinc.com; (6) (b) (6) @muskotech.con; (b) (6) @hobbsstraus.com; (b) (6) @dowl.com; (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) MISTYLAKE CONSULTING SERVICES LLC (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) nevadadc.org); (b) (6) @mmm.com; (b) (6) @T-Mobile.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @lasvegasnevacla.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @BXALL.com; (b) (6) @HATCH.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @maii.house.gov; (b) (6) @atr.org; (b) (6) @lowes.oom; (b) (6) @THEMITCHELLFIRM.COM; (b) (6) @BOOZMAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @fairfaxcounty.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @CORLEYDC.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; (b) @arialestrategies.coin; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @entergy.com; (b) (6) @amac.us; (b) (6) @ALCALDE-FAY.COM; (b) (6) @COCHRAN.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) @purplestrategies.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) @eckertseamans.coni; (b) @stevescalise.cotn; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (6) (b) (6) @BentzStrategies.com; (b) (6) @altria.com; (b) (6) @cuna.com; (b) (6) @jmpa.us; (b) (6) @spottsfainconsulting.com; (b) (6) @thune.senate.gov; (b) (6) @LEE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) EASTGATE (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @riponsodety.org; (b) (6) eHeafth, Inc. (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @BLUNT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @wal-mart.com; (b) (6) @BUSINESSCOUNCIL.COM; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) YOUNGSTOWN CITY (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @ysu.edu; (b) (6) @hii-nns.com; (b) (6) @greenwoodsearch.com; (b) (6) @Lamar- -Consulting.com; r==;::f ~ ~~ ~ @us.ibm.com; -- r::~ ====n -- -=--=----,~=-==--=-:=7 LJ_ (b) (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @bankaturion.com; @equifax.com; (b) (6) @gsk.com; (b) (6) @grassley.senate.gov; (b) (6) @citi.com; @isakson.senate.gov; (b) (6) @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @YOUNG.SENATE.GOV; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @alta.org; (b) (6) @riba5conGUlting.com; (b) (6) FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF MINNEAPOLIS .frb.org); kirk.bell@dot.gov; (b) (6) @YRCI.com; (b) (6) @GEORGETOWN.EDU; @fisglobal.com; (b) (6) @chemserv.com; (b) (6) @sunflowersystems.com; @williamblair.com; (b) (6) @53.com; (b) (6) @SBC.SENATE.GOV; @sbc.senate.gov; (b) (6) @transurban.com; (b) (6) @mercy.com; (b) (6) @ysu.edu; @youngstownohio.gov; (b) (6) - AMERICAN investment council ); (b) (6) @lucerooliveoil.com; (b) (6) @ALLIANCE-CONSULTANTS.COM; @wellmed.net; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @santafecommunications.com; @ci.manteca.ca.us; (b) (6) @ahip.org; (b) (6) @walgreens.com; (b) (6) @nfi.org; @nafcu.org; (b) (6) @riteaid.com; (b) @dgsr-lc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) (6) crockerstrategy.com); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @anthem.com; (b) (6) @ici.org; (b) (6) @MILLFIELDGLOBAL.COM; (b) (6) @MAIL.MIL; (b) (6) @experian.com; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @bah.com; (b) (6) @navigatorsglobal.com; (b) (6) @GULAGRAHAM.COM; (b) (6) @CLGDC.COM; (b) (6) @usa.redcross.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @carper.senate.gov; (b) (6) @motorolasolutions.com; (b) (6) @MagnumEntertainmentGroup.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @dunnassoc.com; (b) (6) @johanns.senate.gov; (b) (6) @PurpleStrategies.com; GOV; (b) (6) @raytheon.com; (b) (6) @tma.toyota.com; (b) (6) @electran.org; (b) (6) @helenmilby.com; (b) (6) @angelenterprisesdc.com; (b) (6) @pmj-dc.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @MAII-.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @HeaitlaiidStratcgies.coin; (b) (6) @americancrossroads.org; (b) (6) @agc.org; (b) (6) @aduston.com; (b) (6) National Cattlemen"s Beef Association (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @USA.net; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @verizon.com; (b) (6) @HOUSE.VIRGINIA.GOV; (b) (6) @quickenloans.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ntu.org; (b) (6) @redskins.com; (b) @nvtc.org; (6) (b) (6) @MAIL.HOTJSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @vachamber.com; (b) (6) @Flake.senate.gov; (b) (6) OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN STEPHEN FINCHER (.house.gov); (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) @mail.kouse.gov; (b) (6) @thec2group.com; (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @scllaw.com; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @mzacompany.com; (6) (b) (6) @franchise.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @CAPITO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @ena.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @attglobal.net; (b) (6) @sbc.senate.gov; (6) (b) (6) @sba.gov; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @sjgov.org; (b) (6) @ci.tracy.ca.us; (b) (6) @yahoo.com; (b) (6) @cbrt.org; (b) (6) @ci.manteca.ca; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE ((b) (6) ; (b) (6) @assembly.ca.gov; (b) (6) @IRIonline.org; (b) (6) @aep.conn; (b) (6) @heller.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCOTT.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) @814Consulting.com; (b) (6) Global Automakers (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) ); @OB-CGROUP.COM; (b) (6) @gdsstrategies.oom; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) @4lanes4nebraska.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (b) (6) @score.org; (b) (6) @thehartford.com; (b) (6) @interdigital.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) Smiths Group ((b) (6) ; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @ubs.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT ~ - DOT-18-0010-A-000184 DOT_Am.Oversight-000184 @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @safnow.org; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @Emerson.com; (b) (6) @YourPoliticalAdvantage.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @finance.senate.gov; (b) (6) @warner.senate.gov; @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @ronjohnson.senate.gov; @toomey.senate.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b @newpartners.com; ) @nfib.org; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6 @RUBIO.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @fah.org; (b) (6) Cognizant ((b) (6) ); ) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @aflac.com; @acli.com; @att.com; wpb.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; @txdot.gov; (b) (6) nam.org; (b) (6) @GMAIL.COM; Brand, Lauren (MARAD); @ROTHSCHILDPP.COM; (b) (6) @forestresources.org; (b) (6) @blakey-agnew.com; (b) (6) blakeyagnew.com; (b) (6) blakey-agnew.com; Furst, Tony (FHWA); (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @bradley.com; (b) (6) @hassan.senate.gov; (b) (6) @SCHAT2.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @SCHATZ.SENATE.GOV; (b) @AASHTn.ORG; (b) (6) @kotzebue.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (6) (b) (6) denvergov.org; (b) (6) @ND.gov; (b) (6) @springfield.il.iis; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @clecaturil.gov; (b) (6) @gtlaw.com; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @isri.org; (b) (6) @umw.com; (b) (6) Ogilvy GOVERNMENT RELATIONS (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @ogilvygr.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @Sawiana.com; (b) (6) @dfat.gov.au; (b) (6) @galvanassociates.com; (b) (6) @MacombCountyChamber.com; (b) (6) DEPARMENT OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (b) (6) ; (b) (6) msn.com; (b) (6) @audi.com; (b) (6) OFFICE OF SENATOR MITCH MCGONNELL, KENTUCKY ((b) (6) @MCCONNELL.SENATE.GOV); (b) (6) @GSA.GOV; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @bhfs.com; (b) (6) @SBA.GOV; (b) (6) @fbtlaw.com; (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cityofchicago.org; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @transitchicago.com; (b) (6) @cookcountyil.gov; (b) (6) @nscorp.com; (b) (6) @schlickman.conn; (b) (6) up.com; (b) (6) @peoplesgasdelivery.com; (b) (6) @aar.org; (b) (6) @sewrpc.org; (b) (6) @allianceRD.org; (b) (6) @schlicknnan.com; (b) (6) nirpc.org; (b) (6) cmap.illinois.gov; (b) @5bfriedman.com; (b) (6) @kpmg.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (6) (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @cardinalinfrastructure.com; (b) (6) @osmre.gov; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (6) (b) (6) @ci.gary.in.us; (b) @portsmouthva.gov; (b) (6) @GarlandTx.gov; (b) (6) @suddenlink.net; (6) (b) (6) @miamigov.com; (b) (6) @nd.gov; (b) (6) @ndus.edu; (b) (6) @go-metro.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @fcgov.com; (b) (6) @unitecl.com; (b) (6) @united.com; (b) (6) @dol.gov; (b) (6) EOP.GOV; (b) (6) @trin.net; (b) (6) @amstedrail.com; (b) (6) @statewidepublicaffairs.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @aar.oraIwww.aar.org; (b) (6) Global Automakers (b) (6) ); King, Heidi (NHTSA); (b) (6) @Illinois.gov; (b) (6) @NANA.COM; (b) (6) NANA REGIONAL CORPORATION, INC. (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @yuroknibe.nsn.us; (b) (6) YUROK TRIBE (b) (6) yuroktribe.nsn.ib); (b) (6) @HLPADVOCACY.COM; (b) (6) @ryanalaska.com;(b) (6) @medallionfoundation.org; (b) (6) @OKEEFFESTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) @EPW.SENATE.OOV; (b) (6) @epw.senate.gov; (b) @GOJAY.ORG; (b) (6) @privia.com; (b) (6) @TREASURY.GOV; (b) (6) The Hershey (6) Company (b) (6) ); (b) (6) simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @starkcountyohio.gov; (b) (6) @pascocountyfl.net; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @CyberScout.com; (b) (6) @madisongr.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @stancog.org; (b) (6) @maderactc.org; (b) @co.mercedca.us; (6) (b) (6) @mcagov.org; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @cityofhanfordca.com; (b) (6) Paducah Chamber (b) (6) @paducahchamberorg); (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @AMPQ.ORG; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @miarriichamber.com;(b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) STR Trade (b) (6) ); (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @ecirpd.org; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.co; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) scspa.com; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @flydenver.com; (b) (6) National Conference of State Legislatures (b) (6) (b) (6) @ncsiorg); (b) (6) @MARYLAND.GOV; (b) (6) --' -@sso.org; @scna.net; -(b) (6) --= ..______. __ hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @att.net; (b) @uwa.edu; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) hklaw.com; (b) (6) SQUIRE Patton Boggs LLP ((b) (6) @squirepbxom); (b) (6) @cityhall.nyc.gov; (b) (6) @osu.edu; (b) @mmodc.com; (b) (6) L:====; ....__ ..I,;=== ~ (6) 1::-- phbpa.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) @la.gov; (6) (b) (6) @Tumberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @eliomotors.com; (b) @eliomotors.com; Williams, Jane (FTA); (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) @necanet.org; CMC-01 (OST); (b) (6) @DPS.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @intait.com; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @nam.org; (b) (6) @MNCHAMBER.COM; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @KUTAKROCK.COM; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hancockcoingov.org; (b) (6) @hallrender.com; (b) (6) @ferc.gov; (b) (6) @nouveaucorp.com; (b) (6) @sas.com; (b) (6) @emrgroup.com; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @isri.org; (b) (6) @isri.org; (6) (b) (6) @Alaska.Gov; (b) (6) @WDC.CA.GOV; (b) (6) @plasticsindustry.org; (b) (6) @ci.woodlake.ca.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @bdnreit.com; (b) (6) @WATERLOOLOBBY.COM; (b) (6) @isi-consulting.com; (b) (6) @bcbsa.com; (b) (6) @RagnarResearch.com; (b) (6) @govemor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @macquarie.com; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @MARYLAN0.G0V; (b) (6) @rga.org; (b) (6) @MOMARKDEVELOPMENT.COM; (b) (6) @3pointpaitneis.com; (b) (6) @austinbank.com; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) _sc@senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) @gilmorestrategy.com; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000185 DOT_Am.Oversight-000185 (b) (6) @hntb.com; (b) (6) HNTB Corporation (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @senate.texas.gov; (b) (6) @mwcllc.com; (b) (6) @MACADVANCED.CaM; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @transcanada.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) PINELLAS SUNCOAST TRANSIT AUTHORITY (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @TAMPABAY.ORG; (b) (6) @pinellascounty.org; (b) (6) @asdd.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @StrategiesDC.com; (b) (6) @georgewaters.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @akerman.com; (b) (6) @akerman.com; McCarthy, Jodi ; (b) (6) @dlapiper.com; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @le.utah.gov; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @PHIL_A.GOV; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @willcountyilliiiis.com; (b) (6) @ctia.org; (b) (6) @ALEXANDER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @muscatineiowa.gov; (b) (6) @sbia.org; (b) (6) @hamiltonps.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @tetratech.com; (b) (6) @capitol.tn.gov; (b) (6) @johnhowe.us; (b) (6) @hclrinc.com; Criman, Branden (MARAD); Serassio, Helen (FTA); Hill, Damon (PHMSA); Vaughn, Colleen (OST); (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @pillsburYlaw.com; (b) (6) @greensboro-nc.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @CannaePolicy.com; (b) (6) @simoncompany.com; (b) (6) @esri.com; (b) (6) @GOVERNOR.MS.GOV; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @BOOKER.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) Indian Health Service ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @x.team; (b) (6) @texaschemistry.org; (b) (6) @iupat.org; (b) (6) @autoalliance.org; (b) (6) @jonesmetalinc.com; (b) (6) @americanchemistry.com; (b) (6) @mnchamber.com; (b) (6) @greatermankato.com; (b) (6) @TACaNITE.aRE; (b) @twinwest.com; (b) (6) @Toyota.com; (b) @ibew146.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) = - ----==-== ---:----- ~ - ~ Decatur Chamber ( - ---- I:== ===--- -~ @decaturchairibercom); @decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @laborers159.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @hu5chblackwell.com; (b) (6) @hq.doe.gov; (b) (6) @CITYOFLAKEFOREST.COM; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @co.tulare.ca.us; (b) (6) @visalia.cit; (b) (6) @duininck.com; (b) (6) @prime-policy.com; (b) (6) @LHBcorp.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com;(b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) @rideuta.com; (b) (6) OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (b) (6) ); (b @columbuspartnership.com; ) (b) (6) (b) (6) @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; @DUCKWORTH.SENATE.GOV; (6 (b) (6) (b) (6) @mwcapitol.com; (b) (6) @DURBIN.SENATE.GOV; AMERICAN ASSOCIATION ) (b) (6) @AASHTD.); (b) (6) @its.jnj.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @auburn.edu; (b) (6) @ntsb.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @booker.senate.gov; (b) (6) @hq.dhs.gov; (b) (6) @live.com; (b) (6) @CCH-LLC.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) Sitka Tribe of Alaska Tribal Government for Sitka, AK (b) (6) @sitkatribe-); (b) (6) @waknet.org; (b) (6) @puebloofacoma.org; (b) (6) @puebloofpojoaque.org; Kenley, Erin (FHWA); (b) (6) @ftbelknap.org; (b) (6) @ashiwi.org; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) @philbest.net; (6) (b) (6) @grriail.com; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @alvarezandmarsal.com; (b) (6) @swapa.org; (b) (6) @COMMERCE.SENATE.GOV; (b) (6) @commerce.senate.gov; (b) (6) @GOMMERCE.SKNATE.OOV; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @fiu.edu; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @govemor.Virginia.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @NJ.GOV; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (b) @nga.org; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (6) (6) (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) @dubersteingToup.corn; (b) (6) @dow.com; (b) (6) @siemens.com; (b) (6) @fischer.senate.gov; (b) (6) @gopro.com; (b) @uark.edu; (b) (6) @dji.com; (b) (6) @alta.org; (6) (b) (6) @pegcc.org; (b) (6) @deloitte.com; (b) (6) @AventueStategies.com; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @lacrty.org; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) cityofpleasantonca.gov; (b) (6) @danville.ca.gov; (b) (6) @cityoflivermore.net; (b) (6) dublin.ca.gov; (b) (6) @townsendPA.com; (b) (6) @nexxusconsulting.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) @medallionfoundation.org; (b) (6) @walmart.com; (b) (6) @OSEC.USDA.GOV; (6) (b) @DMMSTRATEGIES.COM; (b) (6) Hance Scarborough, LLP (b) (6) @hslawmaiLcom); (b) (6) (6) (LAHOOD.HOUSE.GOV); (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; I=---=-----,, (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) naco.org; (b) (6) Bucks (b) (6) (b) (6) County Industrial Development Corporation @uss.com; =-: ; ~ (b) (6) @AASHTa.aRE; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) @AmericanHort.org; (b) @jeancardink.com; (b) (6) (6) (6) Kentucky Capital Development Corporation (b) (6) ); (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) americanchemistry.com; @trucking.org; @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @livingstongroupdc.com; (b) (6) @nnwo.org; (b) (6) @bmexpl.com; (b) (6) @houstontx.gov; (b) (6) @shell.com; (b) (6) @buckscounty.org; (b) (6) @kindermorgan.com; (b) (6) @oldcastlematerials.com; (b) (6) @cahcc.conn; (b) (6) @latinodigitalsolutions.com; (b) (6) @saGyr.com; (b) (6) btbv.com; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @tfi.org; (b) (6) @navient.com; (b) (6) @EFBAdvocacy.com; (b) (6) @LHGDC.COM; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @egov.com; (b) (6) @cityofpascagoula.com; (b) (6) @fortworthtexas.gov; (b) (6) @tampagov.net; (b) (6) @gulfport-ms.gov; (b) (6) @cityofpensacola.com; (b) (6) @raleighnc.gov; (b) (6) Colorado Springs (b) (6) ); (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) City of Gastonia ((b) (6) ); (b) (6) @lowellnc.com; (b) (6) @cityolgastonia.com; (b) (6) @usgs.gov; (b) (6) @temeculaca.gov; (b) (6) @davidturch.com; (b) akingump.com; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (b) (6) @cityofrochester.gov; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) aapa-ports.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @agtrans.org; (b) (6) @crshq.com; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @ustollingcoalition.org; (b) (6) @abc.org; (b) (6) @PGE.COM; (b) (6) @doc.gov; (b) (6) edmondswa.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) @allianceportregion.com; (b) (6) @MAIL.HOUSE.GOV; 2 -------.--=== =-------. =-- ------= AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT (6) =- - --~ ~-- =~ DOT-18-0010-A-000186 DOT_Am.Oversight-000186 @klgates.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; (b) (6) @ups.com; @uschamber.com; (b) (6) @amtrak.com; (b) (6) @boeing.com; @capitaledge.com; (b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @dean.net; (b) (6) @cityofirving.org; @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; (b) (6) @arlingtontx.gov; @COJ.NET; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @verizon.net; (b) (6) @wfs-dc.com; @fticonsulting.com; Chris Cox; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; Stevens, Michael H.; @ehi.com;(b) (6) @bighornpublicaffairs.com; (b) @flyravn.com; (b) (6) @whitmerworrall.com; (6) @tgsgroup.com; (b) (6) @tgsgroup.com; Eric Dell; (b) (6) @maryland.gov;(b) (6) @maryland.gov; Ed McDonald; (b) (6) @maryland.gov); (b) (6) @perdue.senate.gov; (b) (6) @strategics.consulting; (b) (6) @pwchamber.oeg; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @cityofws.org; (b) (6) @isakson.senate.gov;(b) (6) @senate.virginia.gov; Dan Scandling; (b) (6) @vectrecorp.com; (b) (6) @house.virginia.gov;(b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) @thefiorentinogroup.com; (b) @cfmdc.com; (6) (6) (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) @ci.ridgefield.wa.us; (b) (6) ODOT.org; (b) (6) odot.state.or.us; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) dot.ri.gov; (b) (6) scdot.org; (b) (6) state.sd.us; (b) (6) tn.gov; (b) (6) @txdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.vi.gov; (b) (6) gmail.com; (b) (6) utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) wsdot.wa.gov; (b) (6) wv.gov; (b) (6) @dot.wi.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @ncdot.gov; (b) (6) @dpw.as.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @phoenix.gov; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @governor.alabama.gov; (b) (6) @alaska.gov; (b) (6) @hotmail.com; (b) (6) @dudinskyassociates.com; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @az.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @governor.arkansas.gov; (b) (6) @wdc.ca.gov; (b) (6) @state.co.us; (b) (6) @ct.gov; (b) (6) state.de.us; (b) (6) @eog.myflorida.com; (b @rubicondc.com; (b) (6) @guam.gov; ) (b) (6) @hawaii.gov; (b) (6) (6 @gov.idaho.gov; (b) (6) @illinois.gov; (b) (6) @hohlt.com; (b) (6) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) ) @iowa.gov; (b) (6) @vikingnav.com; (b) (6) @ky.gov; (b) (6) @la.gov; (b) (6) @maine.gov; (b) (6) @maryland.gov; (b) (6) @state.ma.us; (b) (6) @michigan.gov; (b) (6) @state.mn.us; (b) (6) @governor.ms.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @governor.mo.gov; (b) (6) @mt.gov; (b) (6) @nebraska.gov; (b) @nevadadc.org; (6) (b) (6) @nh.gov; (b) (6) @gov.state.nj.us; (b) (6) @nj.gov; (b) (6) @state.nm.us; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @exec.ny.gov; (b) (6) @nc.gov; (b) @nd.gov; (6) (b) (6) @governor.ohio.gov; (b) (6) @gov.ok.gov; (b) (6) @oregon.gov; (b) (6) @pa.gov; (b) (6) @prfaa.pr.gov; (b) (6) @governor.ri.gov; (b) (6) @gov.sc.gov; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @state.sd.us; (b) (6) @tn.gov; (b) (6) @gov.texas.gov; (b) (6) @utah.gov; (b) (6) @vermont.gov; (b) (6) @lgo.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @go.vi.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @governor.virginia.gov; (b) (6) @gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) gov.wa.gov; (b) (6) @wv.gov; (b) (6) @wisconsin.gov; (b) (6) @wyo.gov; (b) (6) @ameschamber.com; (b) (6) @co.bucks.pa.us; (b) (6) @hsr.ca.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @columbus.gov; (b) (6) @decaturil.gov; (b) (6) @ci.eugene.or.us; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @lacity.org; (b) (6) @phila.gov; (b) (6) @thecityofportland.net; (b) (6) @springfield.il.us; (b) @thomasvilleal.com; (b) (6) 7@gmail.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @wenatcheewa.gov; (b) (6) (6) YumaAz.Gov; (b) (6) @yumaaz.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @kauai.gov; (b) (6) @smcgov.org; (b) (6) @dcrchamber.com; (b) (6) @ecipd.org; (b) (6) @fayettevillear.com; (b) (6) @grantcounty.net; (b) (6) gcrta.org; (b) (6) @decaturchamber.com; (b) (6) @miamichamber.com; (b) (6) @cs.com; (b) (6) @jeffco.us; (b) (6) @co.lane.or.us; Gallagher, KellyAnne; (b) (6) miamidade.gov; (b) (6) @scspa.com; (b) (6) portla.org; (b) (6) @warren-county.net; (b) (6) @willcountyillinois.com; (b) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @rockdalecounty.gov; (b) (6) @cityofLakeForest.com; (6) (6) (b) @hillsboroughCounty.org; (b) (6) @rockdalecountyga.ga; (b) (6) @tularecog.org; (b) (6) @goplainfield.com; (b) (6) @goplainfield.com; (b) (6) @aol.com; (b) (6) @hickorync.gov; (b) (6) @sandyspringsga.gov; (b) (6) torranceca.gov; (b) (6) TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @TorranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @torranceCA.gov; (b) (6) @franklincountyky.com; (b) (6) @frankfort.ky.gov; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) naco.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; (b) (6) (6) (6) usmayors.org; (b) (6) aashto.org; (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @alec.org; (b) (6) csg.org; (b) (6) @nasao.org; (b) (6) @westgov.org; (b) (6) @alcalde-fay.com; (b) (6) @align-strategies.com; (b) (6) @bplegal.com; (b) (6) @dc.bhb.com; (b) (6) @carmengroup.com; (b) (6) @cj-lake.com; (b) (6) @hcss.com; (b) (6) hammconsulting.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @hoganlovells.com; (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (6) (b) (6) @hklaw.com; (b) (6) @madisongroup.com; (b) (6) @mercatus.gmu.edu; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) @merchantmcintyre.com; (b) (6) peyser.com; (b) (6) @pinnaclewest.com; (b) (6) @podestagroup.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @sda-inc.com; (b) (6) @gmail.com; (b) (6) @turnberrysolutionsllc.com; (b) (6) @wolfsonbolton.com; (b) (6) cchllc.com; (b) (6) @pacellp.com; (b) @hankaadvisor.com; (b) (6) @arcelormittal.com; (b) (6) phbpa.com; (6) (b) (6) @squirepb.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) vsadc.com; (b) (6) @vsadc.com; (b) (6) @daleypg.com; (b) (6) @strategiesdc.com; (b) (6) aztec.us; (b) (6) bnsf.com; (b) (6) @nga.org; (b) (6) @aqmd.gov; (b) (6) cityofhighland.org; (b) (6) @yvcog.org; (b) (6) @co.yakima.wa.us; (b) (6) @scrra.net; (b) (6) @sso.org; (b) aashto.org; (6) (b) (6) ncsl.org; (b) (6) @nlc.org; (b) (6) @naco.org; (b) (6) narc.org; Strang, Jo; (b) (6) @necanet.org; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @necanet.org; @ally.com; @blyncsy.com; @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) @csx.com; (b) (6) csx.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ge.com; (b) (6) @ipaper.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) (6) @cyberscout.com; (b) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) asdd.com; (6) (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @portfreeport.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @metrarr.com; (b) (6) @kycapitaldevelopment.com; (b) (6) @UnitedBankKY.com One Federal Decision MOU Monday, April 09, 2018 1:29:00 PM (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: Date: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000187 DOT_Am.Oversight-000187 Attachments: image001.png THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 9, 2018   PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP’S ADMINISTRATION IS IMPROVING INEFFICIENT PERMITTING REVIEWS “No longer will we allow the infrastructure of our magnificent country to crumble and decay.  While protecting the environment, we will build gleaming new roads, bridges, railways, waterways, tunnels, and highways.” – President Donald J. Trump IMPROVING ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEWS:  President Trump’s Administration is working together to improve and streamline environmental reviews for major infrastructure projects. • Federal agencies are signing the One Federal Decision Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a coordinated and timely process for environmental reviews of major infrastructure projects. • The signatories of the MOU have agreed to an unprecedented level of collaboration in the environmental review process and include the: 0 Departments of the Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, and Homeland Security • 0 Environmental Protection Agency 0 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 0 Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 0 Advisory Council on Historic Preservation 0 Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council One lead Federal agency will be responsible for navigating each major infrastructure project through the entire Federal environmental review and permitting process.   0 Until now, project sponsors have had to navigate decision-making processes across multiple Federal agencies. Federal agencies will work with the lead agency for a project to develop a single Environmental Impact Statement and sign a single Record of Decision.  0 • Federal agencies will follow permitting timetables established by the lead Federal agency, with a goal of completing the process within two years. 0 In the past, Federal agencies were generally not required to follow a comprehensive permitting timetable. 0 • The lead agency will seek written concurrence from other agencies at important points in the process.   Under the MOU, Federal agencies will conduct their review processes at the same time, rather than sequentially, which has led to unnecessary delays. The MOU will ensure interagency issues and disputes are elevated and resolved DOT-18-0010-A-000188 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000188 in a timely manner. 0 Previously, interagency disputes could remain unresolved for years.  DELIVERING STREAMLINED DECISION-MAKING: The One Federal Decision MOU follows through on the President’s policy of streamlining inefficient and lengthy environmental reviews. • The MOU will deliver on the President’s policy of One Federal Decision for major infrastructure projects.  • President Trump’s Executive Order 13807 established a One Federal Decision policy for major infrastructure projects. 0 The Executive Order directed the Office of Management and Budget and the Council on Environmental Quality to develop a framework for implementing One Federal Decision.  CUTTING COSTLY DELAYS:  Inefficient environmental review processes have led to unnecessary delays, depriving our communities of needed infrastructure projects. • The MOU improves Federal agency cooperation and ensures Federal agencies establish coordinated permitting timetables for major infrastructure projects, cutting down on needless delays.  • Too many important infrastructure projects have been held up for years by the environmental review process.  • The median environmental review completion time for a complex highway project is more than seven years, according to a 2014 Government Accountability Office report. • The environmental review and permitting process for the Herbert C. Bonner Bridge Replacement Project in North Carolina took more than 20 years. 0 The environmental review process involved numerous studies and interagency disputes and was subject to extensive delays. 0 0 • The original bridge was well past its design life and is now being replaced with a design that can better withstand the harsh coastal environment. The One Federal Decision framework would have allowed for a much more timely environmental review process.  Loop 202, a critical freeway project which will provide an alternative route of travel around Phoenix, took well over a decade to complete the environmental review process. 0 Loop 202’s environmental review faced numerous setbacks and dragged on for years due to poor communication, no agreed upon timetable, and other issues. 0 0 The project, which is the largest in Arizona’s history, is finally in the final stages of development. Had One Federal Decision been in place, agencies could have identified and resolved conflicts throughout project development and reduced their impact on project schedules.   ### ----DOT-18-0010-A-000189 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000189     Anthony R. Bedell Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 202-366-0913 (b) (6) mobile     AMf--f CAN VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000190 DOT_Am.Oversight-000190 From: To: Bcc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Fraser, Bobby (OST) Fraser, Bobby (OST) Valaitis, Ada (OST); Schlemmer, Kevin (OST); Faulk, Scott (OST); McMaster, Sean (OST); (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; (b) (6) @paul.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @peters.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) @stabenow.senate.gov; (b) (6) @baldwin.senate.gov; (b) (6) @ronjohnson.senate.gov; (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov; @mail.house.gov; @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov EAS Re-Selection Order at Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin Tuesday, November 21, 2017 1:30:00 PM Paducah Hancock Muskegon Eau Claire Selection Order 2017-11-17.pdf image003.png Good afternoon,   By the attached Order, the United States Department of Transportation is re-selecting SkyWest Airlines, Inc. to provide Essential Air Service (EAS) at Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin, for the two-year period from February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020.  SkyWest will provide each community with 14 nonstop round trips per week to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), using 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet 200 aircraft, at an annual combined subsidy rate of $9,885,266, as indicated below:   Community Paducah Hancock/Houghton Muskegon Eau Claire Subsidy $2,787,695 $2,024,076 $2,608,523 $2,464,972 Round trips Per Week 14 14 14 14   That Order will be issued later today.  Please let me know if you have any questions.   Best,   Bobby Fraser Senior Governmental Affairs Officer Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation Office: (202) 366-9414 Mobile: (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-A-000191 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000191 Order 2017-11-17 Served: November 21, 2017 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. Issued by the Department of Transportation on the 21st day of November, 2017     Essential Air Service at PADUCAH, KENTUCKY (FAIN #69A3451860221)1 HANCOCK/HOUGHTON, MICHIGAN (FAIN #69A3451860223) MUSKEGON, MICHIGAN (FAIN #69A3451860224) EAU CLAIRE, WISCONSIN (FAIN #69A3451860225) DOCKET DOT-OST-2009-0299 DOCKET DOT-OST-2009-0302 DOCKET DOT-OST-2009-0301 DOCKET DOT-OST-2009-0306 Under 49 U.S. C. § 47131 et seq. ORDER RE-SELECTING CARRIER AND ESTABLISHING SUBSIDY RATES Summary By this Order, the United States Department of Transportation (the Department) is re-selecting SkyWest Airlines, Inc. (SkyWest) to provide Essential Air Service (EAS) at Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin, for the twoyear period from February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020. SkyWest will provide each community with 14 nonstop round trips per week to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), using 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet 200 (CRJ-200) aircraft, at an annual combined subsidy rate of $9,885,266,2 as indicated below: Community Paducah Hancock/Houghton Muskegon Eau Claire 1 2 Subsidy $2,787,695 $2,024,076 $2,608,523 $2,464,972 Round trips Per Week 14 14 14 14 Federal Award Identification Number. Such subsidy is calculated and distributed on a fiscal year basis, subject to the availability of funds. DOT-18-0010-A-000192 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000192 -2Background By Order 2015-11-5, issued on November 6, 2015, the Department re-selected SkyWest at the above captioned communities, for the two-year period from February 1, 2016, through January 31, 2018. At Paducah, Eau Clare, and Muskegon, SkyWest was selected to provide 13 nonstop round trips per week to ORD. At Hancock/Houghton, SkyWest was selected to provide 14 nonstop round trips per week to ORD. SkyWest has operated this service using 50seat CRJ-200 aircraft at all four communities an annual combined subsidy rate of $8,444,567, as indicated below: Community Paducah Hancock/Houghton Muskegon Eau Claire Subsidy $2,170,549 $1,633,954 $2,418,759 $2,221,305 Round Trips Per Week 13 14 13 13 As the end of that rate term approached, the Department issued Order 2017-8-6, on August 7, 2017, requesting proposals from air carriers interested in providing EAS at the above communities for a new term. Those proposals were due no later than September 6, 2017. In response, SkyWest, the incumbent, was the only air carrier to submit a proposal for consideration. That proposal, as well as the complete public file for EAS at each of the above communities, may be accessed online through the Federal Docket Management System at http://www.regulations.gov, by entering each community’s respective Docket number in the “SEARCH for: Rules, Comments, Adjudications or Supporting Documents:” field. Proposal of SkyWest SkyWest proposed to provide each community with 14 nonstop round trips per week to ORD, using 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft, at an annual combined subsidy rate of $9,885,266. Community Comments On September 7, 2017, the Department requested community comments regarding this air carrier selection case. Comments of Paducah By a co-signed letter dated September 18, 2017, Ms. Brandi Harless, Mayor of Paducah, and Mr. Jay Page, Chairman of the Barkley Regional Airport Authority, provided support for the reselection of SkyWest. That letter explained, “we welcome a continuance of our valued air service utilizing the United Chicago hub. We look forward to a continued profitable partnership for another two years.” Comments of Hancock/Houghton By multiple, and nearly identical, letters, Mr. Jeff Ratcliffe, Executive Director of the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance (KEDA); Mr. Glenn Anderson, City Manager of Hancock; Mr. Eric Waara, City Manager of Houghton; Mr. Kevin Codere, President and CEO of Peninsula Copper Industries, Inc.; and Mr. Glen Simula, President of GS Engineering, urged the DOT-18-0010-A-000193 DOT_Am.Oversight-000193 -3Department to consider service to Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) on air service provided by Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Delta). All of those letters stated, “[o]ur regional carrier SkyWest has done an admirable job given the challenges of the hub and carrier, but surveys show that the local flying public would prefer to fly on Delta through MSP.” The Department received numerous letters from local business representatives and concerned citizens from the Hancock/Houghton community supportive of Delta’s service to MSP and/or DTW. However, the Department notes that Delta did not submit a proposal for consideration, nor did SkyWest propose service to MSP or DTW under the Delta Connection brand. Additionally, the Department received several letters from members of the Hancock/Houghton community supporting the continuance of the existing service to Chicago provided by SkyWest. Comments of Muskegon By letter dated September 19, 2017, Mr. Jeffery S. Tripp, Muskegon County Airport Manager, stated that the, “County of Muskegon supports SkyWest Airlines’ proposal to provide service from Muskegon County Airport to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.” Mr. Tripp explained in that letter that SkyWest recently adjusted its schedule to allow for an earlier daily departure which may increase enplanements at the airport. Comments of Eau Claire By letter dated September 22, 2017, Ms. Charity Zich, Chippewa Valley Regional Airport Director, provided support for SkyWest’s continued operations at Eau Claire. In support of SkyWest’s proposal, Ms. Zich stated, “[t]he combination of the CRJ aircraft, access to the United airlines network of flights, and non-stop service to Chicago O’Hare make the SkyWest proposal very attractive to our community.” Decision The Department has decided to re-select SkyWest, the incumbent and only air carrier to submit a proposal for consideration, to continue providing EAS at the above communities. SkyWest’s proposal aligns well with all five factors that 49 U.S.C. § 41733(c)(1) directs the Department to consider when making a carrier selection decision: (A) service reliability; (B) contractual and marketing arrangements with a larger air carrier at the hub; (C) interline arrangements with a larger air carrier at the hub (D) community views, giving substantial weight to the views of the elected officials representing the users of the service; and (E) whether the air carrier has included a plan in its proposal to market the service.3 SkyWest, the only air carrier to submit a proposal in response to Order 2017-8-6, received strong community support from Paducah, Muskegon, and Eau Claire and has an active codeshare and interline agreements in place with larger air carriers. SkyWest has a proven record of providing reliable EAS at other markets around the country. The air carrier’s service package will allow 3 In addition, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017, Pub. L. 115-31 as continued by the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 and Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, 2017, Pub. L. 115-56, provides that when selecting a carrier to provide EAS, the Department may consider the relative subsidy requirements, thus codifying a factor that has been considered since the inception of the program. DOT-18-0010-A-000194 DOT_Am.Oversight-000194 -4passengers to connect to air service provided by United and its Star Alliance partners at ORD. Additionally, the Department finds SkyWest’s service levels and subsidy rates to be reasonable. The Department shall make this selection of SkyWest contingent upon receiving properly executed certifications from the air carrier that it is in compliance with the Department’s regulations regarding drug-free workplaces and nondiscrimination, as well as the regulations concerning lobbying activities.4 Note Regarding Paducah, Muskegon, and Eau Claire’s Eligibility The Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2000, prohibits the Department from subsidizing EAS to communities located within the 48 contiguous States receiving per passenger subsidy amounts exceeding $200, unless the communities are located more than 210 miles from the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. Paducah, Muskegon, and Eau Claire are located fewer than 210 miles from a medium- or large-hub airport, and therefore subject to the $200 cap. The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Pub. L. 112-95 (The Act), provides that the Secretary of Transportation may waive the $200 subsidy cap, subject to the availability of funds, on a case-by-case basis, for a limited period of time. The Act also amended 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(B) to change the definition of “eligible place” for the purpose of receiving EAS. The amendment states that to be eligible, a community must maintain an average of 10 enplanements or more per service day, as determined by the Secretary, during the most recent Fiscal Year beginning after September 30, 2012. The legislation exempts locations in Alaska and Hawaii and communities that are more than 175 driving miles from the nearest large- or medium-hub airport. The Secretary also has the authority to waive the 10-enplanement standard (see 49 U.S.C. § 41731(e)), on an annual basis, if the community can demonstrate that the reason the location averages fewer than 10 enplanements per day is due to a temporary decline in enplanements. Paducah, Muskegon, and Eau Claire are also subject to this requirement. The Department also notes that 49 U.S.C. § 41731(a)(1)(C) states that to be eligible, a community must have had an average subsidy per passenger of less than $1,000 during the most recent fiscal year, regardless of distance to a hub airport as determined by the Secretary of Transportation or face termination of EAS eligibility. All four communities are subject to the $1,000 subsidy per passenger cap. 4 The certifications are internet accessible at: https://www.transportation.gov/office-policy/aviationpolicy/essential-air-service-reports. DOT-18-0010-A-000195 DOT_Am.Oversight-000195 -5Air Carrier Fitness 49 U.S.C. §§ 41737(b) and 41738 require the Department to find an air carrier fit, willing, and able to provide reliable service before it can provide subsidized EAS. SkyWest is subject to the Department’s continuing fitness requirements, and no information has come to the Department’s attention that would bring into question the air carrier's fitness at this time. The Department’s staff has contacted the Federal Aviation Administration, and it has raised no concerns that would negatively affect the Department’s fitness findings. The Department therefore concludes that SkyWest is reliable and remains fit to conduct the operations proposed here. This Order is issued under authority delegated in 49 CFR 1.25a(b)(6)(ii)(D). ACCORDINGLY, 1. The Department re-selects SkyWest Airlines, Inc. to provide Essential Air Service at Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin, at the service levels and subsidy rates as described in Appendix A, for the period from February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020; 2. The Department directs SkyWest Airlines, Inc. to retain all books, records, and other source and summary documentation to support claims for payment, and to preserve and maintain such documentation in a manner that readily permits its audit and examination by representatives of the Department. Such documentation shall be retained for seven years from the service date of this Order or until the Department indicates that the records may be destroyed, whichever comes first. Copies of flight logs for aircraft sold or disposed of must be retained. The air carrier may forfeit its compensation for any claim that is not supported under the terms of this Order; 3. The Department finds SkyWest Airlines, Inc. fit, willing and able to operate as a certificated air carrier, and capable of providing reliable Essential Air Service at Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin; 4. These dockets will remain open pending further Department action; and AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000196 DOT_Am.Oversight-000196 -65. The Department will serve copies of this Order on the civic officials of Paducah, Kentucky; Hancock/Houghton, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; Eau Claire, Wisconsin; the Directors of the Barkley Regional Airport (Paducah), Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (Eau Claire), Muskegon County Airport, and Houghton County Memorial Airport; and the service lists for these dockets. By: SUSAN McDERMOTT Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (SEAL) An electronic version of this document is available at http://www.regulations.gov DOT-18-0010-A-000197 DOT_Am.Oversight-000197 Appendix A SkyWest Airlines, Inc. Annual Compensation Requirements for Essential Air Service at Paducah, KY, Hancock/Houghton, MI, Muskegon, MI, and Eau Claire, WI Number of Round Trips Aircraft Type Passenger Revenue Passengers Average Fare Revenue PAH ORD 14 CRJ EAU ORD 14 CRJ CMX ORD 14 CRJ MKG ORD 14 CRJ 42,500 40,000 45,000 32,000 $                  94.00 $                  93.00 $               108.00 $                  73.00 $          3,995,000 $          3,720,000 $          4,860,000 $          2,336,000 Block Time Trip block Time (minutes) Total scheduled block time Total completed block time (98%) 89 2,160 2,117 79 1,917 1,879 89 2,160 2,117 58 1,407 1,379 RPMS Passengers Stage Length Total RPMs 42,500 40,000 45,000 342 268 359           14,535,000           10,720,000           16,155,000 32,000 118             3,776,000 ASM Scheduled departures Completed departures (98%) Stage length Available seats Total ASMs 1,456 1,456 1,456 1,427 1,427 1,427 342 268 359 50 50 50           24,897,600           19,510,400           26,135,200 1,456 1,427 118 50             8,590,400 Revenue $          3,995,000 $          3,720,000 $          4,860,000 $          2,336,000 Direct operating expenses RPM related Departure related ASM related Total expenses $          5,047,545 $          4,535,184 $          5,122,919 $          3,480,988 $              174,219 $             163,971 $             184,467 $             131,177 $          1,046,274 $          1,046,274 $          1,046,274 $          1,046,274 $              323,046 $             181,837 $             243,580 $                80,063 $          6,500,083 $          5,927,265 $          6,597,240 $          4,738,501 Operating income (loss) $         (2,505,083) $         (2,707,265) $         (1,737,240) $         (2,402,501) 5% profit margin $              282,612 $             257,707 $             286,837 $             206,022 Annual subsidy requirement $         (2,787,695) $         (2,464,972) $         (2,024,076) $         (2,608,523) SkyWest effective rates per unit Cost per trip Cost per passenger SkyWest cost per block hour $                  4,555 $                  4,154 $                  4,624 $                  3,321 $                     133 $                     129 $                     127 $                     129 $                  3,071 $                  3,155 $                  3,117 $                  3,435 Effective Subsidy rate per unit Subsidy per trip Subsidy per passenger $                 (1,954) $                 (1,728) $                 (1,419) $                 (1,828) $                      (66) $                      (62) $                      (45) $                      (82) Load factor 58% 55% 62% 44% DOT-18-0010-A-000198 DOT_Am.Oversight-000198 Appendix B Page 1 of 4 SkyWest Airlines, Inc. Essential Air Service to be provided at Paducah, KY DOT-OST-2009-0299 Effective Period: February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020 Scheduled Service: 14 nonstop round trips each week to Chicago O’Hare Aircraft: 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft Rate per Eligible Flight: $1,9541 Weekly Ceiling: $54,7122 The air carrier understands that it may forfeit its compensation for any flights that it does not operate in conformance with the terms and stipulations of the rate Order, including the service plans outlined in the Order and any other significant elements of the required service, without prior approval. The air carrier understands that an aircraft take-off and landing at its scheduled destination constitutes a completed flight; absent an explanation supporting subsidy eligibility for a flight that has not been completed, such as certain weather cancellations, only completed flights are considered eligible for subsidy. In addition, if the air carrier does not schedule or operate its flights in full conformance with the Order for a significant period, it may jeopardize its entire subsidy claim for the period in question. If the air carrier contemplates any such changes beyond the scope of the Order during the applicable period of these rates, it must first notify the Office of Aviation Analysis in writing and receive written approval from the Department to be ensured of full compensation. Should circumstances warrant, the Department may locate and select a replacement air carrier to provide service on these routes. The air carrier must complete all flights that can be safely operated; flights that overfly points for lack of traffic will not be compensated. In determining whether subsidy payment for a deviating flight should be adjusted or disallowed, the Department will consider the extent to which the goals of the program are met and the extent of access to the national air transportation system provided to the community. If the Department unilaterally, either partially or completely, terminates or reduces payments for service or changes service requirements at a specific location provided for under this Order, then, at the end of the period for which the Department does make payments in the stipulated amounts or at the stipulated service levels, the air carrier may cease to provide service to that specific location without regard to any requirement for notice of such cessation. Those adjustments in the levels of subsidy and/or service that are mutually agreed to in writing by the Department and air carrier do not constitute a total or partial reduction or cessation of payment. Subsidy contracts are subject to, and incorporate by reference, relevant statutes and Department regulations, as they may be amended from time to time. However, any such statutes, regulations, or amendments thereto shall not operate to controvert the foregoing paragraph. Funds may not be available for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017. The Government’s obligation for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, is subject to the availability of funds from which payment for services can be made. No legal liability on the part of the Government for any payment may arise for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, until funds are made available to the Department for performance. If sufficient funds are not made available for performance beyond December 8, 2017, the Department will provide notice in writing to the carrier. All claims for payment, including any amended claims, must be submitted within 90 days of the last day of the month for which compensation is being claimed. For example, claims for service provided in July must be filed by October 31st; August claims must be submitted by November 30th, and so on. 1 Annual compensation of $2,787,695 divided by 1,427 annual departures (28 weekly departures x 52 weeks x 98 percent completion). 2 28 flights per week multiplied by $1,954 per flight. DOT-18-0010-A-000199 DOT_Am.Oversight-000199 Appendix B Page 2 of 4 SkyWest Airlines, Inc. Essential Air Service to be provided at Hancock/Houghton, MI DOT-OST-2009-0302 Effective Period: February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020 Scheduled Service: 14 nonstop round trips each week to Chicago O’Hare Aircraft: 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft Rate per Eligible Flight: $1,4183 Weekly Ceiling: $39,7044 The air carrier understands that it may forfeit its compensation for any flights that it does not operate in conformance with the terms and stipulations of the rate Order, including the service plans outlined in the Order and any other significant elements of the required service, without prior approval. The air carrier understands that an aircraft take-off and landing at its scheduled destination constitutes a completed flight; absent an explanation supporting subsidy eligibility for a flight that has not been completed, such as certain weather cancellations, only completed flights are considered eligible for subsidy. In addition, if the air carrier does not schedule or operate its flights in full conformance with the Order for a significant period, it may jeopardize its entire subsidy claim for the period in question. If the air carrier contemplates any such changes beyond the scope of the Order during the applicable period of these rates, it must first notify the Office of Aviation Analysis in writing and receive written approval from the Department to be ensured of full compensation. Should circumstances warrant, the Department may locate and select a replacement air carrier to provide service on these routes. The air carrier must complete all flights that can be safely operated; flights that overfly points for lack of traffic will not be compensated. In determining whether subsidy payment for a deviating flight should be adjusted or disallowed, the Department will consider the extent to which the goals of the program are met and the extent of access to the national air transportation system provided to the community. If the Department unilaterally, either partially or completely, terminates or reduces payments for service or changes service requirements at a specific location provided for under this Order, then, at the end of the period for which the Department does make payments in the stipulated amounts or at the stipulated service levels, the air carrier may cease to provide service to that specific location without regard to any requirement for notice of such cessation. Those adjustments in the levels of subsidy and/or service that are mutually agreed to in writing by the Department and air carrier do not constitute a total or partial reduction or cessation of payment. Subsidy contracts are subject to, and incorporate by reference, relevant statutes and Department regulations, as they may be amended from time to time. However, any such statutes, regulations, or amendments thereto shall not operate to controvert the foregoing paragraph. Funds may not be available for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017. The Government’s obligation for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, is subject to the availability of funds from which payment for services can be made. No legal liability on the part of the Government for any payment may arise for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, until funds are made available to the Department for performance. If sufficient funds are not made available for performance beyond December 8, 2017, the Department will provide notice in writing to the carrier. All claims for payment, including any amended claims, must be submitted within 90 days of the last day of the month for which compensation is being claimed. For example, claims for service provided in July must be filed by October 31st; August claims must be submitted by November 30th, and so on. 3 Annual compensation of $2,024,076 divided by 1,427 annual departures (28 weekly departures x 52 weeks x 98 percent completion). 4 28 flights per week multiplied by $1,418 per flight. DOT-18-0010-A-000200 DOT_Am.Oversight-000200 Appendix B Page 3 of 4 SkyWest Airlines, Inc. Essential Air Service to be provided at Muskegon, MI DOT-OST-2009-0301 Effective Period: February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020 Scheduled Service: 14 nonstop round trips each week to Chicago O’Hare Aircraft: 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft Rate per Eligible Flight: $1,8281 Weekly Ceiling: $51,1842 The air carrier understands that it may forfeit its compensation for any flights that it does not operate in conformance with the terms and stipulations of the rate Order, including the service plans outlined in the Order and any other significant elements of the required service, without prior approval. The air carrier understands that an aircraft take-off and landing at its scheduled destination constitutes a completed flight; absent an explanation supporting subsidy eligibility for a flight that has not been completed, such as certain weather cancellations, only completed flights are considered eligible for subsidy. In addition, if the air carrier does not schedule or operate its flights in full conformance with the Order for a significant period, it may jeopardize its entire subsidy claim for the period in question. If the air carrier contemplates any such changes beyond the scope of the Order during the applicable period of these rates, it must first notify the Office of Aviation Analysis in writing and receive written approval from the Department to be ensured of full compensation. Should circumstances warrant, the Department may locate and select a replacement air carrier to provide service on these routes. The air carrier must complete all flights that can be safely operated; flights that overfly points for lack of traffic will not be compensated. In determining whether subsidy payment for a deviating flight should be adjusted or disallowed, the Department will consider the extent to which the goals of the program are met and the extent of access to the national air transportation system provided to the community. If the Department unilaterally, either partially or completely, terminates or reduces payments for service or changes service requirements at a specific location provided for under this Order, then, at the end of the period for which the Department does make payments in the stipulated amounts or at the stipulated service levels, the air carrier may cease to provide service to that specific location without regard to any requirement for notice of such cessation. Those adjustments in the levels of subsidy and/or service that are mutually agreed to in writing by the Department and air carrier do not constitute a total or partial reduction or cessation of payment. Subsidy contracts are subject to, and incorporate by reference, relevant statutes and Department regulations, as they may be amended from time to time. However, any such statutes, regulations, or amendments thereto shall not operate to controvert the foregoing paragraph. Funds may not be available for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017. The Government’s obligation for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, is subject to the availability of funds from which payment for services can be made. No legal liability on the part of the Government for any payment may arise for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, until funds are made available to the Department for performance. If sufficient funds are not made available for performance beyond December 8, 2017, the Department will provide notice in writing to the carrier. All claims for payment, including any amended claims, must be submitted within 90 days of the last day of the month for which compensation is being claimed. For example, claims for service provided in July must be filed by October 31st; August claims must be submitted by November 30th, and so on. 1 Annual compensation of $2,608,523 divided by 1,427 annual departures (28 weekly departures x 52 weeks x 98 percent completion). 2 28 flights per week multiplied by $1,828 per flight. DOT-18-0010-A-000201 DOT_Am.Oversight-000201 Appendix B Page 4 of 4 SkyWest Airlines, Inc. Essential Air Service to be provided at Eau Claire, WI DOT-OST-2009-0306 Effective Period: February 1, 2018, through January 31, 2020 Scheduled Service: 14 nonstop round trips each week to Chicago O’Hare Aircraft: 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft Rate per Eligible Flight: $1,7271 Weekly Ceiling: $48,3562 The air carrier understands that it may forfeit its compensation for any flights that it does not operate in conformance with the terms and stipulations of the rate Order, including the service plans outlined in the Order and any other significant elements of the required service, without prior approval. The air carrier understands that an aircraft take-off and landing at its scheduled destination constitutes a completed flight; absent an explanation supporting subsidy eligibility for a flight that has not been completed, such as certain weather cancellations, only completed flights are considered eligible for subsidy. In addition, if the air carrier does not schedule or operate its flights in full conformance with the Order for a significant period, it may jeopardize its entire subsidy claim for the period in question. If the air carrier contemplates any such changes beyond the scope of the Order during the applicable period of these rates, it must first notify the Office of Aviation Analysis in writing and receive written approval from the Department to be ensured of full compensation. Should circumstances warrant, the Department may locate and select a replacement air carrier to provide service on these routes. The air carrier must complete all flights that can be safely operated; flights that overfly points for lack of traffic will not be compensated. In determining whether subsidy payment for a deviating flight should be adjusted or disallowed, the Department will consider the extent to which the goals of the program are met and the extent of access to the national air transportation system provided to the community. If the Department unilaterally, either partially or completely, terminates or reduces payments for service or changes service requirements at a specific location provided for under this Order, then, at the end of the period for which the Department does make payments in the stipulated amounts or at the stipulated service levels, the air carrier may cease to provide service to that specific location without regard to any requirement for notice of such cessation. Those adjustments in the levels of subsidy and/or service that are mutually agreed to in writing by the Department and air carrier do not constitute a total or partial reduction or cessation of payment. Subsidy contracts are subject to, and incorporate by reference, relevant statutes and Department regulations, as they may be amended from time to time. However, any such statutes, regulations, or amendments thereto shall not operate to controvert the foregoing paragraph. Funds may not be available for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017. The Government’s obligation for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, is subject to the availability of funds from which payment for services can be made. No legal liability on the part of the Government for any payment may arise for performance under this Order beyond December 8, 2017, until funds are made available to the Department for performance. If sufficient funds are not made available for performance beyond December 8, 2017, the Department will provide notice in writing to the carrier. All claims for payment, including any amended claims, must be submitted within 90 days of the last day of the month for which compensation is being claimed. For example, claims for service provided in July must be filed by October 31st; August claims must be submitted by November 30th, and so on. 1 Annual compensation of $2,464,972 divided by 1,427 annual departures (28 weekly departures x 52 weeks x 98 percent completion). 2 28 flights per week multiplied by $1,727 per flight. DOT-18-0010-A-000202 DOT_Am.Oversight-000202 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) 2018 Senate schedule attached Thursday, December 07, 2017 12:47:20 PM 2018 Senate Schedule.pdf Senate Schedule 2018       Senate will convene January 3, 2018. Scheduled recess days: Monday, January 15 (MLK Day) February 19 – 23 (President’s Day) March 26 – April 6 (Easter/Passover) April 30 – May 4 May 28 – June 1 (Memorial Day) July 2 – 6 (Fourth of July) August 6 – September 3 (reconvene Tuesday, September 4) September 10 – 11 (Jewish Holiday) September 19 (Jewish Holiday) October 8 (Columbus Day) October 29 – November 12 (Election Day, Veterans Day) November 19 – 23 (Thanksgiving) Target sine die adjournment December 14 DOT-18-0010-A-000203 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000203 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) Amendment process continues on minibus Wednesday, June 20, 2018 7:27:47 PM SAP_Senate Amendment_HR5895.pdf   Hi, The Leader filed cloture tonight on the first minibus, but please note the following remarks:   “I FILED CLOTURE BUT WE ANTICIPATE THAT WILL NOT BE NECESSARY AND WE HOPE TO VITIATE THE CLOTURE MOTION TOMORROW. BECAUSE WE ANTICIPATE BEING ABLE TO PROCESS ADDITIONAL AMENDMENTS THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND WRAP THE BILL UP SOMETIME TOMORROW AFTERNOON. BUT THERE WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY DURING THE DAY TO CONTINUE TO PROCESS AMENDMENTS AND WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO FINISH THE BILL, AS I SAID, THIS WEEK WITHOUT RESORTING TO CLOTURE.”   There were a number of bipartisan amendments processed on the floor this week. We will continue consideration tomorrow.  FYI on the WH SAP on the minibus, transmitted today, as well, attached. See you Thursday!     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000204 DOT_Am.Oversight-000204 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 - leg text / votes tomorrow Wednesday, February 07, 2018 11:47:27 PM CRSUPP.PDF Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2018 - final.pdf Hi everyone –   Please see legislative text of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 attached, as well as an outline of the agreement to provide context.   FYI: There are two hand-changes to the attached doc:  On page 146, line 4, strike “251(c)(2)” and insert “251(c)(6) ”. On page 146, line 5, after “1985”, insert “, as amended by this Act,”.   Leader McConnell just flied cloture on the CR with this amendment attached.   The Senate will convene at 10:30 am. Votes expected tomorrow.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000205 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000205 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Final Passage Farm Bill / Vote results on amdts Thursday, June 28, 2018 7:12:33 PM ICYMI: The Senate passed the Farm Bill this evening! Many thanks to Senator Roberts and his team for their hard work.   Vote results:   · Final passage, H.R. 2, the farm bill, as amended -- passed, 86-11. · Lee Amendment #3074 (Prohibit certain practices re: certain commodity promotion programs (“checkoff programs”) and req. greater transparency) -- Not adopted, 38-57. · Kennedy Amendment #3383 (To provide for certain work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents and to require State agencies to operate a work activation program for eligible participants in the supplemental nutrition assistance program) -- Motion to table, Agreed to, 68-30.   Thanks, Erica       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000206 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000206 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: Senate Committee Clears FY2019 Labor, HHS, & Education Appropriations Bill Thursday, June 28, 2018 12:33:26 PM FYI. Last set of Senate bills reported today from full committee. Congratulations to Senate Approps.   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2018 11:58 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Committee Clears FY2019 Labor, HHS, & Education Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE COMMITTEE CLEARS FY2019 LABOR, HHS, & EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS BILL Panel Supports Increased Funding for NIH Research, Opioid Abuse Fight, Pell Grants WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today advanced the FY2019 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (Labor-HHS) Appropriations Act, which continues investments in critical medical research, opioid abuse prevention and treatment, and education. The committee-approved funding measure contains $179.3 billion, an increase of $2.2 billion above the FY2018 level, in base discretionary funding for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and Related Agencies. In addition, the bill includes $711 million pursuant to the 21st Century Cures Act. The measure was advanced by a vote of 30-1. “This legislation continues investments in programs that affect the health and wellbeing of all Americans. The bill includes important funding increases for medical research and initiatives to fight the opioid epidemic, while also prioritizing education and job training opportunities,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (RAla.). “Senators Blunt and Murray worked diligently to craft this bipartisan bill. I am pleased to recommend it to the Senate.” DOT-18-0010-A-000207 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000207 “This bill prioritizes resources for programs that touch the lives of every American and address the biggest challenges facing our nation,” said U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), chairman of the Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee. “Working within the limits of the budget agreement, we were able to continue our commitment to advancing medical research, fighting the opioid epidemic, improving rural health care, and ensuring students have the education and job training to be successful. These are all areas where federal investment is needed to strengthen communities, promote economic growth, and increase U.S. competitiveness.” “Every taxpayer dollar the government spends should be spent wisely or not at all. That means we need to continue efforts to crack down on waste, fraud, and abuse, and this bill does so. The resources provided in the bill will save taxpayers billions over the next decade. I’m proud we were, for the third year in a row, able to come together in a bipartisan way to advance a bill that merits the support of the full Senate,” continued Blunt. Bill Highlights: · · · · · · · National Institutes of Health (NIH) – $2 billion increase. Since Republicans took back the Senate starting with the FY2016 appropriations cycle, the Committee has increased funding for NIH by $9 billion or 30 percent. Fighting Opioid Abuse – $3.7 billion, an increase of $145 million. Funds are targeted towards improving treatment and prevention efforts; finding alternative pain medications; workforce needs, especially in our rural communities; and behavioral health. Funding for opioids has increased by $3.5 billion, or nearly 1,300 percent, since FY2015. Access to High Quality Early Childhood Care and Education – Includes a $250 million increase for Head Start and maintains the historic increase provided last year for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, to help improve the quality of child care programs and expand access to high-quality child care for working families. Mental Health – As a critical part of both combating opioid abuse and ensuring safety in our schools and communities, the bill provides $3.4 billion, a $195 million increase, for mental health treatment, prevention, and research. Public Health Preparedness – $3.5 billion, an increase of $113 million, to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from public health and medical disasters. Elementary and Secondary Education – The bill prioritizes formula grants that provide the most flexibility for states and school districts to decide how to best use limited resources to meet the educational needs of students and families. The bill includes a combined $400 million increase for: Title I Grants to school districts; IDEA/Special Education State grants; Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants; and Impact Aid. College Affordability and Completion – Includes a $100 increase, or 1.6 percent, for the maximum Pell grant award, to $6,195 for the 2018-19 academic year. The bill continues support for Year Round Pell, and continues significant increases provided last year for campus-based aid programs, TRIO, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and other higher education programs. DOT-18-0010-A-000208 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000208 DEPARTMENT OF LABOR The bill provides $12.1 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Labor, $92 million below FY2018. Veterans Employment Training (VETS) Programs – $300 million, an increase of $5 million above FY2018. VETS funding provides for intensive employment services to veterans and eligible spouses, transitioning service members, wounded warriors, and disabled veterans. This increased funding will support veterans in transition from the military to the civilian workforce. Rural Workforce Training Initiative – $30 million for the dislocated worker training initiative to provide reemployment and training assistance to dislocated workers in rural areas of the country hit hardest by the recession and recovering more slowly. Funding is devoted to training those who have lost their jobs in the Appalachian and Delta regions to ensure they can adapt existing skills and learn new skills demanded by other growing industries and return to work as soon as possible. $5 million of these funds are directed to support workforce training activities for individuals affected by an opioid use disorder. Apprenticeship Opportunities – $160 million, an increase of $15 million, for training programs utilizing the flexible and effective apprenticeship model. Workforce Training Programs – $2.8 billion distributed by formula to states and localities to meet each state’s unique job training and reemployment needs. Governor’s Statewide Reserve – The bill once again allows the full 15 percent state training grant funding reserve for governors to address a variety of statewide training needs, projects, expanded partnerships, emergency response, and other services as needed throughout their states. Job Corps – $1.7 billion to support the nation’s largest career technical training and educational program for at-risk youth, with centers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Approximately 95 percent of Job Corps students successfully attain industry-recognized certifications. YouthBuild – $89.5 million to help at-risk high school drop-outs develop skills and knowledge to obtain industry-recognized job credentials, apprenticeships, and employment. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES The bill provides $90.1 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Health and Human Services, a $2.3 billion increase above the comparable FY2018 level. National Institutes of Health – $39.1 billion, an increase of $2 billion, or 5.4 percent, above FY2018. The bill includes: • $2.3 billion for Alzheimer’s disease research, a $425 million increase. For the first time, funding in this year’s bill meets and surpasses the $2 billion funding goal for research laid out in the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s disease. DOT-18-0010-A-000209 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000209 • • • • • • • • • $500 million for research on opioid addiction, development of opioids alternatives, pain management, and addiction treatment. $429.4 million for the BRAIN Initiative to map the human brain, a $29 million increase; $361.8 million for the Institutional Development Award, a $11.2 million increase; $376 million for the All of Us precision medicine study, a $86 million increase; $550 million to Combat Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria, a $37 million increase; $560 million for the Clinical and Translational Science Award, a $17.32 million increase; $12.6 million for the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act; $120 million for research on the universal flu vaccine, a $20 million increase; Increases to every Institute and Center to continue investments in innovative research to advance fundamental knowledge and speed the development of new therapies, diagnostics, and preventive measures to improve the health of all Americans. Fighting Opioid Abuse – $3.7 billion, an increase of $145 million. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid overdoses now surpass motor vehicle accidents as the number one cause of accidental death in the country with over 42,000 deaths from an opioid overdose in 2016. The bill includes investments for the following activities: · $200 million for Community Health Centers to support and enhance behavioral health, mental health, or substance use disorder services. · $120 million focused on responding to the opioid epidemic in rural communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug-related deaths are 45 percent higher in rural communities, with rural states more likely to have higher rates of overdose deaths. · Maintains $476 million at CDC for opioid overdose prevention and surveillance as well as a public awareness campaign. The bill includes $5 million for a new initiative in CDC to combat infectious diseases directly related to opioid use; · $500 million for research related to opioid addiction, development of opioid alternatives, pain management, and addiction treatment; · $1.5 billion for SAMHSA’s State Opioid Response Grant, which continues a 15 percent set-aside for states with the highest mortality rate related to opioid use disorders and a $50 million set-aside for Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Funding replaces $500 million expiring from 21st Century CURES; · $150 million, an increase of $50 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers; · $60 million, the same as the FY2018 level, for child abuse prevention and treatment programs to support the development and implementation of plans of infant safe care to improve and better-coordinate services for newborn children exposed to substances and their families or caregivers; · $40 million, the same as the FY2018 level, for mental health and substance use prevention and treatment for children and families in, or at-risk of entering, the foster care system; · In addition to these amounts specifically directed to address the opioid crisis, the bill also provides $1.9 billion for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. Mental Health – $1.6 billion, $79 million above FY2018, for mental health programs at DOT-18-0010-A-000210 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000210 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Within this total, the bill provides $748 million for the Mental Health Block Grant, an increase of $25 million, and $150 million, an increase of $50 million, for new grants to Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers that meet the standards set forth in the Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Expansion Act. Community Health Centers (CHCs) – $1.63 billion for CHCs that serve more than 24 million patients per year through 10,400 health centers nationwide. $200 million is provided for CHCs to expand behavioral health and substance use disorder prevention and treatment services, including opioid abuse, and provide access to overdose reversal drugs and recovery support services. Obamacare – The bill does not provide new funding for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In addition, several oversight provisions are included in the agreement: · Risk Corridor – Continues a provision requiring the Administration to operate the ACA Risk Corridor program in a budget neutral manner by prohibiting any funds from the Labor-HHS Appropriations bill from being used as payments for the Risk Corridor program. · ACA Congressional Notification – Directs the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to notify the appropriate Congressional committees two business days before any ACA-related data or grant opportunities are released to the public. · Health Exchange Transparency – Includes bill language requiring the Administration to publish ACA-related spending by category since its inception. · ACA Personnel – Includes bill language requiring the Administration to publish information on the number of employees, contractors, and activities involved in implementing, administering, or enforcing provisions of the ACA. Rural Health Care – $318.8 million, $28 million above FY2018, for rural health programs. The obstacles faced by patients and providers in rural communities are unique and often significantly different than those in urban areas. The bill focuses resources toward efforts and programs to help rural communities, including $25.5 million, $2 million above FY2018, for Telehealth. The Telehealth program expands the use of telecommunications technologies within rural areas that can link rural health providers and patients with specialists. Children’s Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME) – $325 million, $10 million above FY2018. The CHGME program protects children’s access to high quality medical care by providing freestanding children’s hospitals with funding to support the training of pediatric providers. Global Health Security – $98 million, maintaining current funding for the global health security agenda. Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) – $5.2 billion, level with FY2018, which maintains the historic $2.4 billion increase provided last year to help states fully implement the 2014 reauthorization of the CCDBG Act. This will help states improve the quality of child care programs, including increasing provider rates and ensuring health and safety standards are met, and expand working families’ access to quality, affordable child care. Head Start – $10.1 billion, $250 million above FY2018. This includes $215 million to help all Head Start programs keep up with costs, recruit and retain highly qualified staff, maintain AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000211 DOT_Am.Oversight-000211 enrollment, and provide high-quality early childhood services for children and families. An additional $35 million is provided to expand the length of Head Start programs’ day and year to increase the duration of services provided to children and families. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – $3.7 billion, a $50 million increase, for home heating and cooling assistance for low-income households. Medicare Appeals – $182 million, maintaining the $75 million new investment from fiscal year 2018, to reduce the Medicare appeals backlog. Reducing the backlog is critical providing timely resolution to Medicare appeals for the medical community. Public Health Preparedness and Response – The bill includes additional funding for critical preparedness and response activities: · Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) – $562 million, $25 million above FY2018. BARDA is responsible for advanced research and development of medical countermeasures for national preparedness efforts. · Project BioShield – $735 million, $25 million above FY2018, to enhance national preparedness activities by procuring medical countermeasures against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. · Pandemic Influenza – $285 million, $35 million above FY2018, to improve the response and enhance the effectiveness of current pandemic influenza capabilities. · Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) – $680 million, $10 million above FY2018, to help states to prepare, respond, and recover from emerging threats such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) – $40.25 million, $2 million above FY2018. These centers develop and maintain a diverse health care workforce, broaden the distribution of the health workforce, enhance health care quality, and improve health care delivery to rural and underserved areas and populations. Victims of Trafficking – $27 million, $3 million above FY2018, for services for victims of human trafficking. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION The bill provides $71.4 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Education, a $541 million increase above the comparable FY2018 level. Promoting college access, completion and affordability · Pell Grants – Increases the maximum Pell grant award to $6,195, an increase of 1.6 percent or $100, to help students keep up with rising costs, limit the need for student loans, and ultimately graduate with less debt. The bill also continues support for Year Round Pell. · Campus-Based Aid Programs – $840 million for Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and $1.1 billion for Federal Work Study, both level with FY2018. These programs provide funding for college and universities to design financial aid programs to best meet the needs of their students. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000212 DOT_Am.Oversight-000212 · · TRIO – $1.01 billion, level with FY2018, for TRIO programs that provide services to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and first generation college students to help them enter and complete college and postgraduate education. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – The bill continues funding and authority provided last year that modifies eligibility for the PSLF program, and makes student borrowers eligible for PSLF if they were enrolled in an ineligible repayment plan, but otherwise would have been eligible for PSLF. State and Local Flexibility in Elementary and Secondary Education – The bill prioritizes funding for programs that provide the most flexibility for states and local school districts to decide how to best use limited resources, including support for STEM education and ensuring safe learning environments. · Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies – $15.9 billion, a $125 million increase, for this foundational Federal support for school districts and schools with a high percentage of low-income students to help all students succeed and meet challenging state academic standards. · Title IV Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants – $1.2 billion, an increase of $125 million, to support activities to provide students with a well-rounded education, including STEM education and computer science; ensure safe and supportive learning environments, including to help prevent and respond to school violence; and use technology to improve instruction. · IDEA Grants to States – $13.3 billion, a $125 million increase, for grants to states under parts B and C of the IDEA, to support special education services for children with disabilities, including grants for infants and families and children in preschool. · Impact Aid – $1.4 billion, a $25 million increase, to provide flexible support to local school districts impacted by the presence of federally-owned land and activities, such as military bases. · Adult Education State Grants – $642 million, a $25 million increase. · Career and Technical Education State Grants – $1.2 billion, level with FY2018. Charter Schools – $445 million, a $45 million increase, for grants to states, charter management organizations, and other related entities for the start-up, replication, and expansion of high-quality charter schools, including funding for facilities. This includes $7.5 million to expand charter schools in rural areas. STEM Education – $65 million, an increase of $15 million, in dedicated funding for evidence-based STEM education programs, including computer science education, within the Education Innovation and Research program. The bill also includes a $125 million increase for Student Support and Academic Enrichment formula grants, flexible funding that all school districts can use for a wide-range of activities including STEM education. 21st Century Community Learning Centers - $1.2 billion, level with FY2018, for grants to states to support academic enrichment activities for students before school, after school, and during the summer. Rural Education – $180 million, level with FY2018, for additional support to meet the unique needs of small rural schools and school districts. School Safety and Safe Learning Environments – $95 million, a $5 million increase, at the AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000213 DOT_Am.Oversight-000213 Department of Education for activities that include evidence-based programs to improve school climates, prevent violence, and provide services for students in response to incidents of violence. In addition, the bill includes a $125 million increase for Student Support and Academic Enrichment formula grants that can be used by every school district to support a wide range of activities including school counseling and school-based mental health programs. Funding is also maintained at the Department of Health and Human Services for programs that provide mental health support to schools and school-age children. RELATED AGENCIES Institute of Museum and Library Services – $242 million, a $2 million increase above FY2018. This agency supports programs for museums and libraries that encourage innovation, provide life-long learning opportunities, promote cultural and civic engagement, and improve access to a variety of services and information. Corporation for Public Broadcasting – $445 million for FY2021, level funding with FY2020. An additional $20 million is provided for the current year (FY2019) to continue the process of upgrading the public broadcasting interconnection system. Corporation for National and Community Service – $1.1 billion, a $6 million decrease, including: $415 million for AmeriCorps grants, an increase of $3 million, and $202 million for Senior Corps and $32 million for the National Civilian Community Corps, both level with FY2018. OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY Increasing the Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness of Government – The bill provides funding for activities aimed at reducing fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars, including: · Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments – $150 million to conduct enhanced, in-person assessments to accelerate the reemployment of Unemployment Compensation recipients to reduce the duration of their time receiving benefits and the likelihood of exhausting benefit coverage. These actions would also help protect the integrity of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund by reducing improper payments. This program has been shown to save $2.60 for every $1.00 spent. · Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control (HCFAC) – $765 million, a $20 million increase above FY2018, is provided by utilizing the cap adjustment provided in the Budget Control Act. For every $1.00 spent on HCFAC, $2.00 is recovered by the U.S. Treasury. This will create over $10.2 billion in savings to the Treasury over 10 years. · Preventing Social Security Disability Fraud, Abuse, and Improper Payments – $1.7 billion. This funding supports periodic reviews to ensure that individuals receiving Social Security disability benefits are still eligible under program rules. This funding is estimated to save approximately $9 billion over 10 years for the Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid programs. ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000214 DOT_Am.Oversight-000214 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of May 7, 2018 Monday, May 07, 2018 11:08:51 AM Morning! Sending over this week’s schedules for Senate Approps and floor in case they’re helpful. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, May 4, 2018 2:19 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of May 7, 2018   - --- United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 4, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY HEARING SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 7, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the hearing schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of May 7, 2018. TUESDAY, MAY 8, 2018 HOMELAND SECURITY SUBCOMMITTEE (Shelley Moore Capito, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security DOT-18-0010-A-000215 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000215 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Kirstjen Nielsen Secretary U.S. Department of Homeland Security   LEGISLATIVE BRANCH SUBCOMMITTEE (Steve Daines, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Library of Congress and the Architect of the Capitol 2:30 p.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Carla D. Hayden Librarian of Congress The Library of Congress The Honorable Stephen T. Ayers Architect of the Capitol AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000216 DOT_Am.Oversight-000216 WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Defense 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable James N. Mattis Secretary U.S. Department of Defense General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (John Boozman, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 2:30 p.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000217 DOT_Am.Oversight-000217 Witnesses: The Honorable Randy C. Reeves Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs National Cemetery Administration The Honorable Jon. J. Rychalski Assistant Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Dr. Carolyn C. Clancy, M.D. Executive in Charge Veterans Health Administration Mr. Thomas J. Murphy Executive in Charge Veterans Benefits Administration THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2018 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Lisa Murkowski, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of the Interior AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000218 DOT_Am.Oversight-000218 9:30 a.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Ryan Zinke Secretary U.S. Department of the Interior Accompanied by: Ms. Olivia Barton Ferriter Deputy Assistant Secretary Budget, Finance, Performance, and Acquisition Ms. Denise A. Flanagan Director Office of Budget   LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Roy Blunt, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 10:00 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000219 DOT_Am.Oversight-000219 Witness: The Honorable Alex Azar Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services     COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Jerry Moran, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Commerce 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Wilbur Ross Secretary U.S. Department of Commerce   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000220 DOT_Am.Oversight-000220 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: NEWS: FY2019 Interior, Environment Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Subcommittee Tuesday, June 12, 2018 5:31:47 PM Full committee markups of Interior, CJS and Leg Branch will be on Thursday. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2018 10:28 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 Interior, Environment Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Subcommittee   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL APPROVED BY SUBCOMMITTEE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies today approved a $35.853 billion measure to fund the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other agencies. The recommendation totals $35.853 billion in discretionary funding. The measure provides increased funding to address National Park maintenance backlogs and environmental and conservation programs, while also increasing funding for wildland firefighting and restoring proposed cuts to important Indian programs. The FY2019 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill is scheduled to be considered by the Senate Committee on Appropriations on Thursday. “I’m proud of the work we have done to direct federal resources where they are needed most by investing in programs aimed to protect people and our lands. This bill will empower Americans to create healthier, safer communities across the nation. This bill equips Americans with basic, vital services that many Americans may take for granted. Far too many communities in rural states like Alaska lack safe, water and adequate sewer infrastructure, but through this bill we provide substantial resources to improve wastewater and drinking water systems nationwide as well as construct new infrastructure,” said U.S. Senator Lisa DOT-18-0010-A-000221 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000221 Murkowski (R-Alaska), chairman of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee. “From support for improving and maintaining rural health facilities, to providing tools to combat domestic violence, substance abuse, and suicide --- I’m proud that this bill prioritizes the health and well-being of our nation’s rural communities. These investments today will have a lasting impact on our nation,” Murkowski said. Bill Highlights: U.S. Department of the Interior – $13.109 billion overall for the Interior Department, including full funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) – $1.34 billion for the BLM, an increase of $11 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Funds provided ensure a robust and responsible energy and minerals program and make important investments in improving public land management. National Park Service (NPS) – $3.21 billion for the NPS, an increase of $13.4 million above the FY2018 enacted level. This includes important increases for construction backlog, maintenance, and new park units. $23 million is included for the Centennial Challenge grant program, which provides matching grants to address backlog maintenance and other needs in the national parks. The bill maintains funding for the Heritage Area program at the enacted level of $20.3 million. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) – $1.57 billion for the FWS, which is $19.7 million below the FY2018 enacted level. Important program increases include funding for the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). The bill also provides funds to support FWS implementation of the RESTORE Act and to maintain continued operation of fish hatcheries. The bill continues the prohibition on listing the greater sage-grouse as an endangered species. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – $1.148 billion for the USGS, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, important program increases have been included for energy and mineral resources, mapping, natural hazards, and water resources. The bill also provides the requested funds for the Landsat 9 project and facility relocation expenses. Office of Surface Mining (OSM) – $252.8 million for the OSM, a decrease of $2.6 million below the FY2018 enacted level. The bill continues a $105 million pilot program to help address reclamation and economic development in coal country and includes $10 million to address reclamation and economic development in Indian Country. Indian Health Service (IHS) – $5.77 billion for the IHS, an increase of $234 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The bill fully funds Contract Support Costs in the amount of $822 million, representing the full amount of contract support costs owed to tribes. Additional funds are focused on combating opioid abuse, suicide prevention, domestic violence prevention, and alcohol and substance abuse problems. Funds are also included for infrastructure improvements to health care facilities and $115 million is provided for staffing of new health care facilities. DOT-18-0010-A-000222 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000222 Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education (BIA/BIE) – $3.07 billion for the BIA and BIE, an increase of $11.4 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, Contract Support Costs are fully funded, while increases enacted in FY2018 for human services and natural resource programs are continued as well as important public safety and justice programs. Construction activities and projects receive $359 million, a $5 million increase. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – $8.058 billion for EPA, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. Funding is focused on returning the agency to its core mission of environmental cleanup. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds receive more than $2.86 billion, an increase over the FY2018 enacted level. Additionally, the Water Infrastructure Finance Act (WIFIA) program is funded at $63 million, which will enable billions in loans to address water infrastructure challenges. Categorical grant programs that help states implement environmental regulations are increased by $17 million. The bill continues a provision that prohibits the Agency from regulating certain types of ammunition and fishing tackle. U.S. Forest Service (USFS) – $6.29 billion for the USFS includes investments in funding for improved health and management of our nation’s forests, as well as increased funding to fight wildfire. A $5 million increase for hazardous fuels reduction is provided to help prevent catastrophic wildfires, particularly in the wildland-urban interface. Wildland Firefighting – $4.345 billion to fight wildland fire, representing fire suppression funding at the 10-year average and $900 million in additional funding in anticipation of regular suppression funding being insufficient to cover the costs of fighting wildfire. The bill includes $724 million for the Forest Service and $176 million for the Department of the Interior. Smithsonian Institution – $1.043 million, equal to the FY2018 enacted level for the Smithsonian Institution. Important increases have been provided for the National Air and Space Museum renovation. National Endowment for the Arts and Humanities (NEA/NEH) – $155 million for both NEA and NEH. This is a $2.1 million increase above the FY2018 enacted levels for each endowment. Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) – $3.005 million, an increase of $5,000 above the FY2018 enacted level, for the CEQ.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000223 DOT_Am.Oversight-000223 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: NEWS: Senate Names Conferees for Minibus Appropriations Bill Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:30:37 PM Senate has moved to go to conference on the first minibus. There were two motions to instruct: Cassidy motion to extend NFIP authorization to Jan 31, 2019 – Agreed to 95-4 Corker motion on tariffs – Agreed to 88-11 Senate conferees appointed are below. First meeting of conferees is tomorrow, Thursday, at 11 AM.  Will send further info should you want to track, shortly. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:08 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Names Conferees for Minibus Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Cornmittee on APPROPRIATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 11, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor (Shelby) Jay Tilton (Leahy) SENATE NAMES CONFEREES FOR MINIBUS APPROPRIATIONS BILL WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate today announced the members who will participate in the Conference Committee to finalize H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill, which packages the Fiscal Year 2019 funding measures for Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch. The Senate conferees are as follows: · · · · · Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.) Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) · Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000224 DOT_Am.Oversight-000224 · · ·   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) ### DOT-18-0010-A-000225 DOT_Am.Oversight-000225 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: NEWS: Shelby, Leahy Announce Markup Schedule for FY2019 Monday, May 14, 2018 10:59:42 AM Morning! FYI on Senate Appropriations’ committee markup schedule. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Monday, May 14, 2018 10:48 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov>; Tilton, Jay (Appropriations) (b) (6) @appro.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Shelby, Leahy Announce Markup Schedule for FY2019   --- --- United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor (Shelby) Jay Tilton (Leahy) SHELBY, LEAHY ANNOUNCE MARKUP SCHEDULE FOR FY2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Appropriations Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Vice Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) today announced the following markup schedule for the Senate Appropriations Committee for Fiscal Year 2019. WEEK OF MAY 21-25, 2018 Markup of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000226 DOT_Am.Oversight-000226   WEEK OF JUNE 4-8, 2018   Markup of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019     WEEK OF JUNE 11-15, 2018 Markup of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2019   WEEK OF JUNE 18-22, 2018   Markup of the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2019   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000227 DOT_Am.Oversight-000227   WEEK OF JUNE 25-29, 2018   Markup of the Defense Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 NOTE: The schedule is tentative and subject to change   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000228 DOT_Am.Oversight-000228 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, June 11, 2018 11:19:43 AM Floorcast061118.pdf Morning! FYI on Senate schedule this week.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, June 11, 2018 11:01 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - '1' EN ATE Senator John Barra o, Chaionan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, June 11 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R. 5515, the Defense Authorization bill, post-cloture.  At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will vote on the motion to proceed. Consideration of H.R. 5515 will take up the balance of the week. On Tuesday, there will be a parade in the District of Columbia featuring Lord Stanley’s Mug*, which until recently has only made short visits to the area.   A LOOK AHEAD: Items the Senate may consider during this work period include: · · · · · · · Nominations; S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; Farm bill; Legislation relating to opioids; Appropriations; FAA reauthorization; and Flood insurance legislation.     On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.    DOT-18-0010-A-000229 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000229 RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 *Another name for the Stanley Cup, which is named after Lord Frederick Stanley of Preston.  He was the 16th Earl of Derby, 6th Governor General of Canada, and the donor of the original trophy.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000230 DOT_Am.Oversight-000230 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 2: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, May 21, 2018 10:41:45 AM FYI on Senate schedule this week. Leader McConnell started the process to consider the following nominations, in this order: 1. Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission for a term of seven years from October 27, 2017. 2. Motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2372, Veterans Choice. 3. Cal. #670 - Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of five years.  4. Cal. #672 - Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years. 5. Cal. #618 - James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador of the United States to Luxembourg.   At a time and date TBD, the Senate will also proceed to Executive Session for the consideration of Brian D. Montgomery to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (Federal Housing Administration). Following four hours of debate, the Senate will vote on confirmation of the nomination. More information, below.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, May 21, 2018 10:33 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - Senator John Barrasso, Chail,"lllan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, May 21 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: Today the Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission for a term of seven years from October 27, 2017.  At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct a cloture vote on the nomination. On Thursday, May 17, cloture was also filed on the following items, which the Senate will consider this week: DOT-18-0010-A-000231 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000231 1) The motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 2372, the VA MISSION bill.  The amendment tree is filled.  All first-degree amendments must be filed at the desk by  5:00 p.m. today; 2) Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of five years; 3) Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years; and 4) Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador to Luxembourg. A LOOK AHEAD: Items the Senate may consider during the next work period include: · · · Nominations; S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; and FAA Reauthorization.   On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.      AMERICAN pVERSIGHT RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000232 DOT_Am.Oversight-000232 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 3: NEWS: FY2019 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Committee Thursday, June 07, 2018 11:54:07 AM FYI From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 7, 2018 11:36 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Committee   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 7, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 MILCON-VA APPROPRIATIONS BILL APPROVED BY COMMITTEE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today approved the FY2019 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Bill, providing support for critical housing, infrastructure, and facilities for U.S. military forces and their families, as well as increased funding for veterans’ health care and benefits. Approved on a bipartisan vote of 31-0, the measure includes $97.1 billion in FY2019 discretionary funding, $5.1 billion above the FY2018 level. The bill provides critical funding for construction of national defense facilities, family housing, and military hospitals and schools. The bill also provides funding for veterans’ health care, veterans’ benefits, medical and prosthetic research, the National Cemetery Administration, information technology, and the VA Inspector General. “This bill supports investments that will ensure maximum readiness and warfighting capability for our troops, while also providing funding for needed improvements and innovations at the VA,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “I appreciate the dedicated work done by Senators Boozman and Schatz to put forward this important, balanced legislation.” “Keeping the promise we made to our veterans is an important responsibility of the DOT-18-0010-A-000233 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000233 federal government. Just as essential is that we ensure our military has the infrastructure it needs to defend our nation and its allies. This bill reflects these priorities by increasing resources to prevent veteran suicide, increasing rural access to healthcare, supporting critical mental health programs, preventing veterans homelessness and providing robust funding for innovative medical research. Our bill will also give the Department of Defense the resources it needs to project power globally, enhance our warfighting capabilities and train our servicemembers,” said U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.), chairman of the MilCon-VA Appropriations Subcommittee. Bill Highlights: Military Construction – $10.3 billion to fund 169 military construction projects, which is $228 million above the FY2018 level. This includes funds for construction and renovation projects on military bases within the United States and around the globe. • • • • • • • European Reassurance Initiative – $792 million to fund construction projects in support of U.S. allies through the European Reassurance Initiative. Overseas Contingency Operations – $129 million for construction projects in direct support of military operations in the Middle East. Military Family Housing – $1.6 billion for construction, operation and maintenance of military family housing, which is $173 million above the FY2018 level. The bill includes construction funding for nine family housing projects. Military Medical Facilities – $366 million for construction or alteration of military medical facilities. This funding will allow for continued support and care for 9.8 million eligible beneficiaries, including wounded U.S. troops abroad. Department of Defense Education Facilities – $388 million for essential safety improvements and infrastructure work at four overseas military schools. Guard and Reserve – $487 million to support the construction needs of National Guard and Reserve forces. NATO Security Investment Program – $171 million to provide infrastructure for training, deterrence, and the NATO Alliance’s response to challenges posed by Russia and threats from the Middle East and North Africa. Veterans Affairs (VA) – The legislation includes a record level of $86.4 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, an increase of $5 billion above the FY2018 level. These resources will provide the healthcare, benefits, and memorial services earned by U.S. service members and veterans. • • • VA Medical Care – $78.3 billion to support medical treatment and healthcare for approximately 9.3 million enrolled patients in FY2019. The bill includes: $8.6 billion for mental health; $860.8 million for the Caregivers Program; $400 million for opioid misuse prevention and treatment; $779 million for medical and prosthetic research; $525 million for health care specifically for women veterans; and $270 million for rural health initiatives. Veterans Homelessness – $1.8 billion for VA Homelessness programs. The bill includes $450 million for the Supportive Services for Veterans Families program. Claims Processing – $3 billion, which is $87 million above the president’s request, to ensure that proper staffing and resources are utilized to reduce the wait time and backlog DOT-18-0010-A-000234 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000234 • • • of disability decisions on appeal, and to meet the demand for other benefit programs. Construction – $1.8 billion for major and minor construction associated with VA hospital replacement, correction of seismic deficiencies, scores of projects to improve access to VA health care, and the VA’s National Cemeteries. The bill also includes $150 million in construction grants for State Extended Care Facilities. VA Mandatory Funding – The bill fulfills mandatory funding requirements, including veteran disability compensation programs for 4.9 million veterans and 432,000 survivors; education benefits for nearly one million veterans; guaranteed home loans for 519,000 veterans; and vocational rehabilitation and employment training for more than 149,000 veterans. Advance Appropriations – $75.6 billion in FY2020 advance discretionary funding for veterans health care, and $121.3 billion in FY2020 advance mandatory funding for veterans benefits. Related Agencies – The legislation also includes $317.7 million in funding for: • • • • American Battle Monuments Commission – $81 million U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims – $35 million Arlington National Cemetery – $137.4 million Armed Forces Retirement Home – $64.3 million   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000235 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000235 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 3: NEWS: Senate Committee Advances FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Bill Thursday, June 14, 2018 3:58:41 PM FYI – The committee has reported seven of the twelve bills. Three were approved today – CJS, Interior and Leg Branch. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2018 12:12 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Committee Advances FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate C:ommitte,e on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor COMMITTEE ADVANCES FY2019 COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE APPROPRIATIONS BILL Measure Prioritizes Federal Law Enforcement, Economic Development, Space, & Scientific Research WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today approved the FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act with funding for programs that support law enforcement, economic prosperity, scientific research, space exploration, and other national priorities. The $62.995 billion measure, which is $3.4 billion above the FY2018 enacted level, funds the U.S. Departments of Commerce and Justice, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, and other agencies. The committee-passed bill invests in federal law enforcement agencies, state and local law enforcement grants, space exploration, basic science research, economic development programs, trade enforcement, ocean observations, and weather forecasting. It was approved 30-1. “This legislation invests in significant priorities that impact the entire nation, such as law enforcement, space explorations, scientific research, and economic development agencies,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “Senators Moran and Shaheen have worked together to strike a fair and proper funding DOT-18-0010-A-000236 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000236 balance, and I commend their good work on this bipartisan measure.” “This bipartisan bill achieves an appropriate balance between fiscal responsibility and investing in our future by supporting law enforcement, national security interests, economic development and scientific innovation,” said U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Subcommittee. “Sen. Shaheen and I have worked in an open and transparent manner to address the many important priorities within our jurisdiction, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill when it is considered by the Senate.” Bill Highlights: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE The bill funds the U.S. Department of Commerce at $11.57 billion, an increase of $435 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The Committee continues its strong support for economic development, strengthening trade enforcement, improving fisheries management, protecting intellectual property rights, and advancing severe weather forecasting. International Trade Administration (ITA) – $499 million for ITA, including a $4 million increase above the FY2018 enacted level, to allow ITA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance to initiate investigations of foreign actors suspected of violating trade laws to the detriment of American businesses. Economic Development Administration (EDA) – $305.5 million for EDA, including $117 million for its Public Works program, which supports brick-and-mortar projects in distressed communities across the nation. Funding for EDA also includes $25 million for the Regional Innovation Program, an increase of $4 million above the FY2018 enacted amount, to promote and strengthen regional innovation to spur job creation through private-public partnerships. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) – $3.37 billion for USPTO to protect the ideas and inventions of our nation’s entrepreneurs in an effort to advance and innovate all sectors of the economy. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – $1.04 billion for NIST, $161 million below the FY2018 enacted level, to strengthen the U.S. cybersecurity posture through cutting-edge research and development, expand opportunities in the areas of advanced manufacturing, and continue promotion of the highest-quality standards to maintain fairness in the global marketplace. Funding for NIST includes $140 million for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, which is a private-public partnership present in all 50 states dedicated to serving small- and medium-sized manufacturers. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – $5.48 billion for NOAA, a $426 million decrease below the FY2018 enacted level, to continue core NOAA operations including: ocean monitoring; fisheries management; coastal grants to states; aquaculture research; weather satellites; and severe weather forecasting. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) – NTIA is funded at $39 million, equal to the FY2018 enacted amount. Funds are included to enhance the DOT-18-0010-A-000237 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000237 National Broadband Map, to help provide better broadband access for underserved communities to allow wider national participation and economic growth, and to allow NTIA to perform cutting-edge telecommunications research and engineering. Bureau of the Census – $3.82 billion for the Bureau of the Census, more than $1 billion above the FY2018 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. The bill directs the Census Bureau to continue efforts to hold the costs of the 2020 Census lower than that of the 2010 Census and to maintain focus on activities that will make such savings possible. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE The bill funds the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) at $30.7 billion, $402.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Salaries and expenses for most federal law enforcement agencies are increased by two percent. The constantly changing landscape of criminal activity at home and abroad tests DOJ’s ability to deal with emerging threats, and this bill directs federal law enforcement agencies to work cooperatively to safeguard taxpayer dollars while preserving public safety. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – $9.415 billion for the FBI salaries and expenses and construction, a $15 million increase above the 2018 enacted level. This funding will enable the FBI to continue protecting and defending against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats, both at home and abroad. The bill provides $91.6 million for the Innocent Images National Initiative to target and investigate sexual predators on the Internet, and increases funding for cybersecurity activities to neutralize, mitigate, and disrupt illegal computer-supported operations. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – $2.23 billion for the DEA, $44 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to allow the agency to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States, including efforts to combat heroin use and prescription drug abuse. United States Marshals Service (USMS) – $2.95 billion for the USMS, including $1.5 billion for federal prisoner detention expenses. This funding will allow the USMS to continue executing Adam Walsh Act enforcement requirements, such as apprehending convicted sex offenders who fail to register as fugitives; executing responsibilities under International Megan’s Law, including alerting foreign governments when registered sex offenders travel abroad; and providing continued support for establishing a new Regional Fugitive Task Force. U.S. Attorneys – $2.18 billion for the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the 94 U.S. Attorneys offices. This funding includes $48.34 million, equal to the President’s budget request, to continue the focus on Adam Walsh Act investigations and prosecutions related to the sexual exploitation of children. This funding also includes $60.5 million to continue efforts to combat cybercrime and intrusions. Law Enforcement Grant Programs – $2.87 billion for state and local law enforcement and crime prevention grant programs, which includes grants for state and local law enforcement, the Office on Violence Against Women, and juvenile justice programs. The bill provides $445 million for Byrne JAG; approximately $214.5 million for initiatives to address sexual AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000238 DOT_Am.Oversight-000238 assault kit and other DNA evidence backlogs; $360 million for Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) programs, including $102.5 million in support for Drug Courts and Veterans Treatment Courts to further combat the opioid and heroin epidemic; $90 million for Second Chance Act grants to reduce recidivism for adults released from jail by offering substance abuse treatment, employment assistance, and other rehabilitation services; $32 million for COPS Office Anti-Heroin Task Forces grants; and $8 million for COPS Office Anti-Methamphetamine Task Forces grants. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) – PSN is a high priority of DOJ and focuses on combating violent crime. PSN is fully funded at $50 million, which is the authorized level recently approved by Congress. STOP School Violence Act – The STOP School Violence Act, passed in the FY2018 Omnibus, is fully funded at its authorized level of $100 million. Crime Victims Fund (CVF) – The bill provides $4.4 billion to victims and for victim services in FY2019, which is equal to the FY2018 level. Additionally, $10 million is reserved for the DOJ Office of the Inspector General to audit grants funded through this distribution, and five percent of the total distribution is set aside to improve services for tribal victims of crime. SCIENCE National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – $21.3 billion for NASA, $587 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $1.43 billion above the budget request, to support the human and robotic exploration of space, to fund science missions that enhance the understanding of the Earth, the solar system, and the universe, and to support fundamental aeronautics research. Using the same account funding structure as in previous years, this includes: · $5.3 billion for Exploration, $549 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to advance NASA’s human exploration program through providing $2.15 billion for the Space Launch System (SLS), $1.35 billion for the Orion crewed spacecraft to continue development of NASA’s next deep-space crewed capsule, and $504 million to begin development of the Lunar Orbital Platform. · $6.4 billion for Science, $179 million above the FY2018 enacted amount and $505 million above the request, including $1.9 billion for Earth science, $2.2 billion for Planetary science, $1.5 billion for astrophysics (including $304 million for the Webb telescope), and $720 million for Heliophysics. · $725 million for Aeronautics, which is $40 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $91 million above the request. The bill supports the ongoing work on aeronautics x-vehicles, advanced research into aeronautics materials and materials characterization, and further research on unmanned aerial systems and unmanned traffic management. · $110 million is provided for the NASA’s education programs, which were proposed to be eliminated in the budget request, under a newly named Science, Technology, AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000239 DOT_Am.Oversight-000239 · Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Opportunities activity. Within STEM Opportunities, Space Grant is funded at $44 million, NASA’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) is funded at $21 million, the Minority University Research and Education Project is funded at $33 million, and STEM Education and Accountability projects is funded at $12 million. $933 million is provided for Space Technology, $173 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Funding is included to advance projects in early stages of development that are expected to eventually demonstrate capabilities needed for future space exploration. National Science Foundation (NSF) – $8.1 billion for NSF, $301 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $597 million above the request. Funding is provided for basic research across scientific disciplines to support the development of effective STEM programs. · The bill provides $222 million above the FY2018 level for research and $13 million above FY2018 level for education activities. These funds will allow NSF to provide more grants to highly competitive research projects and help provide opportunities to prepare the next generation of STEM leaders. · $177 million is provided for EPSCoR, an increase of $6 million above the FY2018 enacted level. · $89.2 million is provided for the design and construction of three Regional Class Research Vessels (RCRV), with $60.5 million dedicated to the start of the third ship. By having three regional ships, the Gulf of Mexico and the East and West coasts will be able to have a dedicated RCRV to maximize research time in each of these regions. RELATED AGENCIES Legal Services Corporation (LSC) – $410 million for LSC, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. LSC uses a competitive grant process to provide civil legal aid in high-need areas across the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) – $95 million for ITC, $1 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $7 million above the budget request. ITC is an independent agency responsible for providing Congress and the President with impartial advice on U.S. international trade policy. Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) – $73 million for USTR, equal to the 2018 enacted level, and includes up to $15 million derived from the Trade Enforcement Trust Fund for enforcement activities authorized by the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. As the federal government’s lead negotiator for trade agreements, this funding will maintain the strong bargaining position of USTR, as well as its trade coordination and enforcement actions. Oversight and Accountability – The measure includes provisions to ensure accountability and oversight of funds within this bill, including: · Requiring the appropriate Inspectors General to conduct random audits of grant funding to combat waste, fraud, and abuse. · Establishing an early warning system on cost overruns and requiring agencies to notify the Committee when costs grow more than 10 percent. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000240 DOT_Am.Oversight-000240 · · · · Prohibiting grants and contracts to tax frauds. Requiring agencies to report conference spending to their Inspector General. Requiring all departments and agencies to link all contracts that provide award fees to successful acquisition outcomes, and prohibiting the use of funds to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors with below satisfactory performance. Requiring each agency to report on all efforts made to address the duplication identified by the annual Government Accountability Office duplication reports, along with identifying substantive challenges and legal barriers that could help the agencies further reduce duplication. ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000241 DOT_Am.Oversight-000241 From: To: Subject: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 1 of 3: NEWS: Senate Committee Approves FY2019 Financial Services & General Government Appropriations Bill Thursday, June 21, 2018 3:56:25 PM Date: Senate Appropriations continues with their aggressive markup schedule to report all bills before July 4th. Only two more bills remain next week for markup – Defense and LHHS. FYI on this week’s bills and committee action. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 21, 2018 12:28 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Committee Approves FY2019 Financial Services & General Government Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 21, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 FINANCIAL SERVICES & GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL Bill Funds Treasury Counterterrorism Activities, Continues Prohibitions on Controversial IRS Activities WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today advanced a $23.688 billion funding measure that prioritizes national programs to combat terrorism financing, spur small business growth, maintain a fair and efficient judicial system, and target heroin and prescription drug abuse. The FY2019 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act provides $16 million above the FY2018 enacted level to fund the U.S. Treasury Department, the Judiciary, Small Business Administration, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and several other independent agencies. The measure includes targeted funding increases for the Treasury Department to combat money laundering and terrorism financing; for the SEC and CFTC to oversee our DOT-18-0010-A-000242 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000242 nation’s securities, swaps, and futures markets; for the Federal courts to support the administration of justice; and for the General Services Administration’s (GSA) Federal Buildings Fund. The bill was approved 31-0. “The bill funds several agencies that are critical to maintaining the integrity of our financial markets and promoting the growth of our economy,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “I commend Senators Lankford and Coons for producing a strong bill that carefully balances many competing interests.” “This is a responsible bill that boosts our national economy, financial security, and government accountability, and I urge the Senate to pass it without delay,” said U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.), chairman of the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee. “I’m pleased that we are moving forward on the appropriations process. Orderly and transparent appropriations is a core responsibility of Congress, and a place where significant government reforms can be implemented.” Bill Highlights: Treasury Departmental Offices – $208.751 million for Departmental Offices, an increase of $8 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Additional funds will allow the Department to manage a growing caseload associated with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, invest in information technology improvements, and hire additional staff to conduct economic analysis of tax regulatory actions. Treasury Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI) – $159 million for TFI, which combats terrorism financing and administers economic and trade sanctions through its Office of Foreign Assets Control. The FY2019 amount is $17.2 million above the enacted level and is equal to the President’s budget request. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – $11.263 billion for the IRS. Of this amount, $77 million is dedicated to implementation of tax reform. In addition, to ensure accountability and transparency, the bill includes: · A prohibition on funds for bonuses or to rehire former employees unless employee conduct and tax compliance is given consideration; · A prohibition on funds for the IRS to target groups for regulatory scrutiny based on their ideological beliefs; · A prohibition on funds for the IRS to target individuals for exercising their First Amendment rights; · A prohibition on funds for the production of inappropriate videos and conferences. Executive Office of the President (EOP) – $728 million for EOP, which is $2.6 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The bill maintains the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) and Drug-Free Communities (DFC) programs within the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The bill provides $280 million for the HIDTA program to combat heroin and prescription opioid abuse and $99 million for the DFC program. Judiciary – $7.251 billion in discretionary funding for the federal judiciary, which is $140 million above the FY2018 enacted level. This will provide sufficient funding for federal court DOT-18-0010-A-000243 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000243 activities, including timely and efficient processing of federal cases, court security, and defender services. Small Business Administration (SBA) – $699.3 million for the SBA to provide assistance to small businesses, expand the economy, and increase job growth for unemployed and underemployed Americans. The bill fully funds business loans at $159.2 million. The bill also funds several valuable programs, including $130 million for Small Business Development Centers, $31 million for microloan technical assistance, $12.3 million for veterans outreach programs, and $11.5 million for SCORE, formerly the Service Corps of Retired Executives. General Services Administration (GSA) – The bill allows GSA to spend $9.63 billion out of the Federal Buildings Fund. This level will provide funding for rent payments for privatelyowned office space leased by the government, and operations and maintenance costs for buildings owned by federal government agencies across the nation. Of this amount, the bill provides $1.08 billion for construction, and the measure fully funds the requested levels for Major Repairs and Alterations ($424.7 million) and Basic Repairs ($373.6 million) to continue addressing the backlog of repairs and renovations needs across the federal government. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – $1.695 billion for the SEC, which is equal to the FY2018 budget request and includes $37 million for the potential relocation of the SEC’s New York Regional Office. The bill provides targeted funding for economic analysis within the Division of Economic and Risk Analysis. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) – $281.5 million for the CFTC, which is equal to the FY2019 budget request. The bill includes increased funding to boost the CFTC’s analytical expertise, cybersecurity capabilities, and financial technology to maximize the Commission’s ability to oversee the nation’s swaps, futures, and options markets. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – $309.7 million for the FTC, which is equal to the FY2019 budget request. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) – $333.1 million for the FCC, which is equal to the FY2019 budget request. District of Columbia – $703.2 million in federal payments to the District of Columbia. Within this amount, the bill provides resources for public safety and security costs, and supports the District of Columbia court system and offender supervision program. Other Oversight, Accountability, and Noteworthy Provisions: · A prohibition on funds for an increase in pay for the Vice President and other senior political appointees; · A prohibition on funding for grants or contracts to tax cheats and companies with felony criminal convictions; A • prohibition against the use of funds to paint portraits of federal employees, including the President, Vice President, Cabinet Members and Members of Congress; • A requirement that agency inspectors general have timely access to agency documents and records; DOT-18-0010-A-000244 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000244 · · A requirement that all departments and agencies link contracts that provide award fees to successful acquisition outcomes, and prohibit the use of funds to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors with below satisfactory performance; and A pay increase for civilian federal employees of 1.9 percent in calendar year 2019, equal to the 2018 increase.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000245 DOT_Am.Oversight-000245 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 11, 2018 Monday, June 11, 2018 11:20:12 AM ICYMI - Senate Appropriations’ markups this week. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, June 8, 2018 12:40 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 11, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 8, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 11, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of June 11, 2018. TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2018 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Lisa Murkowski, Chairman) DOT-18-0010-A-000246 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000246 Markup of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 9:30 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Jerry Moran, Chairman)   Markup of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2018 COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Markup of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2019 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000247 DOT_Am.Oversight-000247 10:30 a.m., Room 106, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000248 DOT_Am.Oversight-000248 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of May 21, 2018 Monday, May 21, 2018 10:44:12 AM FYI on Senate Appropriations’ schedule this week. This is the first week of FY 19 committee markups, starting with Energy and Water and Agriculture bills. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, May 18, 2018 9:56 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of May 21, 2018   - United States Senate Comrnittee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARD SHELBYOF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 18, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 21, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of May 21, 2018. TUESDAY, MAY 22, 2018 FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (James Lankford, Chairman) DOT-18-0010-A-000249 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000249 Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of the Treasury 10:00 a.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Steven T. Mnuchin Secretary U.S. Department of the Treasury The Honorable David Kautter Acting Commissioner Internal Revenue Service AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (John Hoeven, Chairman) Markup of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 10:30 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000250 DOT_Am.Oversight-000250 ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Lamar Alexander, Chairman) Markup of the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 2:30 p.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 2018 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Lisa Murkowski, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Indian Health Service 9:30 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: Rear Admiral Michael D. Weahkee Acting Director Indian Health Service AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000251 DOT_Am.Oversight-000251 Accompanied by: Rear Admiral Michael Toedt, M.D. Chief Medical Officer Indian Health Service Mr. Gary Hartz, P.E. Director, Office of Environmental Health and Engineering Indian Health Service Ms. Ann Church Acting Director, Office of Finance and Accounting Indian Health Service COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Jerry Moran, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable James F. Bridenstine Administrator National Aeronautics and Space Administration AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000252 DOT_Am.Oversight-000252 THURSDAY, MAY 24, 2018 COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Consideration of 302(b) Subcommittee allocations Markup of the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 10:30 a.m., Room 106, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000253 DOT_Am.Oversight-000253 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: NEWS: FY2019 Defense Appropriations Bill Gains Senate Committee Approval Thursday, June 28, 2018 12:33:38 PM FYI. Last set of Senate bills reported today from full committee. Congratulations to Senate Approps.   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2018 11:26 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 Defense Appropriations Bill Gains Senate Committee Approval   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS BILL GAINS COMMITTEE APPROVAL WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today advanced its FY2019 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, which makes essential investments in our military and supports programs necessary to protect U.S. national security interests. The FY2019 defense funding bill, which was approved by a vote of 30-1, includes $675.0 billion, an increase of $20.4 billion over the FY2018 enacted level. The recommendation provides $607.1 billion in base funding and $67.9 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funding in title IX of the bill. Additionally, the bill supports the largest pay raise for our servicemembers in nearly 10 years. “This bill sustains U.S. force structure and improves military readiness. It also recommends investments in future technologies needed to defend our nation in an increasingly complex and competitive national security environment,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), who also chairs the Subcommittee on Defense. “Our military must maintain its technological superiority and this bill does that through important investments in basic research, hypersonics, directed energy, missile defense, cybersecurity, and our test and evaluation infrastructure. I appreciate the support of Vice Chairman Durbin in crafting this legislation and recommend its consideration by the Senate.” DOT-18-0010-A-000254 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000254 Bill Highlights: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE The FY2019 measure provides $607.1 billion in base Department of Defense funding and $67.9 billion in OCO funding. Military Personnel and Pay – Fully funds an Active Duty end strength of 1,329,461 and a Selected Reserve end strength of 816,900 for a total strength of 2,146,361, an increase of 6,961 servicemembers over FY2018 authorized levels, and supports a military pay raise of 2.6 percent, the largest pay raise for our servicemembers in nearly 10 years. Additionally, the bill supports increased funding above the President’s request for multiple programs including $5 million to support Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Programs; $7 million for the State Partnership Program; and $3 million to support the Advance Trauma Training Program. Readiness – $237.2 billion in base and OCO funding for operation and maintenance accounts to improve full spectrum warfighter readiness. The recommended funding level makes significant investments in training, maintenance, and modernization to restore near-term warfighting readiness while setting the conditions for future, sustained readiness. The bill also supports increased funding above the President’s request for multiple programs including: $350 million for Navy facility sustainment, restoration and modernization; $350 million for Air Force weapons systems sustainment; $23 million to fund U.S. Southern Command Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) requirements; and $221 million for various Defense-wide programs such as impact aid for schools, innovative readiness training, and multiple initiatives included in S. 2987, the Senate-passed National Defense Authorization Act. Additionally, the bill fully funds the request for flight operations and force related training for Special Operations Command. Shipbuilding – $24.0 billion for Navy shipbuilding, including $2.3 billion in additional funding for high priority shipbuilding and industrial base programs. In total, the bill funds the construction of 13 new ships: two Virginia class submarines; three DDG-51 destroyers; two Littoral Combat Ships; one Expeditionary Sea Base; one Expeditionary Fast Transport; two TAO Fleet Oilers; one Towing, Salvage, and Rescue Ship; and one Cable Ship. Additionally, the bill makes important investments to accelerate future shipbuilding priorities such as: $500 million in advanced procurement for an LPD Flight II amphibious transport dock; $350 million in advanced procurement for the LHA 9 amphibious assault ship; $250 million in advance procurement to purchase an additional DDG-51 in Fiscal Year 2020; and $250 million for submarine industrial base expansion to increase capacity and create multiple suppliers for critical submarine components. Aviation programs – $42.2 billion for the procurement of military aircraft, including an additional $3.8 billion to address high priority programs across the services, such as $1.2 billion for eight F-35 carrier variant and four F-35 short takeoff/vertical landing Joint Strike Fighters (Navy & Marine Corps); $720 million for additional AH-64E Apache Block IIIB New Build aircraft (Army); $300 million for the O/A-X Light Attack Aircraft program (Air Force); $320 million for 15 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters (Army National Guard); and $240 million for three V-22 Osprey aircraft (Navy). In addition, the bill provides $120 million for Air Force F-35 advance procurement to increase planned procurements in Fiscal Year 2020 and $200 million for Navy and Marine Corps aviation spares and repair parts to address DOT-18-0010-A-000255 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000255 maintenance and readiness issues. The bill also provides an additional $375 million to support the Air Force’s Advanced Battle Management System, including additional MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles, support of the battlefield airborne communications node mission, radar and agile communications development, and sustainment of the legacy E-8 JSTARS fleet. Missile Defense – $10.5 billion for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), including $1.2 billion to support urgent MDA unfunded priorities and emergent threats. The additional funds include $100 million for the development of a space-based Missile Defense Tracking System (MTS) to detect conventional ballistic missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles; $85 million to continue research and development of three separate laser scaling efforts; $46 million to accelerate the development of critical technologies against hypersonic threats; and $285 million to address a U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) Joint Emergent Operational Need. The bill also fully funds the President’s budget request of $500 million for Israeli Cooperative Programs. Munitions – $18.5 billion for Missile and Ammunition programs, including $366 million in additional funding for high priority munitions programs. The bill supports the Department’s efforts to expand industry capacity for munitions programs to meet replenishment goals and increased requirements from the National Defense Strategy. Initiatives include an additional $125 million to expand Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) (Air Force and Navy) and Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) (Navy) maximum production rates and an additional $57 million for the Army’s industrial facilities to increase production capacity. Defense Health – $34.5 billion for the Defense Health Program, which provides medical services for military personnel and their families, continues advancements in medical research, and implements the next generation of electronic health records. This amount includes an additional $974 million for defense medical research efforts, including $330 million for the competitively awarded peer-reviewed medical research program and $202 million to advance Department of Defense medical research priorities. The bill also recommends $70 million above the President’s request for the Medical Community of Interest [Med-COI], the IT infrastructure backbone of the new electronic health record, in order to support its further deployment. Basic Research Investments – $2.8 billion, $529 million in additional funding not requested by the President, for basic (non-medical) research for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Department of Defense. National Guard and Reserve Equipment – $900 million for the National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account to modernize our reserve forces and ensure full interoperability with the active duty force. The bill also includes $120 million for Army Guard and Reserve High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) Ambulances. ADDITIONAL FY2019 COMMITTEE INITIATIVES Test and Evaluation Infrastructure – $846 million in additional funding to increase testing range space and availability and ensure continued independent assessments of weapon system capabilities, including an additional $200 million for Army test ranges and facilities; an additional $206 million for Navy test and evaluation infrastructure; an additional $280 million AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000256 DOT_Am.Oversight-000256 for Air Force test and evaluation support; and an additional $160 million for Operational Test and Evaluation infrastructure including funds to support expanded hypersonic and directed energy testing. Hypersonics – $929 million in additional funding to support and accelerate offensive and defensive hypersonics research and prototyping efforts, including $345 million for the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s prompt global strike capability development and $300 million to support the Air Force’s hypersonic conventional strike weapon and the air-launched rapid response weapon. Directed Energy – $317 million in additional funding to further develop directed energy technology and transition these activities to both offensive and defensive capabilities in the future, including an additional $150 million for Air Force to apply directed energy technologies to airbase air defense, precision attack, and aircraft self-protection. Microelectronics – $447 million in additional funding to ensure access to trusted microelectronics and develop manufacturing processes for next generation chips, including an additional $347 million to accelerate next generation microelectronic development efforts to reestablish U.S. primacy in assured microelectronics technology and an additional $30 million for Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) electronics resurgence initiative. Artificial Intelligence (AI) – $308 million in additional funding to accelerate the pursuit of state of the art AI systems that can be rapidly adapted to the warfighting mission needs of the Department of Defense, including an additional $150 million for the algorithmic warfare cross function team also known as Project Maven and an additional $83 million to establish the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center. Cyber – $356 million in additional funding to expand and accelerate cyber research across the Department of Defense, including $117 million for Army cybersecurity research efforts and $116 million in Missile Defense Agency cybersecurity enhancements. Space – $564 million in additional funding to develop enhanced offensive and defensive space capabilities, including $100 million for advanced sensors for Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared, the successor to the Space Based Infrared System and $200 million for Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) development efforts.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000257 DOT_Am.Oversight-000257 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Bill Tuesday, June 12, 2018 5:36:48 PM Full committee markups of Interior, CJS and Leg Branch will be on Thursday. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2018 3:24 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Comrnittee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALAB.AMA , CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE APPROPRIATIONS BILL Measure Prioritizes Federal Law Enforcement, Economic Development, Space, & Scientific Research WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) today approved a $62.995 billion funding bill to support law enforcement, economic prosperity, scientific research, space exploration, and other national priorities. The FY2019 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which is $3.4 billion above the FY2018 enacted level, funds the U.S. Departments of Commerce and Justice, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, and other agencies. The bill is scheduled to be considered Thursday by the full Senate Committee on Appropriations. This appropriations measure invests in federal law enforcement agencies, state and local law enforcement grants, space exploration, basic science research, economic development programs, trade enforcement, ocean observations, and weather forecasting. DOT-18-0010-A-000258 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000258 “This bipartisan bill achieves an appropriate balance between fiscal responsibility and investing in our future by supporting law enforcement, national security interests, economic development and scientific innovation,” said U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Subcommittee. “Sen. Shaheen and I have worked in an open and transparent manner to address the many important priorities within our jurisdiction, and I look forward to our colleagues supporting this bill when it is considered by the full Appropriations Committee,” said Moran. Bill Highlights: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE The bill funds the U.S. Department of Commerce at $11.57 billion, an increase of $435 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The Committee continues its strong support for economic development, strengthening trade enforcement, improving fisheries management, protecting intellectual property rights, and advancing severe weather forecasting. International Trade Administration (ITA) – $499 million for ITA, including a $4 million increase above the FY2018 enacted level, to allow ITA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance to initiate investigations of foreign actors suspected of violating trade laws to the detriment of American businesses. Economic Development Administration (EDA) – $305.5 million for EDA, including $117 million for its Public Works program, which supports brick-and-mortar projects in distressed communities across the nation. Funding for EDA also includes $25 million for the Regional Innovation Program, an increase of $4 million above the FY2018 enacted amount, to promote and strengthen regional innovation to spur job creation through private-public partnerships. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) – $3.37 billion for USPTO to protect the ideas and inventions of our nation’s entrepreneurs in an effort to advance and innovate all sectors of the economy. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – $1.04 billion for NIST, $161 million below the FY2018 enacted level, to strengthen the U.S. cybersecurity posture through cutting-edge research and development, expand opportunities in the areas of advanced manufacturing, and continue promotion of the highest-quality standards to maintain fairness in the global marketplace. Funding for NIST includes $140 million for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, which is a private-public partnership present in all 50 states dedicated to serving small- and medium-sized manufacturers. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – $5.48 billion for NOAA, a $426 million decrease below the FY2018 enacted level, to continue core NOAA operations including: ocean monitoring; fisheries management; coastal grants to states; aquaculture research; weather satellites; and severe weather forecasting. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) – NTIA is funded at $39 million, equal to the FY2018 enacted amount. Funds are included to enhance the National Broadband Map, to help provide better broadband access for underserved DOT-18-0010-A-000259 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000259 communities to allow wider national participation and economic growth, and to allow NTIA to perform cutting-edge telecommunications research and engineering. Bureau of the Census – $3.82 billion for the Bureau of the Census, more than $1 billion above the FY2018 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. The bill directs the Census Bureau to continue efforts to hold the costs of the 2020 Census lower than that of the 2010 Census and to maintain focus on activities that will make such savings possible. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE The bill funds the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) at $30.7 billion, $402.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Salaries and expenses for most federal law enforcement agencies are increased by two percent. The constantly changing landscape of criminal activity at home and abroad tests DOJ’s ability to deal with emerging threats, and this bill directs federal law enforcement agencies to work cooperatively to safeguard taxpayer dollars while preserving public safety. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – $9.415 billion for the FBI salaries and expenses and construction, a $15 million increase above the 2018 enacted level. This funding will enable the FBI to continue protecting and defending against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats, both at home and abroad. The bill provides $91.6 million for the Innocent Images National Initiative to target and investigate sexual predators on the Internet, and increases funding for cybersecurity activities to neutralize, mitigate, and disrupt illegal computer-supported operations. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – $2.23 billion for the DEA, $44 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to allow the agency to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States, including efforts to combat heroin use and prescription drug abuse. United States Marshals Service (USMS) – $2.95 billion for the USMS, including $1.5 billion for federal prisoner detention expenses. This funding will allow the USMS to continue executing Adam Walsh Act enforcement requirements, such as apprehending convicted sex offenders who fail to register as fugitives; executing responsibilities under International Megan’s Law, including alerting foreign governments when registered sex offenders travel abroad; and providing continued support for establishing a new Regional Fugitive Task Force. U.S. Attorneys – $2.18 billion for the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the 94 U.S. Attorneys offices. This funding includes $48.34 million, equal to the President’s budget request, to continue the focus on Adam Walsh Act investigations and prosecutions related to the sexual exploitation of children. This funding also includes $60.5 million to continue efforts to combat cybercrime and intrusions. Law Enforcement Grant Programs – $2.87 billion for state and local law enforcement and crime prevention grant programs, which includes grants for state and local law enforcement, the Office on Violence Against Women, and juvenile justice programs. The bill provides $445 million for Byrne JAG; approximately $214.5 million for initiatives to address sexual assault kit and other DNA evidence backlogs; $360 million for Comprehensive Addiction and AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000260 DOT_Am.Oversight-000260 Recovery Act (CARA) programs, including $102.5 million in support for Drug Courts and Veterans Treatment Courts to further combat the opioid and heroin epidemic; $90 million for Second Chance Act grants to reduce recidivism for adults released from jail by offering substance abuse treatment, employment assistance, and other rehabilitation services; $32 million for COPS Office Anti-Heroin Task Forces grants; and $8 million for COPS Office Anti-Methamphetamine Task Forces grants. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) – PSN is a high priority of DOJ and focuses on combating violent crime. PSN is fully funded at $50 million, which is the authorized level recently approved by Congress. STOP School Violence Act – The STOP School Violence Act, passed in the FY2018 Omnibus, is fully funded at its authorized level of $100 million. Crime Victims Fund (CVF) – The bill provides $4.4 billion to victims and for victim services in FY2019, which is equal to the FY2018 level. Additionally, $10 million is reserved for the DOJ Office of the Inspector General to audit grants funded through this distribution, and five percent of the total distribution is set aside to improve services for tribal victims of crime. SCIENCE National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – $21.3 billion for NASA, $587 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $1.43 billion above the budget request, to support the human and robotic exploration of space, to fund science missions that enhance the understanding of the Earth, the solar system, and the universe, and to support fundamental aeronautics research. Using the same account funding structure as in previous years, this includes: · $5.3 billion for Exploration, $549 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to advance NASA’s human exploration program through providing $2.15 billion for the Space Launch System (SLS), $1.35 billion for the Orion crewed spacecraft to continue development of NASA’s next deep-space crewed capsule, and $504 million to begin development of the Lunar Orbital Platform. · $6.4 billion for Science, $179 million above the FY2018 enacted amount and $505 million above the request, including $1.9 billion for Earth science, $2.2 billion for Planetary science, $1.5 billion for astrophysics (including $304 million for the Webb telescope), and $720 million for Heliophysics. · $725 million for Aeronautics, which is $40 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $91 million above the request. The bill supports the ongoing work on aeronautics x-vehicles, advanced research into aeronautics materials and materials characterization, and further research on unmanned aerial systems and unmanned traffic management. · $110 million is provided for the NASA’s education programs, which were proposed to be eliminated in the budget request, under a newly named Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Opportunities activity. Within STEM AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000261 DOT_Am.Oversight-000261 · Opportunities, Space Grant is funded at $44 million, NASA’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) is funded at $21 million, the Minority University Research and Education Project is funded at $33 million, and STEM Education and Accountability projects is funded at $12 million. $933 million is provided for Space Technology, $173 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Funding is included to advance projects in early stages of development that are expected to eventually demonstrate capabilities needed for future space exploration. National Science Foundation (NSF) – $8.1 billion for NSF, $301 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $597 million above the request. Funding is provided for basic research across scientific disciplines to support the development of effective STEM programs. · The bill provides $222 million above the FY2018 level for research and $13 million above FY2018 level for education activities. These funds will allow NSF to provide more grants to highly competitive research projects and help provide opportunities to prepare the next generation of STEM leaders. · $177 million is provided for EPSCoR, an increase of $6 million above the FY2018 enacted level. · $89.2 million is provided for the design and construction of three Regional Class Research Vessels (RCRV), with $60.5 million dedicated to the start of the third ship. By having three regional ships, the Gulf of Mexico and the East and West coasts will be able to have a dedicated RCRV to maximize research time in each of these regions. RELATED AGENCIES Legal Services Corporation (LSC) – $410 million for LSC, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. LSC uses a competitive grant process to provide civil legal aid in high-need areas across the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) – $95 million for ITC, $1 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $7 million above the budget request. ITC is an independent agency responsible for providing Congress and the President with impartial advice on U.S. international trade policy. Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) – $73 million for USTR, equal to the 2018 enacted level, and includes up to $15 million derived from the Trade Enforcement Trust Fund for enforcement activities authorized by the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. As the federal government’s lead negotiator for trade agreements, this funding will maintain the strong bargaining position of USTR, as well as its trade coordination and enforcement actions. Oversight and Accountability – The measure includes provisions to ensure accountability and oversight of funds within this bill, including: · Requiring the appropriate Inspectors General to conduct random audits of grant funding to combat waste, fraud, and abuse. · Establishing an early warning system on cost overruns and requiring agencies to notify the Committee when costs grow more than 10 percent. · Prohibiting grants and contracts to tax frauds. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000262 DOT_Am.Oversight-000262 · · · Requiring agencies to report conference spending to their Inspector General. Requiring all departments and agencies to link all contracts that provide award fees to successful acquisition outcomes, and prohibiting the use of funds to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors with below satisfactory performance. Requiring each agency to report on all efforts made to address the duplication identified by the annual Government Accountability Office duplication reports, along with identifying substantive challenges and legal barriers that could help the agencies further reduce duplication.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000263 DOT_Am.Oversight-000263 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: NEWS: Shelby Supports Appointed Conferees, Applauds Move to Conference Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:31:54 PM FYI From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:12 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Shelby Supports Appointed Conferees, Applauds Move to Conference   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 11, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SHELBY SUPPORTS APPOINTED CONFEREES, APPLAUDS MOVE TO CONFERENCE WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby today delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the appointed conferees and the motion to go to conference to finalize H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill, which packages the Fiscal Year 2019 funding measures for Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch. Chairman Shelby’s remarks, as prepared, are as follows: “Thank you, Mr. President. Before we vote, I want to express my support for the appointment of conferees and my belief that this yet another encouraging sign of a return to regular order in the appropriations process. “The package of appropriations bills that will be conferenced with the House received overwhelming bipartisan support here in the Senate. “This broad agreement was facilitated by a concerted effort from both parties to prevent partisan riders from poisoning the well. “Thus far, we have been able to translate bipartisan cooperation among members of the DOT-18-0010-A-000264 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000264 Appropriations Committee into success on the Senate floor. “I want to recognize and commend the continued efforts of Committee members in this process, especially the Republican and Democratic managers of this package. “In particular, I want to thank Vice Chairman Leahy for his strong partnership in this effort, and Senator Alexander, who has guided this process and will chair the conference committee. “We continue to consolidate critical mass for a return to regular order, but we still have a long way to go. This is yet another step in the right direction. “Senator Alexander, Vice Chairman Leahy and I will have a strong slate of conferees joining us. “On the Republican side, Senators Boozman, Daines, and Lankford. On the Democratic side, Senators Feinstein, Schatz, and Murphy. “Our objective will be to build upon the momentum we have generated here in the Senate by urging the same type of bipartisan cooperation in conference. “We will aim to return to the Senate floor – hopefully sooner rather than later – with a conference report that reflects bipartisan agreement and merits the support of our colleagues. “It is, Mr. President, the right thing to do for the American people. “Whatever partisan fights may ensue in the coming weeks, the appropriations process should not suffer those wounds. Thus far, it has been immune from such a fate. “It is my hope that we can continue on that path. That will be our goal in this conference committee.”   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000265 DOT_Am.Oversight-000265 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 2: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, May 07, 2018 11:10:00 AM Floorcast050718.pdf Morning! Sending over this week’s schedules for Senate Approps and floor in case they’re helpful.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, May 7, 2018 11:00 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - '1' EN ATE Senator John Barra o, Chaionan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, May 7 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: Today the Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit.  At 5:30 p.m., there will be a cloture vote on the nomination. On Thursday, April 26, cloture was also filed on the following nominations, which the Senate will consider this week: 1) Executive Calendar #690, Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit; 2) Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 10th Circuit; 3) Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit; 4) Executive Calendar #780, Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit; and 5) Executive Calendar #781, Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. A LOOK AHEAD: At a time to be determined, the Senate will begin consideration of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education, for up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided.  Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote on DOT-18-0010-A-000266 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000266 confirmation. Other items the Senate may consider during this work period include:   · Nominations; · FAA Reauthorization; · VA choice legislation; and · Net neutrality CRA.   On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.        AMERICAN pVERSIGHT RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000267 DOT_Am.Oversight-000267 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 3: NEWS: FY2019 Interior, Environment Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Committee Thursday, June 14, 2018 4:02:47 PM FYI – The committee has reported seven of the twelve bills. Three were approved today – CJS, Interior and Leg Branch. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2018 12:34 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 Interior, Environment Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Committee   - United States Senate C:ommitte,e on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL APPROVED BY COMMITTEE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee today considered and approved a $35.853 billion measure to fund the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other agencies. The bill was approved 31-0. The FY2019 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act totals $35.853 billion in discretionary funding. The measure provides increased funding to address National Park maintenance backlogs and environmental and conservation programs, while also increasing funding for wildland firefighting and restoring proposed cuts to important Indian programs. “This measure is the product of a bipartisan effort and makes appropriate investments in our federal land management agencies, Native American programs, and important cultural institutions,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “I applaud Senator Murkowski, as well as Senator Udall, for their leadership and diligent work on this legislation.” “I’m proud of the work we have done to direct federal resources where they are needed most by investing in programs aimed to protect people and our lands. This bill will empower DOT-18-0010-A-000268 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000268 Americans to create healthier, safer communities across the nation. This bill equips Americans with basic, vital services that many Americans may take for granted. Far too many communities in rural states like Alaska lack safe, water and adequate sewer infrastructure, but through this bill we provide substantial resources to improve wastewater and drinking water systems nationwide as well as construct new infrastructure,” said U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), chairman of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee. “From support for improving and maintaining rural health facilities, to providing tools to combat domestic violence, substance abuse, and suicide --- I’m proud that this bill prioritizes the health and well-being of our nation’s rural communities. These investments today will have a lasting impact on our nation.” Bill Highlights: U.S. Department of the Interior – $13.109 billion overall for the Interior Department, including full funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) – $1.34 billion for the BLM, an increase of $11 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Funds provided ensure a robust and responsible energy and minerals program and make important investments in improving public land management. National Park Service (NPS) – $3.21 billion for the NPS, an increase of $13.4 million above the FY2018 enacted level. This includes important increases for construction backlog, maintenance, and new park units. $23 million is included for the Centennial Challenge grant program, which provides matching grants to address backlog maintenance and other needs in the national parks. The bill maintains funding for the Heritage Area program at the enacted level of $20.3 million. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) – $1.57 billion for the FWS, which is $19.7 million below the FY2018 enacted level. Important program increases include funding for the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). The bill also provides funds to support FWS implementation of the RESTORE Act and to maintain continued operation of fish hatcheries. The bill continues the prohibition on listing the greater sage-grouse as an endangered species. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – $1.148 billion for the USGS, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, important program increases have been included for energy and mineral resources, mapping, natural hazards, and water resources. The bill also provides the requested funds for the Landsat 9 project and facility relocation expenses. Office of Surface Mining (OSM) – $252.8 million for the OSM, a decrease of $2.6 million below the FY2018 enacted level. The bill continues a $105 million pilot program to help address reclamation and economic development in coal country and includes $10 million to address reclamation and economic development in Indian Country. Indian Health Service (IHS) – $5.77 billion for the IHS, an increase of $234 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The bill fully funds Contract Support Costs in the amount of $822 million, representing the full amount of contract support costs owed to tribes. Additional funds are focused on combating opioid abuse, suicide prevention, domestic violence DOT-18-0010-A-000269 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000269 prevention, and alcohol and substance abuse problems. Funds are also included for infrastructure improvements to health care facilities and $115 million is provided for staffing of new health care facilities. Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education (BIA/BIE) – $3.07 billion for the BIA and BIE, an increase of $11.4 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, Contract Support Costs are fully funded, while increases enacted in FY2018 for human services and natural resource programs are continued as well as important public safety and justice programs. Construction activities and projects receive $359 million, a $5 million increase. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – $8.058 billion for EPA, equal to the FY2018 enacted level. Funding is focused on returning the agency to its core mission of environmental cleanup. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds receive more than $2.86 billion, an increase over the FY2018 enacted level. Additionally, the Water Infrastructure Finance Act (WIFIA) program is funded at $63 million, which will enable billions in loans to address water infrastructure challenges. Categorical grant programs that help states implement environmental regulations are increased by $17 million. The bill continues a provision that prohibits the Agency from regulating certain types of ammunition and fishing tackle. U.S. Forest Service (USFS) – $6.29 billion for the USFS includes investments in funding for improved health and management of our nation’s forests, as well as increased funding to fight wildfire. A $5 million increase for hazardous fuels reduction is provided to help prevent catastrophic wildfires, particularly in the wildland-urban interface. Wildland Firefighting – $4.345 billion to fight wildland fire, representing fire suppression funding at the 10-year average and $900 million in additional funding in anticipation of regular suppression funding being insufficient to cover the costs of fighting wildfire. The bill includes $724 million for the Forest Service and $176 million for the Department of the Interior. Smithsonian Institution – $1.043 million, equal to the FY2018 enacted level for the Smithsonian Institution. Important increases have been provided for the National Air and Space Museum renovation. National Endowment for the Arts and Humanities (NEA/NEH) – $155 million for both NEA and NEH. This is a $2.1 million increase above the FY2018 enacted levels for each endowment. Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) – $3.005 million, an increase of $5,000 above the FY2018 enacted level, for the CEQ.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000270 DOT_Am.Oversight-000270 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 3: NEWS: Senate Committee Advances FY2019 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill Thursday, June 21, 2018 3:57:29 PM Senate Appropriations continues with their aggressive markup schedule to report all bills before July 4th. Only two more bills remain next week for markup – Defense and LHHS. FYI on this week’s bills and committee action. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 21, 2018 11:41 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Committee Advances FY2019 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 21, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor COMMITTEE ADVANCES FY2019 HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS BILL Measure Prioritizes Investments in Border Security, Cybersecurity, Aviation Security, State and Local Grants, and Other Important Missions WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today advanced its FY2019 Homeland Security funding bill, making investments in border security, cybersecurity, aviation security, state and local grants, and other programs to keep Americans safe. The 55.15 billion measure is written to provide for the security of the American people. The bill makes a major down payment on border security and fully funds the fiscal year 2019 request for the border wall system. The bill was approved by a vote of 26-5. The bill also recommends greater support for cybersecurity, aviation security, disaster relief, state and local grants, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Notably, the legislation includes funding to build the United States’ first heavy polar icebreaker in more than 40 years. It also provides $148 million specifically to combat opioids, more than doubling the FY2018 DOT-18-0010-A-000271 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000271 amount. Additionally the measure continues to carry provisions requiring greater transparency and accountability from the Department of Homeland Security and its components. “This legislation fully funds the President’s budget request for a border wall system while also meeting a wide range of security needs and providing critical resources for disaster preparedness and recovery,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “Senators Capito and Tester have been successful in their efforts to reach a strong, bipartisan agreement. I am grateful for their steadfast and thoughtful approach to writing this bill.” “We have a very strong bill that funds critical Homeland Security priorities and meets our national security needs, providing the department and its nearly 250,000 employees with the resources they need to carry out a broad set of missions around the world,” said U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee. “My highest priority in writing this bill was to secure U.S. borders, and I’m proud to say that our legislation makes a major down payment to do that. This legislation also provides critical resources that will help strengthen cybersecurity, improve our efforts to fight the opioid epidemic, support state and local law enforcement, and keep Americans safe.” Bill Highlights: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – $55.15 billion, including $48.33 billion in base discretionary funding, which is $611 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $900 million above the President’s budget request, to fund DHS missions including border security, disaster relief, transportation security, immigration enforcement, and cybersecurity. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) – $14.30 billion, an increase of $239 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to support 375 new Border Patrol agents, 375 new CBP officers, equipment, and technology required to support operations at our borders and ports of entry. The total fully funds the President’s budget request for the border wall system, making a major down payment on border security. It includes a substantial increase to dedicated funding to combat the illicit movement of opioids through ports of entry, as well as funding for tactical communications, recapitalization of Non-Intrusive Inspection equipment, procurement of additional surveillance systems and other situational awareness technology, three multi-role enforcement aircraft, and enhancements to unmanned aerial system capabilities. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) – $7.21 billion, $134 million above the FY2018 enacted level, to maintain a record level for immigration enforcement. The bill continues support for new teams targeting at-large criminal aliens and those who overstay their visas. It also includes significant investments to combat drug and human trafficking and other transnational criminal activity. It also provides $84 million for ICE vehicles and includes $41 million above the budget request for new personnel to investigate opioid trafficking. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – $4.84 billion net, $83 million below the FY2018 enacted level and $797 million above the FY2018 request (which included an assumption of $520 million in unauthorized fee revenue). The bill makes targeted investments in personnel, canine teams, and advanced checkpoint technology. Specifically, the measure DOT-18-0010-A-000272 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000272 includes: funding for 1,450 new TSA personnel to staff checkpoints and mitigate wait times; an additional 50 canine teams to allow for increased throughput of passengers; and investments in future checkpoint technology. The bill also fully funds other critical layers of security, from passenger pre-screening and intelligence functions, to the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Federal Flight Deck Officer program. U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) – $10.19 billion, which is $237 million below the historic FY2018 enacted level and $496 million above the budget request level. This amount supports a robust USCG operations and support budget, including additional military personnel. This bill provides necessary increases for acquisitions, including $750 million for heavy polar icebreaker recapitalization, ongoing Offshore Patrol Cutter acquisition, additional Fast Response Cutters, and support for aircraft recapitalization and enhanced shore infrastructure. The bill also adopts a new appropriations structure for USCG, aligning its structure with that of the rest of DHS. U.S. Secret Service (USSS) – $2.18 billion, $173 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $28 million above the budget request, to fully support USSS activities and additional hiring needed for the 2020 presidential campaign and support for upcoming National Security Special Events. The bill provides full funding to support the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and provides a $6 million increase in funding to train State and local officials in computer forensics and cyber investigations. National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) – $1.95 billion, an increase of $38 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $128 million above the request. This level is in addition to $1.53 billion in fees for the Federal Protective Service accounted for in the bill. Cybersecurity, including protection of civilian Federal networks, is supported at $1.1 billion, $86 million above the budget request level. Included is $406 million for the National Cybersecurity Protection System and an additional $47 million above the request for Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation. The bill also provides $33 million above the FY2018 enacted level to help states and localities guard with election security information sharing and assistance. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – $11.69 billion, of which $7.23 billion is for the Disaster Relief Fund. Non-disaster funding is $96 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $672 million above the budget request. The bill includes strong support for state and local first responders and emergency management personnel, providing a total of $3.27 billion for these grant and training programs, including: · · · · · · · AMERICAN $512 million for State Homeland Security Grants, including $90 million for Operation Stonegarden; $605 million for Urban Area Security Initiative grants, including $20 million for nonprofit organizations; $100 million each for Port and Transit Security grants; $700 million for Fire and SAFER grants; $350 million for Emergency Management Performance grants; $250 million for Pre-disaster Mitigation; $250 million for Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program; pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000273 DOT_Am.Oversight-000273 · · · · · · $15 million for Regional Catastrophic Preparedness grants; $15 million for the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams grants; $66 million for the Center for Domestic Preparedness; $18 million for the Center for Homeland Defense and Security; $21 million for the Emergency Management Institute; and $101 million for the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – $132 million for E-Verify operations and enhancements. Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) – $361 million for FLETC, including funds to train more than 95,000 students and funds to complete important facility construction, expansion, and renovation efforts at the FLETC campuses. Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) – $813 million for S&T, which is $230 million above the budget request. This amount includes sufficient funding to continue the operation of S&T laboratories. A total of $41 million is provided to maintain all current Centers of Excellence. Domestic Nuclear Detection Office/Office of Health Affairs (DNDO/OHA) – $457 million, the same as the FY2018 enacted level and $28 million above the budget request. While the Department merged these two components to establish the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) office, the bill recommends providing appropriations to that office via the legacy DNDO/OHA account structure as the CWMD office has not been explicitly authorized by law. Departmental Management and Operations – $1.50 billion for Departmental management, which is $104 million below the budget request. This level fully supports headquarters management, intelligence, and oversight activities. Oversight and Accountability The measure also includes extensive direction regarding metrics and performance evaluation to hold DHS accountable for operational outcomes associated with the included investments. The bill includes oversight measures: · · · · · Limiting the diversion of funds provided for personnel to unrequested and unplanned expenditures. Requiring the Department to submit a report on visa overstays and publish border security metrics; Requiring the Department to submit quarterly obligation and staffing plans and better details in budget justification; Requiring the Department to report conference spending to the inspector general and limiting the use of funds for certain conferences; and Requiring the Department to link all contracts that provide award fees to successful acquisition outcomes, and prohibiting funds to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors with below satisfactory performance. ### AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000274 DOT_Am.Oversight-000274 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 2 of 3: NEWS: Senate Committee Approves FY2019 Transportation, HUD Appropriations Bill Thursday, June 07, 2018 11:55:02 AM FYI From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 7, 2018 11:15 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Committee Approves FY2019 Transportation, HUD Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 7, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor COMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 TRANSPORTATION, HUD APPROPRIATIONS BILL WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Committee today advanced the FY2019 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related (THUD) Appropriations Act that provides funding to advance transportation infrastructure development, housing assistance, and community development. The bill provides $71.4 billion in discretionary spending for the U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies. The bill is $1.1 billion above FY2018 enacted levels. The bill was approved 31-0. The committee-passed measure targets funding toward improving our nation’s transportation and housing infrastructure, continuing to improve our air traffic control system, and maintaining rental assistance and community development programs. “Our nation’s continued economic growth is directly impacted by critical investments in infrastructure and community development,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “Not only does this legislation assist families in need, but it also funds programs that responsibly support our housing needs and improve our transportation system. I commend Senators Collins and Reed for their bipartisan work on this bill.” DOT-18-0010-A-000275 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000275 “This bipartisan bill is the product of considerable negotiation and compromise. I worked closely with Ranking Member Reed in drafting this bill, and we received input from 70 Senators with more than 800 requests, all of which we carefully evaluated,” said U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), chairman of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee. “The funding in this legislation will allow us to invest in our nation’s infrastructure, while fully funding the renewal of housing assistance for low-income seniors and other vulnerable populations, such as teenagers and veterans who are homeless.” Bill Highlights: The bill prioritizes funding for critical transportation projects, programs to encourage economic growth and efficiency, and core housing programs for the nation’s most vulnerable individuals. Transportation – $26.6 billion in discretionary appropriations for the U.S. Department of Transportation for FY2019. This is $698 million below the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, priority is placed on programs to improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the transportation system. • BUILD Grants – $1 billion for Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants, previously known as TIGER grants. • Highways – $46 billion from the Highway Trust Fund for the Federal-aid Highways Program, consistent with the FAST Act. In keeping with the two-year budget agreement’s emphasis on infrastructure investments, the bill provides $3.3 billion in additional funding for highway programs, including $90 million to eliminate hazards at railway-highway grade crossings and $800 million for bridge repairs. The bill maintains flexibility for State Departments of Transportation to repurpose some stagnant project funding for current infrastructure projects. • Aviation – $17.7 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which fully funds all air traffic control personnel, including more than 14,000 air traffic controllers, and more than 25,000 engineers, maintenance technicians, safety inspectors, and operational support personnel. The bill provides $1 billion for FAA Next Generation Air Transportation Systems (NextGen) programs, and provides not less than $168 million for the Contract Towers program. The bill also provides $750 million in additional funding for airport improvements. DOT-18-0010-A-000276 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000276 • Rail – $2.8 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This includes $1.9 billion to Amtrak for the Northeast Corridor and National Network, continuing service for all current routes. The bill provides $262 million for FRA safety and operations, as well as research and development activities. Additionally, the bill provides $255 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement grants program, $300 million for Federal-State Partnership for State of Good Repair grants, and $10 million for Restoration and Enhancement grants. • Transit – $13.5 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Transit formula grants total $9.9 billion, from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund, consistent with the FAST Act. In addition, $800 million is provided from the general fund for transit infrastructure grants. The bill provides a total of $2.6 billion for Capital Investment Grants (CIG), fully funding all current “Full Funding Grant Agreement” (FFGA) transit projects, as well as new projects that have met the rigorous criteria of CIG. • Maritime – $818 million for the Maritime Administration to increase the productivity, efficiency, and safety of the nation’s ports and intermodal water and land transportation. The Maritime Security Program is funded at $300 million. The bill includes $40 million for State Maritime Academies (SMAs) and an additional $300 million for a new National Security Multi-Mission Vessel. This training ship is essential for the SMAs to provide the nation with a strong merchant marine workforce. • Safety – The legislation contains funding for the various transportation safety programs and agencies within the U.S. Department of Transportation. This includes $956 million in total budgetary resources for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and $667 million for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The bill also includes $275 million for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to help address safety concerns related to recent pipeline and crude oil by rail accidents. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – $44.5 billion in discretionary appropriations for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, an increase of $1.8 billion above the FY2018 enacted level. • Rental Assistance – HUD rental assistance programs provide housing assistance for nearly 5 million vulnerable families and individuals. Of those receiving assistance, 57 percent are elderly or disabled. This bill provides necessary increases to continue DOT-18-0010-A-000277 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000277 assistance to all families and individuals currently served by these programs. Included in the bill is: $22.8 billion for tenant-based Section 8 vouchers; $7.5 billion for public housing; $11.7 billion for project-based Section 8; $678 million for Housing for the Elderly; and $154 million for Housing for Persons with Disabilities. · Community Planning and Development – $7.8 billion for Community Planning and Development programs, $99 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The Community Development Block Grant formula program is funded at $3.3 billion; the Homeless Assistance Grants are funded at $2.6 billion; the HOME program is funded at $1.4 billion; and the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program is funded at $375 million. · Emphasis on Homelessness – $2.6 billion for homeless assistance programs and includes several provisions to improve HUD’s delivery of housing and services to address particularly vulnerable populations, including veterans, youth, and survivors of domestic violence. The bill includes $20 million for new family unification vouchers to prevent youth exiting foster care from becoming homeless. An additional $80 million is provided for grants and technical assistance to test comprehensive efforts to end youth homelessness in urban and rural areas. In addition, the bill provides $50 million for rapid rehousing assistance for domestic violence, and $40 million for new HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers. · Preventing Lead Hazards – $260 million to combat lead hazards, $30 million above the FY2018 enacted level. These grants will help communities protect children from the harmful effects of lead hazard poisoning.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000278 DOT_Am.Oversight-000278 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 3 of 3: HOUSE WHIP FLOOR UPDATE Thursday, June 07, 2018 11:59:46 AM image001.png FYI - House schedule today on approps action. Rescissions tonight and House minibus up for passage tomorrow. We need the House vehicles in order to kickstart our Senate approps process. As always, feel free to email/call me if you need anything. – Jane ((b) (6) )           + STEVE S(AL ISE MAJORHYWHIP 1   GAMEDAY (#ALLCAPS). The House will meet at 10:00 a.m. today for morning hour and 12:00 p.m. for legislative business. Following One Minute speeches, we will move into debate on the combined rule providing for further consideration of H.R. 5895 - Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act and H.R. 3 - Spending Cuts to Expired and Unnecessary Programs Act.    At approximately 1:00-1:30 p.m., we will have our first vote series of the day on the combined rule.   Following the first vote series, the House will move into debate on H.R. 3 - Spending Cuts to Expired and Unnecessary Programs Act.     Then, we will begin general followed by amendment debate on H.R. 5895 - Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act.   At approximately 8:45-9:15 p.m., we will have our second and final vote series of the day on amendments to H.R. 5895 and passage of H.R. 3.     Walk off the Floor: 10:15-10:45 p.m.   Following the second and final vote series, we will continue amendment debate on H.R. 5895. Any request for a recorded vote will be rolled to tomorrow.   NOTE: We expect to debate all amendments to Division A (Energy & Water) and Division B (Leg Branch), plus the first half of amendments to Division C (MilCon/VA)   [Horn][Horn][Horn]… LETS GO CAPS   AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000279 DOT_Am.Oversight-000279 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW 3 of 3: NEWS: FY2019 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill Advanced by Senate Committee Thursday, June 14, 2018 4:03:26 PM FYI – The committee has reported seven of the twelve bills. Three were approved today – CJS, Interior and Leg Branch.   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2018 12:40 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill Advanced by Senate Committee   - United States Senate Comrnittee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS BILL ADVANCED BY COMMITTEE Measure Addresses U.S. Capitol Security and Member Off-Campus Security, Maintains Member Pay Freeze WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today approved the FY2019 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act with funding and policy provisions to improve operations and address heightened security requirements for those who work at or visit the U.S. Capitol complex. The bill provides $3.292 billion in discretionary budget authority, excluding items pertaining solely to the U.S. House of Representatives. An additional $1.429 billion is reserved for the House. Total funding accommodated in the bill is $4.790 billion, which is $90 million more than the FY2018 enacted level of $4.700 billion and $187 million less than the FY2019 budget request. The bill was approved unanimously. The measure is focused on maintaining essential operations and security of the U.S. Capitol, Congress and support agencies. The bill includes directives for the U.S. Capitol Police to address security issues for Members at events off of the Capitol complex. The bill DOT-18-0010-A-000281 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000281 also maintains the Member pay freeze first implemented in 2009. “When spending taxpayer money, our government must be held accountable. With various agencies in the Legislative Branch, we need to prioritize increasing member security, government transparency, and ensuring that government property is used to benefit the American people,” said U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.), chairman of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee. “This bill responsibly addresses important priorities for Capitol complex operations. Investing in the safety and security of those working in the Legislative body and those visiting our Capitol is critical,” said Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (RAla.). “Senators Daines and Murphy have crafted a thorough and bipartisan bill, and I look forward to its consideration by the Senate.” Bill Highlights: U.S. Senate – $928.5 million, $8.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $61.6 million below the FY2019 budget request. The increase provides for investments in Senate cybersecurity capabilities and training to Senators and their staff. · Member Pay Freeze – The bill continues a provision to freeze the pay of Members of Congress, preventing any pay increases in FY2019. A freeze on Members’ salaries has been in place since 2009. U.S. Capitol Police – $453 million for the U.S. Capitol Police, $26.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $3 million below the FY2019 budget request. Increased funding is included to address concerns related to security on the Capitol complex and Member security off-campus. This funding level also provides for the requested increase in officer and civilian staffing, provides some lifecycle replacement for equipment, and allows the Department to continue mission-essential training. Architect of the Capitol (AOC) – $509.8 million, $5 million below the FY2018 enacted level and $68.5 million below the FY2019 budget request, to allow the AOC to prioritize operations and day-to-day maintenance, while also providing for critical projects that address safety concerns for those who visit or work in the Capitol complex. An additional $197 million is reserved for House Office Buildings, consistent with tradition. Library of Congress (LOC) – $687.4 million, $17.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $15 million above the FY2019 budget request, to allow the LOC to continue support functions for Congress and services for the public, as well as continued modernization of information technology systems. The bill also includes funding to modernize mission-specific systems for the Congressional Research Service (CRS) and the U.S. Copyright Office. Government Accountability Office (GAO) – $589.7 million, $10.8 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $26.9 million below the FY2019 budget request. This funding level will allow GAO to hire new staff and continue to support Congress by providing critical oversight with accurate, nonpartisan reporting of federal programs and tracking the expenditure of taxpayer dollars. Congressional Budget Office (CBO) – $50.295 million, $0.35 million above the FY2018 DOT-18-0010-A-000282 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000282 enacted level and $0.44 million below the FY2019 budget request, including funds to provide for an estimated 10 new employees related to transparency and responsiveness efforts. Government Publishing Office (GPO) – $117 million, slightly below the FY2018 enacted level and equal to the FY2019 budget request, to maintain congressional printing activities at current levels.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000283 DOT_Am.Oversight-000283 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW Managers Package: Cloakroom Wrap Up Tuesday, July 31, 2018 8:26:13 PM For those tracking managers package for the minibus and wrap up, amendment numbers below.   From: Cloakroom [mailto:subscriptions_cloakroom@rep-secretary.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 8:19 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up Wrap Up Memo TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 AT 08:19 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: Motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.1182, Flood Insurance. Agreed to. (86-12) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. Confirmed. (52-46) Motion to invoke cloture on Shelby substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Invoked. (94-4) Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.2, Farm Bill. (Agreed to by voice vote)   Executive Session: ARMY Cal. #1017 - Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons to be General AIR FORCE Cal. #1018 - Maj. Gen. Brian T. Kelly to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1019 - Lt. Gen. Mark D. Kelly to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1020 - Col. Timothy J. Madden to be Brigadier General Cal. #1021 - Lt. Gen. Jeffrey L. Harrigian to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1022 - Maj. Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere to be Lieutenant General AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000284 DOT_Am.Oversight-000284 Cal. #1023 - Lt. Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #1024 - Lt. Gen. Stephen M. Twitty to be Lieutenant General MARINE CORPS Cal. #1025 - Lt. Gen. Gary L. Thomas to be General AIR FORCE Cal. #1026 - Col. Susan J. Pietrykowski to be Brigadier General Cal. #1027 - Maj. Gen. Jon T. Thomas to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #1028 – the following to be Brigadier General: Col. Gregory K. Anderson Col. Christine A. Beeler Col. Peter N. Benchoff Col. Mark S. Bennett Col. Gregory J. Brady Col. Michele H. Bredenkamp Col. Edmond M. Brown Col. Robert M. Collins Col. Kimberly M. Colloton Col. David S. Doyle Col. Thomas J. Edwards, Jr. Col. Marcus S. Evans Col. Brett T. Funck Col. James J. Gallivan Col. Brian W. Gibson Col. Amy E. Hannah AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000285 DOT_Am.Oversight-000285 Col. Jered P. Helwig Col. Donn H. Hill Col. Scott A. Jackson Col. John D. Kline Col. Gavin A. Lawrence Col. Kevin C. Leahy Col. Michelle M. Letcher Col. Charles J. Masaracchia Col. Michael C. McCurry, II Col. John V. Meyer, III Col. Duane R. Miller Col. Scott M. Naumann Col. Christopher R. Norrie Col. Allan M. Pepin Col. Andrew D. Preston Col. Mark C. Quander Col. John L. Rafferty, Jr. Col. Jeth B. Rey Col. Joseph A. Ryan Col. James M. Smith Col. Brett G. Sylvia Col. Joel B. Vowell Col. Todd R. Wasmund Cal. #1029 - Maj. Gen. James F. Pasquarette to be Lieutenant General And all nominations on the Secretary's Desk in the Air Force, Army and Navy.    Wrap Up: AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000286 DOT_Am.Oversight-000286 H.R.5554 – Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2018   Wednesday, August 1st: The Senate will convene at 10:00am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. At 11:00am, the Senate will proceed to 5 roll call votes in relation to the following in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations:   1. Leahy #3464 (60 vote threshold) 2. Lee #3522 (60 vote threshold) 3. Baldwin #3524 (60 vote threshold) 4. Cruz #3524 5. Passage of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations, as amended   Please also note, the following amendments have been adopted in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations Schatz 3406 Heller 3428 Johnson 3436 Gardner 3437 Risch 3438 Jones 3447 Whitehouse 3454 Murphy 3468 Shaheen 3476 Inhofe 3480 Cassidy 3482 Fischer 3492 Cornyn 3493 AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000287 DOT_Am.Oversight-000287 Heller 3517 Heller 3540 Smith 3546 Rubio 3551 Rubio 3560 Rubio 3562 Barrasso 3563 Murkowski 3566 Murray 3578 Brown 3582 Murkowski 3585, as modified Collins 3595 Stabenow 3607 Reed 3608 Toomey 3613 Jones 3615 Peters 3621 Cardin 3633 McConnell 3645 Boozman 3646 Shaheen 3650 Murphy 3651 Coons   3661 Moran 3665 Coons, Carper 3666, as amended by 3684 Casey 3668 Fischer 3669 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000288 DOT_Am.Oversight-000288 Cornyn 3670, as modified Heller 3671 Donnelly 3675 Heitkamp 3676 Blumenthal 3677 Warner 3679   Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000289 DOT_Am.Oversight-000289 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW Senate Schedule: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, April 16, 2018 10:59:08 AM Morning! Hope everyone had a great weekend. FYI on schedule for the remaining work period.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, April 16, 2018 10:48 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - .. SEN ATE Senator John Barrasso, Chainnan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349.   THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of the House message to accompany S. 140, the Tribal Labor Sovereignty bill. The amendment tree is filled. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct a cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140. Also this week, the Senate may consider S.J. Res. 56, a joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to "Payday, Vehicle, Title, and Certain High-Cost Installment Loans". In addition, the Senate may take up S. 1129, the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill. A LOOK AHEAD: At a time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel of the Department of Education, for ten hours of debate, equally divided. Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote on confirmation. Other the Senate may consider during this work period include: · · Nominations; and Net neutrality CRA.   RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000290 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000290 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 25, 2018 Friday, June 22, 2018 2:15:02 PM FYI on next week’s Approps hearings and last set of markups. After the Defense and Labor-H markups, Chairman Shelby and the committee will have reported all 12 bills from committee. Final passage of Senate MilCon-Vets/Energy and Water/Leg Branch package also scheduled for 5:30 PM, Monday. Have a great weekend. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, June 22, 2018 2:07 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 25, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALAB.AMA , CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 22, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 25, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of June 25, 2018. TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) DOT-18-0010-A-000291 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000291 Markup of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2019 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Roy Blunt, Chairman) Markup of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 11:00 a.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS SUBCOMMITTEE (Lindsey Graham, Chairman)   Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of State AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000292 DOT_Am.Oversight-000292 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Mike Pompeo Secretary U.S. Department of State THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2018 COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Markup of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 10:30 a.m., Room 106, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000293 DOT_Am.Oversight-000293 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of April 23, 2018 Friday, April 20, 2018 11:45:42 AM FYI on Senate Approps schedule next week.   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, April 20, 2018 11:43 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of April 23, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 20, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY HEARING SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 23, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the hearing schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of April 23, 2018. TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Richard V. Spencer DOT-18-0010-A-000294 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000294 Secretary of the U.S. Navy Admiral John M. Richardson Chief of Naval Operations General Robert B. Neller Commandant of the Marine Corps STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS SUBCOMMITTEE (Lindsey Graham, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Agency for International Development 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Mark Green Administrator U.S. Agency for International Development   AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (John Hoeven, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Food and Drug Administration 2:30 p.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: Dr. Scott Gottlieb Commissioner Food and Drug Administration AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000295 DOT_Am.Oversight-000295 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2018     ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Lamar Alexander, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 2:00 p.m., Room 430, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Kristine Svinicki Chairman U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission The Honorable Jeff Baran Commissioner U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission The Honorable Stephen G. Burns Commissioner U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission     COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Jerry Moran, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Justice 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Jeff Sessions Attorney General AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000296 DOT_Am.Oversight-000296 U.S. Department of Justice LEGISLATIVE BRANCH SUBCOMMITTEE (Steve Daines, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Government Accountability Office and the Congressional Budget Office 3:30 p.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Gene Dodaro Comptroller General of the United States Government Accountability Office Dr. Keith Hall Director Congressional Budget Office THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Defense Health Program 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: Lieutenant General Nadja West Surgeon General U.S. Army Vice Admiral C. Forrest Faison, III Surgeon General U.S. Navy AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000297 DOT_Am.Oversight-000297 Lieutenant General Mark A. Ediger Surgeon General U.S. Air Force Ms. Stacy Cummings Program Executive Officer Defense Healthcare Management Systems MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (John Boozman, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for Military Construction and Family Housing 10:30 a.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: Mr. Lucian Niemeyer Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment Lieutenant General Gwendolyn Bingham U.S. Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management Vice Admiral Dixon R. Smith U.S. Navy Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Fleet Readiness and Logistics Major General Vincent A. Coglianese U.S. Marine Corps Commander, Marine Corps Installations Command Assistant Deputy Commandant, Installations and Logistics (Facilities) Major General Timothy S. Green U.S. Air Force Director of Civil Engineers Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection ### AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000298 DOT_Am.Oversight-000298 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 4, 2018 Friday, June 01, 2018 2:41:10 PM FYI on Senate Approps schedule next week. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Friday, June 1, 2018 12:25 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Schedule for the Week of June 4, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 4, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of June 4, 2018. TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 2018 TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Susan Collins, Chairman)   DOT-18-0010-A-000299 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000299 Markup of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Act, 2019 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only   LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Roy Blunt, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Department of Education 10:15 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Betsy DeVos Secretary U.S. Department of Education     STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS SUBCOMMITTEE (Lindsey Graham, Chairman)   2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Hearing to review Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000300 DOT_Am.Oversight-000300 Department of State Witness:   The Honorable Mike Pompeo Secretary U.S. Department of State   MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (John Boozman, Chairman)   2:30 p.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Markup of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (James Lankford, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding requests and budget justifications for the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 3:30 p.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000301 DOT_Am.Oversight-000301   The Honorable J. Christopher Giancarlo Chairman U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission The Honorable Jay Clayton Chairman U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman)   Closed hearing to review defense innovation and research funding 10:00 a.m., Room SVC-217, Capitol Visitor Center NOTE:  This hearing is limited to Members and staff with TS clearance only    Witnesses:   The Honorable Michael D. Griffin Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering U.S. Department of Defense AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000302 DOT_Am.Oversight-000302 Dr. Steven H. Walker Director Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018 COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Markup of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 Markup of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 10:30 a.m., Room 106, Dirksen Senate Office Building NOTE:  The markup webcast will be audio-only ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000303 DOT_Am.Oversight-000303 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: August, tho Tuesday, June 05, 2018 2:05:30 PM FYI on comms’ take re: the August schedule.   From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 1:28 PM Subject: August, tho   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  August The Majority Leader announced today that the August recess has been canceled. He went on to say that “Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make additional progress on the President’s nominees.” Senate Democrats have already slowed the Senate by forcing cloture votes on 100 nominees (the 100th was earlier today), compared with only 24 for the first two years of the last six presidents—combined. Due to this historic obstruction, the Senate will remain in session in August. In addition to work on nominations, here is a partial list of substantive items on the Senate’s to-do list. National Defense Authorization Act · Appropriations · Water infrastructure · Farm bill · Opioid bills · FAA · Flood insurance · Coast Guard · And many others. The list is not all-inclusive, but should give you a flavor of the significant workload that the Senate will work through, continuing the streak of accomplishments (here are some of the items already passed in this Congress). So be sure and thank our Democrat friends for any changes you’ll have to make to your August plans. These guys won’t have to worry about it, though. STEW @StewSays AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000304 DOT_Am.Oversight-000304 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Busy week Monday, July 30, 2018 9:44:05 AM Morning! We’re still here. Yaaay. FYI on Senate schedule this week.   From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sent: Monday, July 30, 2018 9:22 AM Subject: Busy week   Just a quick refresher of what’s on tap this week in the Senate: The Majority Leader filed cloture motions last week on items to be completed this week (in the following order): • The nomination of Britt Cagle Grant to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit The four-bill appropriations ‘minibus’ (one cloture on the substitute amendment; one on the • underlying bill) Flood insurance extension • • National Defense Authorization Act conference report The Senate will complete work on all four items this week. The House has already passed the NDAA conference report and the flood insurance extension, so those will go to the President for signature after the Senate’s action this week. The appropriations bill will head to a conference with the House (we’ll then have two conference committees covering seven appropriations bills). The Senate is also expected to vote to go to conference on the Farm Bill this week. Other items are likely, so stay tuned. The cloture vote on the Grant nomination will be at 5:30 this afternoon. Judge Kavanaugh will be back on the Hill for more visits with Senators this week. And this is how I’d be at the Tour de France. STEW @StewSays AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000305 DOT_Am.Oversight-000305 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Cloakroom Wrap Up Thursday, July 26, 2018 6:02:25 PM FYI   From: Cloakroom Sent: Thursday, July 26, 2018 4:32 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up Wrap Up Memo THURSDAY, JULY 26, 2018 AT 04:32 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate. Executive Session: Treaties Cal. #2 - The Treaty with the Federated States of Micronesia on the Delimitation of a Maritime Boundary Treaties Cal. #3 - The Treaty with the Republic of Kiribati on the Delimitation of Maritime Boundaries Treaties Cal. #4 - Extradition Treaty with the Republic of Serbia Treaties Cal. #5 - Extradition Treaty with the Republic of Kosovo Wrap Up: Cal.#486, H.R.4528 – Marine Fish H.R.5729 – Transportation Worker ID Credential Accountability S.Res.595 – US Intelligence Professionals Day H.R.4318 – Miscellaneous Tariff Bill with a Hatch amendment Monday, July 30th: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000306 DOT_Am.Oversight-000306 The Senate will convene at 3:00pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. At 4:00pm, there will be a filing deadline for all first degree amendments in relation to the following: 1. Shelby Substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. 2. H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations 3. S.1182, Flood Insurance At 5:30pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Grant nomination. Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the following items in the following order: 1. Cal. #1006 - Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. 2. Shelby substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations 3. H.R.6147, the underlying Minibus Appropriations bill 4. Motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.1182, Flood Insurance 5. Conference report to accompany H.R.5515, NDAA Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000307 DOT_Am.Oversight-000307 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Cloakroom Wrap Up Monday, June 25, 2018 7:12:01 PM First Senate funding package – Energy-Water, MilCon-Vets, Leg Branch - passed 86-5. Cloture vote on Farm bill also, below.   From: Cloakroom Sent: Monday, June 25, 2018 6:53 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up Wrap Up Memo MONDAY, JUNE 25, 2018 AT 06:53 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: Passage of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations, as amended. Passed. (86-5) Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, Farm Bill. Invoked. (89-3) Executive Session: Cal. #726 - Frank T. Brogan, of Pennsylvania, to be Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education. Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate. Rule XIV: H.R.6 – Support Act Tuesday, June 26th: The Senate will convene at 10:00 am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill. The Senate will recess from 12:30 until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. Please note, all time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2. Please also note, at a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 5 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation Executive Calendar #601, James Blew, AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000308 DOT_Am.Oversight-000308 of California, to be Assistant Secretary for Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, Department of Education. Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000309 DOT_Am.Oversight-000309 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Cloakroom Wrap Up Thursday, June 21, 2018 6:40:21 PM FYI – We set final passage for the Energy-Water/MilCon-VA/Legislative Branch package next Monday, 5:30 PM. Leader filed cloture on the Farm Bill, as well, to pop after we dispense with the minibus.       From: Cloakroom Sent: Thursday, June 21, 2018 6:05 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up Wrap Up Memo THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 2018 AT 06:05 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: Adoption of Bennet/Gardner amendment #2983 In relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (96-0) Motion to table Lee amendment #3021, as modified, in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. Agreed to. (62-34) Executive Session: PN 1641 - Jean Carol Hovland, of South Dakota, to be Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, Department of Health and Human Services. Wrap Up: S.1091 – Supporting Grandchildren Raising Grandchildren S.Res.551 – National GI Bill Commemoration Week Monday, June 25th: The Senate will convene at 3:00pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. At 5:30pm, the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Passage of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations, as amended. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, Farm Bill. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000310 DOT_Am.Oversight-000310 Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill. Please also note, the following amendments have been adopted to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations: Shelby substitute 2910 Alexander 2911 Alexander 2915 Hatch 2986 Heller 3048 Rubio 2999 Thune 2978 as modified by Perdue 3054 Murkowski 3059 Heinrich 2980 Warner 2996 Hatch 3042 Tester 2961 Sanders 2963 Brown 2997 Whitehouse 2939 Kennedy 3068 Hyde-Smith 2953 Coons 3053 Boozman 3051 Lee 3057 Heller 3056 Heller 2949 Klobuchar 2960 Boozman 2924 Boozman 2925 AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000311 DOT_Am.Oversight-000311 Tester 2934 Cassidy 3013 Cortez-Masto 3050 Kennedy 2992 Hassan (for Shaheen) 2955 Nelson 3032 Rubio 3066 Whitehouse 2957 Wyden 3038 Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000312 DOT_Am.Oversight-000312 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Done, and to-do Thursday, August 02, 2018 4:42:27 PM In case this is helpful in summarizing this week’s Senate action. For the week of the 13th, note: “The week of August 13th, will be yet another productive week: The Senate will confirm two more circuit court nominees AND begin processing two more appropriations bills (Defense and Labor/HHS)”   Have a great weekend! I’m in town if you need to reach me next week: (b) (6) . Best, Jane   From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, August 1, 2018 8:15 PM Subject: Done, and to-do   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  Done, and to-do   The Senate had another productive week: ü Four more appropriations bills passed (for a total of seven) ü Another circuit court nominee confirmed (24 circuits confirmed so far in this Congress) ü Six more district court judges confirmed ü General Counsel of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence confirmed ü National Defense Authorization Act passed and will be sent to the President ü Flood insurance extension passed and will be sent to the President ü The Animal Drug and Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2018 (H.R.5554) passed and will be sent to the President ü The National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act of 2018 passed and will be sent to the President ü The United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act of 2018 passed ü Appointed conferees to the Farm Bill   --The week of August 13th, will be yet another productive week: The Senate will confirm two more circuit court nominees AND begin processing two more appropriations bills (Defense and Labor/HHS)   And there’s a lot more on the agenda. Remember, the Senate does not have its traditional August recess, allowing more time to confirm nominations, pass appropriations and other important legislation.   Here are some of the other items that the Senate will be considering in the weeks and months ahead:   Opioids legislation (in addition to the funding that’s already passed) · Water infrastructure bill · FAA reauthorization · Judicial nominations · Executive branch nominations · Farm bill conference · Appropriations conferences · AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000313 DOT_Am.Oversight-000313 · And many other items   Any questions?   And I hope this doesn’t ruin your productivity.  Meanwhile, I’m here in August recess FOMO. STEW @StewSays AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000314 DOT_Am.Oversight-000314 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: First minibus conferee meeting -- ADVISORY: Appropriations Schedule for July 12, 2018 Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:36:02 PM FYI – For those tracking this meeting. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:10 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: ADVISORY: Appropriations Schedule for July 12, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 11, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor Jennifer Hing MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR JULY 12, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate and House Committees on Appropriations for Thursday, July 12, 2018. CONFERENCE COMMITTEE (Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Lamar Alexander)   Conference committee meeting to address Senate and House amendments to H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations package which includes the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch Appropriations Acts. DOT-18-0010-A-000315 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000315 11:00 a.m., Room SVC 202-203, U.S. Capitol Visitors Center Note: Media should arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time. Space is limited to one (1) per news organization. Members of the press should contact their respective media galleries for more information. Webcast will be available on appropriations.senate.gov and appropriations.house.gov.   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000316 DOT_Am.Oversight-000316 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: House Approps Release -- Omnibus Funding Legislation Released Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:20:33 PM Last email from me tonight – FYI on House release and 1 pagers. Thank you for your patience. Always feel free to call. (b) (6) NEWS House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen        I Website address: http://appropriations.house.gov/ I For Immediate Release: March 21, 2018 Contact: Jennifer Hing, (202) 226-7007   Government-Wide Funding Legislation Released Bill will provide robust increases for national defense, infrastructure investments, border security, school safety and mental health, and to fight the nation’s opioid epidemic WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Appropriations Committee today introduced legislation to provide all discretionary funding for the federal government for the 2018 fiscal year. The bill contains the full legislation and funding for all of the 12 annual Appropriations bills. It totals $1.3 trillion, including $78.1 billion in funding for the Global War on Terror (GWOT)/Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO). Total base funding, excluding OCO and emergencies, is $1.2 trillion. The legislation adheres to the recently enacted budget “caps” agreement, providing an additional $80 billion for national defense – the largest year-to-year increase in base funding for the Department of Defense in 15 years. It also provides increased funding for critical federal programs including efforts to fight the nation’s opioid epidemic, to secure our homeland, to promote school safety and mental health, and to make robust investments that will help rebuild America’s aging infrastructure and bolster economic growth. Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen made the following statement on the legislation: “This Omnibus Appropriations bill represents thousands of hours of work, consideration, and input by Members of Congress. These 12 bills were considered and amended in Committee and on the House floor in an open and inclusive process last year, and have been negotiated in DOT-18-0010-A-000317 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000317 good faith by Committee leaders, House and Senate Leadership on both sides of the aisle, and the White House. “This bill makes historic investments in our military – including the largest year-to-year increase in funding in 15 years, since the beginning of the War on Terror. This legislation will continue efforts to reverse the damage and neglect done under the previous Administration that has caused the men and women of our Armed Forces to be less prepared to fight, and that have put our nation’s ability to counter future threats in peril. “The package also contains increased funding to ensure our security here at home. It includes increases for new border infrastructure, additional agents, more detention beds, better surveillance technology, and other measures that will help close the security gaps that put our border and nation at risk. “But we must also focus on crisis and challenges here at home. This legislation targets funding to fight the scourge of the opioid epidemic that is devastating families and communities across the country. It provides new funding for school safety and mental health services to help prevent the kind of tragedy and heartbreak that occurred in Parkland, Florida. And it makes major investments in infrastructure across the board – whether it is transportation, energy, water, or cyber – to help boost our economy and promote future growth. “These investments are made responsibly, with an eye towards getting the most out of every dollar, and reflect the priorities of the American people. This legislation will bring real and lasting solutions to the many challenges facing our nation both at home and abroad.” The bill includes critical funding for: · National Defense – After years of neglect, this bill starts rebuilding America’s Armed Forces by making the largest investment in 15 years. It provides $654.6 billion in both base and Global War on Terror/Overseas Contingency Operations funding – the biggest year-to-year increase since the beginning of the War on Terror. It fully funds a 2.4% pay raise for the troops, fulfills the requests made by Secretary Mattis and military leaders, and gives warfighters the resources they need to fight, win, and return home safety. · · · Securing Our Homeland – The bill includes $47.8 billion for the Department of Homeland Security, an increase of $5.4 billion over the last fiscal year. These dollars will bolster border infrastructure, add more “boots on the ground,” increase detention space, and improve surveillance technology. The legislation includes $1.571 billion for physical barriers and associated technology along the Southwest border. This amount provides for more than 90 miles of “border wall system,” going beyond the Administration’s budget request for a total of 74 miles in fiscal year 2018. I Rebuilding America’s Aging Infrastructure – Improving the nation’s infrastructure is critical to reliability, safety, and economic growth. The legislation includes more than $21 billion for infrastructure projects across the country, including transportation, energy, water, and cyber. Combatting the Opioid Crisis – This legislation includes nearly $4 billion in DOT-18-0010-A-000318 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000318 resources to combat the opioid crisis that President Trump has declared as a national emergency. It will invest billions in treatment, prevention, and law enforcement efforts to stop the spread of these dangerous drugs and help families and communities get the assistance they need. · School Safety – To help protect children and to promote safe learning environments, the bill provides more than $2.3 billion in new funding to effective mental health, training, and school safety programs at the Departments of Justice, Education, and Health and Human Services.   Bill Highlights: For a bill-by-bill summaries, please visit:   Agriculture Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_agriculture__summary.pdf   Commerce/Justice/Science Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__commerce_justice_science_-_summary.pdf   Department of Defense Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_defense__summary.pdf   Energy and Water Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__energy_and_water_-_summary.pdf   Financial Services Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__financial_services_-_summary.pdf   Homeland Security Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__homeland_security_-_summary.pdf   Interior/Environment Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_interior__summary.pdf   Labor/Health and Human Services/Education Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__labor_health_and_human_services_-_summary.pdf   Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__legislative_branch_-_summary.pdf   Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Billhttps://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_milcon_va_DOT-18-0010-A-000319 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000319 _summary.pdf   State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__state_foreign_operations_-_summary.pdf   Transportation/Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_THUD__summary.pdf     For the text of the legislation and the bill reports, please visit: http://docs.house.gov/floor/   ##### AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000320 DOT_Am.Oversight-000320 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: ICYMI: Messaging Document: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act Thursday, March 22, 2018 12:33:32 PM FY18 Omni SAP_HR 1625_March 2018.pdf Please see the attached Statement of Administration Policy on H.R. 1625, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018.  Thank you for your support and work to our WH friends on this list.   Top line wins on the omni, below. FYI, you can find the estimate for the omni here icymi: https://www.cbo.gov/publication/53669     From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, March 22, 2018 11:52 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: ICYMI: Messaging Document: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act   FYI: - FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act (Courtesy of the Senate Committee on Appropriations) · · · · Strengthens our national defense and invests in bipartisan domestic priorities Package of 12 regular appropriations bills conforms to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 Informed by ~70 House and Senate hearings, and Member priorities and requests Product of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations with Administration input Strengthens our National Defense – After years of neglect, this bill begins rebuilding America’s military by making the largest investment in our Armed Forces since the beginning of the War on Terror. · Fully funds a 2.4 percent pay raise for the troops, which is the largest pay increase in eight years, and enhances equipment and machinery, and supports our men and women serving overseas. · It is the biggest year-to-year increase in defense funding in 15 years, a $61 billion increase over FY2017 enacted levels. · Strengthens missile defense, funds new weapons systems, and invests heavily in measures designed to counter threats from ISIL and North Korea. · Begins to upgrade U.S. military strength with significant funding increases for shipbuilding, aircraft procurement. · Cares for our veterans by providing record level VA funding while increasing oversight and modernization. · Counters violent extremist organizations worldwide and supports U.S. allies in Israel, Jordan, and Eastern Europe. Fights the Opioid Epidemic – The bill provides $4.6 billion to combat the opioid crisis, which President Trump declared as a national emergency last fall. This is a $3 billion (192 DOT-18-0010-A-000321 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000321 percent) increase over FY2017. Under Republican Congresses, anti-opioid funding has increased by $4.1 billion. · Allocates billions across agencies to opioid prevention, treatment, and enforcement. · Provides grants to states and localities to help offset law enforcement costs associated with opioid abuse. · Increases funding for research on the causes of opioid addiction and alternative pain management options. · Supports opioid treatment and prevention for veterans throughout VA. · Increases NIH funding to discover new advances in healthcare and medicine. · Funds new programs for youth affected by the opioids crisis, including prevention initiatives. · Ensures funding is directed toward states and communities with the greatest need. Rebuilds American Infrastructure – Renewing America’s aging infrastructure is critical to our country’s future and a top priority of the President. This legislation includes more than $21.2 billion in new infrastructure funding to ensure public safety and promote economic growth. · Provides billions in new funding for highways, waterways, airways, and railways. · Invests in rural infrastructure, including a new initiative for areas without broadband access. · Targets funds toward programs like TIGER grants and Community Development Block Grants that give states and localities a greater say in how they’re used. · Includes increased Economic Development Administration funding targeted toward infrastructure needs in economically-challenged areas of the country.   Secures the Homeland – Protecting the American people is our top priority. This legislation includes robust funding to fight terrorism, enhance criminal law enforcement, and secure U.S. borders. • Provides significant funding increases to enhance law enforcement, pursue prosecutions, and improve public safety by giving law enforcement agencies additional resources to tackle the constantly-changing landscape of criminal activity at home and abroad. • Provides $1.57 billion for physical barriers and technology to secure the Southwest border, including more than 95 miles of new or upgraded border wall system construction. • Increases ICE funding by $640 million to improve enforcement of immigration and customs laws. • Includes 3 to 5 percent funding increases for federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service. • Increases funds for border security and enforcement of immigration law, including 100 new immigration judge teams. • Directs funding specifically for combatting both human and opioid trafficking across agencies. Safeguards our Students – America’s schools need to be safe havens for our children to learn. The bill includes more than $2 billion in mental health, training, and school safety efforts to keep our kids and schools safe. It also contains the STOP School Violence Act to help ensure lifesaving resources are available to states and schools to stop violence before it DOT-18-0010-A-000322 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000322 happens. Supports Conservative Principles · Blocks the Democratic “parity” argument, where each dollar of defense spending had to be matched with a dollar of non-defense spending. · Cares for our veterans by providing a record level of VA funding while increasing oversight and modernization. · Allows states and localities greater flexibility to use federal grant funding. · Protects life by maintaining the Hyde and Helms amendments prohibiting taxpayer dollars for abortions, and prevents efforts to roll back the Administration’s expanded Mexico City policy. · Blocks Democratic efforts to guarantee funds for Planned Parenthood. · Addresses a tax inequity for agriculture by providing fair tax treatment for all agricultural businesses and restoring balanced marketplace competition. · Limits significant Justice Department grant programs to recipients that follow federal law. · Fights illegal immigration by increasing the number of immigration judges and ensuring detainees are referred by the Bureau of Prisons to ICE instead of sanctuary cities. · Reauthorizes, improves and expands the EPA Brownfields program to more effectively cleanup contaminated sites that states and cities can reclaim for infrastructure development. · Freezes Member pay and applies unspent Senate office funds to deficit reduction. · Strengthens the National Instant Criminal Background Check System by reauthorizing the NICS Improvement Act (Fix NICS), increasing records submissions assistance for states, and requiring federal agencies to submit annual reports and certification of compliance. · Maintains the prohibition on the use of federal funds to advocate or promote gun control. · Promotes transparency by making Congressional Research Service reports available to the public. · Increases oversight of federal contracts and conference travel. ### AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000323 DOT_Am.Oversight-000323 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: ICYMI: NOTICE OF MTG-Rules Comm Thursday, July 12, 2018 4:10:41 PM FYI - This is our next vehicle for mini #2.   The Committee on Rules will meet on Monday, July 16, 2018 at 5:00 PM in H-313 The Capitol on the following  measure:   • -H.R. 6147 — Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 [Interior, Environment, Financial Services, and General Government Appropriations Act, 2019]       DOT-18-0010-A-000324 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000324 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Leader McConnell Recognizes Chairman Shelby for Distinguished Leadership Wednesday, August 01, 2018 2:02:46 PM FYI – Chairman Shelby’s 10,000th vote. From: Majority Leader McConnell Press (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, August 1, 2018 1:22 PM Subject: Leader McConnell Recognizes Chairman Shelby for Distinguished Leadership   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S.• SENATOR .fo r KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, August 1, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2AxxO39 Leader McConnell Recognizes Chairman Shelby for Distinguished Leadership ‘As he took the reins of the Appropriations Committee, he made it clear that, working with Senator Leahy, regular order would be the name of the game. He set his sights on restoring the kind of collaborative process that has historically made our institution so unique. As we all know, that’s a little bit easier said than actually done. And yet, the committee completed a markup process that reported out all twelve spending bills faster than it had in any year since 1988 – that’s three decades ago.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor congratulating Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-AL) on an efficient appropriations process and for casting his 10,000th vote on the Senate floor earlier this year: “I want to take a moment as we wrap up this appropriations package to recognize the distinguished tenure and leadership of our Chairman Richard Shelby. Earlier this year, Senator Shelby cast vote number 10,000 right here on the Senate floor. Like so many of his accomplishments, that landmark seemed to slip past without a whole lot of fuss. But -- what a remarkable milepost in a very distinguished career. I imagine this year’s appropriations process holds special significance for our chairman. “As he took the reins of the Appropriations Committee, he made it clear that, working with Senator Leahy, regular order would be the name of the game. He set his sights on restoring the kind of collaborative process that has historically made our institution so unique. As we all know, that’s a little bit easier said than actually done. And yet, the committee completed a markup process that reported out all twelve spending bills faster than it had in any year since 1988 – that’s three decades ago. “And when we close out this package, the Senate will have passed a majority of its annual appropriations measures by the beginning of August for the first time since 2000 – eighteen years ago. I’m sure my fellow members of the Appropriations Committee would agree with me that this productivity is due in large part to the leadership of our Chairman Richard Shelby. “So, on behalf of the whole Senate, I want to thank him for the work he’s done so far, and for the accomplishments on behalf of the American people that are yet to come. And I want to thank Senator Leahy as well, and all of our other colleagues on the committee for their contributions.” DOT-18-0010-A-000325 DOT_Am.Oversight-000325 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: McConnell Statement on Cancelling the August Recess Tuesday, June 05, 2018 1:23:15 PM FYI From: Majority Leader McConnell Press (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 1:21 PM Subject: McConnell Statement on Cancelling the August Recess   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, June 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2kNWREl McConnell Statement on Cancelling the August Recess ‘Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make additional progress on the president’s nominees.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following statement Tuesday regarding the cancellation of August recess: “Due to the historic obstruction by Senate Democrats of the president’s nominees, and the goal of passing appropriations bills prior to the end of the fiscal year, the August recess has been canceled.  Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make additional progress on the president’s nominees.” Background: It is expected that Senators will have a state work period during the first full week in August before returning for the rest of the month. ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000327 DOT_Am.Oversight-000327 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: McConnell Statement on Retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy Wednesday, June 27, 2018 3:13:39 PM FYI   From: Majority Leader McConnell Press (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, June 27, 2018 2:54 PM Subject: McConnell Statement on Retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2IwG41Y                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2tv6pJd McConnell Statement on Retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy ‘The Senate will vote to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor this fall.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding today’s announcement from Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy that he will retire on July 31, 2018: “Just a few moments ago, Justice Anthony Kennedy announced that he is retiring as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and taking senior status, effective July 31st. First and foremost, I want to pause and express our gratitude for the extraordinary service that Justice Kennedy has offered our nation. He has served on the federal bench for 43 years. “In particular, we owe him a debt of thanks for his ardent defense of the First Amendment right to political speech. As Justice Kennedy concludes his tenure on the Court, we wish him, his wife Mary, and their family every happiness in the years ahead. “The Senate stands ready to fulfill its constitutional role by offering advice and consent on President Trump’s nominee to fill this vacancy. We will vote to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor this fall. As in the case of Justice Gorsuch, Senators will have the ‎opportunity to meet with President Trump’s nominee, examine his or her qualifications, and debate the nomination. “I have every confidence in Chairman Grassley’s conduct of the upcoming confirmation process in the Judiciary Committee. It is imperative that the president’s nominee be considered fairly and not be subjected to personal attacks. Thus far, President Trump’s judicial nominations have reflected a keen understanding of the vital role that judges play in our constitutional order. “Judges must interpret the law fairly and apply it even-handedly. Judicial decisions must not flow from judges’ personal philosophies or ‎preferences, but from the honest assessment of the words and actual meaning of the law. “This bedrock principle has clearly defined the president’s excellent choices to date. So we will look forward to yet another outstanding selection. But today, the Senate and the nation thank Justice Kennedy for his years of service on the bench, and for his many contributions to jurisprudence and DOT-18-0010-A-000328 DOT_Am.Oversight-000328 to our nation.? From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Bill Released Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:12:40 PM image001.png FYI From: Worley, Stephen (Appropriations) Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:10 PM To: Worley, Stephen (Appropriations) <(b) (6) @appro.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Bill Released   l HAD COCHRAN OF MISSISSIPPI, CHAIRMAN CONTACTS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 21, 2018 Chris Gallegos (202) 224-1010 or 224-6414 Stephen Worley (202) 224-3751 Twitter: @SenThadCochran FY2018 OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS BILL RELEASED Omnibus Bill Would Culminate FY2018 Appropriations Cycle, Increase Defense Funding & Enhance Infrastructure Development WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) today endorsed passage of omnibus appropriations legislation that provides the largest funding increase for the American military in 15 years and makes significant investments in national priorities like infrastructure, border security and the opioid epidemic. The omnibus measure incorporates all 12 appropriations bills for FY2018, and is the result of bicameral, bipartisan negotiations, with input from the Trump administration. The House and Senate have until March 23 to pass the measure. “Extensive negotiations and hard work went into producing this legislation, which will provide robust new funding to begin rebuilding our military. It also directs new funding to some of the most critical challenges facing our nation, including faltering infrastructure and the DOT-18-0010-A-000330 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000330 opioid crisis,” Cochran said. “Passage of this legislation is necessary to move us past stop-gap measures and shutdown threats. It will provide stability and guidance for the entirety of the federal government,” he said. The measure conforms to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, the two-year bipartisan budget agreement reached in February to adjust defense and nondefense discretionary funding caps for FY2018 and FY2019. The legislation sets defense spending levels at $700 billion and non-defense spending at $591 billion. It also meets priorities outlined by President Trump. The agreement provides the biggest year-over-year increase in defense funding in 15 years. Combined with FY2018 funding previously approved by Congress for missile defense and disaster response, the Defense Department will receive more than $61 billion over the 2017 enacted level. The omnibus measure funds a 2.4 percent pay increase for troops and includes substantial increases to support aircraft, ship, and equipment procurement. It also provides flexibility to execute operation and maintenance accounts more efficiently. The measure increases funding to further strengthen border security, dedicating $1.57 billion toward physical barriers on the southern border, in addition to additional funding for immigration enforcement. The bill also increases funding for federal law enforcement agencies to enhance law enforcement, pursue prosecutions, and improve public safety. To promote economic growth and public safety, the bill provides $21.2 billion to support to rebuild and improve infrastructure, including transportation and capital projects, water and wastewater projects, and rural broadband. The measure addresses the national opioid emergency declared by President Trump by allocating more than $4.65 billion throughout the government to work with states and localities to fight the opioid epidemic. The funding, a $3.0 billion increase over FY2017, is directed toward continued opioid prevention, treatment, and law enforcement initiatives. The legislation also includes: record-level funding to care for veterans; continuation of the Hyde and Helms Amendments to protect life and prohibit the use of taxpayer dollars for abortion; and limits access to significant Department of Justice grant programs to recipients that follow federal law. The bill and accompanying statement include provisions to restrict bureaucratic excess and reduce waste, fraud and abuse. Authorizing legislation attached to the package includes, but is not limited to, the Fix NICS Act and Stop School Violence Act, both relating to improving public safety; legislation addressing a tax inequity for agricultural businesses; and a reauthorization of the EPA Brownfields program to more effectively clean up contaminated sites that states and cities can reclaim for infrastructure development. Reauthorizations of certain federal programs, including the federal aviation programs, the Federal Communications Commission, and the National Flood Insurance Program, are also included. The following are links to the legislative text, in addition to summaries for the FY2018 appropriations bills within the omnibus agreement: Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2018 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000331 DOT_Am.Oversight-000331 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Defense Energy and Water Development Financial Services and General Government Homeland Security Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Legislative Branch Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies ###   Stephen Worley Deputy Communications Director Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran S-128, The Capitol (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000332 DOT_Am.Oversight-000332 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: FY2019 Labor, HHS, & Education Appropriations Bill Gains Subcommittee Approval Tuesday, June 26, 2018 11:28:45 AM Last two bills in committee this week – DoD and LHHS. Full committee markup this Thursday. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2018 11:25 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 Labor, HHS, & Education Appropriations Bill Gains Subcommittee Approval   - United States Senate Comrnitte ,e on. APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALAB.AMA , CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 26, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 LABOR, HHS, & EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS BILL GAINS SUBCOMMITTEE APPROVAL Panel Supports Increased Funding for NIH Research, Opioid Abuse Fight, Pell Grants WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (Labor-HHS) Appropriations Subcommittee today approved a FY2019 funding bill that continues investments in critical medical research, opioid abuse prevention and treatment, and education. The FY2019 Labor-HHS Appropriations bill contains $179.3 billion, an increase of $2.2 billion above the FY2018 level, in base discretionary funding for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and Related Agencies. In addition, the bill includes $711 million pursuant to the 21st Century Cures Act. Full committee consideration of the bill is scheduled for Thursday. “This bill prioritizes resources for programs that benefit our economy and impact the lives of every American,” said U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), chairman of the Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee. “I’m proud we were able to provide the fourth consecutive funding increase for the National Institutes of Health, which will pave the way for DOT-18-0010-A-000333 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000333 new medical breakthroughs and lower health care costs over the long term. The bill increases funding for opioid treatment and prevention programs, giving states the flexibility to fund programs that are the most effective for their unique needs. The bill provides funding for education programs to support students at every point in their academic career, from helping hardworking families afford high-quality early childcare, to investing in STEM education, to making college more affordable. Finally, this measure helps ensure we have the workforce we need to compete in a 21st Century global economy. “Working together in a bipartisan way, our subcommittee has concentrated funding on programs that address some of the biggest challenges facing our nation. I urge my colleagues to support this measure when it comes before the full committee,” he said. Bill Highlights: · · · · · · · National Institutes of Health (NIH) – $2 billion increase. Since Republicans took back the Senate starting with the FY2016 appropriations cycle, the Committee has increased funding for NIH by $9 billion or 30 percent. Fighting Opioid Abuse – $3.7 billion, an increase of $145 million. Funds are targeted towards improving treatment and prevention efforts; finding alternative pain medications; workforce needs, especially in our rural communities; and behavioral health. Funding for opioids has increased by $3.5 billion, or nearly 1,300 percent, since FY2015. Access to High Quality Early Childhood Care and Education – Includes a $250 million increase for Head Start and maintains the historic increase provided last year for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, to help improve the quality of child care programs and expand access to high-quality child care for working families. Mental Health – As a critical part of both combating opioid abuse and ensuring safety in our schools and communities, the bill provides $3.4 billion, a $195 million increase, for mental health treatment, prevention, and research. Public Health Preparedness – $3.5 billion, an increase of $113 million, to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from public health and medical disasters. Elementary and Secondary Education – The bill prioritizes formula grants that provide the most flexibility for states and school districts to decide how to best use limited resources to meet the educational needs of students and families. The bill includes a combined $400 million increase for: Title I Grants to school districts; IDEA/Special Education State grants; Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants; and Impact Aid. College Affordability and Completion – Includes a $100 increase, or 1.6 percent, for the maximum Pell grant award, to $6,195 for the 2018-19 academic year. The bill continues support for Year Round Pell, and continues significant increases provided last year for campus-based aid programs, TRIO, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and other higher education programs. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR The agreement provides $12.1 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Labor, DOT-18-0010-A-000334 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000334 $92 million below FY2018. Veterans Employment Training (VETS) Programs – $300 million, an increase of $5 million above FY2018. VETS funding provides for intensive employment services to veterans and eligible spouses, transitioning service members, wounded warriors, and disabled veterans. This increased funding will support veterans in transition from the military to the civilian workforce. Rural Workforce Training Initiative – $30 million for the dislocated worker training initiative to provide reemployment and training assistance to dislocated workers in rural areas of the country hit hardest by the recession and recovering more slowly. Funding is devoted to training those who have lost their jobs in the Appalachian and Delta regions to ensure they can adapt existing skills and learn new skills demanded by other growing industries and return to work as soon as possible. $5 million of these funds are directed to support workforce training activities for individuals affected by an opioid use disorder. Apprenticeship Opportunities – $160 million, an increase of $15 million, for training programs utilizing the flexible and effective apprenticeship model. Workforce Training Programs – $2.8 billion to support funds distributed by formula to states and localities to meet each state’s unique job training and reemployment needs. Governor’s Statewide Reserve – The bill once again allows the full 15 percent state training grant funding reserve for governors to address a variety of statewide training needs, projects, expanded partnerships, emergency response, and other services as needed throughout their states. Job Corps – $1.7 billion to support the nation’s largest career technical training and educational program for at-risk youth, with centers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Approximately 95 percent of Job Corps students successfully attain industry-recognized certifications. YouthBuild – $89.5 million to help at-risk high school drop-outs develop skills and knowledge to obtain industry-recognized job credentials, apprenticeships, and employment. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES The bill provides $90.1 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Health and Human Services, a $2.3 billion increase above the comparable FY2018 level. National Institutes of Health – $39.1 billion, an increase of $2 billion, or 5.4 percent, above FY2018. The bill includes: • $2.3 billion for Alzheimer’s disease research, a $425 million increase. For the first time, funding in this year’s bill meets and surpasses the $2 billion funding goal for research laid out in the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s disease. • $500 million for research on opioid addiction, development of opioids alternatives, pain management, and addiction treatment. • $429.4 million for the BRAIN Initiative to map the human brain, a $29 million increase; • $361.8 million for the Institutional Development Award, a $11.2 million increase; DOT-18-0010-A-000335 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000335 • • • • • • $376 million for the All of Us precision medicine study, a $86 million increase; $550 million to Combat Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria, a $37 million increase; $560 million for the Clinical and Translational Science Award, a $17.32 million increase; $12.6 million for the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act; $120 million for research on the universal flu vaccine, a $20 million increase; Increases to every Institute and Center to continue investments in innovative research to advance fundamental knowledge and speed the development of new therapies, diagnostics, and preventive measures to improve the health of all Americans. Fighting Opioid Abuse – $3.7 billion, an increase of $145 million. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid overdoses now surpass motor vehicle accidents as the number one cause of accidental death in the country with over 42,000 deaths from an opioid overdose in 2016. The bill includes investments for the following activities: · $200 million for Community Health Centers to support and enhance behavioral health, mental health, or substance use disorder services. · $120 million focused on responding to the opioid epidemic in rural communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug-related deaths are 45 percent higher in rural communities, with rural states more likely to have higher rates of overdose deaths. · Maintains $476 million at CDC for opioid overdose prevention and surveillance as well as a public awareness campaign. The bill includes $5 million for a new initiative in CDC to combat infectious diseases directly related to opioid use; · $500 million for research related to opioid addiction, development of opioid alternatives, pain management, and addiction treatment; · $1.5 billion for SAMHSA’s State Opioid Response Grant, which continues a 15 percent set-aside for states with the highest mortality rate related to opioid use disorders and a $50 million set-aside for Indian tribes and tribal organizations. Funding replaces $500 million expiring from 21st Century CURES; · $150 million, an increase of $50 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers; · $60 million, the same as the FY2018 level, for child abuse prevention and treatment programs to support the development and implementation of plans of infant safe care to improve and better-coordinate services for newborn children exposed to substances and their families or caregivers; · $40 million, the same as the FY2018 level, for mental health and substance use prevention and treatment for children and families in, or at-risk of entering, the foster care system; · In addition to these amounts specifically directed to address the opioid crisis, the bill also provides $1.9 billion for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. Mental Health – $1.6 billion, $79 million above FY2018, for mental health programs at SAMHSA. Within this total, the bill provides $748 million for the Mental Health Block Grant, an increase of $25 million, and $150 million, an increase of $50 million, for new grants to Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers that meet the standards set forth in the Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Expansion Act. DOT-18-0010-A-000336 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000336 Community Health Centers (CHCs) – $1.63 billion for CHCs that serve more than 24 million patients per year through 10,400 health centers nationwide. $200 million is provided for CHCs to expand behavioral health and substance use disorder prevention and treatment services, including opioid abuse, and provide access to overdose reversal drugs and recovery support services. Obamacare – The bill does not provide new funding for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In addition, several oversight provisions are included in the agreement: · Risk Corridor – Continues a provision requiring the Administration to operate the ACA Risk Corridor program in a budget neutral manner by prohibiting any funds from the Labor-HHS Appropriations bill from being used as payments for the Risk Corridor program. · ACA Congressional Notification – Directs the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to notify the appropriate Congressional committees two business days before any ACA-related data or grant opportunities are released to the public. · Health Exchange Transparency – Includes bill language requiring the Administration to publish ACA-related spending by category since its inception. · ACA Personnel – Includes bill language requiring the Administration to publish information on the number of employees, contractors, and activities involved in implementing, administering, or enforcing provisions of the ACA. Rural Health Care – $318.8 million, $28 million above FY2018, for rural health programs. The obstacles faced by patients and providers in rural communities are unique and often significantly different than those in urban areas. The bill focuses resources toward efforts and programs to help rural communities, including $25.5 million, $2 million above FY2018, for Telehealth. The Telehealth program expands the use of telecommunications technologies within rural areas that can link rural health providers and patients with specialists. Children’s Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME) – $325 million, $10 million above FY2018. The CHGME program protects children’s access to high quality medical care by providing freestanding children’s hospitals with funding to support the training of pediatric providers. Global Health Security – $98 million, maintaining current funding for the global health security agenda. Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) – $5.2 billion, level with FY2018, which maintains the historic $2.4 billion increase provided last year to help states fully implement the 2014 reauthorization of the CCDBG Act. This will help states improve the quality of child care programs, including increasing provider rates and ensuring health and safety standards are met, and expand working families’ access to quality, affordable child care. Head Start – $10.1 billion, $250 million above FY2018. This includes $215 million to help all Head Start programs keep up with costs, recruit and retain highly qualified staff, maintain enrollment, and provide high-quality early childhood services for children and families. An additional $35 million is provided to expand the length of Head Start programs’ day and year to increase the duration of services provided to children and families. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – $3.7 billion, a $50 million increase, for home heating and cooling assistance for low-income households. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000337 DOT_Am.Oversight-000337 Medicare Appeals – $182 million, maintaining the $75 million new investment from fiscal year 2018, to reduce the Medicare appeals backlog. Reducing the backlog is critical providing timely resolution to Medicare appeals for the medical community. Public Health Preparedness and Response – The bill includes additional funding for critical preparedness and response activities: · Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) – $562 million, $25 million above FY2018. BARDA is responsible for advanced research and development of medical countermeasures for national preparedness efforts. · Project BioShield – $735 million, $25 million above FY2018, to enhance national preparedness activities by procuring medical countermeasures against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. · Pandemic Influenza – $285 million, $35 million above FY2018, to improve the response and enhance the effectiveness of current pandemic influenza capabilities. · Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) – $680 million, $10 million above FY2018, to help states to prepare, respond, and recover from emerging threats such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) – $40.25 million, $2 million above FY2018. These centers develop and maintain a diverse health care workforce, broaden the distribution of the health workforce, enhance health care quality, and improve health care delivery to rural and underserved areas and populations. Victims of Trafficking – $27 million, $3 million above FY2018, for services for victims of human trafficking. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION The bill provides $71.4 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Education, a $541 million increase above the comparable FY2018 level. Promoting college access, completion and affordability · Pell Grants – Increases the maximum Pell grant award to $6,195, an increase of 1.6 percent or $100, to help students keep up with rising costs, limit the need for student loans, and ultimately graduate with less debt. The bill also continues support for Year Round Pell. · Campus-Based Aid Programs – $840 million for Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and $1.1 billion for Federal Work Study, both level with FY2018. These programs provide funding for college and universities to design financial aid programs to best meet the needs of their students. · TRIO – $1.01 billion, level with FY2018, for TRIO programs that provide services to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and first generation college students to help them enter and complete college and postgraduate education. · Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – The bill continues funding and authority provided last year that modifies eligibility for the PSLF program, and makes student borrowers eligible for PSLF if they were enrolled in an ineligible repayment plan, but AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000338 DOT_Am.Oversight-000338 otherwise would have been eligible for PSLF. State and Local Flexibility in Elementary and Secondary Education – The bill prioritizes funding for programs that provide the most flexibility for states and local school districts to decide how to best use limited resources, including support for STEM education and ensuring safe learning environments. · Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies – $15.9 billion, a $125 million increase, for this foundational Federal support for school districts and schools with a high percentage of low-income students to help all students succeed and meet challenging state academic standards. · Title IV Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants – $1.2 billion, an increase of $125 million, to support activities to provide students with a well-rounded education, including STEM education and computer science; ensure safe and supportive learning environments, including to help prevent and respond to school violence; and use technology to improve instruction. · IDEA Grants to States – $13.3 billion, a $125 million increase, for grants to states under parts B and C of the IDEA, to support special education services for children with disabilities, including grants for infants and families and children in preschool. · Impact Aid – $1.4 billion, a $25 million increase, to provide flexible support to local school districts impacted by the presence of federally-owned land and activities, such as military bases. · Adult Education State Grants – $642 million, a $25 million increase. · Career and Technical Education State Grants – $1.2 billion, level with FY2018. Charter Schools – $445 million, a $45 million increase, for grants to states, charter management organizations, and other related entities for the start-up, replication, and expansion of high-quality charter schools, including funding for facilities. This includes $7.5 million to expand charter schools in rural areas. STEM Education – $65 million, an increase of $15 million, in dedicated funding for evidence-based STEM education programs, including computer science education, within the Education Innovation and Research program. The bill also includes a $125 million increase for Student Support and Academic Enrichment formula grants, flexible funding that all school districts can use for a wide-range of activities including STEM education. 21st Century Community Learning Centers - $1.2 billion, level with FY2018, for grants to states to support academic enrichment activities for students before school, after school, and during the summer. Rural Education – $180 million, level with FY2018, for additional support to meet the unique needs of small rural schools and school districts. School Safety and Safe Learning Environments – $95 million, a $5 million increase, at the Department of Education for activities that include evidence-based programs to improve school climates, prevent violence, and provide services for students in response to incidents of violence. In addition, the bill includes a $125 million increase for Student Support and Academic Enrichment formula grants that can be used by every school district to support a wide range of activities including school counseling and school-based mental health programs. Funding is also maintained at the Department of Health and Human Services for AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000339 DOT_Am.Oversight-000339 programs that provide mental health support to schools and school-age children. RELATED AGENCIES Institute of Museum and Library Services – $242 million, a $2 million increase above FY2018. This agency supports programs for museums and libraries that encourage innovation, provide life-long learning opportunities, promote cultural and civic engagement, and improve access to a variety of services and information. Corporation for Public Broadcasting – $445 million for FY2021, level funding with FY2020. An additional $20 million is provided for the current year (FY2019) to continue the process of upgrading the public broadcasting interconnection system. Corporation for National and Community Service – $1.1 billion, a $6 million decrease, including: $415 million for AmeriCorps grants, an increase of $3 million, and $202 million for Senior Corps and $32 million for the National Civilian Community Corps, both level with FY2018. OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY Increasing the Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness of Government – The bill provides funding for activities aimed at reducing fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars, including: · Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments – $150 million to conduct enhanced, in-person assessments to accelerate the reemployment of Unemployment Compensation recipients to reduce the duration of their time receiving benefits and the likelihood of exhausting benefit coverage. These actions would also help protect the integrity of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund by reducing improper payments. This program has been shown to save $2.60 for every $1.00 spent. · Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control (HCFAC) – $765 million, a $20 million increase above FY2018, is provided by utilizing the cap adjustment provided in the Budget Control Act. For every $1.00 spent on HCFAC, $2.00 is recovered by the U.S. Treasury. This will create over $10.2 billion in savings to the Treasury over 10 years. · Preventing Social Security Disability Fraud, Abuse, and Improper Payments – $1.7 billion. This funding supports periodic reviews to ensure that individuals receiving Social Security disability benefits are still eligible under program rules. This funding is estimated to save approximately $9 billion over 10 years for the Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid programs. ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000340 DOT_Am.Oversight-000340 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: FY2019 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Subcommittee Tuesday, June 05, 2018 3:43:52 PM FYI. Full committee markups of both MilCon-VA and THUD are on Thursday. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 3:19 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill Approved by Senate Subcommittee   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 5, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 MILCON-VA APPROPRIATIONS BILL APPROVED BY SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies today approved a FY2019 appropriations bill to support critical housing, infrastructure, and facilities for U.S. military forces and their families, and to provide increased funding for veterans’ health care and benefits. The FY2019 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilConVA) Appropriations Bill is scheduled to be marked up by the full Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday. The subcommittee-approved measure includes $97.1 billion in FY2019 discretionary funding, $5.1 billion above the FY2018 level. The bill provides critical funding for construction of national defense facilities, family housing, and military hospitals and schools. The bill also provides funding for veterans’ health care, veterans’ benefits, medical and prosthetic research, the National Cemetery Administration, information technology, and the VA Inspector General. “Keeping the promise we made to our veterans is an important responsibility of the DOT-18-0010-A-000341 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000341 federal government. Just as essential is that we ensure our military has the infrastructure it needs to defend our nation and its allies. This bill reflects these priorities by increasing resources to prevent veteran suicide, increasing rural access to healthcare, supporting critical mental health programs, preventing veterans homelessness and providing robust funding for innovative medical research. Our bill will also give the Department of Defense the resources it needs to project power globally, enhance our warfighting capabilities and train our servicemembers,” said U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.), chairman of the MilCon-VA Appropriations Subcommittee. Bill Highlights: Military Construction – $10.3 billion to fund 169 military construction projects, which is $228 million above the FY2018 level. This includes funds for construction and renovation projects on military bases within the United States and around the globe. • • • • • • • European Reassurance Initiative – $792 million to fund construction projects in support of U.S. allies through the European Reassurance Initiative. Overseas Contingency Operations – $129 million for construction projects in direct support of military operations in the Middle East. Military Family Housing – $1.6 billion for construction, operation and maintenance of military family housing, which is $173 million above the FY2018 level. The bill includes construction funding for nine family housing projects. Military Medical Facilities – $366 million for construction or alteration of military medical facilities. This funding will allow for continued support and care for 9.8 million eligible beneficiaries, including wounded U.S. troops abroad. Department of Defense Education Facilities – $388 million for essential safety improvements and infrastructure work at four overseas military schools. Guard and Reserve – $487 million to support the construction needs of National Guard and Reserve forces. NATO Security Investment Program – $171 million to provide infrastructure for training, deterrence, and the NATO Alliance’s response to challenges posed by Russia and threats from the Middle East and North Africa. Veterans Affairs (VA) – The legislation includes a record level of $86.4 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, an increase of $5 billion above the FY2018 level. These resources will provide the healthcare, benefits, and memorial services earned by U.S. service members and veterans. • • • VA Medical Care – $78.3 billion to support medical treatment and healthcare for approximately 9.3 million enrolled patients in FY2019. The bill includes: $8.6 billion for mental health; $860.8 million for the Caregivers Program; $400 million for opioid misuse prevention and treatment; $779 million for medical and prosthetic research; $525 million for health care specifically for women veterans; and $270 million for rural health initiatives. Veterans Homelessness – $1.8 billion for VA Homelessness programs. The bill includes $450 million for the Supportive Services for Veterans Families program. Claims Processing – $3 billion, which is $87 million above the president’s request, to ensure that proper staffing and resources are utilized to reduce the wait time and backlog DOT-18-0010-A-000342 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000342 • • • of disability decisions on appeal, and to meet the demand for other benefit programs. Construction – $1.8 billion for major and minor construction associated with VA hospital replacement, correction of seismic deficiencies, scores of projects to improve access to VA health care, and the VA’s National Cemeteries. The bill also includes $150 million in construction grants for State Extended Care Facilities. VA Mandatory Funding – The bill fulfills mandatory funding requirements, including veteran disability compensation programs for 4.9 million veterans and 432,000 survivors; education benefits for nearly one million veterans; guaranteed home loans for 519,000 veterans; and vocational rehabilitation and employment training for more than 149,000 veterans. Advance Appropriations – $75.6 billion in FY2020 advance discretionary funding for veterans health care, and $121.3 billion in FY2020 advance mandatory funding for veterans benefits. Related Agencies – The legislation also includes $317.7 million in funding for: • • • • American Battle Monuments Commission – $81 million U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims – $35 million Arlington National Cemetery – $137.4 million Armed Forces Retirement Home – $64.3 million   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000343 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000343 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: FY2019 State & Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill Cleared by Senate Committee Thursday, June 21, 2018 3:57:58 PM Senate Appropriations continues with their aggressive markup schedule to report all bills before July 4th. Only two more bills remain next week for markup – Defense and LHHS. FYI on this week’s bills and committee action.   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, June 21, 2018 11:29 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: FY2019 State & Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill Cleared by Senate Committee   - United States Senate Conunittee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 21, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor FY2019 STATE & FOREIGN OPERATIONS APPROPRIATIONS BILL CLEARED BY COMMITTEE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Appropriations today approved the FY2019 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, strengthening federal programs and operations that support national security and American values abroad. The $54.4 billion appropriations bill strengthens diplomacy and development, promotes democracy abroad, provides critical assistance to allies, and continues life-saving global health and humanitarian assistance programs for the world’s most vulnerable populations. The measure was approved 31-0. “This bill works to ensure that our foreign assistance funding is both effective and efficient. Additionally, it provides the appropriate resources for programs impacting global health. Whether for humanitarian, diplomatic, or national security purposes, foreign aid programs can play a role in preserving the security of the United States,” said Senate Appropriation Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). “I applaud Senator Graham and Vice Chairman Leahy on their good work on this balanced measure.” DOT-18-0010-A-000344 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000344 “First and foremost, this is a national security bill. This bill makes America safer by supporting critical diplomatic efforts around the world, providing security assistance for our allies, directing stabilization assistance for areas in chaos due to conflict, and supporting lifesaving health and humanitarian assistance to people in dire need,” said U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), chairman of the Senate State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee. “The challenges we face are increasingly dynamic and complex, with hostile regimes seeking to undermine our standing on the world’s stage at every turn. Now is not the time for retreat. This bill signals to the world that America is not backing away from its role as the leader of the free world.” Bill Highlights: Supports Key Allies, Counters Extremism, and Promotes Democracy and Human Rights • $3.3 billion for military aid for Israel, $5 million for refugees resettling in Israel; and continues restrictions on the United Nations Human Rights Council. • $1.5 billion for economic and military assistance for Jordan, and an additional $50 million in Relief and Recovery Funds. • $300 million for the Countering Russian Influence Fund, $50 million above the FY2018 enacted level. • $165.4 million for assistance for Tunisia, and an additional $50 million in Relief and Recovery Funds. $250 million for the Relief and Recovery Fund for assistance for areas liberated from • Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and other extremist groups. • $160 million to implement the Indo-Pacific Strategy. • $2.4 billion for democracy programs, and an additional $170 million for the National Endowment for Democracy. This amount is $91.5 million above the FY2018 enacted level. • $515.5 million for assistance for Central American countries to implement the U.S. Strategy for Engagement in Central America, an increase of $80 million above the budget request. • $20 million to promote democracy and rule of law in Venezuela. Promotes and Protects International Religious Freedom – $25 million for programs to promote international religious freedom. In addition, the bill provides $6.5 million for the Ambassador-at-Large for Religious Freedom, and $2 million for the Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom in the Near East and South Central Asia. Strengthens Embassy Security – $5.7 billion to ensure the security and safety of U.S. diplomats and development specialists: America’s first line of defense abroad. Funds embassy security at the level recommended by the Benghazi Accountability Review Board. Provides Assistance for Refugees – $3.4 billion for Migration and Refugee Assistance, maintaining the long-held U.S. commitment to protecting and addressing the needs of refugees impacted by conflict and other natural and manmade disasters. International Disaster Assistance – $4.4 billion for International Disaster Assistance, which is $100 million above the FY2018 level. DOT-18-0010-A-000345 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000345 Protects Life – The bill continues provisions relating to abortion, including the Tiahrt, Helms, and Kemp-Kasten Amendments. STRENGTHENING GLOBAL HEALTH Global Health Program – The mark includes a total of $8.8 billion for Global Health Programs, of which $3.1 billion is for USAID health programs, and $5.7 billion is for the Department of State. · HIV/AIDS – $6 billion for global HIV/AIDS assistance, of which $5.72 billion is for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), $1.35 billion is for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and $330 million is for USAID HIV/AIDS programs. This is an increase of $50 million over the prior fiscal year. · Global Health Security – provides $100 million, including $27.5 million repurposed from unobligated Ebola balances, for global health security programs to protect the U.S. homeland from contagious infectious disease outbreaks abroad by accelerating the capabilities of targeted countries to prevent, detect, and respond to such outbreaks. · Polio – includes $59 million for polio eradication efforts · Maternal and Child Health – $829.5 million for maternal and child health programs, including $290 million for the GAVI Alliance · Malaria – $755 million to combat malaria · Tuberculosis – $275 million for tuberculosis programs · Neglected Tropical Diseases – $106 million combat Neglected Tropical Diseases · Nutrition – $135 million for nutrition assistance INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE The bill provides a total of $8.8 billion for critical assistance for counterterrorism and nonproliferation programs, foreign military training and education programs, peacekeeping operations, as well as financing for critical military equipment for U.S. partners around the world, including: · · · · · International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement – $1.4 billion; Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs – $860.7 million, of which $314.4 million is for anti-terrorism programs; Peacekeeping Operations – $477.4 million, including $31 million for a U.S. contribution to the Multinational Force and Observer mission in the Sinai; International Military Education and Training Programs – $110.7 million; and Foreign Military Financing Program – $5.9 billion. DEPARTMENT OF STATE OPERATIONS AND OTHER FUNDING Administration of Foreign Affairs – $11.8 billion for the Administration of Foreign Affairs, including funding to maintain staffing levels at the Department of State at FY2016 levels. Reorganization – The bill requires that the Department of State, USAID, and any other AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000346 DOT_Am.Oversight-000346 agency funded by the bill to consult with, and notify, the Committees on Appropriations prior to implementing any plan to expand, eliminate, consolidate, or downsize covered departments, agencies, or organizations. USAID Operations – $1.46 billion for USAID operating expenses, including to maintain staffing and operational levels consistent with prior fiscal years. An additional $4 million above the budget request is provided to the USAID Office of Inspector General. Palestinian Authority – The bill restricts assistance for the West Bank and Gaza, as well as assistance for the Palestinian Authority, and includes $50 million for Private Sector Partnerships Programs between Palestinian and international businesses. Multilateral Assistance – $1.83 billion for multilateral assistance, which includes funding to meet U.S. commitments to international financial institutions. The bill does not fund the United Nations (U.N.) Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization or the U.N. Population Fund. The bill does not include funds for a contribution, grant, or any other payment to the Green Climate Fund, as none were requested by the President. The bill promotes U.N. peacekeeping reforms and continues to restrict assistance for units involved in sexual exploitation and abuse. The bill funds assessed contributions for U.N. international organizations and peacekeeping activities at 22 percent and 25 percent, respectively. REFORMS, SAVINGS, AND REDUCING GOVERNMENT WASTE The bill and accompanying report include numerous oversight provisions to ensure proper use of taxpayer funds and accountability of the administration. The bill provides robust funding for the Department of State and USAID IGs, including the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, and directs implementation of key IG and GAO recommendations. The bill maintains a provision prohibiting the use of funds in the bill to deny an Inspector General funded under the bill timely access to any records, documents, or other materials, or to impede the access of such IG to such records, documents, or materials. In addition, the bill: • • • • Continues stringent requirements for records management by the Department of State and USAID; Enhances the effectiveness of humanitarian aid through the collection of data to improve the understanding of the needs and perceptions of beneficiaries; Continues limitations on conference expenses; and Prohibits funds to establish or maintain a computer network at a federal agency funded by the Act unless the network has filters to block sexually explicit websites.   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000347 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000347 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: Senate Passes Another Appropriations Package, Approves Four More Bipartisan Funding Bills Wednesday, August 01, 2018 1:53:47 PM Congratulations to Team Shelby, Murkowski, Collins, Hoeven, and Lankford. Seven out of the twelve Senate spending bills done. Bill Passage: 92-6   Next mini up will be Defense-LHHS. Thank you!   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Wednesday, August 1, 2018 1:28 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Passes Another Appropriations Package, Approves Four More Bipartisan Funding Bills   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 1, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE PASSES ANOTHER APPROPRIATIONS PACKAGE, APPROVES FOUR MORE BIPARTISAN FUNDING BILLS WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, today applauded the Senate’s passage of H.R. 6147, the second Fiscal Year 2019 minibus appropriations bill. The funding legislation packages four measures including Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; Financial Services and General Government; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies; and Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. This marks the Senate’s completion of seven FY2019 appropriations bills. “Following strong bipartisan momentum to return to regular order, the Senate has passed a second package of appropriations measures with overwhelming support,” said Chairman Shelby. “The funding provided by these bills will help to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure, fight against opioid abuse, make important investments in American agriculture, and promote and support the growth of our economy.” DOT-18-0010-A-000348 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000348 “I hope my colleagues are encouraged by what’s happening here, by what we are accomplishing together. Moving these bills in this way is the right thing to do – not only for this institution, but for our country; for the American people.” Shelby continued. The funding measure was approved by a vote of 92 – 6. The package provides a total of $154.176 billion in base discretionary funding to support various national priorities within the Departments of Interior, Treasury, Agriculture, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency. All four of the appropriations bills included in the package were passed by the full Senate Appropriations Committee with unanimous support. This legislation follows last month’s passage of H.R. 5895, a minibus which packaged the Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and the Legislative Branch FY2019 appropriations bills. The Senate approved the three-bill package with the overwhelming support of 86 – 5. Furthermore, all 12 of the Senate’s FY2019 appropriations measures were passed out of the committee by wide bipartisan margins and were approved by a cumulative committee vote of 363 – 9. Prior to the vote for passage of H.R. 6147, Chairman Shelby spoke on the Senate floor regarding his strong support for the legislation. His full remarks, as prepared, are as follows: “Madam President, before we vote I want to thank my colleagues for their cooperation in moving this package. In particular, I want to thank Leaders McConnell and Schumer for bringing these bills to the floor, and Vice Chairman Leahy for his continued partnership throughout the appropriations process. “I also want to congratulate the bill managers and their staffs: Senators Murkowski, Collins, Lankford, and Hoeven on the Republican side; Senators Udall, Reed, Coons, and Merkley on the Democratic side. “These valuable members of the Appropriations Committee produced strong and balanced bills, and they have guided an open and disciplined process here on the Senate floor. Thank you for your excellent work. “Madam President, we are now making real headway in the appropriations process. The Committee reported all twelve fiscal year 2019 bills to the full Senate before the July 4th recess. All with strong bipartisan support. “The first three bill package passed the full Senate last month by a vote of 86 – 5. “The package now before the Senate contains four additional appropriations bills. Hopefully – we’ll see here shortly – this package will achieve the same level of bipartisan support as the last. “If that holds true we will have passed seven – yes, seven – appropriations bills before August. And with only five more to go, I think that we can honestly say Madam President, this train has considerable momentum behind it now. “Next up is the Defense-Labor-HHS package. A package I know senators on both sides of the aisle are very eager to debate. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000349 DOT_Am.Oversight-000349 “Madam President, I hope my colleagues are encouraged by what’s happening here, by what we are accomplishing together. Moving these bills in this way is the right thing to do M. President – not only for this institution, but for our country; for the American people. “When we take up the next package I hope we will continue to work using this framework as our guide. It is, after all, this framework that has allowed us to return to regular order. This process is working, Madam President; let’s keep it going. “Again, I thank my colleagues for their cooperation, I urge a yes vote on this bill, and with that I yield the floor.” ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000350 DOT_Am.Oversight-000350 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Agriculture Appropriations Bill Tuesday, May 22, 2018 10:59:20 AM FYI From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 10:58 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Agriculture Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 22, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS BILL WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies today approved a $145.1 billion appropriations bill to support federal agriculture and nutrition programs in FY2019. The FY2019 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill is scheduled to be considered Thursday by the Senate Committee on Appropriations. The Senate legislation recommends $145.1 billion in discretionary and mandatory funding, $6.2 billion above the President’s budget request and $710 million below the FY2018 enacted level. The discretionary funding in the bill totals $23.235 billion, $225 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Mandatory funding in the bill totals $121.8 billion. This appropriations bill supports U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agriculture, rural development, conservation programs, and food and drug safety. It also provides essential nutrition assistance for children, families and seniors. The measure also creates incentives for military veterans to enter careers in agriculture. “Our farmers and ranchers provide our nation with the food, fuel, and fiber necessary DOT-18-0010-A-000351 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000351 to meet our needs, and they do so in spite of challenges from low commodity prices to unpredictable weather,” said U.S Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.), chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. “We worked hard to ensure that this funding legislation supports the priorities of our producers and rural America. The investments made in this bill reaffirm our commitment to being at the forefront of production agriculture and to providing our rural communities the ability to compete – both here and abroad,” Hoeven said. Bill Highlights: Agricultural Research – $2.73 billion to support agricultural research conducted by the Agricultural Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This amount includes $405 million for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, a $5 million increase over FY2018. Formula research funding for land-grant universities is maintained at FY2018 enacted levels. The bill also rejects proposed extramural research project terminations and laboratory closures included in the budget request. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) – $1.004 billion for APHIS, $262 million above the budget request and $18.4 million above the FY2018 enacted level. Overall funding will continue programs to control or eradicate plant and animal pests and diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture production. The bill provides investments in the science program for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility and also provides increases to address predeparture inspections of agriculture imports and tree pests. Natural Resources Conservation Service – $879.1 million, $5 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $210 million over the budget request, for conservation operations to help farmers, ranchers, and private forest landowners conserve and protect their land. The bill also includes $150 million for the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program to support needed investments in rural communities. Farm Service Agency (FSA) – $1.625 billion for FSA for various farm, conservation, and emergency loan programs important to the nation’s farmers and ranchers. It prohibits the closure of FSA county offices and provides resources for information technology (IT) improvements and personnel across county offices. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) – $1.049 billion, a $7.5 million reduction form the FY2018 enacted level. The bill fully funds the food safety and inspection programs that ensure safe and healthy food for American families. The bill promotes the safety and productivity of the nation’s $186 billion meat and poultry industry by supporting more than 8,000 frontline inspection personnel for meat, poultry, and egg products at more than 6,400 facilities in the United States. The bill provides full funding for FSIS to implement Siluriformes fish and fish product inspection. Rural Development – $3.8 billion for Rural Development, including additional $825 million in funding dedicated for infrastructure investments in Rural America. DOT-18-0010-A-000352 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000352 · Water & Electric Infrastructure – $1.25 billion for rural water and waste program loans, the same as the FY2018 enacted level; $800 million for water and waste grants and $19 million for the Circuit Rider program. The bill also provides $6.94 billion for rural electric and telephone infrastructure loans and $30 million for broadband grants. · Rural Broadband – $425 million for the rural broadband loan and grant pilot program and $53 million in Distance Learning and Telemedicine grants, of which $20 million is dedicated to assist rural communities combat the opioid epidemic. · Rural Housing Loans and Rental Assistance – $24 billion in loan authority for the Single Family Housing guaranteed loan program, equal to the FY2018 enacted level and the President’s request. It includes $1.1 billion for the direct loan program, which provides low-income rural families with home loan assistance. In addition, $1.331 billion is provided for rental assistance for affordable rental housing for low-income families and the elderly in rural communities for renewal of all existing rental assistance contracts. · Business and Industry Loans – The legislation supports $1 billion in grants and loans for rural business and industry programs that promote small business growth in rural areas. The bill includes funding for the Healthy Food Financing Initiative to improve access to affordable, healthy foods in underserved areas. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – $2.97 billion in discretionary funding for the FDA, $159 million over the FY2018 enacted level. Overall, total FDA funding, including user fee revenues, is $5.4 billion, which is $292 million above FY2018. The bill provides $88.5 million for medical product initiatives, including full funding for the Oncology Center of Excellence; $15 million for food safety initiatives; and $59 million for opioid prevention efforts. The bill also provides $70 million as authorized in the 21st Century Cures Act. Food and Nutrition Programs – The bill provides discretionary funding, as well as mandatory funding required by law, for food and nutrition programs within the USDA. This includes funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Child Nutrition programs. • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – $6.15 billion in discretionary funding for WIC, which $25 million below the FY2018 enacted level. This amount is based on USDA estimates of WIC enrollments and will not prevent any eligible participants from receiving benefits. • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – $73.219 billion in required mandatory spending, which is outside the discretionary funding jurisdiction of the Senate Appropriations Committee, for SNAP. Due to declining enrollment, this is $794 million below last year’s level. • Child Nutrition Programs – $23.184 billion in required mandatory funding, which is outside the discretionary funding jurisdiction of the Senate Appropriations Committee, for child nutrition programs. This funding will provide meals for an estimated 30.7 DOT-18-0010-A-000353 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000353 million participants, 74% of whom qualify for free or reduced-priced meals. In addition, $58 million in discretionary program funds are also included for equipment grants and Summer EBT Demonstration. I International Programs – $1.716 billion for Food for Peace grants, which support the delivery of American-grown food to foreign countries experiencing chronic hunger crises. The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program is funded at $210.255 million and includes $15 million for the Local and Regional Food Aid Procurement at the Foreign Agriculture Service.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000354 DOT_Am.Oversight-000354 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Energy & Water Development Appropriations Bill Tuesday, May 22, 2018 4:26:40 PM FYI. Full committee markups for both Energy and Water and AG bills are this Thursday. From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 3:14 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Energy & Water Development Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Comrnitte ,e on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 22, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 ENERGY & WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development today approved a $43.766 billion measure to fund U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) programs and critical infrastructure projects administered by the Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation. The FY2019 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill totals $43.766 billion, $566 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $7.24 billion above the budget request. The measure is scheduled to be considered Thursday by the full Senate Appropriations Committee. The subcommittee measure provides added resources to strengthen the U.S. nuclear deterrence posture, ensure nuclear stockpile readiness and safety, and prepare for existing and future nuclear threats. The bill funds programs to advance American energy security and economic competitiveness. For the fourth year in a row, the subcommittee approved the highest-ever level of funding for the DOE Office of Science in a regular appropriations bill and DOT-18-0010-A-000355 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000355 recommended historic, record-level funding for the program to spur greater innovation in energy research, high-performance computing, and next-generation technologies. The bill also includes the funding necessary to improve and maintain flood control projects and ensure the viability of national and regional ports and waterways. “I would tell President Trump and the Office of Management and Budget that science, research and innovation is what made America first, and I recommend that he add science, research and innovation to his ‘America First’ agenda,” said U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee. I “This funding bill is a good first step to doing that – it prioritizes federal spending to keep America first in energy research and increases funding to develop the next generation of supercomputers,” Alexander said. Bill Highlights: The Senate FY2019 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill totals $43.766 billion, $566 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $7.240 billion above the budget request. While meeting national priorities, the legislation makes targeted reductions to lower-priority programs. Nuclear Security – $14.8 billion, $111 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $311 million below the budget request, for DOE nuclear security programs, including Weapons Activities, Naval Reactors, and Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation. This includes: • $10.9 billion for Weapons Activities, $208 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $311 million below the budget request, • $1.6 billion for Naval Reactors, the same as the FY2018 enacted level and $167 million below the budget request, and $1.9 billion for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation, $97 million below the FY2018 • enacted level and $39 million above the budget request. Army Corps of Engineers – $6.927 billion, $100 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $2.142 billion above the budget request. • For the fifth consecutive year, the bill meets the spending targets in the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 for appropriations from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund for the Corps of Engineers. • For the fifth consecutive year, the bill makes full use of the estimated annual revenues from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund to advance American competitiveness and export capabilities. • The bill also provides $1.289 billion above the budget request for construction of river and harbor, flood storm damage reduction, shore protection, aquatic ecosystem restoration, and related projects authorized by law. Bureau of Reclamation – $1.493 billion, $498 million above the budget request, for the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Reclamation to help manage, develop, and protect the water resources of Western states. DOT-18-0010-A-000356 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000356 Science Research – $6.65 billion for the DOE Office of Science, $390 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $1.26 billion above the budget request, to support basic science research and enabling research capabilities, development of high-performance computing systems, and research into the next generation of clean energy sources—all important areas for improving economic competitiveness, national security, and quality of life. Environmental Cleanup – $7.2 billion for DOE environmental management activities, $56 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $581 million above the budget request, including $6.0 billion for Defense Environmental Cleanup to continue remediation of sites contaminated by previous nuclear weapons production. The bill also funds cleanup activities at other nondefense related nuclear sites. Solving the Nuclear Waste Stalemate – The bill includes a pilot program for consolidated nuclear waste storage, introduced by Alexander and ranking member Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). It also includes funding to allow DOE to store nuclear waste at private facilities that are licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Energy Programs – $13.3 billion, $379 million above the FY2018 enacted level and $9.5 billion above the budget request. Within this total, the bill prioritizes and increases funding for energy programs that encourage U.S. economic competitiveness and that will advance an “all-of-the-above” solution to U.S. energy independence. Fossil Energy Research and Development – $727 million, $183,000 above the FY2018 enacted level and $225 million above the budget request, for technologies to advance coal, natural gas, oil, and other fossil energy resources. Nuclear Energy Research and Development – $1.2 billion, the same as the FY2018 amount and $449 million above the budget request, for nuclear energy research, development, and demonstration activities, including: · $302 million for Reactor Concepts Research, Development, and Demonstration, including $150 million for Advanced Reactor Technologies; and · $22 million for industry-led Advanced Reactor Concepts program.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000357 DOT_Am.Oversight-000357 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Transportation, HUD Appropriations Bill Tuesday, June 05, 2018 10:33:43 AM FYI From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 10:25 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Senate Subcommittee Approves FY2019 Transportation, HUD Appropriations Bill   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 5, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor SUBCOMMITTEE APPROVES FY2019 TRANSPORTATION, HUD APPROPRIATIONS BILL I WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Appropriations Subcommittee today approved its FY2019 appropriations bill with funding to advance transportation infrastructure development, housing assistance, and community development. The FY2019 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Appropriations Act provides $71.4 billion in discretionary spending for the U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies. The bill is $1.1 billion above FY2018 enacted levels. I The subcommittee recommendation targets funding toward improving our nation’s transportation and housing infrastructure, continuing to improve our air traffic control system, and maintaining rental assistance and community development programs. The measure will be considered by the full Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday. “This bipartisan bill is the product of considerable negotiation and compromise. I worked closely with Ranking Member Reed in drafting this bill, and we received input from 70 Senators with more than 800 requests, all of which we carefully evaluated,” said U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), chairman of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee. DOT-18-0010-A-000358 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000358 “The funding in this legislation will allow us to invest in our nation’s infrastructure, while fully funding the renewal of housing assistance for low-income seniors and other vulnerable populations, such as teenagers and veterans who are homeless,” she said. Bill Highlights: The bill prioritizes funding for critical transportation projects, programs to encourage economic growth and efficiency, and core housing programs for the nation’s most vulnerable individuals. Transportation – $26.6 billion in discretionary appropriations for the U.S. Department of Transportation for FY2019. This is $698 million below the FY2018 enacted level. Within this amount, priority is placed on programs to improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the transportation system. I • • • BUILD Grants – $1 billion for Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants, previously known as TIGER grants. I  Highways – $46 billion from the Highway Trust Fund for the Federal-aid Highways Program, consistent with the FAST Act. In keeping with the two-year budget agreement’s emphasis on infrastructure investments, the bill provides $3.3 billion in additional funding for highway programs, including $90 million to eliminate hazards at railway-highway grade crossings and $800 million for bridge repairs. The bill maintains flexibility for State Departments of Transportation to repurpose some stagnant project funding for current infrastructure projects.   Aviation – $17.7 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which fully funds all air traffic control personnel, including more than 14,000 air traffic controllers, and more than 25,000 engineers, maintenance technicians, safety inspectors, and operational support personnel. The bill provides $1 billion for FAA Next Generation Air Transportation Systems (NextGen) programs, and provides not less than $168 million for the Contract Towers program. The bill also provides $750 million in additional funding for airport improvements. I  • Rail – $2.8 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This includes $1.9 billion to Amtrak for the Northeast Corridor and National Network, continuing service for all current routes. The bill provides $262 million for FRA safety and operations, as well as research and development activities. DOT-18-0010-A-000359 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000359   Additionally, the bill provides $255 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement grants program, $300 million for Federal-State Partnership for State of Good Repair grants, and $10 million for Restoration and Enhancement grants. I • Transit – $13.5 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Transit formula grants total $9.9 billion, from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund, consistent with the FAST Act. In addition, $800 million is provided from the general fund for transit infrastructure grants. The bill provides a total of $2.6 billion for Capital Investment Grants (CIG), fully funding all current “Full Funding Grant Agreement” (FFGA) transit projects, as well as new projects that have met the rigorous criteria of CIG. • Maritime – $818 million for the Maritime Administration to increase the productivity, efficiency, and safety of the nation’s ports and intermodal water and land transportation. The Maritime Security Program is funded at $300 million. I The bill includes $40 million for State Maritime Academies (SMAs) and an additional $300 million for a new National Security Multi-Mission Vessel. This training ship is essential for the SMAs to provide the nation with a strong merchant marine workforce. • Safety – The legislation contains funding for the various transportation safety programs and agencies within the U.S. Department of Transportation. This includes $956 million in total budgetary resources for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and $667 million for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The bill also includes $275 million for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to help address safety concerns related to recent pipeline and crude oil by rail accidents. I Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – $44.5 billion in discretionary appropriations for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, an increase of $1.8 billion above the FY2018 enacted level.   • Rental Assistance – HUD rental assistance programs provide housing assistance for nearly 5 million vulnerable families and individuals. Of those receiving assistance, 57 percent are elderly or disabled. This bill provides necessary increases to continue assistance to all families and individuals currently served by these programs. Included in the bill is: $22.8 billion for tenant-based Section 8 vouchers; $7.5 billion for public housing; $11.7 billion for project-based Section 8; $678 million for Housing DOT-18-0010-A-000360 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000360 for the Elderly; and $154 million for Housing for Persons with Disabilities. I I · Community Planning and Development – $7.8 billion for Community Planning and Development programs, $99 million above the FY2018 enacted level. The Community Development Block Grant formula program is funded at $3.3 billion; the Homeless Assistance Grants are funded at $2.6 billion; the HOME program is funded at $1.4 million; and the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program is funded at $375 million. · Emphasis on Homelessness – $2.6 billion for homeless assistance programs and includes several provisions to improve HUD’s delivery of housing and services to address particularly vulnerable populations, including veterans, youth, and survivors of domestic violence. The bill includes $20 million for new family unification vouchers to prevent youth exiting foster care from becoming homeless. An additional $80 million is provided for grants and technical assistance to test comprehensive efforts to end youth homelessness in urban and rural areas. In addition, the bill provides $50 million for rapid rehousing assistance for domestic violence, and $40 million for new HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers. · Preventing Lead Hazards – $260 million to combat lead hazards, $30 million above the FY2018 enacted level. These grants will help communities protect children from the harmful effects of lead hazard poisoning.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT ### DOT-18-0010-A-000361 DOT_Am.Oversight-000361 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: NEWS: Shelby Selected as Senate Appropriations Chairman Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:48:10 PM ICYMI.     From: Sen. Shelby Press Office Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:41 PM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: NEWS: Shelby Selected as Senate Appropriations Chairman   - United States Senate Comrnitte ,e on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 10, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor Shelby Selected as Senate Appropriations Chairman Announces Subcommittee Chairmen and Membership Rosters for Remainder of 115th Congress WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today received the approval of his Republican colleagues to serve as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the remainder of the 115th Congress. Shelby previously served as vice chairman for the 113th Congress. Today the Senate Republican Conference ratified the selection of Senator Richard Shelby to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee following the resignation of former U.S. Senator Thad Cochran. After a vote by members of the Appropriations Committee, the Conference approved Shelby’s election as chairman. The full Senate is expected to formally affirm the Senate Appropriations Committee chairman and new roster in an organizing resolution this evening. “My colleagues have placed their trust in me to lead the Senate Appropriations Committee, and I am honored to serve our nation in this new capacity,” said Shelby. “This is a remarkable opportunity. I look forward to working with Vice Chairman Leahy and the entire committee as we continue the practice of writing and approving bills that responsibly allocate funding for the activities and duties of the federal government.” DOT-18-0010-A-000362 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000362 “Further, I am pleased to announce the new subcommittee chairmen and rosters for the Appropriations Committee. It is my hope that these subcommittee chairmen will work closely with their colleagues to craft funding bills in a timely manner that meet the needs of the American people.” Shelby has worked with his colleagues to designate subcommittee chairmen from among the Republican members of the committee. In order of committee seniority, Republican Senators on the committee are Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Roy Blunt of Missouri, Jerry Moran of Kansas, John Hoeven of North Dakota, John Boozman of Arkansas, Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, James Lankford of Oklahoma, Steve Daines of Montana, John Kennedy of Louisiana, Marco Rubio of Florida, and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi. The following are the subcommittee chairmen, ranking members, and rosters for remainder of the 115th Congress, with members listed in in order of subcommittee seniority: Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies John Hoeven (R-N.D.), chairman Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Susan Collins (R-Maine) Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), ranking member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) John Tester (D-Mont.) Tom Udall (D-N.M.) Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) Susan Collins (R-Maine) Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) John Boozman (R-Ark.) Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) James Lankford (R-Okla.) John Kennedy (R-La.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), ranking member Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000363 DOT_Am.Oversight-000363 Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) Jack Reed (D-R.I.) Chris Coons (D-Del.) Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) Department of Defense Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), chairman Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Susan Collins (R-Maine) Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) John Hoeven (R-N.D.) Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), vice chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) Patty Murray (D-Wash.) Jack Reed (D-R.I.) Jon Tester (D-Mont.) Tom Udall (D-N.M.) Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) Energy and Water Development Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), chairman Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Susan Collins (R-Maine) Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) John Hoeven (R-N.D.) John Kennedy (R-La.) James Lankford (R-Okla.) Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), ranking member Patty Murray (D-Wash.) Jon Tester (D-Mont.) Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) Tom Udall (D-N.M.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000364 DOT_Am.Oversight-000364 Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) Chris Coons (D-Del.) Financial Services and General Government James Lankford (R-Okla.), chairman Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) John Boozman (R-Ark.) Steve Daines (R-Mont.) John Kennedy (R-La.) Chris Coons (D-Del.), ranking member Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) Department of Homeland Security Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) John Boozman (R-Ark.) John Hoeven (R-N.D.) James Lankford (R-Okla.) John Kennedy (R-La.) Jon Tester (D-Mont.), ranking member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Patty Murray (D-Wash.) Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Tom Udall (D-N.M.), ranking member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000365 DOT_Am.Oversight-000365 Jack Reed (D-R.I.) Jon Tester (D-Mont.) Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) James Lankford (R-Okla.) John Kennedy (R-La.) Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Patty Murray (D-Wash.), ranking member Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) Jack Reed (D-R.I.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) Legislative Branch Steve Daines (R-Mont.), chairman Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), ranking member Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies John Boozman (R-Ark.), chairman Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) John Hoeven (R-N.D.) Susan Collins (R-Maine) Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000366 DOT_Am.Oversight-000366 Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), ranking member Jon Tester (D-Mont.) Patty Murray (D-Wash.) Jack Reed (D-R.I.) Tom Udall (D-N.M.) Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), chairman Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) John Boozman (R-Ark.) James Lankford (R-Okla.) Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Patrick Leahy (R-Vt.), ranking member Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) Chris Coons (D-Del.) Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Susan Collins (R-Maine), chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) John Boozman (R-Ark.) Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) John Hoeven (R-N.D.) Jack Reed (D-R.I.), ranking member Patty Murray (D-Wash.) Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) Chris Coons (D-Del.) Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000367 DOT_Am.Oversight-000367 Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) Shelby is an ex-officio member of each subcommittee on which he is not a member. ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000368 DOT_Am.Oversight-000368 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: OMNIBUS Text and Explanatory Material Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:16:30 PM FYI   Explanatory material and text linked below.  Rules will meet immediately following the 9:15PM vote series tonight. Senate amendment to H.R. 1625 TARGET Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018] [PDF] [XML]   :: House Amendment to Senate [PDF] [XML] Amendment to H.R. 1625 (Rules Committee Print 115-66—Showing the text of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018)   :: Introduction [PDF] :: Division A [PDF] :: Division B [PDF] :: Division C [PDF] :: Division D [PDF] :: Division E [PDF] :: Division F [PDF] :: Division G [PDF] :: Division H [PDF] :: Division I [PDF] :: Division J [PDF]                       AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000369 DOT_Am.Oversight-000369 :: Division K [PDF] :: Division L [PDF] :: Division S [PDF]                   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000370 DOT_Am.Oversight-000370 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:27:46 PM Committee on Appropriations Subcommittees.Complete.pdf FYI   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:17 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters   - Chiefs/Staff Directors/LDs:   Please see the attached document, care of Senate Approps staff, outlining Subcommittee Chair assignments and Subcommittee Member rosters (for the Republican Members).   Thanks, Erica     Committee on Appropriations   Senator Shelby: Chair – Defense Senator Alexander: Chair – Energy and Water Development Senator Collins: Chair – Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Senator Murkowski: Chair – Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Senator Graham: Chair – State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Senator Blunt: Chair – Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Senator Moran: Chair – Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Senator Hoeven: Chair – Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Senator Boozman: Chair – Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Senator Capito: Chair – Homeland Security Senator Lankford: Chair – Financial Services and General Government Senator Daines: Chair – Legislative Branch AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000371 DOT_Am.Oversight-000371 Committee on Appropriations   Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Chair ~ HOEVEN MCCONNELL COLLINS BLUNT MORAN RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Chair ~ MORAN ALEXANDER MURKOWSKI COLLINS GRAHAM BOOZMAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Defense Chair ~ SHELBY MCCONNELL ALEXANDER COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM BLUNT DAINES MORAN HOEVEN Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Chair ~ ALEXANDER MCCONNELL SHELBY COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM HOEVEN KENNEDY LANKFORD Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government Chair ~ LANKFORD MORAN BOOZMAN DAINES KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Homeland Security AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000372 DOT_Am.Oversight-000372 Chair ~ CAPITO SHELBY MURKOWSKI BOOZMAN HOEVEN LANKFORD KENNEDY AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000373 DOT_Am.Oversight-000373 Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Chair ~ MURKOWSKI ALEXANDER BLUNT MCCONNELL DAINES CAPITO RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Chair ~ BLUNT SHELBY ALEXANDER GRAHAM MORAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY RUBIO HYDE-SMITH Subcommittee on Legislative Branch Chair ~ DAINES HYDE-SMITH SHELBY Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Chair ~ BOOZMAN MCCONELL MURKOWSKI HOEVEN COLLINS CAPITO MORAN RUBIO SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Chair ~ GRAHAM MCCONNELL BLUNT BOOZMAN LANKFORD DAINES RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Chair ~ COLLINS SHELBY ALEXANDER BLUNT AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000374 DOT_Am.Oversight-000374 BOOZMAN CAPITO DAINES GRAHAM HOEVEN               Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000375 DOT_Am.Oversight-000375 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Roll Call Votes Scheduled Tuesday, July 31, 2018 8:18:42 PM Schedule for tomorrow on minibus #2 (Interior, Financial Services, Transportation, Ag), below. Votes, including final passage, starting tomorrow at 11 AM.   From: Cloakroom [mailto:subscriptions_cloakroom@rep-secretary.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 8:13 PM Subject: Roll Call Votes Scheduled Vote Alert TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 AT 08:12 PM Roll Call Votes Scheduled At 11:00am on Wednesday, August 1st, the Senate will proceed to 5 roll call votes in relation to the following in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations:              1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Leahy #3464 (60 vote affirmative threshold) Lee #3522 (60 vote affirmative threshold) Baldwin #3524 (60 vote affirmative threshold) Cruz #3402 Passage of H.R.6147, as amended Vote alerts are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about vote alerts, wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000376 DOT_Am.Oversight-000376 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, May 14, 2018 11:04:11 AM Floorcast051418.pdf FYI on Senate schedule for this week.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, May 14, 2018 10:56 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - '1' EN ATE Senator John Barra o, Chaionan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, May 14 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: Today the Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #780, Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct 2 roll call votes on confirmation of the Scudder nomination and confirmation of Executive Calendar #781, Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. On Tuesday at noon, the Senate will conduct 2 roll call votes on confirmation of Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 10th Circuit and Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. Also this week, the Senate will consider and have votes in relation to the following: 1) Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education.  Pursuant to a unanimous consent agreement, there will up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, on the nomination.  Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote on confirmation; 2)  S.J. Res. 52, Senator Markey’s joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to "Restoring Internet Freedom".  Up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, are permitted prior to a vote on the joint resolution; and DOT-18-0010-A-000377 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000377 3) S. Con. Res. 36, Senator Paul’s concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2019 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2020 through 2028. A LOOK AHEAD: Other items the Senate may consider during this work period include: · ·   · Nominations, including the CIA Director; VA Choice legislation (the Senate is expected to receive a bill from the House this week); and FAA Reauthorization.     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000378 DOT_Am.Oversight-000378 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, June 04, 2018 3:18:19 PM Senate back in session today. FYI on schedule, below.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, June 4, 2018 11:50 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached     - Senator John Barra so, Chairman RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, June 4 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky.  At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct a cloture vote on the nomination. On Thursday, May 24, cloture was also filed on: 1) Executive Calendar #587, Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas; and 2) Executive Calendar #625, Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama. In addition to the above nominations, the Senate is expected to begin consideration of the Defense Authorization bill this week, with consideration of the measure continuing into next week. A LOOK AHEAD: At a time to be determined, the Senate will begin consideration of Executive Calendar #603, Kenneth L. Marcus, of Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Department of Education, for up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided.  Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote on confirmation. Items the Senate may consider during this work period include:   DOT-18-0010-A-000379 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000379 · · · · · · · Nominations; S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; Farm bill; Legislation relating to opioids; Appropriations; FAA reauthorization; and Flood insurance legislation.     On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.        AMERICAN pVERSIGHT RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000380 DOT_Am.Oversight-000380 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: RPC Floorcast attached Monday, April 23, 2018 2:51:19 PM Floorcast042318.pdf FYI on Senate schedule for the week. Hope everyone had a great weekend.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, April 23, 2018 11:54 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached   - Senator John Barrasso, Chaionan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, April 23 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349.   THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. today and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #624, Stuart Kyle Duncan, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct a cloture vote on the nomination. In addition, this week the Senate will consider the nomination of Mike Pompeo to be Secretary of State. Other nominations may also be considered. On Wednesday, April 25 at 10:30 a.m., His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, will address a Joint Meeting of Congress. Senators should begin gathering in the Senate Chamber at 10:05 a.m. to depart at 10:10 a.m. for the procession to the Hall of the House of Representatives. A LOOK AHEAD: Last Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered. Items the Senate may consider during the next work period include: · · Nominations; and Net neutrality CRA.   RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946 DOT-18-0010-A-000381 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000381 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: RPC Paper - Appropriations: Restoring Regular Order Tuesday, July 24, 2018 10:09:35 PM image002.png FYI on scheduled votes, Tuesday rollcall votes summary and a short piece on Senate appropriations status, below. Hope you have a good night. -The Senate will convene at 10:00am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. At 2:30pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following amendments in relation to H.R.6147: 1. Moran #3433 2. Udall #3414   Vote Summary: Adoption of Heller #3405 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (98-1) Adoption of Durbin #3422 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (99-0) Adoption of Schatz #3407 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (97-1) Adoption of Kennedy #3430 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (87-11)     From: Wayne, Spencer (RPC) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 3:48 PM To: Wayne, Spencer (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Paper - Appropriations: Restoring Regular Order       l!IRPC Senator John Barrasso Chairman July 24, 2018   APPROPRIATIONS: RESTORING REGULAR ORDER KEY TAKEAWAYS · Republicans are acting to restore regular order for appropriations, with this year’s Bipartisan Budget Act paving the way. · The Senate Appropriations Committee has passed every bill out of committee at its fastest pace since 1988. DOT-18-0010-A-000382 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000382 · The Senate is on track to pass the majority of appropriations bills before the end of July, the first time this has happened since 2000. The Senate is getting back to basics – the Appropriations Committee has passed all appropriations bills out of committee at the fastest pace since 1988. The cumulative vote on all bills in committee was 3639. This week the Senate will take up four more appropriations bills: Agriculture; Financial ServicesGeneral Government; Interior-Environment; and Transportation-HUD. Once these bills pass the Senate, it will have passed a majority of appropriations bills – the first time that’s happened before the end of July since 2000. Majority of Appropriations Bills Set for Conference by End of July   ----~------------i PENDING ACTION FINANCIAL TRANSPORT ENERGY SERVl 1 CES HUD WATER ,--- - - - - - .. L--------- t AGRICULTURE I OUTF DEV LEGISLATIVE RURAL FDA BRANCH :I I STATE DEFENSE FORBGNOPS : ~====== ~=====~ I I   MILCON VA I INTERIOR LABOR ENVIIRO: HOMELAND HHS : SEC. ED I ------~---· L---- 19       DOT-18-0010-A-000383 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000383 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Scalise: WHIP FLOOR UPDATE Thursday, March 22, 2018 10:09:31 AM image001.png FYI   From: Planning, David [mailto:(b) (6) @mail.house.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 22, 2018 8:27 AM @mail.house.gov> To: Planning, David <(b) (6) (b) (6) @mail.house.gov> Cc: Napier, Ben < Subject: Scalise: WHIP FLOOR UPDATE   - + STEVE S(AL ISE MAJORHYWHIIP 1   Good Thursday morning. The House will meet at 9:00 a.m. legislative business. Following One Minute speeches, we will move into debate on the rule providing for consideration of the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 1625 - Consolidated Appropriations Act.    At approximately 10:00-10:30 a.m., we will have our first vote series of the day on the rule and postponed suspensions.   After the first vote series, we will move into debate on the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 1625 - Consolidated Appropriations Act.   At approximately 12:15-12:45 p.m., we will have our second and final vote series of the day on the passage of H.R. 1625 and a postponed suspension.       Walk off the Floor: 1:00-1:30 p.m.   ###   Majority Whip Scalise’s Floor Office H-329, The Capitol   202-225-0197 Ben Howard, Floor Director (b) (6) Ben Napier, Deputy Floor Director (b) (6) David Planning, Floor Assistant (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-A-000384 DOT_Am.Oversight-000384 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Senate Schedule Monday, July 16, 2018 6:24:53 PM FYI on Senate schedule for this week, below.   For look ahead, we hope to turn to the House FY19 FSGG-Interior approps package upon completion of House consideration this week.   From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, July 16, 2018 10:58 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached     - Senator John Barrasso, Chainnan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, July 16 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349.   THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #936, Scott Stump, of Colorado, to be Assistant Secretary for Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Department of Education, with the time equally divided.  At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will vote on confirmation. On Thursday, July 12, cloture was filed on the following nominations, which will be considered this week: 1) Executive Calendar #595, Randal Quarles, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of 14 years from February 1, 2018 (reappointment); 2) Executive Calendar #892, Andrew S. Oldham, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit; and 3) Executive Calendar #903, Ryan Wesley Bounds of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit.   A LOOK AHEAD: At a time to be determined, the Senate will begin consideration of Executive Calendar #601, James Blew, of California, to be Assistant Secretary for Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, Department of Education, for up to 5 hours of debate, DOT-18-0010-A-000385 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000385 equally divided. Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote on confirmation. Items the Senate may consider during this work period include: • • • • • • •       • Nominations; Appropriations; FAA reauthorization; Conference Reports for the Defense Authorization bill and the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction/VA Appropriations bill, when each becomes available; Further action on H.R. 2, the Farm bill, which last month the Senate amended and returned to the House; S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; Legislation relating to opioids; and Flood insurance legislation. RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946   DOT-18-0010-A-000386 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000386 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Senate schedule//Minibus text//RPC Floorcast attached Monday, June 18, 2018 7:15:16 PM HR5895_3.pdf FYI on Senate schedule, below.   We’ve moved to the minibus. Cloture vote to get started was 92-3. We moved to proceed to HR 5895, the House underlying vehicle, by consent. The Senate substitute for the minibus was offered. Text is attached.  Expect amendments on the floor tomorrow. Night!     From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, June 18, 2018 10:30 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) <(b) (6) @rpc.senate.gov> Subject: RPC Floorcast attached     - . SENATE Senator John Barrasso, Chaionan RPC FLOORCAST This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, June 18 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of H.R. 5515, the Defense Authorization bill, post-cloture.  It will be in order for Senator Sanders or his designee to raise a single Budget Act point of order against the Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as amended. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct up to three votes on: 1) The motion to waive the Budget Act re: H.R. 5515 (if a point of order is raised); 2) Passage of H.R. 5515, as amended; and 3) Cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 5895, the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction/VA Appropriations bill. In addition, this week the Senate may vote in relation to the motion to proceed to H.R. 3, the Rescissions bill. A LOOK AHEAD: Items the Senate may consider during this work period include: • Farm bill; DOT-18-0010-A-000387 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000387 • Nominations; • S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; • • FAA reauthorization; and Flood insurance legislation. • Legislation relating to opioids;   On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.    RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946   DOT-18-0010-A-000388 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000388 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Senate Update -- next week Thursday, July 26, 2018 3:21:29 PM Amendment votes will continue next week on the Interior minibus. Leader filed cloture on the bill and we’ll wrap up next week. Broader schedule below.   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  Items to be completed next week.   The Majority Leader filed four cloture motions today on items to be completed next week (in the following order):   The nomination of Britt Cagle Grant to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit • • The four-bill appropriations ‘minibus’ (one cloture on the substitute amendment; one on the • Flood insurance extension • underlying bill) National Defense Authorization Act conference report   The Senate will complete work on all four items next week. The House has already passed the NDAA conference report and the flood insurance extension, so those will go to the President for signature after the Senate’s action next week. The appropriations bill will head to a conference with the House.   The Senate is also expected to vote to go to conference on the Farm Bill next week.   Other items are likely, so stay tuned.   The vote on the Grant nomination will be at 5:30 on Monday   Also, here are some sights that I won’t see during August. Here are some sights that I will see during August.   STEW @StewSays   DOT-18-0010-A-000389 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000389 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: SKED update/Judicial nominations Thursday, April 26, 2018 2:39:08 PM FYI on Senate schedule.   From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2018 2:23 PM Subject: SKED update/Judicial nominations   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  More circuit court nominations on the way The Leader just filed cloture on six circuit court nominations in the following order: Fifth Circuit Ø Kurt D. Engelhardt Seventh Circuit Ø Michael B. Brennan Tenth Circuit Ø Joel M. Carson Sixth Circuit Ø John B. Nalbandian Seventh Circuit Ø Michael Y. Scudder Seventh Circuit Ø Amy J. St. Eve The first cloture vote (Engelhardt) will be at 5:30 on Monday, May 7th. Consideration of the other five nominees will follow in the order listed above. More information to come as it becomes available. The Senate has confirmed 15 circuit court nominees so far in this Congress. And while today is take your kid to work day, June 22nd is Take Your Dog To Work Day. Get ready. STEW @StewSays AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000390 DOT_Am.Oversight-000390 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FW: Tax Reform Already Providing Special Bonuses and Permanent Pay Raises for Americans Wednesday, January 10, 2018 10:50:56 AM Good morning,   The Senate convened at 9:30 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of the Executive Calendar #371, Thomas Lee Robinson Parker, of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Tennessee, post-cloture. All time during adjournment, recess, Morning Business, and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on the Parker nomination.   At 2:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Parker nomination. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #389, Michael Lawrence Brown, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Georgia.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, January 9, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #370, William L. Campbell, Jr., of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee. (Confirmed, 97-0) Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #371, Thomas Lee Robinson Parker, of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Tennessee. (Invoked, 96-1)   UC Items: S.Res.369 – Majority Committee Assignments S.Res.370 – Minority Committee Assignments (info below)   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000391 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000391 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, January 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn UPDATED SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE 115TH CONGRESS WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, U.S. Senate Republicans announced their updated committee assignments for the 115th Congress with additions to the following committees. The updated committee assignments will now reflect a one-seat majority on all committees. The assignments have been ratified by the Senate Republican Conference and will be official pending full Senate action, expected later today.   Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Deb Fischer, Nebraska   Armed Services Tim Scott, South Carolina   Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Jerry Moran, Kansas   Budget Tom Cotton, Arkansas   Energy and Natural Resources Shelley Moore Capito, West Virginia     ###           MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S. SENATOR fo r KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, January 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2mf7VdZ                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2ANmj2l Tax Reform Already Providing Special Bonuses DOT-18-0010-A-000392 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000392 and Permanent Pay Raises for Americans ‘It’s been three weeks. Three weeks. Lower utility bills, a million special tax reform bonuses and pay raises, and this is only the beginning. A Republican majority in the House, a Republican majority in the Senate, and President Trump listened to the facts instead of the political spin. I’m proud that we passed this historic bill and gave families across America the tax relief they’ve waited decades to receive.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans are seeing across the country thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:   “We’ve been talking all week about the ways our historic tax reform law is immediately helping middle-class families. It’s been less than a month since Congress passed, and the president signed, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. But already, more than one million Americans are on track to receive special bonuses, permanent raises, and other benefits. And their employers are attributing these changes directly to tax reform.   “100,000 employees of American Airlines are each receiving a $1,000 tax reform bonus. U.S. Bank is raising its minimum wage to $15 and is also giving thousand-dollar bonuses to 60,000 employees. 29,000 employees of Nationwide Insurance are also receiving bonuses – and 33,000 are getting an increase in their retirement match. Those are just a few of the 100-plus companies that have already announced new benefits for American workers as a direct result of tax reform. And these are only the immediate benefits.   “Mainstream economists agree that in the months and years to come, the permanent changes we made to the way we tax businesses will make our economy more vibrant and more competitive. That means greater investment and higher wages for American workers.   “Of course, all this is in addition to the direct effects the tax cuts themselves will soon have on family budgets. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reduced income tax rates and significantly expanded key deductions. We took money out of Washington D.C. and put it right back in the pockets of middle-class Americans. Starting as early as February, the IRS will withhold less from paychecks, and workers will get to deposit more of their hard-earned money right into their bank accounts. In 2018 alone, for a typical family of four earning just over $70,000, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could mean a tax savings of more than $2,000.    “Nearly every day, reports come out of a new way this historic tax reform bill is helping Americans. Here’s a subject that is particularly relevant around many kitchen tables this winter: Utility bills. All around the country, utility companies that will benefit from our new tax cuts are already discussing plans to pass their savings on to consumers.   “Major power companies in Illinois, Maryland, and Massachusetts are already proposing plans to give their customers tens of millions of dollars in relief by lowering the rates they charge for energy. And get this – according to CNBC, a South Carolina electric and gas utility is planning to give a cash payment directly to its customers — averaging $1,000 per household.   “More are following suit. In Montana, Louisiana, and Indiana, regulators are already working with utilities to determine how households will benefit from the tax savings. In my own state of Kentucky, the Public Service Commission directed a number of electric, gas, and water companies to track their savings and make plans to cut rates for customers. As any mother or father who has to balance a checkbook and pay bills every month can attest, this is welcome news for middle-class families.   “And these reductions will be especially helpful to the most vulnerable in our society. According to data from the Department of Health and Human Services, energy costs eat up a significantly higher percentage of household income for poor families than for other families. In other words, for a software engineer in Silicon Valley, a lower heating or air conditioning bill might go unnoticed. But for the workers who clean that office overnight, this relief will make a real difference. A drop in utility bills effectively amounts to progressive tax relief.    “This is just another example of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is rapidly proving to be a serious asset to poor and middle-class families – precisely the people whom my Democratic friends in the House and the Senate loudly claimed would get nothing at all from this bill. It’s been three weeks. Three weeks. Lower utility bills, a million special tax reform bonuses and pay raises, and this is only the beginning. A Republican majority in the House, a Republican majority in the Senate, and President Trump listened to the facts instead of the political spin. I’m proud that we passed this historic bill and gave families across America the tax relief they’ve waited decades to receive.” ###   AMERI AN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000393 DOT_Am.Oversight-000393 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 Tuesday, July 31, 2018 10:00:44 AM Note – Flood insurance vote to extend authorization up at noon. Vote at 60 vote threshold to end debate on mini #2 (Interior, FSGG, Ag, THUD) at 2:15 today.   From: Majority Whip Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 9:24 AM Subject: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 Whip Notice TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 AT 09:23 AM Whip Notice The Senate will convene at 10:00am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit, post-cloture. At 12:15pm on the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.1182, Flood Insurance. Following the roll call vote, the Senate will recess until 2:15 to allow for the weekly conference meetings. At 2:15pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Grant nomination. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Shelby substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. Look Ahead:  Nominations, Water Infrastructure, and Appropriations. Monday's Session: Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. (Invoked, 52-44) UC Items: S.Res.599 – National Lobster Day AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000395 DOT_Am.Oversight-000395 To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000396 DOT_Am.Oversight-000396 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: UPDATED ADVISORY: Appropriations Schedule for July 12, 2018 Thursday, July 12, 2018 10:52:03 AM FYI   From: Appropriations GOP Press (Appropriations) Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2018 10:42 AM @shelby.senate.gov> To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) Subject: UPDATED ADVISORY: Appropriations Schedule for July 12, 2018   - NOTICE: The Senate and House Appropriations Committees have postponed this meeting until a later date. More information will be forthcoming.     United States Senate C:ommitte,e on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 11, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor Jennifer Hing MEDIA ADVISORY SCHEDULE FOR JULY 12, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the schedule for the Senate and House Committees on Appropriations for Thursday, July 12, 2018. POSTPONED: CONFERENCE COMMITTEE (Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Lamar Alexander)   Conference committee meeting to address Senate and House amendments to H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations package which includes the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Development, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch Appropriations Acts. DOT-18-0010-A-000397 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000397 11:00 a.m., Room SVC 202-203, U.S. Capitol Visitors Center Note:  Media should arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time. Space is limited to one (1) per news organization. Members of the press should contact their respective media galleries for more information. Webcast will be available on appropriations.senate.gov and appropriations.house.gov. ###   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000398 DOT_Am.Oversight-000398 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: UPDATED ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Hearing Schedule for the Week of April 16, 2018 Tuesday, April 17, 2018 11:24:02 AM FYI on the updated Senate Approps schedule this week.   From: Sen. Shelby Press Office Sent: Tuesday, April 17, 2018 11:19 AM To: Taylor, Blair (Shelby) <(b) (6) @shelby.senate.gov> Subject: UPDATED ADVISORY: Senate Appropriations Hearing Schedule for the Week of April 16, 2018   - United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 17, 2018 CONTACT: Blair Taylor UPDATED MEDIA ADVISORY HEARING SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 16, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the hearing schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of April 16, 2018. Please note that the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee hearing on Thursday, April 19, has been postponed and will be rescheduled for a later date. TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the FY2019 funding request and budget justification for the National Guard and Reserve 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building DOT-18-0010-A-000399 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000399 Witnesses: General Joseph L. Lengyel Chief National Guard Bureau Lieutenant General Charles D. Luckey Chief Army Reserve Lieutenant General Maryanne Miller Chief Air Force Reserve Vice Admiral Luke M. McCollum Chief Navy Reserve Lieutenant General Rex C. McMillian Commander Marine Corps Forces Reserve   WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2018     ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Lamar Alexander, Chairman) Hearing to review the FY2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation within the U.S. Department of the Interior AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000400 DOT_Am.Oversight-000400 2:30 p.m., Room 430, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable R.D. James Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Lieutenant General Todd Semonite Commanding General and Chief of Engineers U.S. Army Corps of Engineers The Honorable Brenda Burman Commissioner for the Bureau of Reclamation U.S. Department of the Interior The Honorable Timothy R. Petty, Ph.D. Assistant Secretary for Water and Science U.S. Department of the Interior     TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Susan Collins, Chairman) Hearing to review the FY2019 budget request for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Ben Carson Secretary U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000401 DOT_Am.Oversight-000401 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Closed hearing to review intelligence programs and threat assessments 10:00 a.m., Room SVC-217, Capitol Visitor Center NOTE: This hearing is limited to Members and staff with TS/SCI clearance only Witnesses: The Honorable Dan Coats Director National Intelligence Mr. George C. Barnes Deputy Director National Security Agency TBD – Central Intelligence Agency Official POSTPONED: LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Roy Blunt, Chairman) Hearing to review the FY2019 budget request for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 10:00 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Alex Azar Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000402 DOT_Am.Oversight-000402 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Vote Results (Cloture) Tuesday, July 31, 2018 4:21:11 PM FYI cloture was invoked on the Interior minibus. (That means Senate has agreed to end debate on this bill.) Still trying to work out amendment votes for either tonight or tomorrow. 30 hours of debate until final passage.    This will be seven spending bills passed by the Senate out of the twelve. We are on course for the fastest pace on appropriations in two decades.   From: Vote Results <(b) (6) @src.senate.gov> Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 3:08 PM Subject: Vote Results (Cloture) Vote Result TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 AT 03:07 PM Shelby Amendment #3399 to the minibus appropriations bill (H.R. 6147) Invoked, 94-4: Cloture on Shelby Amendment #3399 to H.R. 6147, the minibus appropriations bill. The vote results will be posted here within one hour. Alexander Charow, Floor Monitor SRC Email: (b) (6) @src.senate.gov To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000404 DOT_Am.Oversight-000404 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Vote Results (Motion to Concur) Tuesday, July 31, 2018 5:34:32 PM ICYMI – Not in my portfolio, but know folks were interested in the extension of the National Flood Insurance Program. Senate has agreed to the extension. This will go to the President.   From: Vote Results <(b) (6) @src.senate.gov> Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 12:55 PM Subject: Vote Results (Motion to Concur) Vote Result TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 AT 12:55 PM Motion to Concur in the House Amendment to the NFIP extension (S. 1182) Agreed to , 86-12: Motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 1182, the vehicle for the NFIP extension. The vote results will be posted here within one hour. Alexander Charow, Floor Monitor SRC Email: (b) (6) @src.senate.gov To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000405 DOT_Am.Oversight-000405 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Vote Results (Motion to Concur) Friday, March 23, 2018 12:49:12 AM Omni has passed the Senate, 65-32.  On to FY19.     From: Vote Results [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 23, 2018 12:39 AM Subject: Vote Results (Motion to Concur) @src.senate.gov] Vote Result FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018 AT 12:39 AM Motion to Concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to the vehicle for the Omnibus (H.R. 1625) Agreed to, 65-32: Motion to concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1625, the vehicle for the omnibus. The vote results will be posted here within one hour. Alexander Charow, Floor Monitor SRC Email: (b) (6) @src.senate.gov To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000406 DOT_Am.Oversight-000406 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) FW: Wrap Up (The Senate Stands Adjourned), Portman Thursday, June 14, 2018 5:14:20 PM FYI on Monday comeback votes. We start consideration of the first minibus package – Energy and Water, MilCon-VA, and Legislative Branch bills – after Senate NDAA passage.     From: SRC Floor Update <(b) (6) @src.senate.gov> Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2018 4:48 PM Subject: Wrap Up (The Senate Stands Adjourned), Portman Floor Update THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2018 AT 04:47 PM Wrap Up Monday, June 18 - • • • • • • • The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. Following leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R. 5515, the NDAA, as amended, post-cloture. Senator Sanders or his designee will be recognized to offer a budget point of order against Inhofe Amendment #2282, with a motion to waive the Budget Act having been considered made. The Senate will then VOTE on the motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to the Sanders point of order, if offered. At 5:30 p.m. the post-cloture time on H.R. 5515 will be considered expired, and after disposition of the motion to waive the Senate will VOTE on passage of H.R. 5515, the NDAA, as amended. Following disposition of H.R. 5515, the Senate will VOTE on cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill. Note: on Thursday, June 14, cloture was filed on the motion to proceed to H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill. Senator Portman: (4:02 p.m.) • Spoke on the opioid epidemic. 0 “I also want to report that here in the Senate we've had a breakthrough in the last week. Not only have we negotiated something with the house that is, in my view, an improvement from the legislation that had passed the House Ways, and Means Committee, but also in the Senate Finance Committee this week, we had a markup and had a commitment from the chairman and ranking member of that committee that the Finance Committee will mark up the identical legislation that will is likely to pass the AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000407 DOT_Am.Oversight-000407 House of Representatives today. I want to thank Orrin Hatch and Ranking Member Ron Wyden for working with us to ensure that we could get this legislation marked up in committee and on to the floor of the United States Senate as part of whatever we do in terms of the opioid crisis here in the coming days and weeks.” Alexander Charow, Floor Monitor SRC Email: (b) (6) @src.senate.gov To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000408 DOT_Am.Oversight-000408 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI - minibus votes at 6 pm Tuesday, July 24, 2018 5:57:44 PM Hi –   Shortly after 6:00 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes in relation to the following amendments in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud):   1. Schatz #3407 (provide for a report on facilities of the Department of Interior damaged by certain volcanic eruptions) 2. Kennedy #3430 (provide amounts for inspection of foreign seafood manufacturers and field exams of imported seafood)     Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/         (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000409 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000409 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI - Votes at 5:45 pm Wednesday, March 14, 2018 5:27:12 PM At 5:45 pm the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following:   1. Motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. 2. Passage of S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, as amended. 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.   ICYMI: Leader McConnell, earlier today, on reforming Dodd Frank  --     “The Dodd-Frank Act has proven to be far too blunt an instrument for regulating our financial system. Regulations meant for Wall Street are crushing Main Street. Community banks and credit unions play a vital role in our economy… But they’re struggling to keep their heads above the tide of complicated regulations and compliance costs. Many are going under. And when they do, research shows that access to capital shrinks for small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and low-income Americans.”   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000410 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000410 From: To: Subject: Date: Importance: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI: McConnell Statement on Cancelling the August Recess Tuesday, June 05, 2018 1:23:14 PM High FYI: Leader McConnell announced at policy lunch today that we will be cancelling the August recess. We will have a one week state work period the week of August 6th.       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER · U.S. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, June 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn McConnell Statement on Cancelling the August Recess ‘Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make additional progress on the president’s nominees.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following statement Tuesday regarding the cancellation of August recess: “Due to the historic obstruction by Senate Democrats of the president’s nominees, and the goal of passing appropriations bills prior to the end of the fiscal year, the August recess has been canceled.  Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make additional progress on the president’s nominees.” Background: It is expected that Senators will have a state work period during the first full week in August before returning for the rest of the month. ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000411 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000411 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI: Omni posted Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:14:48 PM image001.png FYI – please see the link below to the Omni.   A Statement of Managers will be up later tonight. We’ll also send around additional summary materials when they are available.   Links:   http://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20180319/BILLS-115SAHR1625-RCP115-66.pdf Senate amendment to H.R. 1625 TARGET Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018] [PDF] [XML]   :: House Amendment to Senate [PDF] [XML] Amendment to H.R. 1625 (Rules Committee Print 115-66 —Showing the text of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018)   FYI from Approps: United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIAT ONS l HAD COCHRAN OF MISSISSIPPI, CHAIRMAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 21, 2018 CONTACTS Chris Gallegos (202) 224-1010 or 224-6414 Stephen Worley (202) 224-3751 Twitter: @SenThadCochran FY2018 OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS BILL RELEASED Omnibus Bill Would Culminate FY2018 Appropriations Cycle, Increase Defense Funding & Enhance Infrastructure Development DOT-18-0010-A-000412 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000412 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran (RMiss.) today endorsed passage of omnibus appropriations legislation that provides the largest funding increase for the American military in 15 years and makes significant investments in national priorities like infrastructure, border security and the opioid epidemic. The omnibus measure incorporates all 12 appropriations bills for FY2018, and is the result of bicameral, bipartisan negotiations, with input from the Trump administration. The House and Senate have until March 23 to pass the measure. “Extensive negotiations and hard work went into producing this legislation, which will provide robust new funding to begin rebuilding our military. It also directs new funding to some of the most critical challenges facing our nation, including faltering infrastructure and the opioid crisis,” Cochran said. “Passage of this legislation is necessary to move us past stop-gap measures and shutdown threats. It will provide stability and guidance for the entirety of the federal government,” he said. The measure conforms to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, the two-year bipartisan budget agreement reached in February to adjust defense and nondefense discretionary funding caps for FY2018 and FY2019. The legislation sets defense spending levels at $700 billion and nondefense spending at $591 billion. It also meets priorities outlined by President Trump. The agreement provides the biggest year-over-year increase in defense funding in 15 years. Combined with FY2018 funding previously approved by Congress for missile defense and disaster response, the Defense Department will receive more than $61 billion over the 2017 enacted level. The omnibus measure funds a 2.4 percent pay increase for troops and includes substantial increases to support aircraft, ship, and equipment procurement. It also provides flexibility to execute operation and maintenance accounts more efficiently. The measure increases funding to further strengthen border security, dedicating $1.57 billion toward physical barriers on the southern border, in addition to additional funding for immigration enforcement. The bill also increases funding for federal law enforcement agencies to enhance law enforcement, pursue prosecutions, and improve public safety. To promote economic growth and public safety, the bill provides $21.2 billion to support to rebuild and improve infrastructure, including transportation and capital projects, water and wastewater projects, and rural broadband. The measure addresses the national opioid emergency declared by President Trump by allocating more than $4.65 billion throughout the government to work with states and localities to fight the opioid epidemic. The funding, a $3.0 billion increase over FY2017, is directed toward continued opioid prevention, treatment, and law enforcement initiatives. The legislation also includes: record-level funding to care for veterans; continuation of the Hyde and Helms Amendments to protect life and prohibit the use of taxpayer dollars for abortion; and limits access to significant Department of Justice grant programs to recipients that follow federal law. The bill and accompanying statement include provisions to restrict bureaucratic excess and reduce waste, fraud and abuse. Authorizing legislation attached to the package includes, but is not limited to, the Fix NICS Act and Stop School Violence Act, both relating to improving public safety; legislation addressing a tax inequity for agricultural businesses; and a reauthorization of the EPA Brownfields program to more effectively clean up contaminated sites that states and cities can reclaim for infrastructure AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000413 DOT_Am.Oversight-000413 development. Reauthorizations of certain federal programs, including the federal aviation programs, the Federal Communications Commission, and the National Flood Insurance Program, are also included. The following are links to the legislative text, in addition to summaries for the FY2018 appropriations bills within the omnibus agreement: Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2018 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Defense Energy and Water Development Financial Services and General Government Homeland Security Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Legislative Branch Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies ###   Stephen Worley Deputy Communications Director Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran S-128, The Capitol (b) (6)     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000414 DOT_Am.Oversight-000414 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters (Approps) Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:32:37 PM Committee on Appropriations Subcommittees.Complete.pdf Hi everyone,   Please see the attached document, care of Senate Approps staff, outlining Subcommittee Chair assignments and Subcommittee Member rosters (for the Republican Members).   Thanks, Erica     Committee on Appropriations   Senator Shelby: Chair – Defense Senator Alexander: Chair – Energy and Water Development Senator Collins: Chair – Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Senator Murkowski: Chair – Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Senator Graham: Chair – State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Senator Blunt: Chair – Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Senator Moran: Chair – Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Senator Hoeven: Chair – Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Senator Boozman: Chair – Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Senator Capito: Chair – Homeland Security Senator Lankford: Chair – Financial Services and General Government Senator Daines: Chair – Legislative Branch AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000415 DOT_Am.Oversight-000415 Committee on Appropriations   Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Chair ~ HOEVEN MCCONNELL COLLINS BLUNT MORAN RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Chair ~ MORAN ALEXANDER MURKOWSKI COLLINS GRAHAM BOOZMAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Defense Chair ~ SHELBY MCCONNELL ALEXANDER COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM BLUNT DAINES MORAN HOEVEN Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Chair ~ ALEXANDER MCCONNELL SHELBY COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM HOEVEN KENNEDY LANKFORD Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government Chair ~ LANKFORD MORAN BOOZMAN DAINES KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Homeland Security AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000416 DOT_Am.Oversight-000416 Chair ~ CAPITO SHELBY MURKOWSKI BOOZMAN HOEVEN LANKFORD KENNEDY AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000417 DOT_Am.Oversight-000417 Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Chair ~ MURKOWSKI ALEXANDER BLUNT MCCONNELL DAINES CAPITO RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Chair ~ BLUNT SHELBY ALEXANDER GRAHAM MORAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY RUBIO HYDE-SMITH Subcommittee on Legislative Branch Chair ~ DAINES HYDE-SMITH SHELBY Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Chair ~ BOOZMAN MCCONELL MURKOWSKI HOEVEN COLLINS CAPITO MORAN RUBIO SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Chair ~ GRAHAM MCCONNELL BLUNT BOOZMAN LANKFORD DAINES RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Chair ~ COLLINS SHELBY ALEXANDER BLUNT AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000418 DOT_Am.Oversight-000418 BOOZMAN CAPITO DAINES GRAHAM HOEVEN               Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000419 DOT_Am.Oversight-000419 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) FYI: SFC sub amdt summary // votes - final passage Saturday, December 02, 2017 1:39:07 AM Hi everyone – what a night!   Voting now on final passage!   Amendment results (some of these may not be in order)   · Schumer Motion to Adjourn (not agreed, 48-52) · Sanders 1720 – Budget Point of Order, re: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid (not agreed to, 46-54) · Brown 1854 -- Changes to child credit (side x side to Rubio) (not agreed to, 48-52) · Rubio 1850 -- Increase refundability of child credit and other purposes (not agreed to, 29-71) · Cruz #1852 – 529 K-12 (agreed to, 51-50 – tie break by VP!) · Kaine #1846 -- raise corporate rate and top individual rate (not agreed to, 34-65) · Manchin MTC – (not agreed to, 38-61) · Cantwell #1717 Strike ANWR – (not agreed to, 48-52) · Merkley #1856 (Modifies excise tax on university endowments) (agreed to, 52-48)   Also, the Senate Finance Committee has posted the following summary of the substitute amendment to the tax bill online here.   Modifications include: · A deduction up to $10,000 in property taxes paid to state and local governments (SALT). This provision reflects the treatment of property taxes in the House-passed bill. · Increasing the deduction for small business owners’ qualified business income from 17.4 percent in the underlying bill to 23 percent. · Extending 100 percent expensing for qualified business property by four more years, gradually decreasing over time, adding to the five years included DOT-18-0010-A-000420 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000420 in the underlying bill. · Preserving existing business structure commonly referred as IC-DISC (Interest Charge Domestic International Sales Corporation). This will allow pass-through businesses to benefit from the international tax reforms included in the bill. · Eliminating an Obamacare restriction on the deductibility of medical expenses. This will allow medical expenses to be deducted if they exceed 7.5 percent of a taxpayers’ adjusted gross income, rather than the 10 percent threshold under current law. · Maintaining existing contribution limits and rules for employees of taxexempt and governmental organizations. The underlying bill included some restrictions on the way these employees could contribute to these plans. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000421 DOT_Am.Oversight-000421 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) H.R.1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act - link to text, policy highlights doc, votes next week, etc. Friday, December 15, 2017 6:25:43 PM TCJA_Conference121517.pdf Hi Everyone,   ICYMI: Please see a link below to text of the Tax Conference Report that is now live on the Rules Committee website:   Courtesy of the House whip team:   -H.R. 1 — Tax Cuts and Jobs Act [Conf. Rept.] (Ways & Means) • The Rules Committee has added this item to the already announced Monday meeting.  • A conference report rule is expected.  • Testimony on H.R. 1 will not take place until after the 6:30 pm vote series.  • This measure could be on the Floor as early as Tuesday.   Summary: Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 1 - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act   On December 15th the House/Senate Conference Committee for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reached agreement and reported final legislative text. H.R. 1 provides the first comprehensive reform of the tax code since 1986. The legislation lowers rates for both individuals and businesses and eliminates loopholes and complex deductions and credits to simplify the code and encourage job creation and economic growth. With this bill, a family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 will receive a tax cut of $2,059. Specifically, H.R. 1 provisions include:   Individuals: • Lowers individual tax rates to 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37% • Roughly doubles the Standard Deduction – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples • Establishes a new Family Credit – which includes expanding the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 for each child and providing new credits of $500 each for other dependents. The credit is refundable up to $1400 provided a social security number is provided for each qualifying child • Preserves the Adoption Tax Credit • Preserves the deduction for charitable contributions • Preserves the deduction for medical expenses and temporarily lowers threshold to 7.5% of AGI from 10% of AGI • Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes for interest on up to $750,000 of mortgage principal • Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local taxes up to $10,000 for both property and income (or sales) taxes • AMT thresholds increased to $1 million for married couples and $500,000 for individuals • Eliminates the Obamacare individual mandate penalty beginning January 1, 2019 • Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the exemption amount • Provides support for Graduate students by continuing to reduce the value of reduced tuition from taxes DOT-18-0010-A-000422 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000422   Business: • Lowers the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective 1/1/18 • Provides a deduction of 20 percent of qualified pass-through income • Includes both a capital test and/or a wage test to broaden the scope of businesses eligible for passthrough deduction • Establishes safeguards to distinguish between individual wage income and “pass through” business income • Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of purchases of new or used equipment • Protects the ability of small businesses and any businesses with “floor plan” inventory financing to write off the interest on loans • Retains the tax-preferred status of private-activity bonds • Modernizes our international tax system by moving to a “territorial” system • Returns income trapped overseas through “deemed” repatriation • Includes “base-erosion” rules to prevent companies from hiding U.S. profits in offshore affiliates   Additional Provisions: · Establishes an environmentally responsible oil and gas program in the non-wilderness 1002 Area of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).   Additional Resources: Please see a helpful Policy Highlights document attached · · Joint Explanatory Statement: here · Senate Finance Committee portal for all tax-related docs: https://www.finance.senate.gov/taxreform   Senate timing: The Senate will vote on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conference report after we receive it from the House next week. There will be up to 10 hours of debate, followed by a vote on final passage.     Thank you, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000423 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000423 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) HAPPY TAX DAY! // McConnell Tax Day Op-Ed (and a Senate Update) Tuesday, April 17, 2018 4:03:40 PM image002.png Hi everyone, Happy Tax Day! Today is the last time Americans will have to file under the old system, pre-passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act last year. Please see an op-ed below by Leader McConnell below on this topic, as well as a video of Senator Hatch, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, showing us what to do with our old copies of the tax code that may be laying around! In other Senate news – the Senate convened at 10:00 am today and proceeded to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Education (set up by consent; 10 hours of debate equally divided). This afternoon the Senate voted to proceed to S. J. Res. 57, the Auto Lending CRA (agreed to, 50-47). Reminder: Resolutions of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act are privileged, with a simple majority to proceed and for final passage, with 10 hours of debate equally divided. Please note, yesterday (4/17) Leader McConnell filed cloture on: 1) The motion to concur in the House amendment to S.140, with a further amendment (Coast Guard reauthorization) 2) Executive Calendar #609, James Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Looking Ahead: Nominations Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, April 16, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.140, Tribal Labor Sovereignty. (Not invoked, 55-41) UC Items: S.Res.465 – Electing Michael C. Stenger SAA and Doorkeeper of the Senate S.Res.466 – Notifying POTUS of SAA S.Res.467 – Notifying House of SAA S.Res.468 – Kids to Parks Day Also – please tune into Fox News at 4:00 PM EST today (right now!) for Leader McConnell’s interview on Neil Cavuto! Please enjoy a video of Chairman Hatch (courtesy of the Senate Republican Conference & Senate Finance) on how to say goodbye to the old tax code forever!   DOT-18-0010-A-000424 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000424 Out With the Old, in W"ith the New Also…what our members are saying about tax reform -- 11.at R u , 11a11. Communicat· on Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2qG4Dm9   Tax [Reform] Day As Americans File Their Taxes For The Final Time Under The Old Code, Senate Republicans Spotlight Current And Future Tax Reform Benefits   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Today is ‘Tax Day,’ the deadline for most Americans to file their tax returns. For many middle-class families and businesses, this date is circled on the calendar with regret and trepidation. But this year, this depressing day has a silver lining — simply put, it’s ‘out with the old, and in with the new.’ Today is the last time American families will have to file under the unfair, outdated tax code that Congress and the president got rid of a few months ago.” (Sen. McConnell, “2018 Tax Day: Out With The Old, And In With The New,” Medium, 4/17/2018)   SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN ORRIN HATCH (R-UT): “[T]his tax day is the last time most of us will ever have to think about our old, outdated tax code. Next April 15, Americans will file under an updated tax code that prioritizes middle-class tax relief, higher wages and job creation instead of special interests. Though the truth is that many Americans are already beginning to see the impact of our new law. As we have all noticed, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is already withholding fewer dollars from our paychecks, simply because Congress cut your taxes.” (Sen. Hatch, Op-Ed, “Tax Day 2018: Out With The Old, In With The New,” [Provo] Daily Herald, 4/16/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000425 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000425 SEN. JOHN THUNE (R-SD): “Our goals for tax reform were simple. First, we wanted to put more money back in the pockets of hardworking Americans. It’s their money in the first place, after all. Second, we wanted to reform the tax code in a way that created the right kind of environment so businesses could create betterpaying jobs and the economy could reach its potential and grow at a faster rate…. In the four months since tax reform became a reality, the economy has added more than 600,000 jobs, and the unemployment rate currently sits at a 17-year low. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office says tax reform will create more than 1 million jobs, and the increase in economic activity ‘generates more demand for labor and consequently higher wages.’ This is all good news for South Dakota taxpayers, and all signs point to more good news to come.” (Sen. Thune, Op-Ed, “Out With The Old, In With The New,” Argus Leader, 4/16/2018)   SEN. ROY BLUNT (R-MO): “[W]ith the new tax rates in effect, the vast majority of Missourians should be taking home more money in their paychecks…. At a recent roundtable hosted by President Trump in St. Louis, one mother and veteran said the increase in her take-home pay is allowing her to invest in her daughter’s education to give her the same opportunity she had to succeed. Chris, who wrote to me from Midland, says he’s taking home an additional $136 in his pension check. For him, that means another trip to the grocery store each month and help offsetting other bills. Helping families also means making sure they have more opportunities and better paying jobs in the future. We’ve seen employers in Missouri and across the nation announce major investments that will strengthen our economy and create thousands of new jobs. A solar company based in Springfield just announced that it’s adding 30 jobs and will invest $300,000 in a Kansas City expansion.” (Sen. Blunt, Op-Ed, “Tax Reform Benefiting Families Throughout Missouri,” [Fredericktown, MO] Democrat News, 4/11/2018)   SEN. CORY GARDNER (R-CO): “[I]ncluded in the tax relief bill is a less known provision called the Investing in Opportunity Act, bipartisan legislation I championed with Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C…. Under the Investing in Opportunity provision, each state creates Opportunity Zones that will receive special tax status to encourage investment, incite growth, and extend opportunities to struggling communities. As a fifthgeneration Coloradan who grew up in a tiny town out on the Eastern Plains, I know how important it is to attract growth to local communities — particularly Colorado's rural communities…. [T]he Act gives special treatment for capital gains earned from investing in projects in one of the Opportunity Zones throughout Colorado. Private investors will use this public-private partnership for medium and long-term investments in our distressed communities. Now that this legislation has been signed into law and the state of Colorado has submitted its Opportunity Zone proposals, we are close to seeing this major benefit from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act begin to encourage needed growth in areas that have gone too long without it.” (Sen. Gardner, Op-Ed, “Giving More Opportunity To Coloradans Who Feel Left Behind,” The [Grand Junction, CO] Daily Sentinel, 4/15/2018)   SEN. DAN SULLIVAN (R-AK): “How exactly does the new tax code help Alaskans? First, it doubles the standard deduction. For an individual, the standard deduction goes from $6,350 to $12,000. For a married couple, it goes from $12,700 to $24,000. The bill doubles the child tax credit from the current $1,000 to $2,000 per child. The bill also lowers individual tax rates for middle-income Americans…. Most Alaskans celebrated the fact that the tax bill, at long last, authorized the opening of the 1002 area of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to responsible resource development. This has been a 40-year bipartisan goal for our state that we were finally able to achieve.” (Sen. Sullivan, Op-Ed, “Relief for Alaskans on tax day,” Anchorage Daily News, 4/16/2018)   SEN. STEVE DAINES (R-MT): “Just a few weeks ago, I toured through 26 Montana counties discussing how the tax cuts bill is growing wages, creating jobs and helping small business owners expand and invest in new equipment. From Libby to Roundup and from Chester to Hamilton, it was great to talk with Montanans across our state about the real benefits of tax cuts. Thompson River Lumber in Thompson Falls was able to purchase a new forklift – their first forklift purchase in 19 years. Big Sky Brewing in Missoula is investing their savings from tax cuts in new equipment and bonuses for their employees. Stricks Ag in Chester toured me through their facility and shared that with savings from tax cuts, their employees are seeing almost $1,000 more in their pockets per year.” (Sen. Daines, Op-Ed, “On Tax Day, Looking Forward To New Tax Code,” Montana Standard, 4/17/2018)   SEN. ROB PORTMAN (R-OH): “Just this year, I’ve toured 10 Ohio businesses and had conversations with lots of small-business owners and workers who are already benefiting from tax reform. I’ve seen the results of this new law firsthand, and I know that it’s significantly helping Ohio workers, Ohio families, and Ohio businesses. In Zanesville recently, I visited GKM Auto Parts, a small business that reinstated health care benefits to its employees as a result of the new tax reform law. After years of double-digit premium increases, DOT-18-0010-A-000426 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000426 in 2016 the company felt that it had no choice but to drop coverage for its employees. Benefiting from the new tax reform law, one of the first things the company did was provide health care to its employees again.” (Sen. Portman, Op-Ed, “Tax Reform Is Helping Create Optimism, Opportunity For Gallia County Workers And Families,” Gallipolis [OH] Daily Tribune, 4/02/2018)   SEN. JAMES LANKFORD (R-OK): “Many companies across the nation and across Oklahoma are using their tax savings to reinvest in their employees and add new equipment. It feels like almost every day there are new stories of employee bonuses and increased wages announced for workers…. Tulsa’s AAON Heating and Cooling Products announced that employees will receive a $1,000 bonus because of tax reform. Clinton’s Elmer Smith Oil Co. and its subsidiaries paid bonuses to more than 300 employees. Express Employment Professionals, in Oklahoma City, announced it would pay a $2,000 bonus to more than 200 non-executive employees. BancFirst raised employee wages for hourly employees. IBC Bank is reinvesting in its business. PumpsOK plans to hire new salaried employees at more than $50,000 per year. Advantage Controls plans to spend $1.4 million on a new building, which will create construction and supplier jobs; and it plans to hire 30 new employees within three years. H.E. Anderson purchased a new company vehicle and expanded its facility. Shawnee Milling Co. will invest in new equipment and is expanding jobs. I could go on and on.” (Sen. Lankford, Op-Ed, “Tax Reform Is Working For Oklahomans,” Tulsa World, 3/04/2018)   SENS. MIKE CRAPO (R-ID) and JIM RISCH (R-ID) and REPS. MIKE SIMPSON (R-ID) and RAUL LABRADOR (RID): “Freeing up capital needed to expand American businesses and American jobs is also a long-term benefit of tax reform. The tax reform law lowered the corporate tax rate so that American businesses are no longer taxed at the highest rate in the industrialized world. A more competitive tax code better enables capital formation, resulting in new companies being formed, staying here and expanding job opportunities.” (Sens. Crapo and Risch and Reps. Simpson and Labrador, Op-Ed, “Goodbye Old Federal Tax System, Hello Productivity, Wage And Job Growth,” Idaho Statesman, 4/16/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER Leader McConnell’s Tax Day Op-Ed -- MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORliTY u.s . SENATOR for LEADER KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Op-Ed Link:  bit.ly/2J1ImqC 2018 Tax Day: Out With the Old, and In With the New By Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Op-Ed Published on Medium.com “Today is ‘Tax Day,’ the deadline for most Americans to file their tax returns. For many middle-class families and businesses, this date is circled on the calendar with regret and trepidation. But this year, this depressing day has a silver lining — simply put, it’s ‘out with the old, and in with the new.’ Today is the last time American families will have to file under the unfair, outdated tax code that Congress and the president got rid of a few months ago. “Republicans’ historic overhaul cut taxes for families and small businesses. We doubled the standard deduction, expanded the child tax credit, and lowered rates. And we accomplished all this while preserving key provisions that middle-class families count on, such as the mortgage interest deduction. The upshot of all this is simple: Major tax relief for middle-class families and a big shot in the arm for the U.S. economy, which will lead to more — and higher-paying — home-grown American jobs. DOT-18-0010-A-000427 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000427 “Already, tax reform has given many American workers a raise, since less of each paycheck needs to be withheld for the IRS. When all is said and done, the Treasury Department estimates our tax cuts will leave ninety percent of wage-earners with more take-home pay. At the same time, on top of the tax savings, millions of Americans across the country are receiving special bonuses, pay raises, or new benefits from their employers as a direct result of tax reform. “That includes everyone from major national employers like Walmart, Kroger, and AT&T to local small businesses. Thousand-dollar bonuses for workers at Kansas City Southern Railway in Missouri. A higher starting wage for entry-level employees at First Farmers Bank and Trust in Indiana. Higher wages — and new job openings — at CSS Distribution Group, a small business packaging and distribution company in Kentucky. Billion-dollar investments in pension plans for UPS and FedEx workers. The list goes on and on. “Believe it or not, my Democratic colleagues from New York and San Francisco scoff publicly at the idea that a $2,000 tax cut or a $1,000 bonus will make a difference for American families. They’ve called these results ‘crumbs.’ Something tells me they haven’t tried that elitist talking point around many middle-class families’ kitchen tables. I suspect they’d be laughed out of the room. “Each of these ‘crumbs’ means better days for America’s families. Several hundred dollars might seem like nothing to employees in the tech sector, or in finance. They’ve recovered from the Great Recession just fine. But for a middle-class American family, $2,000 means big progress toward a down payment on a new car that they’ve been waiting for. It means covering a summer membership at the swimming pool, or a week of basketball camp for a son or daughter, or a big chunk of tuition at the private or parochial school a family prefers. “House and Senate Democrats may call these things ‘crumbs.’ Most Americans call them a better life. And this is only the beginning. In addition to the immediate relief, we also laid the foundation for a more prosperous long-term future with many more good-paying American jobs. That’s because Republican tax reform made sending U.S. jobs overseas less appealing. “It created new incentives for businesses to invest, expand, build, and hire right here at home, and gave trade competitors overseas something to worry about — a healthy, competitive U.S. economy. Mainstream economists agree that the way we rewrote the tax code for businesses will raise wages for American workers down the road. “Already, job creators of all shapes and sizes are investing more and expanding their businesses. A furniture store in Ohio is planning a 4,500 square-foot expansion. A craft brewery in Iowa is planning to open a new production line. And a deck and patio builder in Virginia is hiring ten new employees to meet rising demand. This is a tiny fraction of the new growth and prosperity that tax reform is just starting to unleash. “Republicans designed every piece of tax reform to benefit middle-class families and small businesses, both right now and in the years and decades ahead. That used to be a bipartisan priority. But this time, Democrats chose to put political posturing ahead of Americans’ bank accounts. “Every single Democrat in the House and the Senate voted to block tax reform — and by extension, every bit of this good news — from happening. And today, they are rallying to repeal your tax cuts. I’m proud Republicans stood and fought for the American people.” ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR fer KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2HFmvWm                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2JTVgbB America’s Tax Code: Out With The Old, And DOT-18-0010-A-000428 DOT_Am.Oversight-000428 In With The New ‘[T]his year, the grey clouds of ‘Tax Day’ have a silver lining. Today is the last time American families will have to file under the unfair, outdated tax code that Congress and the president got rid of a few months ago... Republicans’ historic overhaul cut taxes for families and small businesses. We doubled the standard deduction, expanded the child tax credit, and lowered rates. And we accomplished all this while preserving key middle-class provisions, like the mortgage interest deduction.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform: “Today is ‘Tax Day,’ the deadline for most Americans to file their tax returns. For many middle-class households, that means sending too much of their own hard-earned money off to the IRS. Hardly cause for celebration. But this year, the grey clouds of ‘Tax Day’ have a silver lining. Today is the last time American families will have to file under the unfair, outdated tax code that Congress and the president got rid of a few months ago. “‘Out with the old, and in with the new.’ Republicans’ historic overhaul cut taxes for families and small businesses. We doubled the standard deduction, expanded the child tax credit, and lowered rates. And we accomplished all this while preserving key middle-class provisions, like the mortgage interest deduction. The upshot of all this is simple: Major tax relief for middle-class families and a big shot in the arm for the U.S. economy, which will lead to more – and higher-paying – homegrown American jobs.   “Already, tax reform has given many American workers a raise, since less of each paycheck needs to be withheld for the IRS. When all is said and done, the Treasury Department estimates our tax cuts will leave ninety percent of wage-earners with more take-home pay. In addition, millions of Americans are receiving special bonuses, pay raises, or new benefits from their employers as a direct result of tax reform.   “Thousand-dollar bonuses for workers at Kansas City Southern Railway in Missouri. A higher starting wage at First Farmers Bank and Trust in Indiana. Higher wages -- and new job opportunities -- at CSS Distribution Group, a small business packaging and distribution company in Kentucky. Billion-dollar investments in pension plans for UPS and FedEx workers. The list goes on and on.   “My Democratic colleagues from New York and San Francisco scoff publicly at the idea that a $2,000 tax cut or a $1,000 bonus would make a difference for American families. They’ve called these things ‘crumbs.’ Something tells me they haven’t tried that talking point around many middleclass kitchen tables. I suspect they’d be laughed out of the room.   “And these are just the first fruits. Tax reform laid the foundation for a more prosperous future with more good-paying American jobs. That’s because we made sending jobs overseas less appealing. We created new incentives for businesses to invest, expand, build, and hire here at home. We gave overseas competitors something to worry about -- a healthy, competitive U.S. economy.   “Already, job creators of all shapes and sizes are investing more and expanding. A furniture store in Ohio is planning a 4,500 square-foot expansion. A craft brewery in Iowa is planning to open a new production line. And a deck and patio builder in Virginia is hiring ten new employees to meet rising demand. Just to name a few.   “Republicans designed every piece of tax reform to benefit middle-class families and small businesses, both right now and in the years and decades ahead. That used to be a bipartisan priority. But this time, Democrats chose to put political posturing ahead of Americans’ best interests.   “Every single Democrat in the House and the Senate voted to block tax reform – and by extension, every bit of this good news – from happening. Later today, in fact, some of our colleagues across the aisle will be demonstrating against the law, right here on the grounds of the Capitol. I wonder whether it’s all the new jobs they’re protesting. Or maybe the big family tax cuts. Or the bonuses and wage hikes. Or all the small business expansions.   “Their first mistake was voting to block all this in the first place. Now, even as the economy is starting to thrive, they want to repeal these historic tax cuts and claw back the money. But make no AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000429 DOT_Am.Oversight-000429 mistake -- Republicans will continue to stand and fight for the American people.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2H5GfFQ                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2qDy6NC Regulatory Relief for Consumers, Auto Industry Jobs ‘[T]he Senate will consider yet another chance to use the Congressional Review Act and repeal yet another of the last administration's runway regulations. Thanks to Senator Moran and Senator Toomey, today’s effort will protect consumers from a brazen attempt by the past director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to stretch his authority and interfere in the auto industry.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the repeal of a harmful, Obama-era regulation for the auto industry: “Yesterday afternoon, I filed cloture on S. 1129, the Coast Guard Authorization Act, a comprehensive package that equips an adaptable force to meet a variety of important missions. I hope my colleagues will join me in ensuring its swift consideration and passage this week. “But first, the Senate will consider yet another chance to use the Congressional Review Act and repeal yet another of the last administration's runway regulations. Thanks to Senator Moran and Senator Toomey, today’s effort will protect consumers from a brazen attempt by the past director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to stretch his authority and interfere in the auto industry. “Now, the Dodd-Frank Act of 2010 got a lot of things wrong. But one thing Dodd-Frank got right was protecting auto dealers from meddling by the CFPB. Our Democratic colleagues are usually fans of federal regulations. I guess even they had a hunch that, left unchecked, the federal bureaucracy would find a way to put the brakes on this key industry. And how right they were. “In 2013, federal regulators concocted a loophole. They bypassed standard review and public comment periods for federal regulations, and instead issued guidance that would regulate auto dealers’ ability to negotiate loan terms with their customers. Dodd-Frank already gave the CFPB unprecedented insulation from the American people’s elected representatives. But apparently that wasn’t enough. “Because they still attempted an end-run around the express prohibition on the regulation of auto dealers with guidance they assumed wouldn’t be subject to the Congressional Review Act. Well, Senator Toomey foiled that plan when he asked GAO for an opinion on whether this guidance was in fact intrusive rulemaking that should be subject to congressional review. GAO decided it was, and now, Congress will have its say. “Republicans are chopping away at the tangled mess of regulations the last administration left behind. Our whole economy is getting a tune-up. And now it’s time for the front end of the auto industry to come along for the ride. We used the Congressional Review Act a record 15 times last year. Let’s join with our colleagues from Pennsylvania and Kansas, and add another victory to that list.” ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000430 DOT_Am.Oversight-000430   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for For Immediate Release, Monday, April 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2H3OWjN McConnell Meets With Gina Haspel   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement following his meeting with the president’s nominee for Director of the CIA, Gina Haspel:   “Today I had the opportunity to meet with the president’s nominee for Director of the CIA, Gina Haspel. Gina Haspel has dedicated her professional life to the national security of the United States, having joined the CIA in 1985. She has repeatedly proven to be a consummate intelligence officer and leader, and most recently served honorably and with distinction as Deputy Director of the CIA. I look forward to supporting her nomination.”   ###         DOT-18-0010-A-000431 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000431 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Helpful links for tax reform, etc. Friday, December 08, 2017 5:54:13 PM Hi everyone –   Just forwarding along a few helpful links, courtesy of the Senate Finance Committee. You may already have these docs below, but some have been recently updated, post-passage of the tax bill in the Senate last week. I’d also like to point out two helpful links to Leader McConnell’s website – this is a one-stop shop for our comms docs, etc. There is a tax reform specific site, and also links to many other policy areas. Also, please see a note below from Chairman Brady highlighting a public meeting of the House and Senate tax conferees next week.   Thanks! Erica   Leader McConnell’s tax reform site: https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/tax-reform-for-americans Leader McConnell’s main site (for comms one-pagers, etc.): https://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/newsroom/leader-board     Main portal for all SFC/tax docs: https://www.finance.senate.gov/taxreform   1. Legislative text of the Senate-passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2. Section-by-section of Finance Committee-passed bill 3. Section-by-section addendum post-Senate passage 4. Policy highlights 5. JCT score   Note from Chairman Brady regarding next week’s conference meeting:   View this email in your browser Brady Announces Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Meeting □ December 8, 2017 - PRESS RELEASE EMILY SCHILLINGER LAUREN ARONSON (202) 226-4774 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) announced that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) House-Senate Conference will hold an open meeting on Wednesday, December 13th. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000432 DOT_Am.Oversight-000432 “The House and the Senate are working together now on a unified, pro-growth tax reform bill that will deliver more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks,” said Brady. “Our open meeting will be an opportunity for the conferees to discuss our best, most pro-growth tax reform ideas that will help improve the lives of all Americans. We are committed to delivering the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to the President’s desk this year and fulfilling our promise to people across our country.” When: Wednesday, December 13, 2017 2:00 PM Where: HC-5 of the U.S. Capitol Building Media: Congressionally credentialed members of the media must RSVP to their respective Press Gallery no later than 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 12. CLICK HERE to view a full list of the conferees. ### Unsubscribe from this list AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000433 DOT_Am.Oversight-000433 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: CONFEREES/McConnell Announces Senate’s Republican Members of the Tax Reform Conference Committee Wednesday, December 06, 2017 7:11:14 PM MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, December 6, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2AZOjUN   McConnell Announces Senate’s Republican Members of the Tax Reform Conference Committee ‘The next step in this process is to join our House colleagues in a conference committee to finish our work on this important issue. I know everyone is ready to finalize our tax reform legislation and send it to the president so he can sign it into law.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following statement after eight Republican Senators were selected for the Tax Cut and Jobs Act conference committee:   “Last week, Senators answered the calls of our constituents by voting to overhaul our complex and outdated federal tax code. We seized the opportunity to spur economic growth, to help create jobs right here at home, and to take more money out of Washington’s pocket and put more money into the pockets of hardworking American families. Now that the Senate has voted to join our House colleagues in a conference committee, I’m confident that this distinguished group of Senators will work to get the job done for the American people. I know everyone is ready to finalize our tax reform legislation and send it to the president so he can sign it into law.”   Republican Senators Selected for the Tax Cut and Jobs Act Conference Committee: Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Mike Enzi (R-WY), Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee John Cornyn (R-TX)   John Thune (R-SD) Rob Portman (R-OH)     Tim Scott (R-SC)  Pat Toomey (R-PA)   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000434 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000434 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: Congress Reaches Bipartisan Government Funding Agreement Wednesday, February 07, 2018 1:27:14 PM One pager on the funding agreement to follow… Leader McConnell’s remarks just now -- MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATORfor K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, February 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2nJlRP5                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2EMrmng Congress Reaches Bipartisan Government Funding Agreement ‘I am pleased to announce that our bipartisan, bicameral negotiations on defense spending and other priorities have yielded a significant agreement… The compromise we’ve reached will ensure that, for the first time in years, our armed forces will have more of the resources they need to keep America safe. It will help us serve the veterans who have bravely served us. And it will ensure funding for important efforts such as disaster relief, infrastructure, and building on our work to fight opioid abuse and drug addiction.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the bipartisan funding agreement reached by Congressional leaders:   “I am pleased to announce that our bipartisan, bicameral negotiations on defense spending and other priorities have yielded a significant agreement. I want to thank my friend the Democratic Leader for joining me this afternoon, and for the productive discussions that generated this proposal. “The compromise we’ve reached will ensure that, for the first time in years, our armed forces will have more of the resources they need to keep America safe. It will help us serve the veterans who have bravely served us. And it will ensure funding for important efforts such as disaster relief, infrastructure, and building on our work to fight opioid abuse and drug addiction.   “This bill is the product of extensive negotiations among Congressional leaders and the White House. No one would suggest it is perfect. But we worked hard to find common ground and stay focused on serving the American people.   “First and foremost, this bipartisan agreement will unwind the sequestration cuts that have hamstrung our armed forces and jeopardized our national security. Secretary Mattis said that, quote, ‘no enemy in the field has done more to harm the readiness of our military than sequestration.’ For years, my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee, led by Chairman McCain, have spoken out about these damaging cuts.   “In the face of continuing and emerging threats, these cuts have left us unable to realize the potential of our missile defense capabilities. They’ve whittled down our conventional forces, laying DOT-18-0010-A-000435 DOT_Am.Oversight-000435 an undue burden on forward-deployed personnel and their families. And they’ve shrunk our fleet to its lowest ship count in nearly three decades.   “We haven’t asked our men and women in uniform to do less for our country. We have just forced them to make do with less than they need. This agreement changes that.   “In addition, this bill will provide for our returning heroes. Too often, underfunded, over-complicated bureaucracies fail to deliver the care our veterans deserve. The Trump administration and Congress -- thanks to the leadership of Chairman Isakson -- have made important progress for veterans in the past year. This agreement will expand on those steps.   “This agreement will also bolster our ongoing national struggle against opioid addiction and substance abuse. It will fund new grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement efforts in vulnerable communities across the country.   “It also provides funding for disaster relief efforts. Last year, powerful storms crippled Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and damaged mainland communities from Florida to Texas. Thanks to the efforts of members such as Senators Cornyn, Cruz, Rubio, and others, this bill will get more help on the way.   “And the agreement will clear the way for new investment in our nation’s infrastructure -- a bipartisan priority shared by the president and lawmakers in both parties.   “This bill does not conclude the serious work that remains before Congress. After we pass it, the Appropriations Committees will have six weeks to negotiate detailed appropriations and deliver full funding for the remainder of fiscal year 2018.   “But this bill represents a significant, bipartisan step forward. I urge every Senator to review this legislation and join us in voting to advance it. I want to thank my friend the Democratic Leader. I hope we can build on this bipartisan momentum and make 2018 a year of significant achievements for Congress, for our constituents, and for the country we love.   “And on one final matter, as I’ve said publicly many times, our upcoming debate on DACA, border security, and other issues will be a process that is fair to all sides. The bill I move to, which will not have underlying immigration text, will have an amendment process that will ensure a level playing field at the outset.   “The amendment process will be fair to all sides, allowing the sides to alternate proposals for consideration and for votes. While I obviously cannot guarantee any outcomes, let alone supermajority support, I can ensure the process is fair to all sides. And that is what I intend to do.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000436 DOT_Am.Oversight-000436 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: McConnell Meets With Kathy Kraninger Wednesday, June 27, 2018 8:16:48 AM Hello – ICYMI: Last week Leader McConnell met with Kathy Kraninger, President Trump’s nominee to head up the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection.   Of note: “Ms. Kraninger’s resume and reputation suggest she’s well-suited to continue on the course Acting Director Mulvaney has charted toward transparency, accountability, and effectiveness within proper limits. Those who’ve worked with Ms. Kraninger in the executive branch, here on Capitol Hill, or most recently at the Office of Management and Budget praise her expertise, leadership, and approach to public service. I look forward to supporting her nomination.”   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2MabDRk McConnell Meets With Kathy Kraninger ‘Ms. Kraninger’s resume and reputation suggest she’s well-suited to continue on the course Acting Director Mulvaney has charted toward transparency, accountability, and effectiveness within proper limits.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement after meeting with the president’s nominee for director of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, Kathy Kraninger: “This afternoon, I met with Kathy Kraninger, President Trump’s nominee to direct the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. “This institution can play an important role in helping consumer finance markets function well by DOT-18-0010-A-000437 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000437 enforcing the law and addressing unnecessary or outdated regulations. But unfortunately, significant flaws in the structure of this agency were only exacerbated by failed leadership during the Obama administration. “Ms. Kraninger’s resume and reputation suggest she’s well-suited to continue on the course Acting Director Mulvaney has charted toward transparency, accountability, and effectiveness within proper limits. Those who’ve worked with Ms. Kraninger in the executive branch, here on Capitol Hill, or most recently at the Office of Management and Budget praise her expertise, leadership, and approach to public service. I look forward to supporting her nomination.” Background: The Senate will consider this nomination in a timely manner. Additional details regarding her confirmation hearing will be forthcoming from the Senate Banking Committee.   ###     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000438 DOT_Am.Oversight-000438 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: McConnell on the President’s Tariff Announcement Thursday, March 08, 2018 6:27:10 PM Hi everyone, ICYMI -- MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATORfor K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, March 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2oUpDp7 McConnell on the President’s Tariff Announcement ‘I look forward to working with the administration to make sure that our trade policy focuses on curbing abusive behavior and protecting our interests here at home without harming America’s economic security.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding today’s announcement from the president on steel and aluminum tariffs:   “Members of the Senate, myself included, are concerned about the scope of the proposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and their impact on American citizens and businesses, including many I represent in Kentucky. I am pleased to see that the administration today made accommodations for some of our trading partners and allies. However, important questions remain about whether ultimately these tariffs will be sufficiently targeted, tailored and limited. I look forward to working with the administration to make sure that our trade policy focuses on curbing abusive behavior and protecting our interests here at home without harming America’s economic security.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000439 DOT_Am.Oversight-000439 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: McConnell Statement on Retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy Wednesday, June 27, 2018 4:03:44 PM MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2IwG41Y                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2tv6pJd McConnell Statement on Retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy ‘The Senate will vote to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor this fall.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding today’s announcement from Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy that he will retire on July 31, 2018: “Just a few moments ago, Justice Anthony Kennedy announced that he is retiring as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and taking senior status, effective July 31st. First and foremost, I want to pause and express our gratitude for the extraordinary service that Justice Kennedy has offered our nation. He has served on the federal bench for 43 years. “In particular, we owe him a debt of thanks for his ardent defense of the First Amendment right to political speech. As Justice Kennedy concludes his tenure on the Court, we wish him, his wife Mary, and their family every happiness in the years ahead. “The Senate stands ready to fulfill its constitutional role by offering advice and consent on President Trump’s nominee to fill this vacancy. We will vote to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor this fall. As in the case of Justice Gorsuch, Senators will have the ‎opportunity to meet with President Trump’s nominee, examine his or her qualifications, and debate the nomination. “I have every confidence in Chairman Grassley’s conduct of the upcoming confirmation process in the Judiciary Committee. It is imperative that the president’s nominee be considered fairly and not be subjected to personal attacks. Thus far, President Trump’s judicial nominations have reflected a keen understanding of the vital role that judges play in our constitutional order. “Judges must interpret the law fairly and apply it even-handedly. Judicial decisions must not flow from judges’ personal philosophies or ‎preferences, but from the honest assessment of the words and actual meaning of the law. “This bedrock principle has clearly defined the president’s excellent choices to date. So we will look forward to yet another outstanding selection. But today, the Senate and the nation thank Justice Kennedy for his years of service on the bench, and for his many contributions to jurisprudence and to our nation.” ###         DOT-18-0010-A-000440 DOT_Am.Oversight-000440 Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000441 DOT_Am.Oversight-000441 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: Messaging Document: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act Thursday, March 22, 2018 11:52:29 AM FYI: FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act (Courtesy of the Senate Committee on Appropriations) · · · · Strengthens our national defense and invests in bipartisan domestic priorities Package of 12 regular appropriations bills conforms to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 Informed by ~70 House and Senate hearings, and Member priorities and requests Product of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations with Administration input Strengthens our National Defense – After years of neglect, this bill begins rebuilding America’s military by making the largest investment in our Armed Forces since the beginning of the War on Terror. · Fully funds a 2.4 percent pay raise for the troops, which is the largest pay increase in eight years, and enhances equipment and machinery, and supports our men and women serving overseas. · It is the biggest year-to-year increase in defense funding in 15 years, a $61 billion increase over FY2017 enacted levels. · Strengthens missile defense, funds new weapons systems, and invests heavily in measures designed to counter threats from ISIL and North Korea. · Begins to upgrade U.S. military strength with significant funding increases for shipbuilding, aircraft procurement. · Cares for our veterans by providing record level VA funding while increasing oversight and modernization. · Counters violent extremist organizations worldwide and supports U.S. allies in Israel, Jordan, and Eastern Europe. Fights the Opioid Epidemic – The bill provides $4.6 billion to combat the opioid crisis, which President Trump declared as a national emergency last fall. This is a $3 billion (192 percent) increase over FY2017. Under Republican Congresses, anti-opioid funding has increased by $4.1 billion. · Allocates billions across agencies to opioid prevention, treatment, and enforcement. · Provides grants to states and localities to help offset law enforcement costs associated with opioid abuse. · Increases funding for research on the causes of opioid addiction and alternative pain management options. · Supports opioid treatment and prevention for veterans throughout VA. · Increases NIH funding to discover new advances in healthcare and medicine. · Funds new programs for youth affected by the opioids crisis, including prevention initiatives. · Ensures funding is directed toward states and communities with the greatest need. Rebuilds American Infrastructure – Renewing America’s aging infrastructure is critical to DOT-18-0010-A-000442 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000442 our country’s future and a top priority of the President. This legislation includes more than $21.2 billion in new infrastructure funding to ensure public safety and promote economic growth. · Provides billions in new funding for highways, waterways, airways, and railways. · Invests in rural infrastructure, including a new initiative for areas without broadband access. · Targets funds toward programs like TIGER grants and Community Development Block Grants that give states and localities a greater say in how they’re used. · Includes increased Economic Development Administration funding targeted toward infrastructure needs in economically-challenged areas of the country.   Secures the Homeland – Protecting the American people is our top priority. This legislation includes robust funding to fight terrorism, enhance criminal law enforcement, and secure U.S. borders. • Provides significant funding increases to enhance law enforcement, pursue prosecutions, and improve public safety by giving law enforcement agencies additional resources to tackle the constantly-changing landscape of criminal activity at home and abroad. • Provides $1.57 billion for physical barriers and technology to secure the Southwest border, including more than 95 miles of new or upgraded border wall system construction. Increases ICE funding by $640 million to improve enforcement of immigration and • customs laws. • Includes 3 to 5 percent funding increases for federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service. • Increases funds for border security and enforcement of immigration law, including 100 new immigration judge teams. • Directs funding specifically for combatting both human and opioid trafficking across agencies. Safeguards our Students – America’s schools need to be safe havens for our children to learn. The bill includes more than $2 billion in mental health, training, and school safety efforts to keep our kids and schools safe. It also contains the STOP School Violence Act to help ensure lifesaving resources are available to states and schools to stop violence before it happens. Supports Conservative Principles · Blocks the Democratic “parity” argument, where each dollar of defense spending had to be matched with a dollar of non-defense spending. · Cares for our veterans by providing a record level of VA funding while increasing oversight and modernization. · Allows states and localities greater flexibility to use federal grant funding. · Protects life by maintaining the Hyde and Helms amendments prohibiting taxpayer dollars for abortions, and prevents efforts to roll back the Administration’s expanded Mexico City policy. · Blocks Democratic efforts to guarantee funds for Planned Parenthood. · Addresses a tax inequity for agriculture by providing fair tax treatment for all agricultural businesses and restoring balanced marketplace competition. DOT-18-0010-A-000443 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000443 · · · · · · · · AMERICAN Limits significant Justice Department grant programs to recipients that follow federal law. Fights illegal immigration by increasing the number of immigration judges and ensuring detainees are referred by the Bureau of Prisons to ICE instead of sanctuary cities. Reauthorizes, improves and expands the EPA Brownfields program to more effectively cleanup contaminated sites that states and cities can reclaim for infrastructure development. Freezes Member pay and applies unspent Senate office funds to deficit reduction. Strengthens the National Instant Criminal Background Check System by reauthorizing the NICS Improvement Act (Fix NICS), increasing records submissions assistance for states, and requiring federal agencies to submit annual reports and certification of compliance. Maintains the prohibition on the use of federal funds to advocate or promote gun control. Promotes transparency by making Congressional Research Service reports available to the public. Increases oversight of federal contracts and conference travel. ### pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000444 DOT_Am.Oversight-000444 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: Six Months Since Passage of Historic Tax Reform Wednesday, June 20, 2018 6:38:29 PM ICYMI: Please see Leader McConnell’s floor remarks below on today’s important anniversary – six months since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed Congress! Families and businesses across America are seeing the benefits of tax reform.   NOTE: “Today marks six months since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed Congress. On Friday, it will be six months since the president signed it into law. What a six months it’s been. Already, Americans have seen their paychecks grow as the IRS withholds less of what they earn. Already, families are reaping the fruits of a new business tax code that gives American employers more ability to increase pay and create jobs.” – Leader McConnell   Happy Anniversary! MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S • SENATOR for KENTU CKY - . 1 - - - - For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2tohcDX                  YouTube: https://bit.ly/2M6W2lv Six Months Since Passage of Historic Tax Reform ‘Today marks six months since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed Congress. On Friday, it will be six months since the president signed it into law. What a six months it’s been. Already, Americans have seen their paychecks grow as the IRS withholds less of what they earn. Already, families are reaping the fruits of a new business tax code that gives American employers more ability to increase pay and create jobs.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans have seen across the country in the past six months thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:  “Today marks six months since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed Congress. On Friday, it will be six months since the president signed it into law. What a six months it’s been. Already, Americans have seen their paychecks grow as the IRS withholds less of what they earn. Already, families are reaping the fruits of a new business tax code that gives American employers more ability to increase pay and create jobs. “Six months in, these tax cuts have already led employers to issue ‘tax reform bonuses,’ raises, and new benefits to four million workers and counting. That’s welcome relief for middle-class families. But what about the long term? Republicans know that enduring prosperity needs thriving businesses competing to hire American workers. So we designed tax reform to flip the Obama-era script and make America a more attractive place to invest, expand, and create jobs.   “For large companies, capital investment might mean breaking ground on new locations or DOT-18-0010-A-000445 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000445 purchasing state-of-the-art technology. If you’re a mid-sized employer, it might mean filling your factory floor with new equipment. If you’re a Main Street family business, it could mean expanding into the vacant storefront next door, or buying new tools that will transform your day-to-day operations.   “In every case, you’re placing a bet on your community and your country. You’re betting on American land, American equipment, and most importantly, the future of the American workforce. You’re putting down roots here instead of shipping jobs overseas. This is precisely what we’ve seen in the past six months.   “Early this year, Apple announced plans to make $30 billion in capital investments over the next five years – new facilities, new data centers, and more than 20,000 new jobs. Chipotle Mexican Grill announced a $50 million investment in upgrading and refurbishing their restaurants.   “Carpenter Technology is using tax reform to speed up a new $100 million facility in Reading, Pennsylvania. Their new state-of-the-art mill will allow them to compete in precision electronics manufacturing. New equipment can’t be easily outsourced. Neither can the jobs it’ll create. And sure enough, Carpenter is partnering with a local community college to train a 21st-century workforce. And remember, these businesses aren’t just creating new opportunities themselves. These projects also mean prosperity for American contractors and construction crews.   “It’s not just the big guys. In West Palm Beach, Florida, tax reform means new kitchen appliances for Don Ramon Restaurant. In my home state of Kentucky, at Glier’s Meats, tax reform meant a new quarter-million-dollar machine to speed up production of their famous sausages. For a small business with fewer than 30 employees, that’s a noteworthy opportunity. Everywhere you turn, businesses large and small are going ‘all-in’ on the future of the United States.   “There’s one more interesting thing the last six months have revealed: Just how impossible it is for our Democratic colleagues to set aside their outdated, tax-and-spend ideology. Every Democrat in the House and in the Senate voted on party lines to block tax reform. They insisted the law wouldn’t help American workers one bit. They said it would be a disaster. Of course, the facts have debunked those predictions. But are our Democratic friends admitting they were wrong? No. They’re doubling down on the silliness.   “By now, we’re all familiar with the House Democratic Leader’s comments from January. She laughed at the four-figure bonuses that working families were celebrating, and called them ‘crumbs.’ Earlier this month, she doubled down. Quote: ‘Hip-hip hooray, unemployment is down. But what does that mean for me?’ My Democrat friends seem hopeful they can convince Americans that tax cuts, bonuses, and a stellar job market are nothing to celebrate. Talk about a tall order. But while those rhetorical gymnastics keep them busy, Republicans will keep up the fight for middle-class families.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000446 DOT_Am.Oversight-000446 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) ICYMI: Votes today and UC Wednesday, December 13, 2017 5:51:41 PM This afternoon:   Confirmed, 50-47: Exec. Cal. #534, Don Willett, of Texas, to be a Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (this is the 11th circuit court judge to be confirmed this year).   Cloture invoked, 53-47: on Exec. Cal. #535, James Ho, of TX, to be United States Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   By consent -  · At a time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to 120 minutes of debate and a vote on confirmation of Exec. Cal. #241 J. Paul Compton, Jr. to be General Counsel of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.   · At a time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to 30 minutes of debate and a vote on confirmation of Exec. Cal. #193 Owen West, of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense.   More details to come soon on Tax Conference!       Thanks,   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000447 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000447 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Judge Brett Kavanaugh // Leader McConnell statement + resources Monday, July 09, 2018 9:47:03 PM Hello everyone -  ICYMI – and I’m sure you didn’t! -- President Trump just announced that he is nominating Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the United States Supreme Court.   Please see a statement below from Leader McConnell, a note from Stew to the press, as well as other Senate GOP Comms Center resources.   Thanks, and more to come! Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORliTY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENJU ,CKY For Immediate Release, Monday, July 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2L2nGQI Judge Brett Kavanaugh ‘President Trump has made a superb choice. Judge Brett Kavanaugh is an impressive nominee who is extremely well qualified to serve as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: “President Trump has made a superb choice. Judge Brett Kavanaugh is an impressive nominee who is extremely well qualified to serve as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. “Judge Kavanaugh has sterling academic credentials. He is widely admired for his intellect, experience, and exemplary judicial temperament. He has won the respect of his peers and is highly regarded throughout the legal community. And his judicial record demonstrates a firm understanding of the role of a judge in our Republic: Setting aside personal views and political DOT-18-0010-A-000448 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000448 preferences in order to interpret our laws as they are written. "I look forward to meeting with Judge Kavanaugh and to the Senate’s fair consideration of his nomination, beginning with the work of Chairman Grassley and the Judiciary Committee. This is an opportunity for Senators to put partisanship aside and consider his legal qualifications with the fairness, respect, and seriousness that a Supreme Court nomination ought to command.” ###     To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE: Next steps for the SCOTUS debate === As the Majority Leader said tonight, “President Trump has made a superb choice. Judge Brett Kavanaugh is an impressive nominee who is extremely well qualified to serve as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States,” and the Senate will now have “fair consideration of his nomination, beginning with the work of Chairman Grassley and the Judiciary Committee.”   Here’s what happens now:   The Senate Judiciary Committee will work with the White House, review information on the nominee, and, when they’re ready, will announce a date for the hearing. That is a committee decision and they will announce the timing of the hearing.  After the hearing, the next step is for the Committee to vote on the nominee. Then the nomination goes to the full Senate for consideration.   For context, both President Obama’s nomination of Justice Sotomayor, and President Trump’s nomination of Justice Gorsuch, took just over two months (66 days for each) from nomination to confirmation.   In the meantime, the nominee will begin meeting with Senators this week.   You’ll also hear very predictable criticism from Senate Democrats—who came out against any Trump nominee before Judge Kavanaugh was even named. And from left-wing special-interest groups who have attacked every SCOTUS nominee from every Republican president for at least the last 30 years.    For example, while they say they want someone in the mold of Justice Kennedy, here’s what the Left said about then-nominee Kennedy: · · ·   Kennedy is a “sexist” who would be a "disaster for women" -- National Organization for Women (“NOW Opposes Judge Kennedy for Supreme Court,” L.A. Times, 11/20/1987) “Kennedy's position on civil rights and sex discrimination” raises “troubling questions” --People for the American Way “I am troubled by some of his opinions in the civil rights area”  --Nan Aron of the Alliance for Justice.” (Washington Post, 11/12/1987) And of course, NARAL made this claim about Justice Souter when he was nominated: “We remain intensely concerned that, if confirmed, Judge Souter would destroy 17 years of precedent and cast the deciding vote to overrule Roe vs. Wade.” (Eds. Note: He didn’t)   The Leader spoke about this earlier today in this speech AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000449 DOT_Am.Oversight-000449   Here’s a link to the Leader’s statement on Judge Kavanaugh.   We’ll have more information in the days ahead. And let me know if you have  any questions. And here’s my final selection for next week’s All Star Game.   STEW @StewSays   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORl iTY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KENJU,CKY For Immediate Release, Monday, July 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2N57eQq                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2znCRlY ‘We Should Evaluate This President’s Nominee Fairly, Based On Their Qualifications’ ‘Decade after decade. Nominee after nominee. The far left’s script hardly changes at all. Anyone and everyone a Republican president nominates to the Supreme Court is some kind of threat to the Republic, according to the hysterical press releases that inevitably follow. No matter their qualifications… No matter their record… No matter their reputation… It’s the same hyperbole. The same accusations. The same old story.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm the president’s Supreme Court nominee who is scheduled to be announced later tonight: “‘Sexist.’ “‘A disaster for women.’   “‘Totally unacceptable.’   “These are just a few of the ad hominem attacks that far-left special interest groups hurled at a federal circuit court judge whom a Republican president nominated to the Supreme Court. The name of that federal judge? Anthony Kennedy. After President Reagan nominated then-Judge Kennedy to the Court in 1987, these far-left special interest groups impugned his character. They cooked up apocalyptic warnings about all the terrible things that would happen to Americans if he were confirmed to the Court.   “Of course, the American people didn’t buy it. And a majority of senators saw through the hyperbole and hysteria and confirmed that qualified nominee. And, believe it or not, the sky did not fall. But decades later, our Democratic colleagues still haven’t tired of crying wolf whenever a Republican president nominates anyone to the Supreme Court.   “We’ve seen the same movie time after time – after time. Less than three years after Justice Kennedy’s confirmation, President Bush nominated David Souter to the Supreme Court. Guess what left-wing pressure groups said about David Souter right after President Bush selected him? That’s right. The very same things you’re hearing today. The same things you’ve heard from these same corners about every Supreme Court nominee named by a Republican president. DOT-18-0010-A-000450 DOT_Am.Oversight-000450   “One organization proclaimed that Justice Souter might, quote, ‘undo the advances made by women, minorities, dissenters and other disadvantaged groups.’ That was about Justice Souter. And back in 1975, they assailed the nomination of John Paul Stevens. They said he lacked impartiality and opposed women’s rights. That was said about John Paul Stevens.  So these far-left groups have been at these same scare tactics for more than forty years.   “The consistency is really quite amazing. Decade after decade. Nominee after nominee. The far left’s script hardly changes at all. Anyone and everyone a Republican president nominates to the Supreme Court is some kind of threat to the Republic, according to the hysterical press releases that inevitably follow. No matter their qualifications… No matter their record… No matter their reputation… It’s the same hyperbole. The same accusations. The same old story.   “Tonight, President Trump will announce his nominee to fill the current Supreme Court vacancy. We don’t know who he will name – but we already know exactly what unfair attacks the nominee will face. They won’t be new, and they won’t be warranted. We can expect to hear how they’ll destroy equal rights, or demolish American healthcare, or ruin our country in some other fictional way.   “Justice Kennedy’s resignation letter had barely arrived in the president’s hands before several of our Democratic colleagues began declaring their blanket opposition to anyone at all – anyone – that the president might name. One Democratic senator stated that she would resist any attempt to confirm any nominee this year – quote, ‘It doesn’t matter who he is putting forward.’ Doesn’t matter who. Earlier today, another Democratic senator issued a press release declaring preemptively that he plans to oppose whomever the president nominates tonight, no matter who they are. Another of our Democratic colleagues offered this assessment: ‘We are looking at a destruction of the Constitution of the United States as far as I can tell.’   “It’s hard to keep a straight face when you hear stuff like that. There’s not even a nominee yet. Justice Kennedy just announced his retirement, and they’re talking about the ‘destruction of the Constitution’? Please. Give the American people some credit. The far-left rhetoric comes out every single time. But the apocalypse never comes. Americans see beyond the far-left fear mongering they’ve tried over and over again for forty years. Senators should do the same.   “We should evaluate this president’s nominee fairly, based on their qualifications. And we should treat this process with the respect and the dignity that it deserves. The Judiciary Committee, under the able leadership of Senator Grassley, will hold hearings. And then the nomination will come to the full Senate for our consideration. One more round of 40-year-old scare tactics will not stop us from doing the right thing.”   ###   t at R . ubli ar1 Communicat· ons Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2zpVvd9   New Nominee, Same Old Scare Tactics On The Supreme Court, ‘Decade After Decade. Nominee After Nominee. The Far Left’s AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000451 DOT_Am.Oversight-000451 Script Hardly Changes At All.’   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “[O]ur Democratic colleagues still haven’t tired of crying wolf whenever a Republican president nominates anyone to the Supreme Court. We’ve seen the same movie time after time – after time…. So these far-left groups have been at these same scare tactics for more than forty years…. Decade after decade. Nominee after nominee. The far left’s script hardly changes at all.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 7/09/2018)   THE LEFT ON JUSTICE STEVENS: ‘Extraordinary Lack Of Sensitivity To The Problems Women Face’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON STEVENS: ‘Grave Concern,’ ‘Extraordinary Lack Of Sensitivity To The Problems Women Face’   MARGARET DRACHSLER, NOW: “I am here this afternoon to express my grave concern regarding both the nomination of John Paul Stevens to the Supreme Court and the manner in which it was accomplished.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 12/8/1975)   ·   ·   ·   ·     “Judge Stevens … revealed an extraordinary lack of sensitivity to the problems women face in the marketplace, as well as an extraordinary lack of sensitivity to the Equal Employment Opportunity Act.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 12/8/1975) “…his propensity to find against a female plaintiff.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 12/8/1975) “His decisions have flown in the face of the applicable law as duly passed by Congress…” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 12/8/1975) “…this man is disqualified from being a member of the Supreme Court of the United States is because of his consistent opposition to women's rights…” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 12/8/1975) THE LEFT ON CHIEF JUSTICE REHNQUIST: ‘Frightening,’ ‘Reactionary’ NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON REHNQUIST: ‘NOW In Fact Finds His Views On … Rights Of Women … Frightening’   ELEANOR CUTRI SMEAL, NOW President: “I am Eleanor Smeal and I am the president of the National Organization for Women, and I have come before the committee today to oppose the appointment of Rehnquist as the Chief Justice of the United States…. This appointment, however, we must stand and object to, for he has taken in the past the most extreme positions on the Court, in imposing or limiting the rights of women, and of minority members of our society …” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 7/29/1986)   · “NOW in fact finds his views on sex discrimination, and the rights of women, more than reactionary. We find them frightening.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 7/29/1986)     THE LEFT ON JUSTICE SCALIA: His Statements Demonstrate ‘Unfitness To Preside As’ A Member Of The Court NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON SCALIA: His Record Demonstrates ‘Hostility’ And ‘Unfitness’   DOT-18-0010-A-000452 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000452 ELEANOR CUTRI SMEAL, NOW President: “… we believe these written statements underscore Judge Scalia’s hostility to remedies against sex and racial discrimination.” (Eleanor Cutri Smeal, Testimony for the Record, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 8/05/1986)   ·   “… testimony to [Scalia’s] unfitness to preside as one of a nine-member panel whose job it is to defend Constitutional rights.” (Eleanor Cutri Smeal, Testimony for the Record, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 8/05/1986) THE LEFT ON JUSTICE KENNEDY: A ‘Troubling’ ‘Sexist’ ‘Unqualified To Sit On The High Court’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON KENNEDY: A ‘Sexist’ Who ‘Would Be A Disaster For Women’   “The National Organization for Women yesterday became the first major organization to oppose Supreme Court nominee Anthony M. Kennedy… and branded Kennedy a ‘sexist’ unqualified to sit on the high court. … NOW President Molly Yard told a news conference that Kennedy, a federal appeals court judge in Sacramento, ‘would be a disaster for women’ if confirmed as a justice.” (“NOW Opposes Kennedy For Supreme Court,” The Washington Post, 11/20/1987)   ·   “The National Organization for Women Thursday became the first major interest group to announce its opposition to Supreme Court nominee Anthony M. Kennedy … ‘I'm here to say it is totally unacceptable for a sexist to sit on the Supreme Court,’ NOW President Molly Yard declared in announcing the 160,000-member group's position at a press conference.” (“NOW Opposes Judge Kennedy for Supreme Court,” Los Angeles Times, 11/20/1987) PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON KENNEDY: ‘Troubling’   “‘…troubling questions about Kennedy's position on civil rights and sex discrimination,’ said Ricki Seidman, legal director for People for the American Way.” (“A Product Of Two Sides Of Town,” Los Angeles Times, 12/14/1987)   NAN ARON ON KENNEDY: ‘I Am Troubled’   “‘I am troubled by some of his opinions in the civil rights area,’ said Nan Aron of the Alliance for Justice.” (“Early Senate Reviews Indicate Confirmation Likely,” The Washington Post, 11/12/1987)   ·     “After a careful review of Judge Kennedy's appellate opinions as well as speeches he has made over a period of several years, the Alliance is troubled by Judge Kennedy's lack of demonstrated commitment to equal access to the courts and equal justice. … Judge Kennedy's record on civil rights and discrimination issues is not reassuring…” (Alliance For Justice, Statement, Pg.773, 1987) THE LEFT ON JUSTICE SOUTER: ‘Ample Reason To Fear’ This ‘Disturbing’ Nominee NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON SOUTER: ‘Ample Reason To Fear,’ ‘Troubling’   NOW Legal Defense And Education Fund: “…we have ample reason to fear what his appointment would mean to the future of reproductive and other women's rights, civil rights and individual rights.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, Pg.572, 9/1990)   ·   ·   “Evidence suggests that Souter's [legal] theories are similarly troubling.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, Pg.573, 9/1990) “Souter also appears to have an anachronistic and stereotypical view of women.” (U.S. Judiciary Committee, Hearing, Pg.593, 9/1990) DOT-18-0010-A-000453 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000453 PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON SOUTER: ‘Disturbing’   ARTHUR KROPP, President, People For the American Way: “What record Souter has compiled on constitutional questions is both sparse and disturbing. The views he has expressed on civil rights, sex discrimination, church/state separation, and reproductive freedom are reasons for very real concern.” (“Fans, Foes, In Betweens Speak Out On Souter,” USA Today, 9/13/1990)   NAN ARON ON SOUTER: ‘Very Troubling Aspects Of His Legal Record’   “The director of the Washington-based Alliance, Nan Aron, said Souter's statements and opinions ‘threaten to undo the advances made by women, minorities, dissenters and other disadvantaged groups.’” (“The Souter Nomination,” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 9/9/1990)   ·   “‘We have to take each nominee as he comes, and our research points to some very troubling aspects of his legal record,’ Aron said.” (“Potential Souter Foes Haven't Made A Move Yet,” The Boston Globe, 8/22/1990) “The alliance is convinced that Judge Souter will not protect the rights of those suffering discrimination on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or literacy.” (“Souter Nomination Opposed By Liberal Legal Affairs Group,” AP, 9/22/1990)   THE LEFT ON JUSTICE THOMAS: ‘Singular Disrespect For The Rule Of Law’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON THOMAS: ‘None Of The Qualities Necessary For A Member Of This Nation's Highest Court’   MOLLY YARD, NOW President: “NOW is adamantly opposed to the nomination of Clarence Thomas. Mr. Thomas has demonstrated none of the qualities necessary for a member of this Nation's highest Court.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 9/20/1991)   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON THOMAS: ‘An Unacceptable Choice For The Supreme Court,’ ‘Contempt For Congress And The Judiciary’   ARTHUR KROPP, People For the American Way President: “We discover a man with a singular disrespect for the rule of law, an apparent indifference to fundamental civil liberties, contempt for Congress and the judiciary and a painfully cramped view of government's role in repairing the damage of discrimination.” (“2 Advocacy Groups Oppose Thomas; Third Backs Him,” Los Angeles Times, 7/31/1991)   · “People for the American Way issued its report on Thomas, calling him ‘an unacceptable choice for the Supreme Court’ who lacks adequate legal and judicial experience …” (“Groups Take Turns Taking Sides on Court Nominee,” The Washington Post, 7/31/1991)   NAN ARON ON THOMAS: His Record ‘Suggest[s] He Will Fail To Carry Out His Constitutional Obligations’   “A liberal advocacy group urged the Senate on Monday to reject Clarence Thomas' nomination to the Supreme Court …The Alliance For Justice, which helped spearhead the 1987 defeat of Robert Bork's nomination to the high court, said that Thomas disregarded civil rights law when he chaired the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Thomas' writings, speeches and eight-year tenure at the EEOC ‘suggest he will fail to carry out his constitutional obligations’ by fairly interpreting laws to protect individual rights, consumers and the environment, said Nan Aron, the group’s director.” (“Liberal Group That Opposed Bork Now Opposes Thomas,” The Associated Press, 7/29/1991)   THE LEFT ON CHIEF JUSTICE ROBERTS: ‘Troubling,’ ‘A Cavalier Attitude Towards Economic Justice For Women’   DOT-18-0010-A-000454 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000454 NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON ROBERTS: ‘Women’s … Rights Will Be Set Back Decades’   KIM GANDY, NOW President: “The National Organization for Women is very clear in our opposition to the nomination of John G. Roberts to the office of Chief Justice for the United States Supreme Court…. If he is seated … women’s and civil rights will be set back decades.” (Kim Gandy, National Organization for Women, Letter to Senators, 9/15/2005)   · “Women’s full options for health, education and economic opportunities will truly be at risk under his stewardship.” (Kim Gandy, National Organization for Women, Letter to Senators, 9/15/2005)   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON ROBERTS: ‘Troubling,’ ‘Uncharitable View Of The Courts’   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY: “Significantly, John Roberts has troubling views about the courts …” (“People for the American Way Report in Opposition to the Confirmation of Supreme Court Nominee John Roberts,” U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Submission for the Record, 9/2005)   ·   · “… uncharitable view of the courts generally and the Supreme Court specifically …” (“People for the American Way Report in Opposition to the Confirmation of Supreme Court Nominee John Roberts,” U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Submission for the Record, 9/2005) “[Ralph G.] Neas [president of People for the American Way] said Roberts might appear affable and measured but suggested that the nominee's views reveal a ‘wolf in sheep's clothing.’” (“Group Defends Roberts's Rights Record,” The Washington Post, 8/25/2005)   NAN ARON ON ROBERTS: ‘Consistently Opposed Equal Rights For Women Often With Scorn And Derision’   NAN ARON: “…his record raises serious questions about whether he genuinely appreciates the role an independent judiciary plays in safeguarding individual rights and protections, enforcing legal protections and ensuring equal justice.” (Alliance for Justice, Press Conference, 8/30/2005)   · “He has consistently opposed equal rights for women often with scorn and derision.” (Alliance for Justice, Press   Conference, 8/30/2005) THE LEFT ON JUSTICE ALITO: ‘Particularly Hostile To The Rights Of Women,’ ‘Would Jeopardize Americans’ Fundamental Rights’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON ALITO: ‘A Pattern Of Hostility Towards Women,’ ‘The Wrong Judge At The Wrong Time For Women’   KIM GANDY, NOW President: “… a confirmation of Samuel Alito will undermine much of the progress … for individual liberty, for civil rights, and for women’s rights…. Samuel Alito is the wrong judge at the wrong time for women and for the country.” (Kim Gandy, Statement for the Record, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, p. 1349, 1/18/2006)   · OLGA VIVES, NOW Executive VP: “… particularly hostile to the rights of women … Judge Alito’s decisions show a pattern of hostility towards women … and also toward immigrants.” (Press Conference, 1/04/2006)   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON ALITO: ‘The Price Will Be Paid By Ordinary Americans’   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY: “If Samuel Alito is confirmed, the price will be paid by ordinary Americans in the years to come …” (People For the American Way, Press Release, 1/26/2006)   RAPLH NEAS, People For the American Way President: “Judge Alito’s confirmation would jeopardize Americans’ DOT-18-0010-A-000455 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000455 fundamental rights and legal protections and provide a consistent vote to turn back the clock on decades of social justice progress in this country.” (Ralph Neas, People For the American Way, Letter to Sens. Specter and Leahy, 1/09/2006)   · “… his confirmation would pose a significant danger to the checks and balances that the Framers wisely crafted into our constitutional system of government.” (Ralph Neas, People For the American Way, Letter to Sens. Specter and Leahy, 1/09/2006)   NAN ARON ON ALITO: ‘Oppose The Nomination’   NAN ARON: “I write on behalf of Alliance for Justice to oppose the nomination of Third Circuit Judge Samuel A. Alito to the United States Supreme Court.” (Nan Aron, Alliance for Justice, Letter to Sens. Specter and Leahy, 1/11/2006)   THE LEFT ON JUSTICE GORSUCH: ‘Egregious Views,’ ‘Offensive To Anyone Who Cares About Women’s Health And Well Being’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON Gorsuch: ‘Offensive’   TERRY O’NEILL, NOW President: “Trump’s selection of Neil Gorsuch is offensive to anyone who cares about women’s health and well being.” (Terry O’Neill, Op-Ed, “The Case Against Neil Gorsuch,” The Hill, 2/03/2017)   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON GORSUCH: ‘A Patently Unacceptable Choice,’ Described As ‘Hostile To Women's Rights’   PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY: “Judge Gorsuch has spent his entire career pushing an extreme agenda that hurts ordinary Americans. He has made clear that he’s a patently unacceptable choice who’d push his own dangerous agenda from the bench.” (People For the American Way, Press Release, 1/31/2017)   · “The air war over Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch has begun, and liberal activist organization People For the American Way has fired the first shot. In a 30-second ad – called ‘We the People’ and posted online Thursday by the group – a female narrator warns viewers that President Donald Trump's pick to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia is hostile to women's rights, friendly to Wall Street and beholden to ‘powerful interests.’” (“Anti-Gorsuch Ad Portrays Nominee as Anti-Woman, Pro-Wall Street,” U.S. News & World Report, 2/02/2017)   NAN ARON ON GORSUCH: ‘Americans’ Lives And Health Would Be Put At Risk In Untold Ways’   NAN ARON: “[Judge Gorsuch‘s] record … reflects substantial evidence that if his egregious views were to become law, Americans’ lives and health would be put at risk in untold ways.” (Nan Aron, “To Avert Disaster, the Senate Must Reject Neil Gorsuch,” The Nation, 2/02/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     DOT-18-0010-A-000456 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000456 ,at ublicar1 Communications 2,02•228• Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2znTLRz   ‘Believe It Or Not, The Sky Did Not Fall’ The Left Called Justice Kennedy A ‘Disaster For Women’ When He Was First Nominated   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “‘Sexist.’ ‘A disaster for women.’ ‘Totally unacceptable.’ These are just a few of the ad hominem attacks that far-left special interest groups hurled at a federal circuit court judge whom a Republican President nominated to the Supreme Court. The name of that federal judge?  Anthony Kennedy. After President Reagan nominated then-Judge Kennedy to the Court in 1987, these farleft special interest groups impugned his character. They cooked up apocalyptic warnings about all the terrible things that would happen to Americans if he were confirmed to the Court. Of course, the American people didn’t buy it. And a majority of senators saw through the hyperbole and hysteria and confirmed that qualified nominee. And, believe it or not, the sky did not fall.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 7/09/2018)   THE LEFT ON THEN-JUDGE KENNEDY’S NOMINATION TO THE SUPREME COURT: A ‘Troubling’ ‘Sexist’ ‘Unqualified To Sit On The High Court’   NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ON KENNEDY: A ‘Sexist’ Who ‘Would Be A Disaster For Women’   “The National Organization for Women yesterday became the first major organization to oppose Supreme Court nominee Anthony M. Kennedy… and branded Kennedy a ‘sexist’ unqualified to sit on the high court. … NOW President Molly Yard told a news conference that Kennedy, a federal appeals court judge in Sacramento, ‘would be a disaster for women’ if confirmed as a justice.” (“NOW Opposes Kennedy For Supreme Court,” The Washington Post, 11/20/1987)   ·   “The National Organization for Women Thursday became the first major interest group to announce its opposition to Supreme Court nominee Anthony M. Kennedy … ‘I'm here to say it is totally unacceptable for a sexist to sit on the Supreme Court,’ NOW President Molly Yard declared in announcing the 160,000-member group's position at a press conference.” (“NOW Opposes Judge Kennedy for Supreme Court,” Los Angeles Times, 11/20/1987) PEOPLE FOR THE AMERICAN WAY ON KENNEDY: ‘Troubling’   “‘…troubling questions about Kennedy's position on civil rights and sex discrimination,’ said Ricki Seidman, legal director for People for the American Way.” (“A Product Of Two Sides Of Town,” LA Times, 12/14/1987)   AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000457 DOT_Am.Oversight-000457 NAN ARON ON KENNEDY: ‘I Am Troubled’   “‘I am troubled by some of his opinions in the civil rights area,’ said Nan Aron of the Alliance for Justice.” (“Early Senate Reviews Indicate Confirmation Likely,” The Washington Post, 11/12/1987)   ·   “After a careful review of Judge Kennedy's appellate opinions as well as speeches he has made over a period of several years, the Alliance is troubled by Judge Kennedy's lack of demonstrated commitment to equal access to the courts and equal justice. … Judge Kennedy's record on civil rights and discrimination issues is not reassuring…” (Alliance For Justice, Statement, Pg.773, 1987) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     t , at u l ie 11. Communicat· on Center 2,02 228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2NxnYRk   Radical Left Takes The Reins Radical Groups Demand Absolute Resistance Against Yet-To-Be-Named SCOTUS Nominee, Senate Democrats Comply With ‘Unwavering Opposition’   Left-Wing Ideologues ‘Mounting A Major Offensive Against President Trump’s Supreme Court Pick, Hoping To Pressure Every Democratic Senator To Vote Against’   “Liberal groups are mounting a major offensive against President Trump’s Supreme Court pick, hoping to pressure every Democratic senator to vote against whomever the White House nominates to succeed Justice Anthony Kennedy.” (“Left Mounts Heavy Pressure Campaign On Swing Senators Over Supreme Court,” The Hill, 7/01/2018)   “Liberals tell Schumer to scrap decorum and civility in battling Trump” (“Liberals Tell Schumer To Scrap Decorum And Civility In Battling Trump,” The Washington Post, 7/03/2018)   · NY LIBERAL ACTIVIST: “We need a person who will physically put their body on the tracks … This decorum and civility — we don’t have the luxury for that.” (“Liberals Tell Schumer To Scrap Decorum And Civility In Battling Trump,” DOT-18-0010-A-000458 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000458   ·   The Washington Post, 7/03/2018) MICHAEL MOORE: “We first have to find ways to stop that vote from happening…. I’ll join a million other people surrounding the United States Capitol. I will stand there … Bill, let me tell you something, if this judge goes through … That's it, it's over.” (HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher,” 6/29/2018) Prominent Democrats Heed The Call, Pledge ‘Unwavering Opposition To Trump’s Nominee’   “Less than 24 hours after Justice Anthony M. Kennedy announced his retirement from the Supreme Court, liberal advocacy group Demand Justice rallied in front of the court building Thursday with a string of Democratic lawmakers with a unified message: We will fight.” (“Outside Groups, Democrats Form Ranks in Supreme Court Fight,” Roll Call, 6/29/2018)   ·   “Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Cory Booker (N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Kamala D. Harris (Calif.) took turns at the microphone to demand unwavering opposition to Trump’s nominee. ‘The battle lines have been drawn,’ Gillibrand said , shouting at the top of her lungs at the rally. ‘Which side are you on?’” (“‘Which Side Are You On?’: Liberals Pressure Centrist Democrats On Trump’s Court Pick,” The Washington Post, 6/28/2018) PAUL BEGALA, Former Clinton White House Chief of Staff: “I don’t think any Democrat is going to go along with a Trump appointee to the Supreme Court…. Not if he or she wants to raise any money or have any volunteers.” (“Kennedy Retirement Injects an Inflammatory New Issue Into Midterms,” The New York Times, 6/27/2018)   FLASHBACK: ‘Liberal Base Apoplectic … Demanding Opposition At Any Cost’   “Voters from the liberal base apoplectic over Trump's presidency are demanding opposition at any cost.” (“Democrats In A Vise Over Trump's Supreme Court Pick,” The Associated Press, 2/02/2017)   ·   ·   “Liberals will demand nothing less than total warfare.” (“The Democrats Who Will Decide Gorsuch's Fate,” Politico, 2/2/17) “Democrats, pushed by their base, are under pressure to not cooperate with the new president—on anything.” (“Donald Trump, Democrats Dig In For Fight,” The Wall Street Journal, 2/01/2017) “The political arm of the Center for American Progress, called the CAP Action Fund, is one of the central entities in Democrats’ sprawling effort to oppose Trump. In an interview on Thursday, the group’s senior strategic adviser, Adam Jentleson [former deputy chief of staff to former Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV)], outlined an ambitious and wide-reaching plan ... ‘We’ll never reach a point where we say, “OK, that’s enough,”’ he said.” (“Democratic War Room Expands With Plans To Scrutinize Hundreds And Hundreds Of Trump Appointees,” BuzzFeed News, 3/02/2017)   MURSHED ZAHEED, Political Director Of CREDO Action: “Any Democrat who votes to advance Judge Gorsuch's nomination will have a permanent stain on their record.” (“Liberal Groups Vow Revenge On Democrats Who Back Gorsuch, The Associated Press, 3/09/2017)   ·   “‘We can't have Vichy Democrats,’ says Dan Cantor, the national director of the Working Families Party, a leading outfit in progressive politics which cosigned the Gorsuch letter.” (“Inside the Democrats' Plan to Fight Trump,” Rolling Stone, 3/9/2017) DOT-18-0010-A-000459 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000459 ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     1at u Ii n Communicat· ons Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2Ku98Jj   ‘It Doesn’t Matter Who’ On Yet-To-Be Named Supreme Court Nominee, Dems ‘Model [Their] Resistance’ On Their Shameful 1987 Assault On Robert Bork   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “It’s pretty obvious they’re ready to fight no matter who the nominee is.” (Fox News, 6/28/2018)   Dem Senators: ‘It Doesn’t Matter Who He Is Putting Forward,’ ‘We Cannot And Will Not Accept Them’   “Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Cory Booker (N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Kamala D. Harris (Calif.) took turns at the microphone to demand unwavering opposition to Trump’s nominee. ‘The battle lines have been drawn,’ Gillibrand said , shouting at the top of her lungs at the rally. ‘Which side are you on?’” (“‘Which Side Are You On?’: Liberals Pressure Centrist Democrats On Trump’s Court Pick,” The Washington Post, 6/28/2018)   ·   ·   SEN. KAMALA HARRIS (D-CA): “The President’s list of potential SCOTUS nominees are complete nonstarters…. We cannot and will not accept them to serve on the highest court in the land.” (Sen. Harris, @SenKamalaHarris, Twitter, 6/27/2018) SEN. MAZIE HIRONO (D-HI): “No, it doesn't matter who he is putting forward.” (CNN’s “The Situation Room,” 6/27/2018) Democrat Leaders Reach Back To 1987 Bork Playbook To Oppose A Nominee   “Democratic strategists say the party needs to model its resistance to the successful fight Democratic senators waged in 1987 against Judge Robert H. Bork, President Ronald Reagan’s pick for the Supreme Court.” (“Political War DOT-18-0010-A-000460 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000460 Over Replacing Kennedy on Supreme Court Is Underway,” The New York Times, 6/28/2018)   SEN. PATTY MURRAY (D-WA): “We don’t know whom President Trump will nominate just yet or when he will make that nomination, but I want to go back to something my dear friend and colleague Senator Kennedy said because it highlights the stakes right now. He was talking about an extreme nominee, Robert Bork.... Robert Bork was rejected … Today, we face similar stakes right now, in this moment.” (Sen. Murray, Congressional Record, S. 4486, 6/28/2018)   SEN. KAMALA HARRIS (D-CA): “We are looking at a destruction of the Constitution of the United States as far as I can tell …” (MSNBC’s “Hardball,” 6/27/2018)   ‘Robert Bork Was Treated Shamefully,’ ‘[I]t’s Bad For The Country That Bork Was Borked In The Way He Was’   MERRIAM-WEBSTER DICTIONARY: “Borked or borked; Borking or borking; Borks or borks US politics, slang: to attack or defeat (a nominee or candidate for public office) unfairly through an organized campaign of harsh public criticism or vilification” ("Bork," Merriam-Webster.com, Accessed 6/29/2018)   ·   “The strategy of obstructing candidates by defaming them and vilifying their characters has come to be known as ‘Borking’ the nominee. Others have said the battle over Bork was a mistake.” (“The Supreme Court Confirmation Battle That Began 30 Years Ago,” Roll Call, 3/23/2017) THE NEW REPUBLIC’S JEFFREY ROSEN: “But even from the sidelines, as I celebrated Bork’s defeat, I remember feeling that the nominee was being treated unfairly. Senator Edward Kennedy set the tone with a demagogic attack…. Bork’s record was distorted beyond recognition, and his name was transformed from a noun into a verb. The Borking of Bork was the beginning of the polarization of the confirmation process that has turned our courts into partisan war zones, resulting in more ideologically divided opinions and less intellectually adventurous nominees on the left and the right.” (Jeffrey Rosen, “We're Still Paying The Price For The Borking Of Robert Bork,” The New Republic, 12/19/2012)   ·   ROSEN: “[I]t’s bad for the country that Bork was Borked in the way he was. American courts, judges, and constitutional law have been paying the price for the past twenty-five years, and the future looks even more bleak.” (Jeffrey Rosen, “We're Still Paying The Price For The Borking Of Robert Bork,” The New Republic, 12/19/2012) JAMES ROBERTSON, Former lawyer working in opposition to Bork nomination: “In the summer of 1987, I led a team of young lawyers to oppose President Ronald Reagan’s nomination of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court…. As distasteful as the battle was, the end … seemed to justify the means. Nevertheless, I regret my part in what I now regard as a terrible political mistake. While the nation did wind up with a much more acceptable choice, the treatment of Bork touched off a Thirty Years’ War on judicial appointments. We have politicized the judicial confirmation process far beyond historical norms and undermined public confidence in the judiciary.” (James Robertson, Op-Ed, “The Judicial Nomination War Started With Bork. Let’s End It With Gorsuch.,” The Washington Post, 3/15/2017)   NATIONAL REVIEW’S CHARLES C.W. COOKE: “In the Washington Post, Ruth Marcus has penned an unhinged column in which she insists that Anthony Kennedy’s retirement must provoke ‘another Bork moment.’ There is much that is ugly about this sentiment — not the least of which is that Robert Bork was treated shamefully, and was hideously slandered to boot …” (Charles C.W. Cooke, “No, Ruth Marcus, It’s Not Time for a ‘Bork Moment,’” National Review Online’s The Corner, 6/29/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000461 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000461   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000462 DOT_Am.Oversight-000462 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) Leader filed cloture on HR 1625. the vehicle for FY18 funding Thursday, March 22, 2018 5:17:45 PM We’ve filed cloture on HR 1625, the omni vehicle, which passed in the House with strong Republican support, 256-167.  Republican split was 145-91. The omni executes on the Bipartisan Budget Act 2018, which broke the Democrats’ parity funding demands.  This bill fully funds the highest pay raise for troops in a decade and is the biggest year-to-year increase in defense funding in 15 years. Please let me know if you have any questions. (b) (6) - JL MR. McCONNELL: I UNDERSTAND THAT THE SENATE HAS RECEIVED A MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE TO ACCOMPANY H.R. 1625. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: MAJORITY LEADER IS CORRECT. MR. McCONNELL: I ASK THAT THE CHAIR LAY BEFORE THE SENATE THE MESSAGE A COMPANY H.R. 1625. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: THE CHAIR LAYS BEFORE THE SENATE THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE. THE CLERK WILL REPORT. THE CLERK: RESOLVE THAT THE HOUSE AGREE TO THE AMENDMENT OF THE SENATE TO THE BILL H.R. 1625, ENTITLED AN ACT TO AMEND THE STATE DEPARTMENT BASIC AUTHORITIES ACT OF 1956 TO INCLUDE SEVERE FORMS OF TRAFFICKING AND PERSONS WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF TRANSNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME FOR PURPOSES OF THE REWARDS PROGRAM OF THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, WITH AN AMENDMENT. MR. McCONNELL: I MOVE TO CONCUR IN THE HOUSE AMENDMENT TO H.R. 1625 AND SEND A CLOTURE MOTION TO THE DESK ON THE MOTION CONCUR. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: THE CLERK WILL REPORT. THE CLERK: CLOTURE MOTION: WE, THE UNDERSIGNED SENATORS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF RULE 22 OF THE STANDING RULES OF THE SENATE, DO HEREBY MOVE TO BRING TO A CLOSE DEBATE ON THE MOTION TO CONCUR IN THE HOUSE AMENDMENT TO THE SENATE AMENDMENT TO H.R. 1625 SIGNED BY 16 SENATORS AS FOLLOWS -- YOU. MR. McCONNELL: I ASK THAT THE READING OF THE NAMES BE DISPENSED WITH. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: OFFICER IS THERE OBJECTION? WITHOUT OBJECTION. MR. McCONNELL: I ASK THAT CONCUR IN THE HOUSE AMENDMENT TO H.R. 1625 WITH A FURTHER AMENDMENT. CLERIC MR. McCONNELL MOVES TO CONCUR IN THE HOUSE AMENDMENT TO THE SENATE AMENDMENT TO H.R. H.R. 1625 WITH A FURTHER AMENDMENT NUMBERED 217. -- 2217.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000463 DOT_Am.Oversight-000463 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Leader McConnell Thanks Trusted Counselor and Friend, Brendan Dunn Thursday, May 17, 2018 12:36:41 PM Hi everyone, Please see Leader McConnell’s remarks below from this morning about Brendan Dunn and his Senate service. We will miss him dearly, in his professional capacity, but even more as a friend and confidant. Thanks, Erica MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Leader McConnell Thanks Trusted Counselor and Friend, Brendan Dunn ‘Brendan’s many contributions to my team have benefited this body, the people of Kentucky, and the nation. I know everyone who’s gotten to work closely with him is sad to see him depart the Senate. I sure am. But I have a hunch that his lovely wife Lee and their children -- Patrick, Audrey, and Mary -- won’t mind seeing a little bit more of him. So I offer Brendan my sincere thanks for a job very well done, and wish him godspeed for what lies in store.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor thanking trusted counselor and friend, Brendan Dunn for his Senate service: “Now, speaking of tax reform, Mr. President, I have to bid farewell today to an excellent member of my staff. Brendan Dunn has been a key member of my leadership office team for the past six years. He’s made an outsized impact as a trusted counselor and friend. “I stole Brendan from the Finance Committee in 2012. I’m not sure Chairman Hatch ever quite forgave me for it. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of witnessing Brendan in action, you’ll understand why he’s a sought-after commodity -- whether you need deep expertise on tax policy or the perfect movie quote for any occasion. “Brendan has been my trusted advisor on issues including tax policy, banking, trade, and pensions, so I’m just glad his last few months in the office could be a calm and laid-back period. All he had to do was play a leading role in crafting generational tax reform and help steer it across the finish line. Oh, and then came Dodd-Frank reform, for good measure. “This Maryland native holds degrees from Holy Cross, Fordham, Georgetown and Notre Dame. But you wouldn’t know that this unassuming leader and reliable source of comic relief holds a J.D. and a Ph.D. in political philosophy unless you needed to. That’s the kind of guy Brendan is. “Brendan’s many contributions to my team have benefited this body, the people of Kentucky, and the nation. I know everyone who’s gotten to work closely with him is sad to see him depart the Senate. I sure am. But I have a hunch that his lovely wife Lee and their children -- Patrick, Audrey, and Mary -- won’t mind seeing a little bit more of him. So I offer Brendan my sincere thanks for a job very well done, and wish him godspeed for what lies in store.” DOT-18-0010-A-000464 DOT_Am.Oversight-000464 ###       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000465 DOT_Am.Oversight-000465 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) McConnell Announces Jay Khosla to Serve as Chief Economic Policy Counsel Thursday, June 28, 2018 9:24:19 AM Big news! We are thrilled to announce Jay Khosla will be joining Team McConnell! He starts Monday, July 9th after the 4th of July recess.   Best, Erica MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 28, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KuccVZ McConnell Announces Jay Khosla to Serve as Chief Economic Policy Counsel ‘He is one of the brightest minds we have in the tax, trade, and banking fields and his expertise will be an asset to the entire Republican Conference.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that Jay Khosla will join his office as Chief Economic Policy Counsel. Khosla currently serves as Staff Director for the Senate Finance Committee. Prior to serving as Staff Director, Khosla held multiple senior roles at the Finance Committee including Policy Director and Chief Health Counsel. “Jay is an all-star and I’m thrilled to have him join our team,” McConnell said. “Jay was a driving force helping deliver historic tax reform and I know he is eager to help deliver more wins for the American people. He is one of the brightest minds we have in the tax, trade, and banking fields and his expertise will be an asset to the entire Republican Conference.” “Jay hasn’t just been an indispensable asset to me and every member of this committee, he’s been a trusted advisor and friend. His instincts and ability to solve complex issues are second to none,” said Senate Finance Committee Chair Orrin Hatch (R-UT).  “And, I frankly don’t know how we would’ve tackled tax reform without him. Every member of this committee will miss him – I know I will, but I’m glad he’s not going too far – Leader McConnell is fortunate to have someone like Jay joining his team.”   Khosla began his Senate career with former Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) and later served in senior policy roles for the Senate Budget Committee and Senator Orrin Hatch. During the 2008 presidential campaign, he was Arizona Senator John McCain’s senior policy advisor for health care, labor and entitlement reform. A Virginia native, Khosla earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University and his J.D. from the University of Richmond Law School. Khosla will start in the Leader’s office on Monday, July 9th.  He will oversee tax, trade, banking and other economic policy issues. ### DOT-18-0010-A-000466 DOT_Am.Oversight-000466 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) McConnell on Tax Reform Conference Report: Critical for the Future of Our Country Friday, December 15, 2017 6:46:02 PM ICYMI: Please see Leader McConnell’s statement below on the Tax Conference Report.   House and Senate voting early next week!       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Friday, December 15, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2ABK1PW McConnell on Tax Reform Conference Report: Critical for the Future of Our Country ‘This legislation will bring real relief to the middle class by taking money out of Washington’s pocket and putting it into theirs. It means a tax cut of more than $2,000 for a family of four earning $73,000. That’s real money in communities across Kentucky – from Paducah to Pikeville. And only those who don’t know the struggles of hardworking American families could conclude otherwise.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conference report that was released today:   “First and foremost, I would like to congratulate the members of the Senate and the House who worked tirelessly to reconcile the differences between the two tax bills. What they have accomplished is critical for the future of our country – and that is no understatement. After 31 years, it’s about time.   “For too long, America has struggled to compete in an increasingly competitive world. For years, jobs and businesses have left our country. Meanwhile, middle-class families struggled to get by. For years, our nation suffered under an economy that failed them with lack luster economic growth and under a system that rewarded the few at the expense of the many.    “That’s changing with this legislation. China is already worried about this tax bill, because they know it will make America more competitive and spur greater investment here in America. This legislation will bring real relief to the middle class by taking money out of Washington’s pocket and putting it into theirs. It means a tax cut of more than $2,000 for a family of four earning $73,000. That’s real money in communities across Kentucky – from Paducah to Pikeville. And only those who don’t know the struggles of hardworking American families could conclude otherwise.   “Next week, the Senate will get this bill done so we can ensure the American people get the gift of real, meaningful tax relief this holiday season.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000468 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000468 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) McConnell Statement on the Passing of His Friend, Charles Krauthammer Friday, June 22, 2018 6:57:49 PM Hello everyone – please see Leader McConnell’s statement below on the passing of his good friend, Charles Krauthammer.   Last night Leader McConnell called into Special Report on Fox News for a brief phone interview. You may be interested in listening to his beautiful tribute below.   You can watch the video here (appx 5 min): VIDEO / AUDIO: 06.21.18 Leader McConnell / Charles Krauthammer / Special Report / Fox News   A few thoughts…Leader McConnell on Charles Krauthammer:   “He was in a class by himself.“   “Overcoming such adversity and leading such a consequential life is an inspiration to all of us.”   “His thinking was astonishingly clear. His moral reasoning was straightforward but profound.”   “He was a lovely man, in every single measureable way. What a life of consequence.”   Charles Krauthammer, 1950-2018 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KEN1TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2yyUIpM McConnell Statement on the Passing of His DOT-18-0010-A-000469 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000469 Friend, Charles Krauthammer ‘His thinking was astonishingly clear. His moral reasoning was straightforward but profound.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement about the passing of his friend, Charles Krauthammer: I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my friend Charles Krauthammer this afternoon.   Just because this news didn’t come as a surprise does not make it any easier to face. As a writer, speaker, and commentator, Charles served our society as a public intellectual in the truest sense. His pen functioned like a lighthouse, helping all of us see more clearly and reason more thoroughly through the most important issues that our nation faced.   The physical disabilities Charles impressively overcame only seemed to make his mind sharper. His thinking was astonishingly clear. His moral reasoning was straightforward but profound. And his intellectual brilliance bordered on genius. Charles Krauthammer was in a class of his own.   I will sorely miss his friendship and his wise counsel. I will miss our long conversations, which ranged from policy to history to the state of our Washington Nationals. And for our nation’s sake, I am so sorry that his invaluable contributions to our public discourse have come to an end.   Elaine and I are praying for Robyn, Daniel, and everyone who knew and loved this remarkable man.by family and friends, Elaine and I pray that he finds comfort and peace in these days.”   ###     Thanks and have a great weekend, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000470 DOT_Am.Oversight-000470 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) Motion to go to conference - First FY19 Minibus (MilCon-VA; Energy and Water; Leg Branch bills) Wednesday, July 11, 2018 8:22:09 AM As a reminder, at 12 PM today, compound motion to go to conference on the first minibus and motions to instruct (MTIs). Summaries on the MTIs will be distributed this morning.   From: Cloakroom Sent: Tuesday, July 10, 2018 7:29 PM Subject: Roll Call Votes Scheduled Vote Alert TUESDAY, JULY 10, 2018 AT 07:28 PM Roll Call Votes Scheduled At 12:00pm on Wednesday, July 11th, the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations: 1. Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.5895. 2. Cassidy motion to instruct conferees. 3. Corker motion to instruct conferees. Further, at 2:00pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #686, Paul C. Ney, Jr., of Tennessee, to be General Counsel of the Department of Defense. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000471 DOT_Am.Oversight-000471 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) MYTH/FACT: Border and enforcement components of the omni Thursday, March 22, 2018 5:25:49 PM Below please find a myth/fact list the Appropriations Committee prepared about the funding levels for the border/enforcement components of the omnibus.  They will also send through RPC. Myth: There is no “new wall” in the bill FACT: The bill includes the full funding level requested in the President’s budget for border security, including $1.571 billion for physical barriers and associated technology along the southern border.  That amount provides for more than 95 miles of “border wall system,” including approximately 47 miles of new barriers and 48 miles of upgraded barriers.  The budget request proposed 74 miles total be funded in FY2018, so more mileage is being provided than was requested by the Administration.    Myth: There are no new detention beds funded in the bill. FACT: The bill provides a $371M (14 percent) increase over FY17 for the account that funds detention beds. At the per bed rate included in the budget request, more than 41,000 beds per day will be funded, compared with 39,324 funded in FY17.  The actual bed rates incurred over the remainder of the fiscal year will determine the final per day average, and the anticipated average number of beds used in FY18 will be well over 1,000 per day more than in FY17.   Myth: There are no new ICE agents funded in the bill.  FACT: ICE’s topline funding level increased by more than $640M, or 10 percent, over FY17.  The bill provides funding increases for every budget line item for ICE.  Funding increases were expressly provided in the bill for Homeland Security Investigations and the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, two entities critical for combatting transnational criminal organizations and bringing them to justice.  ICE has tremendous flexibility to expend resources for either additional people or other additional investments within the increased levels provided in the bill.    Myth: The bill doesn’t increase support for border security and immigration enforcement adequately. FACT: In total, the bill increases CBP and ICE funding by $2.5B, when compared to FY17.  This is more than a 13 percent increase.  The bill also represents the first time in a decade that Congress has provided for new mileage of border barrier.  The account that funds the “border wall system,” is funded with 327 percent of the amount provided in FY17.       DOT-18-0010-A-000472 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000472 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) PS. Link to PDF of substitute amendment #1855 -- Senate tax bill Friday, December 01, 2017 9:21:24 PM PS. Here’s the link to the PDF of substitute amendment #1855, courtesy of Senate Budget Committee.   Senate art, as we wait for voting to begin -  • By•" -...-'4.   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Friday, December 1, 2017 8:55 PM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Text of substitute amendment #1855 -- Senate tax bill Importance: High - Hi everyone,   It’s go time!   Please see text of the substitute attached.   Soon Leader McConnell will offer the substitute amendment and then we will begin voting again (order to follow; likely: one more Dem amendment, Leader lays down substitute, vote-a-rama).   It’s unclear how many amendments will be voted on during tonight’s “vote-a-rama,” but a vote on final passage will occur at the end of the night.   More to come! DOT-18-0010-A-000473 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000473 Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000474 DOT_Am.Oversight-000474 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Rescissions vote: Motion to Discharge, not agreed to 48-50 Wednesday, June 20, 2018 2:13:14 PM FYI: the Motion to Discharge the rescissions package (H.R. 3) was not agreed to, 48-50.   Thanks, Erica DOT-18-0010-A-000475 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000475 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate is voting now on DHS Sec Tuesday, December 05, 2017 4:22:23 PM Hello – ICYMI,  a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #495, Kirstjen Nielsen, of Virginia, to be Secretary of Homeland Security is happening now.   The Leader has also announced that we will vote on a short term CR this week, as well as vote to go to conference with the House on tax reform.   Details to follow…   Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000476 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000476 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate RPC summary of budget agreement // committee summaries Thursday, February 08, 2018 4:38:22 PM image006.png Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, HC Provisions.pdf Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, Revenue Measures.pdf Hi everyone –   Please see information below and attached, courtesy of Senate RPC and the committees of jurisdiction, summarizing the budget agreement.   Vote timing is still TBD – thanks.   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) Summary, courtesy of Senate RPC:   The budget agreement would set up a process for finalizing fiscal year 2018 appropriations: ·         Phase 1: Today’s legislation is on the broad budget agreement – higher spending caps, a continuing resolution through March 23, 2018, an emergency supplemental for disaster relief, suspension of the debt limit through March 1, 2019, tax extenders, Medicare extenders, IPAB repeal, two super committees, etc. ·         Phase 2: Prior to March 23, finish the fiscal year 2018 appropriations bills.   A CBO score is not yet available, but I will circulate the score as soon as it is released.   Division A – Honoring Hometown Heroes Act ·         This is the underlying bill, H.R. 1892, and will be included as Division A of the legislation.   Division B, Subdivision 1 – Disaster Relief appropriations ·         This subdivision appropriates $89.3 billion in budget authority for disaster relief and recovery efforts. ·         This includes $23.5 billion for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, $17.4 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers, $28 billion for HUD’s Community Development Fund, and $1.65 billion for the SBA’s disaster loan program. ·         The Senate Appropriations Committee has a detailed summary of this subdivision available here. DOT-18-0010-A-000477 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000477   Division B, Subdivision 2 – Tax/Medicaid re: disasters ·         This subdivision includes assistance for California wildfires and hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. ·         For California, these include tax-favored withdrawals from retirement plans, employee retention tax credits for employers, and a temporary suspension of limits on charitable contributions (similar provisions were already enacted for the hurricanes). ·         Previous assistance for the hurricanes is modified in Title II of this subdivision. ·         Title III of this subdivision includes increased Medicaid funding for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. ·         All costs of this subdivision are designated an emergency requirement under budget rules.   Division B, Subdivision 3 – CR through March 23 ·         This subdivision is a continuing resolution through March 23, 2018 including several anomalies. ·         The CR is in the form of a date change to the previous CR, so provisions of previous CRs would continue if they are tied to the date in the CR. ·         A full summary from the Senate Appropriations Committee is available here.   Division C, Title I – Spending caps and other budget provisions ·         Raises discretionary spending caps by a total of $296 billion in fiscal years 2018 and 2019. ·         This includes $165 billion for defense ($80 billion in fiscal year 2018; $85 billion in 2019) and $131 billion for nondefense ($63 billion in 2018; $68 billion in 2019). ·         This title keeps the direct spending reductions (mandatory sequester) in place and extends it two additional years, through fiscal year 2027. ·         This title includes deeming language for the House and Senate. The language allows the Budget Committee chair to deem budgetary allocations, aggregates, and levels for the purposes of Senate budget enforcement as if they were included in a concurrent resolution on the budget.     ~ ~ ~ ~   Current law defense cap Cancel defense sequester Security priorities New defense cap OCO/emergency Defense discretionary total   Current law nondefense cap Cancel nondefense sequester Domestic priorities New nondefense cap l FY17 551 l FY18 549 54 -26 629 71 700     551 83 634     519     519 l FY19 562 54 -31 647 69 716   516 37 -26 579 529 37 -31 597 DOT-18-0010-A-000478 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000478 OCO Nondefense discretionary total     l l l 21 12 8 539 591 605 Division C, Title II – Offsets ·         Customs User Fees – extends from January 14, 2026, to February 24, 2027, the authority to collect ad valorem fees on merchandise formally entered or released and fees on merchandise informally entered or released under certain conditions.  Extends the authority to collect all other customs user fees from September 30, 2025, to September 30, 2027. ·         Aviation Security Fees – directs the Department of Transportation to collect aviation security fees to deposit in the general fund of the Treasury $1.64 billion in fiscal year 2026 and $1.68 billion 2027. ·         Extension of immigration fees – extends the authority to collect a $10 user fee for using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization to enter the U.S. under the visa waiver program from September 30, 2020, to September 30, 2027. Extends increases of certain application fees for L-1 and H-1B visas from September 30, 2025, to September 30, 2027. ·         Strategic Petroleum Reserve Drawdown – the Secretary of Energy is required to sell 30 million barrels of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve from fiscal year 2022 to 2025, and 35 million in both fiscal years 2026 and 2027. ·         Elimination of Federal Reserve surplus funds – lowers the maximum surplus the Federal Reserve is allowed to retain from $10 billion to $7.5 billion. ·         Reemployment services and eligibility assessments – this section allows Department of Labor grants to states to promote reemployment for individuals receiving unemployment assistance.   Division C, Title III – Debt limit suspension ·         This title suspends the debt limit through March 1, 2019. ·         This takes the same form as previous debt limit suspensions - subsections a, b, and c were included in previous suspensions. ·         Once this suspension is over, Treasury will be able to use extraordinary measures to delay the date by which the debt limit must be addressed again.   Division C – Title IV – Joint Select Committees ·         This title establishes two joint select committees, one for “solvency of multiemployer pension plans” and another for “budget and appropriations process reform.” ·         There is no fast-track consideration process for either committee, but the Senate will vote on a motion to proceed to a bill reported by either committee. ·         Both committees terminate on December 31, 2018 or 30 days after submitting its report/legislative recommendations.   Division D – Tax Extenders ·         This division would extend through 2017 tax provisions that expired at the end of 2016. ·         The Finance Committee section by section summarizing this division is attached.   DOT-18-0010-A-000479 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000479 Division E – Health care provisions, including CHIP extension, Medicare extenders, and other provisions ·         Title I—CHIP Extends funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program for an additional four years, totaling a ten year extension of CHIP when combined with the last CR’s extension. ·         Title II--Medicare Extenders. Permanently Repeals Medicare payment cap for therapy services. Extends funding for two years for Geographic Practice Cost Indices floor and outreach and assistance for low-income programs. Extends funding for five years for Medicare-dependent hospital program, Home health rural add-on payment, Ground ambulance add-ons, Increased funding for hospitals with a low volume of discharges. ·         Title III—Creating High-Quality Results and Outcomes Necessary to Improve Chronic Care. This is the CHRONIC Care bill, S.870, introduced by Chairman Hatch. The bill passed the Senate on September 26, 2017. The Finance Committee’s sectionby-section of the CHRONIC Care bill can be found here. ·         TITLE IV—Part B Improvement Act and other Part B Enhancements. Adds a temporary transitional payment for home infusion therapy services. Removes the rental cap for durable medical equipment under Medicare with respect to speech generating devices. Increases the civil and criminal penalties for fraud and abuse in federal health programs. Removes the requirement that meaningful use standards for electronic health records gets more stringent over time. ·         Title V—Other Health Care Extenders ·         Two year extension of the following: Family-to-Family Health Information Centers, Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Programs, Personal Responsibility Education Program ·         Title VI—Child and Family Services and Supports Extenders. Five year extension of Continuing the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program. Requires a statewide assessment on home visiting services. Two year extension of the Health Workforce Demonstration Project ·         Title VII—Family First Prevention Services Act. This was introduced last Congress by Chairman Hatch as S.3065 and introduced this Congress as H.R.253 in the House.  The legislation would permit states to use federal funds on family-services programs to prevent children from being placed in foster care, encourage the placement of children in family settings, allow states to expand services to former foster children, and promote the use of electronic systems for interstate adoptions.  Title VIII—Supporting Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results. This title incorporates the Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act, which was introduced by Senator Todd Young and had passed the House in the 114th Congress. It would direct the Treasury to request proposals from states and local governments on “social impact partnership projects” that would produce social benefits and fund this program with $100 million.          Title IX—Public Health Extenders. Extends funding for two years: Community health centers-- $3.8 billion in 2018, $4 billion in 2019. National Health Service Corps,--$310 million for each FY 2018 and 2019. Teaching Health Center Graduate Medicare Education Program-$126.5 million for each FY 2018 and 2019. Special Diabetes Program for Type 1--$150 million for each FY 2018 and 2019. Special Diabetes Program for Indians --$150 million for each FY 2018 and 2019.                   Title X—Miscellaneous Health Care Policies DOT-18-0010-A-000480 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000480 Title XI – Protecting Seniors’ Access to Medicare Act. Repeals Obamacare’s Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB). This is the 15 member board of appointed officials charged with making Medicare changes should spending exceed a certain target level.          Title XII—Offsets. Delays the beginning of the Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital reductions. Rather than beginning as scheduled in 2018, they will now begin in 2020. The amount of the scheduled reduction has been increased in the later years. Lottery and other winnings qualify as income in determining a beneficiary’s eligibility for Medicaid. Reduces the update to the Physician Fee Schedule for 2019 from 0.5 percent to 0.25 percent. Includes biosimilars in the Medicare Part D coverage gap discount program and requires manufacturers of biosimilars to provide a discount. Increases means-testing for Part B and Part D beneficiaries making more than $500,000 a year ($750,000 for a couple) from 80 percent to 85 percent. Closes the Part D donut hole in 2019, one year sooner than current law. Reduces funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund (PPHF) by $1.35 billion over the 10 year budget window.          ·         The Finance Committee section by section summarizing this division is attached.   Division F – Improvements to Agriculture Programs ·         This division designates seed cotton as a covered commodity for purposes of the Price Loss Coverage and Agriculture Risk Coverage programs (the main crop insurance programs) starting with the 2018 crop year. Cotton farms that use those programs will no longer be eligible for the Stacked Income Protection Plan starting in the 2019 crop year. ·         Reduces premiums and increases coverage for the dairy Margin Protection Program. ·         Removes spending limits for pilot programs relating to livestock risk management under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation.   Division G – Budgetary treatment ·         Prevents the budgetary effect of the following portions of the bill from being considered for purposes of statutory PAYGO, Senate PAYGO, and discretionary sequester: o   Division A (Honoring Hometown Heroes Act; underlying bill) o   Division B, subdivision 2 (Tax/Medicaid re: disasters) o   Divisions C through F.   Courtesy of Senate Approps:   United States Senate. Committee on APPROPRIAT ONS HAD COCHRANOF MISSISSIPPI, CHAIRMAN DOT-18-0010-A-000481 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000481     CONTACTS Chris Gallegos (202) 224-1010 or 224-6414 Stephen Worley (202) 224-3751 Twitter: @SenThadCochran   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   February 7, 2018      LEGISLATION TO FUND GOVERNMENT THROUGH MARCH 23 INTRODUCED   Senate Measure Includes Additional Disaster Relief and Critical Agreement on FY2018 & FY2019 Spending Caps   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) today advocated for approval of Senate legislation filed Wednesday to avert a government shutdown, provide critical disaster relief, and, importantly, set the stage to complete the FY2018 appropriations process in coming weeks.   The Senate bill includes a continuing resolution (CR) to fund government operations from Feb. 8 through March 23, providing time for completion of FY2018 appropriations bills.  It also provides $89.3 billion in additional emergency disaster relief for states and communities affected by recent hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters.  In addition, it contains a two-year agreement setting defense and nondefense spending levels for FY2018 and FY2019.   “The Senate should approve this bill.  Its enactment would allow the Appropriations committees to work in a thoughtful manner over the next several weeks to reach consensus on important bipartisan priorities like funding our national defense, the opioid epidemic, veterans’ health care, and infrastructure,” Cochran said.   “More immediately, we need this bill to maintain government operations and to enable millions of Americans affected by recent disasters to continue rebuilding their lives and communities,” he said.   Cochran has for months called for Congress and the Trump administration to reach consensus on spending levels.  The spending agreement in the Senate bill would allow the Appropriations committees to complete this year’s spending bills and prepare for the new fiscal AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000482 DOT_Am.Oversight-000482 year, which begins Oct. 1.   The Senate bill also includes legislation related to the extension of healthcare policies and mandatory funding, including extending funding for Community Health Centers and an additional four-year extension of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) beyond the six-year CHIP reauthorization enacted into law earlier this year.   The legislation has a limited number of anomalies to address unique issues arising during the duration of the CR.  These anomalies would:  provide funding necessary for the 2020 Decennial Census Program; allow the sale and use of up to $350 million of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to carry out the modernization program authorized in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015; provide $6.379 million in offset operating funds for the Southeastern Power Administration; allow critical new military construction starts for the F35A program; provide the Judiciary with additional juror fees to accommodate for increased juror usage; fund staffing of newly opened or expanded Indian Health Service facilities;  facilitate the Department of Transportation credit program consolidation; continue to allow the Department of Education to provide account maintenance fee payments under the Federal Family Education Loan Program; and extend Housing and Urban Development Department HOPE VI program authorization.   ###   LINKS Continuing Resolution Summary:  https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/continuing-resolution-summary Disaster Relief Summary:  https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/supplementalappropriations-summary Legislative Text:  https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/bipartisan-budget-act-of2018-text   Leader McConnell full floor remarks, February 8, 2018:   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATORfor K.ENTUCKY 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000483 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000483 For Immediate Release, Thursday, February 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2ErTCxL                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2EQUNor Bipartisan Budget Agreement Will Provide Resources Necessary To Rebuild Our Military ‘This is a bill for brave Americans serving our country, including the many servicemembers based in my home state of Kentucky. They deserve the pay raise we’ve promised them and the confidence that when they leave our shores, they are combat-ready. This is a bill for our distinguished military commanders, who have sounded the alarm on sequestration more times than any of us can count.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the bipartisan funding agreement reached by Congressional leaders and the need to provide the necessary resources for our military:   “This Congress and this president have delivered an historic series of achievements for the American people. We took an axe to the red tape holding back our economy. We used the Congressional Review Act a record 15 times to pave the way for job creation. “After years of broken promises to our veterans, we delivered VA reform legislation to begin giving our heroes the more accessible care, greater choice, and workforce training they deserve. We confirmed outstanding judges to the federal bench. We advanced efforts to address the opioid crisis. And of course, we passed the most significant tax overhaul in a generation. Already, tax reform is increasing take-home pay for American workers. Already, businesses are investing more, expanding more, and creating more good-paying jobs right here at home.   “Over the past year, we have built a record of successes for middle-class families and a stronger, safer country. But among all the work that still remains, one critical piece of unfinished business is now close to the finish line. If we act now, we can start rebuilding our military, and provide our troops the training and equipment they need to defend the homeland and protect the American people.   “The crisis in our military is acute.   “Just this week, headlines revealed that two-thirds of the Navy’s F/A-18 aircraft are not prepared to fly. The fleet, which must secure sea lines of communication across the globe and patrol the Persian Gulf and the South China Sea has shrunk to the smallest ship count in nearly three decades. We have become too reliant on special operations forces and radically drawn down our conventional force structure.   “This has not been lost on China or Russia. They’re improving their conventional forces and intimidating their neighbors. Our force faces a complex collection of threats and challenges, from Iran, China, Russia, and North Korea to ISIL, al-Qaeda, and their affiliates. The need for our forward presence has not diminished in the Persian Gulf, nor in the South China Sea and the wider Pacific. Neither has our responsibility to our NATO allies in Europe, or to the Republic of Korea.   “No, we have not asked our all-volunteer military to do any less for our country. They’ve just been forced to make do with less. And all these short-term funding bills have handicapped our military leaders’ ability to make long-term plans and investments.   “In December, the Navy Secretary said the inefficiencies from continuing resolutions have cost his department enough money to pay for an entire squadron of fighter planes, or two destroyers. Here’s how General Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, put it: ‘The U.S. military’s AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000484 DOT_Am.Oversight-000484 competitive advantage against potential adversaries is eroding.’   “Yesterday, I announced a bipartisan budget agreement that will finally bring this to a close. The agreement will allow for the funding levels recommended by the NDAA conference report – authorization levels secured by the stalwart leadership of Chairman McCain and our colleagues on the Armed Services Committee.   “What does this mean for our men and women in uniform? It means putting a stop to the decline in combat readiness. It means knowing their weapons systems will be delivered, maintained, and kept on the cutting-edge.   “Take it from Secretary Mattis. Yesterday, he explained just what this agreement will do: It will, quote, ‘ensure our military can defend our way of life, preserve the promise of prosperity, and pass on the freedoms you and I enjoy to the next generation.’   “Our volunteer servicemembers aren’t the only Americans this agreement will help. It also builds on the progress we’ve made for veterans and military families, by providing for better care and helping cut the VA’s maintenance backlog.   “It offers reinforcements to families on the front lines of our nation’s struggle with opioid addiction and substance abuse. According to the CDC, opioid overdose deaths increased five-fold just between 1999 and 2016. On average, this epidemic takes more than 100 American lives every day. This agreement provides for new grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement initiatives to bolster existing national and state efforts.   “And the legislation secures relief for families who are still struggling to rebuild in the wake of last year’s spate of natural disasters. This provision was only made possible by tireless work from several of my colleagues. Thanks to the leadership of Senator Cornyn, to Senator Cruz’s advocacy for Texas, and to Senator Rubio -- who led on behalf of Florida and spoke up forcefully for the people of Puerto Rico -- help will soon be on the way. And the agreement also provides for new investment in our nation’s infrastructure, a shared bipartisan priority.   “I am confident that no senator on either side of the aisle believes this is a perfect bill. But I’m also confident this is our best chance to begin rebuilding our military and make progress on issues directly affecting the American people.   “This is a bill for brave Americans serving our country, including the many servicemembers based in my home state of Kentucky. They deserve the pay raise we’ve promised them and the confidence that when they leave our shores, they are combat-ready. This is a bill for our distinguished military commanders, who have sounded the alarm on sequestration more times than any of us can count.   “This is a bill for our heroes who have come home. They should be greeted by a better-funded, streamlined Veterans’ Administration that is equipped to meet their needs. This is a bill for American families who have been victimized by brutal storms or the scourge of drug addiction. They deserve the assistance this agreement secures.   “I hope each senator will carefully review this bipartisan bill and support it. We need to build on our historic year, seize this opportunity, and keep moving forward.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000485 DOT_Am.Oversight-000485 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) Senate substitute amendment - Minibus #2 Monday, July 23, 2018 7:22:51 PM Substitute Amendment (Interior, FSGG, Ag, THUD).pdf For those tracking the Senate mini #2 (FY19 Senate Interior, FSGG, THUD, Ag appropriations bills), we are now on the bill and will resume consideration tomorrow. Attached is the substitute amendment that was offered which consolidates the four bills that were reported out of committee.   From: Cloakroom Sent: Monday, July 23, 2018 6:59 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up Wrap Up Memo MONDAY, JULY 23, 2018 AT 06:58 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #1000, Robert L. Wilkie, of North Carolina, to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Confirmed. (86-9) Wrap Up: Cal. #405, H.R.589 - Energy Innovation with a Murkowski amendment Cal. #404, S.2503 - Energy Research and Innovation with a Murkowski amendment H.R.2353 – Perkins with an Alexander amendment Tuesday, July 24th: The Senate will convene at 10:00am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. The Senate will recess from 12:30 to 2:15pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000486 DOT_Am.Oversight-000486 (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000487 DOT_Am.Oversight-000487 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate tax bill! Final passage (51-49)! Saturday, December 02, 2017 3:08:31 AM Congrats, everyone!   The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) has passed, 51-49!   (PS – I have more edits to my supporters list – will send this weekend! Thank you for getting this bill passed!)     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000488 DOT_Am.Oversight-000488 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- 2 votes circuit court judges Tuesday, May 15, 2018 12:18:00 PM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit, post-cloture. At 12:00 pm, the Senate proceeded to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Carson nomination (this vote in process/ending soon) 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit.   Yesterday in the Senate (May 14, 2018): Roll Call Votes: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #780, Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. (Confirmed, 90-0) 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #781, Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. (Confirmed, 91-0) Executive Session: Cal. #715 - Michael K. Atkinson, of Maryland, to be Inspector General of the Intelligence Community, Office of the Director of National Intelligence. UC Items: There were no UC items. Please see several statements from Leader McConnell below on: n The GOP agenda and the economy n Confirming Circuit Court noms n Honoring Law Enforcement officers n The Leader’s statement on the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem n An update on the Leader’s visit with Senator McCain   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000489 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000489 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2wIhbQ7                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2L0j7GS More Prosperity, Opportunity, Raises and Bonuses for Working Families in America ‘For years, Democratic policies like high taxes and runaway regulations put a headwind in the faces of American job creators. Now, historic tax reform, regulatory relief, and the rest of our opportunity agenda mean the wind is once again at their backs. Republicans understand that American workers don’t win when American businesses lose. Our economy isn’t a zerosum game.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Less than 16 months into this Republican government, our policies are helping create a sea change in the economic climate in this country. The Washington Post recently reported on new data from the National Federation of Independent Business. Forty-three percent of small business owners say they’re already investing in new equipment. More than half of manufacturing firms and construction firms expect demand to keep growing. And the percentage of small businesses who’ve raised worker compensation is the highest it’s been since the year 2000. “For years, Democratic policies like high taxes and runaway regulations put a headwind in the faces of American job creators. Now, historic tax reform, regulatory relief, and the rest of our opportunity agenda mean the wind is once again at their backs. Republicans understand that American workers don’t win when American businesses lose. Our economy isn’t a zero-sum game. “If we want middle-class families to thrive, we need the American businesses that compete to employ them and pay them to thrive, too. And sure enough, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the amount employers spend on worker pay and benefits grew more in 2017 than it did in any calendar year under President Obama. More prosperity, more opportunity, more raises and bonuses for working families. This is just the start of what the American people can accomplish when Republicans get Washington out of their way.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KEN.TU CKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2IEWgST DOT-18-0010-A-000490 DOT_Am.Oversight-000490                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2jZlhtW Senate Continues Circuit Court Confirmations ‘Yesterday, the Senate voted to confirm two more of President Trump’s fine circuit court nominees. Michael Scudder and Amy St. Eve -- both of Illinois, both exceedingly qualified, and both carrying the bipartisan support of the Judiciary Committee… Today, our progress will continue. We’ll vote to confirm John Nalbandian of Kentucky to serve on the Sixth Circuit and Joel Carson of New Mexico to serve on the Tenth Circuit. Judge Carson has had a distinguished tenure as U.S. Magistrate Judge.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s circuit court nominees, including John Nalbandian for the Sixth Circuit and Joel Carson for the Tenth Circuit: ‘Yesterday, the Senate voted to confirm two more of President Trump’s fine circuit court nominees. Michael Scudder and Amy St. Eve -- both of Illinois, both exceedingly qualified, and both carrying the bipartisan support of the Judiciary Committee. “Michael Scudder carries an impressive legal record, with extensive experience in both private practice and public service, and the American Bar Association’s highest rating. Judge Amy St. Eve shares the ABA’s unqualified confidence. She’s compiled a seventeen-year record in the Northern District of Illinois. That’s why the Senate confirmed these highly-qualified nominees to serve on the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, by a bipartisan margin. “Today, our progress will continue. We’ll vote to confirm John Nalbandian of Kentucky to serve on the Sixth Circuit and Joel Carson of New Mexico to serve on the Tenth Circuit. Judge Carson has had a distinguished tenure as U.S. Magistrate Judge. “His peers say his ‘integrity, fairness, and respect for the dignity of others are top notch.’ A bipartisan group of New Mexico attorneys have expressed confidence ‘he will be an excellent addition to the Tenth Circuit.’ And the Judiciary Committee agreed, reporting Judge Carson’s nomination to the full Senate in bipartisan fashion. “We’ll also vote on John Nalbandian -- from my home state of Kentucky -- who’s been nominated to serve on the Sixth Circuit. Mr. Nalbandian has earned praise from across the political spectrum as a top appellate advocate. He’s known for his fairness, collegiality, and legal ability. “In 2007, Mr. Nalbandian was appointed to be a Special Justice on the Kentucky Supreme Court. He later sat on the selection panel for magistrate judges in the state’s Eastern District. And more recently, President Obama nominated him to serve on the Board of the State Justice Institute. He was confirmed by voice vote. “In addition to well-regarded work in private practice, Mr. Nalbandian has also dedicated himself to community causes, such as economic development in Northern Kentucky and greater local representation for minority attorneys. To that end, the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association has joined the multitude of supporters of his nomination. They note that, if confirmed, Mr. Nalbandian will be just the seventh active Asian Pacific American federal appellate judge nationwide. “John Nalbandian has the impressive credentials, the preparation, the broad support -- every indication that he’ll be a worthy and capable judge. We should confirm both these nominees without delay.” ###     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000491 DOT_Am.Oversight-000491 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2L3J6x5                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2jYqcLJ Honoring the Men and Women of Law Enforcement ‘Today, is Peace Officers Memorial Day, when we honor the men and women of law enforcement. During Police Week, thousands of officers from across the nation -- and the world -- travel here to Washington to remember their fallen comrades and rededicate themselves to protecting our communities. I welcome them, particularly the peace officers from my state of Kentucky… I also wish to pay tribute today to members of Kentucky’s law enforcement community who gave their ultimate sacrifice on our behalf.’    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding National Police Week: “Today, is Peace Officers Memorial Day, when we honor the men and women of law enforcement. During Police Week, thousands of officers from across the nation -- and the world -- travel here to Washington to remember their fallen comrades and rededicate themselves to protecting our communities. “I welcome them, particularly the peace officers from my state of Kentucky. I look forward to visiting later today with members of the Louisville Metro Police Department. We owe them, and departments across the Commonwealth, our heartfelt thanks for keeping the Bluegrass State safe and secure. “I also wish to pay tribute today to members of Kentucky’s law enforcement community who gave their ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. Since Police Week last year, three of the Commonwealth’s finest have fallen in the line of duty. “Officer Scotty Hamilton, a twelve-year veteran of the Pikeville Police Department was fatally shot while on duty. The Hopkinsville Police Department lost Officer Phillip Meacham who was killed while off-duty, by someone impersonating a police officer. And Officer Rodney Smith of the Hickman Police Department drowned while on patrol when his vehicle was washed into the water during this spring’s severe flooding. Each of these men left behind spouses, children, and a Commonwealth indebted to them for their service. “We also remember Sergeant David Ray Gibbs of the Kentucky State Police, who was killed in a car crash in 2015 on the way to his grandmother’s funeral. Sergeant Gibbs’s name was added this year to the National Police Memorial -- a fitting tribute to a fine officer. His sacrifice, and those of each of these heroes, won’t be forgotten. “Finally, as we warmly welcome law enforcement from across the country, I’d also like to especially thank the men and women of the United States Capitol Police. Each day, their vigilance protects Members of Congress, our staff, and visitors from around the world. And after the terrible events at the baseball park in Alexandria last June, we are all reminded just how lucky we are to have them.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000492 DOT_Am.Oversight-000492 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, May 14, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KoKo4Q                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2KouUha McConnell Statement on the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem ‘I am proud the administration sent this clear signal on behalf of all Americans: We recognize the fact that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital, plain and simple. That’s where our embassy belongs. And now, thanks to the president’s leadership, that’s where it will be.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding today’s dedication of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem: “Today marks 70 years since Israel declared its independence on May 14, 1948. Ever since, this brave nation has shone as a beacon of democracy in a troubled region and stood as a valued friend of the United States. “It’s fitting that another historic event took place today. This morning, an American delegation including top administration officials and several of our own colleagues were on hand in Jerusalem, Israel’s capital, to officially open the new American embassy in that city.   “I am proud the administration sent this clear signal on behalf of all Americans: We recognize the fact that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital, plain and simple. That’s where our embassy belongs. And now, thanks to the president’s leadership, that’s where it will be.”   ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, May 14, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2jUeNMW                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2jUIL3t DOT-18-0010-A-000493 DOT_Am.Oversight-000493 Leader McConnell Visits Senator McCain ‘I had the opportunity yesterday to visit our friend, John McCain in the beautiful location of Sedona, about a two-hour drive from Phoenix. John, Cindy and I had a chance to sit on the back porch and reminisce about our friendship and all we had shared over the last 30 years. We had some laughs and even reminisced about the battles; sometimes we were on the same side, and sometimes we weren’t. But one thing about our colleague, John McCain—you’d rather be on his side than not.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding his visit with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) this past weekend: “I had the opportunity yesterday to visit our friend, John McCain in the beautiful location of Sedona, about a two-hour drive from Phoenix. John, Cindy and I had a chance to sit on the back porch and reminisce about our friendship and all we had shared over the last 30 years. We had some laughs and even reminisced about the battles; sometimes we were on the same side, and sometimes we weren’t. But one thing about our colleague, John McCain—you’d rather be on his side than not. “But for 10 years we had very vigorous debates about an issue he and I both cared about and we were on the opposite sides. It ended going all the way up to the Supreme Court. He won and I lost, and we worked hard to establish a new relationship after that vigorous battle of the decade. “We all know his story all too well: a genuine American hero. We admire the tenacity and the grit that it took to survive those five and a half years in the ‘Hanoi Hilton.’ And the way he refused to go home early—as he certainly could have—given the prominence of his father’s position in the Navy. “It’s pretty hard to think of any serious issues facing our nation without recalling the role that John played in so many things that are important to our country. The last few years, we sort of thought of him as the shadow Secretary of State during the Obama years as he traveled the world— sometimes on a long weekend—to some of the least desirable places to visit. I avoided those trips, but for those who took them it was a little bit like the Bataan Death March. Junkets they weren’t. “He also was passionate in working to take better care of our veterans. No one, with the possible exception of Senator Isakson, spent more time working on veterans issues and trying to take care of them—as they richly deserved—than John McCain. “At this point in his life he obviously has a little time to sit, rest, and reflect under that desert sky. To simply take in the beautiful, peaceful nation he’s worked so hard for so long to protect and pass on to our children. One thing we all know about John that remains the case today, he doesn’t have a relaxed bone in his body. And he still has plenty to say about work I assure you. He misses his colleagues, he’d rather be here. And I told him we miss him too. All the great jokes and smartalecky comments. He’s a joy to be around. “I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to tell him how much his friendship meant to me. So that’s why I was out there this weekend. And while I was there, I said I was confident I was speaking for everybody in the Senate. And conveying our deepest respects to him for all he’s done for this country during a truly extraordinary life.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000494 DOT_Am.Oversight-000494 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - confirm CBP/cloture on MTP to SESTA/FOSTA Monday, March 19, 2018 5:52:51 PM Hi everyone, The Senate is in session and is voting now to confirm Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cloture was invoked on McAleenan 79-19 last week).      After this vote, the Senate will vote to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (combined SESTA/FOSTA). Other possible items this week: finish SESTA/FOSTA, Lee/Sanders War Powers Resolution re: Yemen, Omni/fund the government by Friday, March 23. More to come…. Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000495 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000495 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - CR Sunday, January 21, 2018 9:03:22 PM Good evening,   The Leader is going to the floor around 9 pm or so for an update of where things stand.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000496 DOT_Am.Oversight-000496 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - CR Sunday, January 21, 2018 10:09:16 PM Good evening,   The Senate will convene at 10:00 am, Monday, January 22nd. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the House Message to accompany H.R.195, CR/CHIP.   At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CR/CHIP, with further amendment (Feb 8 CR; 6 year CHIP; ACA tax delays).   Excerpt from the floor – full remarks below:   Leader McConnell just now -  “When the Democrat filibuster of the government funding bill ends, when it comes to an end, the serious bipartisan negotiations that have been going on for months now to resolve our unfinished business, military spending, disaster relief, health care, immigration , and border security will continue. It would be my intention to resolve these issues as quickly as possible so that we can move on to other business that's important to our country. However, should these issues not be resolved by the time the funding bill before us expires on February 8, 2018, assuming that the government remains open, it would be my intention to proceed to legislation that would address DACA, border security, and related issues.”   Also tonight, Leader McConnell asked consent to move the cloture vote to fund the government up to 10 pm tonight (not 1 am); Senator Schumer objected. The vote is now set for noon tomorrow, by consent.   o              Notwithstanding Rule XXII, the Senate VOTE on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment, with an amendment, to H.R. 195, the CR, at 12:00 pm tomorrow. o              (Without Objection)   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000497 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000497 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Sunday, January 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Dv5wXp McConnell: Let’s Resolve the Impasse ‘When the Democrat filibuster of the government funding bill ends, the serious, bipartisan negotiations that have been going on for months now to resolve our unfinished business---military spending;  disaster relief;  healthcare; immigration and border security—will continue.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor:   “I wanted to give my colleagues an update on where we are. I want to start by particularly thanking Senator Graham, Senator Flake, Senator Collins, and many others who have been working across the aisle to help resolve the impasse we find ourselves in.   “When the Democrat filibuster of the government funding bill ends, the serious, bipartisan negotiations that have been going on for months now to resolve our unfinished business---military spending;  disaster relief;  healthcare; immigration and border security—will continue. It would be my intention to resolve these issues as quickly as possible so that we can move on to other business that is important to our country.   “However should these issues not be resolved by the time the funding bill before us expires on February 8, 2018, assuming that the government remains open, it would be my intention to proceed to legislation that would address DACA, border security, and related issues.  It is also my intention to take up legislation regarding increased defense funding, disaster relief, and other important matters.   “Importantly, when I proceed to the immigration debate, it will have an amendment process that is fair to all sides. I would hope there would be cooperation on these matters in advance of yet another funding deadline.  There is a bipartisan, bicameral group that will continue its negotiations and I look forward to the completion of their work. It would be my strong preference for the Senate to consider a bipartisan, bicameral proposal that can be signed into law.   “But the first step in any of this is re-opening the government and preventing any further delay. The shutdown should stop today. And we’ll soon have a vote that will allow us to do that. Let’s step back from the brink. Let’s stop victimizing the American people and get back to work on their behalf.” ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000498 DOT_Am.Oversight-000498 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - CR Monday, January 22, 2018 3:10:07 PM ICYMI: Cloture was invoked this afternoon on the Motion to Concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment, with a further amendment, to H.R. 195, the vehicle for the CR (includes: CR funding the government until February 8, 2018; 6 year CHIP; ACA tax delays).   Cloture was invoked, 81-18.   We will be having a vote on passage soon this afternoon.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000499 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000499 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update -- CR cloture vote and list -- Supporters of Core Provisions of the Continuing Resolution, H.R. 195 Friday, January 19, 2018 8:29:58 PM Hi everyone, At 10:00 pm tonight the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CHIP/One Month CR. ICYMI: Leader McConnell entered a UC agreement on this earlier tonight -Senator McConnell: (7:01 pm) • Unanimous Consent – 0 That notwithstanding Rule XXII, the Senate VOTE on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 195, the vehicle for the CR, at 10:00 pm tonight. 0 (Without Objection)   Please see floor remarks from the Leader. Below that, please see a list of organizations and governors who have spoken out on key provisions found in the CR, as well as two helpful Senate GOP Comms docs.   More updates to come -  Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORl iTY LEADER U . S . SENATOR fo.- KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Friday, January 19, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Bg6ukP                  YouTube: http://bit.ly/2rljaXX A Democrat-Led Government Shutdown Is Completely Avoidable ‘We know that with one noncontroversial and bipartisan vote, we can keep the government up and DOT-18-0010-A-000500 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000500 running. We can fund the children’s health care program for six full years. And we can give ourselves the time we need to finish ongoing negotiations on DACA, border security and the longterm needs of our military. We can do all of that today. All of it. Or, our Democrat friends can continue to take the Democratic Leader’s advice and vote to shut down the government, destabilize funding for our troops, shut down the children’s health care program—and still not get what they’re demanding on illegal immigration. It’s really up to them.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the need to prevent a government shutdown:    “The deadline to fund the government is nearly upon us. The Senate is now just hours away from an entirely avoidable government shutdown. At midnight tonight, funding for programs that millions of Americans rely on — like veterans’ services, opioid treatment centers, death benefits for the families of fallen soldiers, and health insurance for nine million vulnerable children – would be thrown in chaos.   “Last night, the Senate began consideration of a bill passed by the House which would erase these threats. The bill keeps the federal government open. And it extends the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, which provides coverage for nine million children in low-income families, for six years. This vote should be a ‘no-brainer.’   “And it would be – except that the Democratic Leader has convinced his members to filibuster any funding bill that doesn’t include legislation they are demanding for people who came to the United States illegally. What has been shoehorned into this discussion is an insistence that we deal with an illegal immigration issue. He’s insisted that he won’t support any legislation at all for the American people – no matter how noncontroversial or how bipartisan – unless we pass a bill on illegal immigration first.   “If that means shutting down funding for veterans, military families, opioid treatment centers, and even federal grants to his home state of New York — so be it. If it means throwing a wrench into the gears of the U.S. economy, just as Americans are starting to feel the benefits of historic tax reform – so be it. If it means failing to renew the children’s health program which the House-passed bill funded for a full six years — apparently that’s just fine with those on the other side.   “Nearly every Democrat in the House made the same demand. That has been their stated position: Nothing for hundreds of millions of Americans and no healthcare for nine million vulnerable children until we solve a non-imminent issue related to illegal immigration. To even repeat this position out loud is to see how completely ridiculous it is.   “Now that we’re 13 hours away from a government shutdown that Democrats would initiate and Democrats would own, the craziness of this seems to be dawning on my friend the Democratic Leader.   “Perhaps he is remembering his own words from 2013. Here’s what he said then about threatening a government shutdown: ‘No matter how strongly one feels about an issue, you shouldn’t hold millions of people hostage… that’s wrong.’  A few days later he added: ‘It’s sort of like this. Someone goes into your house, takes your wife and children hostage, and then says, ‘Let’s negotiate over the price of your house.’ He went on to say, ‘We could say ‘We’re shutting down the government, we’re not gonna raise the debt ceiling, until you pass immigration reform.’ It would be governmental chaos.’ End quote.   “Now maybe he is remembering those words today. Because now he is now saying ‘never mind, I didn’t mean it,’ and is himself calling for an even shorter, short-term funding bill. Of course, his lastditch proposals would do nothing for the children’s health program or the nine million children that are waiting on us to renew it.   “But what is more, the incredibly short-term continuing resolutions he is now proposing do not meet any of the demands – none of them – that he, and his own conference, and Democrats in the House have been making for weeks. None of that would be solved in a short-term CR – the stuff they’ve been calling for.    “Apparently now he wants his members to default on their own demands. He has spent days persuading all his colleagues to insist we cannot pass another continuing resolution. Now he wants them to pass one. He has spent weeks getting his members to proclaim that we should not do anything to fund the government until we address the DACA issue. Now he is calling on them to do just that.   “These incredibly short-term extensions would not even give us enough time to actually write the legislation he is demanding. One extremely short-term CR would lead to another…and another. Exactly the outcome Democrats have declared they cannot accept. I wish – for all our sakes – that the Democratic Leader would figure out what he actually wants. I feel bad for his own members. He has painted them into a corner.   “But I especially feel bad for the American people whose government the Democrats are threatening to shut down, and the nine million children whose health insurance could be thrown into jeopardy, because Senate Democrats cannot get their story straight. My friend the Democratic AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000501 DOT_Am.Oversight-000501 Leader now wants his members to pass a bill that allows S-CHIP to expire.   “He now wants nearly every Democrat in the House of Representatives to break their word and pass a separate funding bill of his own that does not address the illegal immigration issue they said they must have. Let’s think about this for a minute. First he leads his own troops into a box canyon, then tells them it was all for nothing. Maybe it’s time to come back to reality.   “We already have a bill that we know can pass the House—because it already did. We have a bill that we know the president will sign into law—he’s already committed to that. We know that with one noncontroversial and bipartisan vote, we can keep the government up and running. We can fund the children’s health care program for six full years. And we can give ourselves the time we need to finish ongoing negotiations on DACA, border security and the long-term needs of our military.   “We can do all of that today. All of it. Or, our Democrat friends can continue to take the Democratic Leader’s advice and vote to shut down the government, destabilize funding for our troops, shut down the children’s health care program—and still not get what they’re demanding on illegal immigration. It’s really up to them.   “I look forward to voting soon on cloture for the House bill. The American people—the citizens who actually elected us—will be watching. They will see which Senators make the patriotic decision, stand up for the American people, and vote to continue government funding and extend children’s health insurance while we continue our bipartisan talks.   “And they will see which Senators vote to shove aside veterans, military families, and vulnerable children – to hold the entire country hostage until we pass an immigration bill they have not even written yet.    “This is completely unfair and uncompassionate for my Democratic colleagues to filibuster government funding, harm our troops, and jeopardize health coverage for nine million children because extreme elements of their base want illegal immigration to crowd out every other priority. Apparently they believe that the issue of illegal immigration is more important than everything else, all of the government services people depend on. I would recommend they stop the wild goose chase that will go to a destination that cannot be explained.   “Let’s fulfill the core responsibilities of Congress. Let’s fund the government, provide for the American people, and then resume serious negotiations on the issues that matter most. Let’s fund the government for a full month, so we can actually get something done.”   ###     Supporters of Core Provisions of the Continuing Resolution, H.R. 195 Please see a list of organizations below that have weighed in on core provisions found in the Continuing Resolution (CR) – some groups have fully supported the CR, and some support specific provisions in the CR, such as a long-term CHIP funding solution, or delay of ACA taxes. This list may occasionally be updated tonight. Please let me know if you have any questions. Due to the size of the PDFs please let me know if you would like to see individual letters, statements, etc. I will send them to you. Erica Organizations: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 60 Plus Association Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed) ALEC Alliance of Specialty Medicine Alliance to Fight the 40 Don’t Tax My Health Care American Academy of Family Physicians American Academy of Pediatrics American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry American Benefits Council American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists DOT-18-0010-A-000502 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000502 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. American College of Physicians American Commitment American Dental Association American Farm Bureau Federation American Osteopathic Association American Psychiatric Association American Rental Association Americans for Tax Reform Associated Builders and Contractors Association of Mature American Citizens Campaign for Liberty Caregiver Action Network Center for Freedom and Prosperity Center for Individual Freedom Center for Worker Freedom Children’s Hospital Association Corporate Health Care Coalition Council for Citizens Against Government Waste Digital Liberty Emergency Department Practice Management Association Family Business Coalition FreedomWorks Frontiers of Freedom Harder + Company Community Research Health Industry Distributors Association Medical Device Manufacturers Association Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs National Coalition on Benefits National Electrical Contractors Association National Hispanic Medical Association National Taxpayer’s Union Property Rights Alliance Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council Society for Human Resource Management Stop the HIT Taxpayers Protection Alliance Tea Party Patriots Citizens Fund The ERISA Industry Committee The Jewish Federations of North America The L.A. Trust for Children's Health United States Chamber of Commerce Virginians for Quality Healthcare Wage Works, Inc. Watts Healthcare Corporation Women for Trump   Governors who have spoken out on the need for a long-term CHIP solution (letters*, tweets, etc.; *letters/PDFs available): Alaska - Governor Walker Arizona - Governor Ducey Colorado - Governor Hickenlooper Florida- Governor Scott Indiana – Governor Holcomb Iowa- Governor Reynolds Louisiana - Governor Edwards Maryland- Governor Hogan Massachusetts- Governor Baker Minnesota – Governor Dayton Montana - Governor Bullock Nebraska – Governor Ricketts Nevada- Governor Sandoval New Hampshire- Governor Sununu North Dakota – Governor Burgum Ohio - Governor Kasich DOT-18-0010-A-000503 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000503 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. Oregon – Governor Brown Pennsylvania – Governor Wolf South Dakota – Governor Daugaard Tennessee- Governor Haslam Texas - Governor Abbott Utah- Governor Herbert Vermont- Governor Scott Virginia – then-Governor McAuliffe Wisconsin-Governor Walker Wyoming- Governor Mead Governor Tweets – a sampling: Indiana: Governor Eric Holcomb Eric Holcomb (@GovHolcomb) 1/18/18, 8:29 PM While the short-term funding bill just passed by the House is not ideal, I’m pleased it funds Children’s Health Insurance for 6 yrs and delays the Medical Device Tax for 2 yrs - both critical to Hoosiers. Senate needs to follow the House’s lead. #CHIP   Maryland: https://twitter.com/larryhogan/status/954405049635090437? ref_src=twcamp%5Eshare%7Ctwsrc%5Eios%7Ctwgr%5Ecom.microsoft.Office.Outlook.composeshareextension Nevada: Sandoval statement https://twitter.com/meganmesserly/status/954200316957741057 STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR SANDOVAL ON CHIP RE-AUTHORIZATION CARSON CITY, NV – Governor Brian Sandoval issued the following statement urging the United States Senate to pass the CHIP re-authorization measure that was approved by the House of Representatives last night. The Governor also expressed his continued support for the DACA program.   “There are more than 40,000 low-income families desperately waiting for CHIP re-authorization to ensure access to healthcare. This includes children who are receiving life-saving cancer treatments, preventative care, and other critical healthcare services. As I have said before, Nevada’s ability to provide CHIP to these children is coming to a preventable end because of the elimination of federal funding. These families cannot wait and I urge the Senate to pass the measure in front of them today to provide certainty for our children’s healthcare.   I am a strong supporter of preserving the protections afforded by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and I encourage Congress to continue working to negotiate a solution that extends these protections.  However, as we approach a government shutdown and a potential shutdown of the CHIP program, I firmly believe pitting one group of children in need against another group of children in need doesn’t serve either.”   #### North Dakota: Governor Doug Burgum Doug Burgum‫‏‬Verified account @DougBurgum FollowFollow @DougBurgum More Encouraging @SenJohnHoeven and @SenatorHeitkamp to follow @RepKevinCramer and House’s lead to avoid shutdown, fund our military and reauthorize health DOT-18-0010-A-000504 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000504 insurance for children. #SchumerShutdown   Pennsylvania: Governor Tom Wolf TomWo •lf G - .,, @WolfForPA There 's noth·ng more important than protecting our kids. Congress must reauthorize #CHIP ... immediately. RT if you agree V 6:05 AM - 17 Jan 2018 n e F«,tweets 0 6 110 l.lkes l I1e O 110 El Utah: Governor Gary Herbert 20,000 kids in Utah need Congress to reauthorize the Children's Health Insurance Program immediately. #CHIP https://twitter.com/GovHerbert/status/954439005034094592 A six year extension saves $1 billion. There is broad bipartisan agreement and no reason to punt again. https://twitter.com/GovHerbert/status/954439006015467520 Wisconsin: https://twitter.com/GovWalker/status/954407556247678976 Senate Democrats, do not shut down the federal government. You are jeopardizing funding for our military and health insurance for our children. That is wrong. #SchumerShutdown     tat ubli n Communicat· ons Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000505 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000505 http://bit.ly/2EUVMmk   Governors ‘Urge Immediate Action On The Children’s Health Insurance Program’   Govs: ‘We Believe Covering Children And Pregnant Women Without Disruption Is One Thing We Can All Agree On’ GOVS: ‘Give The Families Who Rely On CHIP The Peace Of Mind Of Knowing That Their Children Will Be Able To Get The Health Care They Need’   GOV. TOM WOLF (D-PA): “The 178,000 children in PA that rely on CHIP for health care deserve better … We need a sustainable, long-term funding solution for this vital program …” (Gov. Wolf, @GovernorTomWolf, Twitter, 1/16/2018)   · GOV. WOLF: “There’s nothing more important than protecting our kids. Congress must reauthorize #CHIP... immediately.” (Tom Wolf, @WolfForPA, Twitter, 1/17/2018)   GOV. CHRIS SUNUNU (R-NH): “Now is the time to put politics aside so that we can work towards a solution that gives New Hampshire’s children access to the healthcare they need, especially during their most vulnerable and formative years, The Senate has the opportunity to reauthorize CHIP for six years – the longest reauthorization of health insurance for American children in history. I implore @SenatorHassan and @SenatorShaheen to vote for today’s continuing resolution.” (Gov. Sununu, @GovChrisSununu, Twitter, 1/19/2018)   GOV. DOUG BURGUM (R-ND): “Encouraging @SenJohnHoeven and @SenatorHeitkamp to follow @RepKevinCramer and House’s lead to avoid shutdown, fund our military and reauthorize health insurance for children.” (@DougBurgum, Twitter, 1/19/2018)   GOV. BRIAN SANDOVAL (R-NV): “There are more than 40,000 low-income families desperately waiting for CHIP reauthorization to ensure access to healthcare. This includes children who are receiving life-saving cancer treatments, preventative care, and other critical healthcare services. As I have said before, Nevada’s ability to provide CHIP to these children is coming to a preventable end because of the elimination of federal funding. These families cannot wait and I urge the Senate to pass the measure in front of them today to provide certainty for our children’s healthcare.” (Gov. Sandoval, Press Release, 1/19/2018)   GOV. PHILIP SCOTT (R-VT) & GOV. CHRIS SUNUNU (R-NH): “We write in support of Congress reauthorizing… the Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP).  These funds and the health care activities they support enjoy broad bipartisan backing… Without reauthorization of CHIP, both of our states will face significant budgetary pressures as we continue to provide coverage for children in our states.  We, therefore, urge you to work in a bipartisan manner to reauthorize these critical programs. … Regarding CHIP, both New Hampshire and Vermont have used the CHIP program to expand Medicaid coverage for children.  In Vermont, CHIP has allowed the state to achieve near universal coverage of children, with the lowest uninsured rate among children in the country.  Likewise, New Hampshire’s CHIP program covers nearly every eligible child under the age of 19.  Each program supports preventive and oral health care, both of which are critical to starting children on a healthy path.  Supporting a five-year extension provides our states with stability and predictability that is important to planning and budgeting. … We encourage you to quickly work together to reach a bipartisan agreement…” (Govs. Sununu & Scott, Letter To Congressional Leadership, 11/21/2017)   GOV. GARY HERBERT (R-UT): “20,000 kids in Utah need Congress to reauthorize the Children's Health Insurance Program immediately. #CHIP … There is broad bi-partisan agreement and no reason to punt again.” (Gov. Herbert, @GovHerbert, Twitter, 1/19/2018)   GOV. SCOTT WALKER (R-WI): “Senate Democrats, do not shut down the federal government. You are jeopardizing funding for our military and health insurance for our children. That is wrong.” (@GovWalker, Twitter, 1/19/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000506 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000506   ·   GOV. WALKER (R-WI): “…I write to encourage you to reauthorize funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and uphold the federal state partnership which helps ensure that Wisconsin’s children receive access to medical care. Wisconsin currently receives approximately $115 million in federal matching funds each year. These dollars ensure that more than 100,000 children are insured. Despite the lack of congressional action on reauthorization, Wisconsin is fortunate to be able to continue eligibility into 2018. However, failure to act will force Wisconsin, and other states, to fulfill the federal government’s share of their commitment to provide access to this care. There is nothing more important than the health of the children in Wisconsin and across the United States. Your immediate attention to the reauthorization of funding for CHIP to help children throughout the country maintain access to care is critical.” (Gov. Walker, Letter To Sen. McConnell & Speaker Ryan, 12/5/2017) 12 GOVERNORS: “We ask that you make it a priority to reauthorize the Children's Health Insurance program (CHIP) as quickly as possible. We believe covering children and pregnant women without disruption is one thing we can all agree on. For twenty years, this program has successfully provided vital health coverage and care to about nine million children. Without it, access to essential health services like well child exams, asthma medicine, and hospitalizations will be at risk. As health insurance premiums climb at unsustainable rates, this program gives hard-working families access to otherwise unaffordable coverage…. We encourage you to … allow this important program to continue and give the families who rely on CHIP the peace of mind of knowing that their children will be able to get the health care they need in the new year.” (12 Governors, Letter To Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, And Sens. McConnell And Schumer, 12/12/2017)   ·   Letter signed by: Gov. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Gov. John Kasich (R-OH), Gov. Bill Walker (I-AK), Gov. John Bel Edwards (D-LA), Gov. Tom Wolf (D-PA), Gov. Chris Sununu (R-NH), Gov. Charles Baker (R-MA), Gov. Steve Bullock (D-MT), Gov. Phil Scott (R-VT), Gov. Brian Sandoval (R-NV), Gov. Mark Dayton (D-MN), Then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D-VA) GOV. CHARLIE BAKER (R-MA) & GOV. KATE BROWN (D-OR): “On behalf of the nation’s governors, we urge immediate action on the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) … In the case of CHIP, governors have written to Congress about the importance of children’s health coverage…. Absent congressional action, states will be forced to take steps including the notification of thousands of families of the loss of CHIP health care coverage. Taking steps to avoid those worst-case outcomes places a tremendous administrative and financial burden on states and sows confusion among vulnerable populations.” (Govs. Baker and Brown, Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 11/29/2017)   GOV. LARRY HOGAN (R-MD): “I write today to urge you to take immediate bipartisan action to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)… We should all agree that needy kids should never become a political football. The Maryland Children’s Health Insurance Program (MCHP) serves more than 146,000 low-income children.  If Congress fails to reauthorize CHIP, the fiscal impact on our state will be substantial.  Without reauthorization, it is projected that Maryland will run out of CHIP funding by April 2018… This potential worst-case outcome places a tremendous financial and administrative burden on our state and sows fear and confusion among some of our most vulnerable populations. …I urge you to work together on a bipartisan basis to reauthorize CHIP and avoid a congressional failure that would have devastating impacts on children and families in Maryland, and in states across the nation.” (Gov. Larry Hogan, Letter To Congressional Leaders, 12/12/2017)   GOV. GREG ABBOTT (R-TX): “Please take immediate action to reauthorize federal funds for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The program provides coverage for 400,000 Texas kids for services such as regular checkups, prescription drugs and acute care. Without immediate reauthorization or redistribution of funds, Texas will, as soon as February, exhaust funding for the program. State law requires that the program be terminated once funding is exhausted. Thus, absent any action by the federal government, Texas will begin the process of terminating CHIP by notifying enrollees the program will end due to a lack of federal funding. … The real solution is for Congress to reauthorize CHIP funding. Currently, there is legislation that was passed by the House and is pending before the Senate. This is positive movement. However, time is of the essence. Please reauthorize CHIP and urge CMS to immediately commit and provide redistribution funding to Texas before the state must notify families that the program has been terminated.” (Gov. Abbott, Letter To Congressional Leadership, 12/1/2017)   GOV. DOUG DUCEY (R-AZ): “I am writing today to encourage Congress to swiftly pass an extension of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in both the House and Senate. Today, over 23,000 Arizona kids DOT-18-0010-A-000507 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000507 depend on this program for a wide variety of medical treatments from setting a broken arm to cancer treatment…. As you know, CHIP has had bipartisan support beginning with its inception in 1997. This has never been a partisan issue and should not be one now. There are a lot of things that divide us, but taking care of these kids is something that should unite us.” (Gov. Ducey, Letter to Rep. Schweikert, 11/01/2017)   GOV. BILL HASLAM (R-TN): “We obviously would like to see that [funding for CHIP] resolved. We’re at the tip of the spear when it comes to serving folks…. I am concerned. People will have to realize if that doesn’t get reauthorized we will be providing less service.” (“Congress Stalls On Kids’ Insurance Funding, Raising Concerns From Haslam To A Neonatologist,” The Tennessean, 12/06/2017)   ·   GOV. HASLAM: “Our position still stands. We will lose vital services if that [CHIP] funding goes away.” (“Lack Of Funding For CHIP Could Affect 100,000 Tennessee Children,” LocalMemphis.com, 12/19/2017) GOV. ERIC HOLCOMB (R-IN): “…the short-term funding bill just passed by the House… I’m pleased it funds Children’s Health Insurance for 6 yrs and delays the Medical Device Tax for 2 yrs - both critical to Hoosiers. Senate needs to follow the House’s lead. #CHIP” (Gov. Holcomb, @GovHolcomb, Twitter, 1/18/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS 11.at u , Ii an Communicat· on Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2Bgvybp Dem Shutdown Would Have ‘A Terrible Impact’ On Our Military Defense Secretary Mattis Warns A Government Shutdown Will ‘Shut Down’ Maintenance, ‘Stop’ Intelligence Operations, ‘Stop’ Reserves Training Q: “Secretary Mattis, one last question. Will a government shutdown have serious ramifications on military operations …?” … SECRETARY OF DEFENSE JAMES MATTIS: “Yes … it’s got a terrible impact.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) SECDEF MATTIS: In A Shut Down ‘Over 50% Altogether Of My Civilian Workforce Will Be Furloughed’ – That’s 300,000+ Americans Total number of Department of Defense civilians: 693,684 (“Military And Civilian Personnel By Service/Agency By State/Country,” Defense Manpower Data Center, September 2017) SECRETARY MATTIS: “There’s any number of projects we have underway that keep me at the top of my game and our military at the top of our game that are handled by civilians. All these DOT-18-0010-A-000508 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000508 things are going to be disrupted…. Over 50% altogether of my civilian workforce will be furloughed. And that’s going to impact our contracting. It’ll impact, obviously, our medical facilities.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) · SEC. MATTIS: “I would just tell you … our maintenance activities will probably pretty much shut down. We will not be able to induct any more of our gear that need maintenance.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) · SEC. MATTIS: “I would just tell you that we do a lot of intelligence operations around the world and they cost money. Those obviously would stop.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) SECRETARY MATTIS: “And I would just tell you that training for almost our entire reserve force will stop. And you must understand the critical importance of our reserves: they’re the only shock absorber we have. It’s not like the old days where you could draft somebody in and 18 weeks later have them in combat with the skills they need [as] today’s infantrymen…. They still take a year to train in order to have them ready to use the gear they have on them and make certain they have the ethical and tactical abilities to deal with the battlefield today.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) · SEC. MATTIS: “Those troops [going to do their weekend duty] will arrive there at their armories, by the way, and [will be] told, ‘Go home’ if there’s a government shutdown …” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) SECRETARY MATTIS: “…for those out there right now in the field, at sea, in the air, the ones sitting in the ready room over here at Andrews Air Force Base, I just tell you that they deserve full support and we have got to come to grips with this as a nation.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) · SEC. MATTIS: “It’s got a huge morale impact, I’ll just tell you. How long can you keep good people around when something like this happens? It is always a question that’s got to hover in the back of my mind.” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) · SEC. MATTIS: “…the value of the American military is grossly enhanced by the sense that the American model of government—of the people, by the people, for the people—can function and carry out its governmental responsibilities….” (Secretary Mattis, Press Conference, 1/19/2018) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   DOT-18-0010-A-000509 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000509 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - CR Saturday, January 20, 2018 1:22:32 AM Hello! For all of you still awake watching the Senate floor….   The Senate just voted on cloture on the Motion to Concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 195, the vehicle for the CR – it was not agreed to, 50-49.   We just had a procedural vote on the motion to table the motion to refer with respect to the House message to accompany H.R.195, CHIP/One Month CR (this was a procedural vote that made space on the amendment tree for a date change amendment to be slotted in – CR funding until February 8, 2018).   Vote time is TBD (not tonight) on the Feb. 8 CR amendment (with CHIP and ACA tax delays).   Have a great night – more updates to come. Erica         Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000510 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000510 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Dodd Frank reform Wednesday, March 07, 2018 1:46:36 PM Good afternoon, The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Sen. Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill). We are currently in the up to 30 hours of post-cloture time on the MTP. At some time after we are on the bill Senator Crapo will lay down a substitute. We’ll keep you posted on votes today. Also, please see Leader McConnell’s full floor remarks below – excerpts here: Spoke on Dodd-Frank relief. o          “Research from Harvard indicates that community banks provide more than half of all small business loans. Let me repeat that. A majority of small business loans are handled by community banks. This is even more pronounced in rural areas and farming communities, like those I represent in Kentucky. A whopping 77% of agriculture loans come from community banks, 77%. In this era of online banking and multinational corporations, smaller institutions remain uniquely able to build community connections. Community bankers get to know their residents and business owners on a personal level. That perspective lets them extend credit to small-scale entrepreneur, farmers, ranchers, and other Americans who might not have access otherwise.” Spoke on tax reform. o          “It's made bonuses, raises, and benefits for working families, daily news and communities all across our country. Automakers are planting deeper roots in America. Innovators like Apple are bringing billions back to invest here at home. Retailers from corner stores to national chains are rewarding their hardworking teams. And there's another sector in which the benefits of tax reform are flowing freely. America's growing craft beverage industry. That's because the new 21st century tax code included a provision known as the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act spearheaded by Senator Portman and Senator Blunt.”   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, March 6, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. (Invoked, 67-32) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana. (Confirmed, 98-0) UC Items: DOT-18-0010-A-000511 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000511 There were no UC items. Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.EN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Fqk9ZO                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2HeouiW Banking Reform Bill To Help Community Banks, Main Street America ‘Dodd-Frank’s imprecise, inefficient, one-size-fits-all framework dropped these small institutions into the regulatory maze that was intended for Wall Street. This has forced many to pare down their offerings or close their doors for good. That leaves would-be entrepreneurs, job creators, and existing small businesses who want to expand out to dry. Fortunately, we have an opportunity this week to begin putting things right.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act:   “Community banks, credit unions, and other small-scale lenders play a vital role in the U.S. economy. Research from Harvard indicates that community banks provide more than half of all small business loans. Let me repeat that: A majority of small-business loans are handled by community banks. This is even more pronounced in rural areas and farming communities, like those I represent in Kentucky. A whopping seventy-seven percent of agricultural loans come from community banks.   “In this era of online banking and multinational corporations, smaller institutions remain uniquely able to build community connections. Community bankers get to know residents and business owners on a personal level. That perspective lets them extend credit to small-scale entrepreneurs, farmers, ranchers, and other Americans who might not have access otherwise. So when small lenders close their doors, the effects on communities are very real.   “In 2014, an economist at MIT found that, on average, the closing of a single bank cut the number of new small business loans in the immediate area by more than 10 percent for several years. The problem was extremely pronounced in low-income areas, where a local perspective and personal DOT-18-0010-A-000512 DOT_Am.Oversight-000512 relationships matter even more. In low-income America, a physical bank closure cuts lending to local small businesses by nearly forty percent. Long story short? The more vulnerable a community, the more they need local lenders.   “But since the federal government implemented massive new regulations under the 2010 DoddFrank Act, our community banks and credit unions have been getting squeezed. Dodd-Frank’s imprecise, inefficient, one-size-fits-all framework dropped these small institutions into the regulatory maze that was intended for Wall Street.   “For eight years, they’ve faced a staggering compliance burden that now consumes, on average, 24 percent of their net income. This has forced many to pare down their offerings or close their doors for good. That leaves would-be entrepreneurs, job creators, and existing small businesses who want to expand out to dry. Fortunately, we have an opportunity this week to begin putting things right.   “Today, the Senate continues considering a sensible solution that would streamline regulations and give smaller lenders a fighting chance. Senator Crapo’s Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act is the product of thorough committee work. It’s an important step toward unwinding the harm caused by the Obama administration’s knee-jerk reaction to the 2008 financial crisis. And importantly, this bill has strong bipartisan support. On both sides of the aisle, members with a diversity of views on Dodd-Frank itself have recognized that this set of commonsense fixes deserves all of our support. I encourage all Senators to join them.”   ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2tju3uE                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2FmDIlC Tapping Into Tax Reform Savings ‘[T]he new 21st-century tax code included a provision known as the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, spearheaded by Senator Portman and Senator Blunt. Among other achievements, that piece of tax reform significantly cut the excise taxes the federal government imposes on beer, wine, and spirits…Because it’s proving to be good news for a host of American small businesses -- including the fine distilleries that contribute thousands of jobs and tourism in my state of Kentucky.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “Just two months in, the effects of tax reform are percolating through every corner of our economy. It’s made bonuses, raises, and benefits for working families daily news in communities across America.   “Thanks to tax reform, automakers are planting deeper roots in America. Innovators like Apple are bringing billions back to invest here at home. Retailers, from corner stores to national chains, are rewarding their hardworking teams. And there’s another sector in which the benefits of tax reform DOT-18-0010-A-000513 DOT_Am.Oversight-000513 are flowing freely – America’s growing craft beverage industry.   “That’s because the new 21st-century tax code included a provision known as the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, spearheaded by Senator Portman and Senator Blunt. Among other achievements, that piece of tax reform significantly cut the excise taxes the federal government imposes on beer, wine, and spirits.   “This was originally a bipartisan bill, with early support from my friend the senior senator from Oregon. It’s too bad he, and every other Democrat in Congress, voted against the historic tax reform that included it.   “Because it’s proving to be good news for a host of American small businesses -- including the fine distilleries that contribute thousands of jobs and tourism in my state of Kentucky. One recent wave of headlines has detailed how tax reform is helping entrepreneurs in the craft brewing industry.   “Across the country, job creators in this popular and growing line of business are making big plans for their savings under this new 21st-century tax code. Matt Matthiesen, a brewery owner in West Okoboji, Iowa, said, quote, ‘I am very excited. … As a small local business, those breaks help us tremendously.’   “Donn Martens, who owns another brewery just down the road, says, quote, ‘We hope to expand with this money. We would like to double our production.’ Remember Matt and Donn when my colleagues across the aisle tell you tax reform is only helping the big guys. Together, their two businesses employ fifteen people. They expect tax reform will save them around $15,000 this year.   “Just try telling any small business owner that’s no big deal. Larry Horwitz owns Four String Brewing Company in Columbus, Ohio. He expects tax reform will save his business $40,000 this year. ‘We invest where we live and work,’ he said. ‘We are the blue collar workers in the neighborhood.’   “In Kentucky, tax reform has a number of craft breweries excited about the year ahead. At Country Boy Brewing in Georgetown, production manager Daniel Sinkhorn says that the new law is helping them plan a new canning line, which will ‘add jobs, add equipment...and keep Country Boy growing.’   “It’s being reported that later today, my friends across the aisle will unveil a trillion-dollar spending plan and propose repealing tax reform to pay for it.  Repeal all these bonuses, pay raises, new jobs, and new investments? Talk about a non-starter.   “At the same time, Vice President Pence will be in Central Kentucky today to hear from small business owners and community leaders about how tax reform is helping them. Daniel Harrison, the co-founder of Country Boy Brewing, will be on hand to meet with the Vice President. I’m glad he’ll be able to share how his business, like so many around the country, is tapping into tax reform savings.”   ###           AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000514 DOT_Am.Oversight-000514 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- Dodd Frank update // substitute attached Wednesday, March 07, 2018 5:55:56 PM SIL18367.pdf ATT00001.htm Hi everyone,   Please see a PDF of the Crapo substitute to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Sen. Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill) attached here. There will either be a roll call vote or a voice vote to get on the bill, S. 2155, and then Senator Crapo will lay down his substitute.   There are 95 amendments currently filed to the bill. There will be an effort to set up votes on amendments in the next few days – we’ll keep you posted.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/         (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000515 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000515 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- Farm Bill (on the bill/adopted amdts/sub amdt attached) Wednesday, June 27, 2018 12:54:24 PM RYA18793.pdf Hello everyone – The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill, with all post-cloture time expired. There was a voice vote on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, and then Senator Roberts laid down the substitute amendment (attached). Included in this substitute amendment are 18 amendments (listed below). The bill managers are continuing their work to try to clear additional amendments. Many thanks to Senator Roberts and his staff, and the Ag committee staff for their work on this bill. 1. Jones 3081 (Farm numbers to individuals; include qualified intermediaries as recipients of farm ownership loans) 2. Smith 3082 (modified) (Provide clarity for Buy American requirements) 3. Kennedy 3097 (Reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program) 4. Murkowski 3110 (Provide micro-grants for food security) 5. Hatch 3125 (Issuance of guidance to promote the awareness of donations of wholesome food) 6. Merkley 3147 (Encourage the protection of pollinator habitat) 7. Tester 3148 (Provide for division of counties into administrative units for purposes of agriculture risk coverage) 8. Gillibrand 3154 (Dev. of jobs accelerator centers/programs located in or serving low-income rural communities) 9. Gardner 3157 (Auth. research and extension grants for more precise management of dryland farming ag systems) 10. Moran 3159 (Program to provide advance payments under the emergency conservation program for fence repair) 11. Collins 3160 (Direct Chief of the Forest Service to continue to find efficiencies through use of remote sensing tech.) 12. Peters 3164 (Provide for use of additional Commodity Credit Corporation funds for direct operating microloans) 13. Shaheen 3172 (Reauth. The National Oilheat Research Alliance) 14. Feinstein 3177 (Catastrophic coverage level under dairy risk coverage/increase funding for milk donation program) DOT-18-0010-A-000516 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000516 15. Cornyn 3186 (Provide for use of funds for inspections of cattle tick fever under emergency assistance for livestock) 16. Crapo/Cantwell 3209 (Mod. provision re: the priority trade fund) 17. Gardner 3218 (Address drought and improve water conservation) 18. Grassley 3231 (To improve the bill) ICYMI: Leader McConnell this morning (full remarks below…) Spoke in tribute to an honor flight: “More Kentucky veterans are touching down today in our nation's capital. They're coming to remember fallen comrades and visit the memorials dedicated to their own service. Earlier this month, I was lucky enough to spend time with a flight of World War II veterans who arrived in time for the 74th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. Today's flight includes veterans of World War II along with Korea and Vietnam. On behalf of the commonwealth and all Americans, I'm proud to thank them for their service.” Spoke on the farm bill: “Now we start the amendment process. Ideas from many of our colleagues have already been included in the Roberts' substitute amendment but they're open to considering additional amendments. We'll start with the Conservation Reserve Program and go on from there. But it remains our intention to finish consideration of the bill this week. This bill is too important to let it languish. This is our chance to support the farm families, producers, and rural communities on whom our nation depends. And make no mistake about it, they need that support. American farmers are staring down falling commodity prices and living under the constant threat of droughts or floods or other natural disasters.” Spoke on tax reform: “On one final matter, this week I've been discussing how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is creating breathing room in family budgets. Yesterday I focused on the tax cuts themselves. Lower rates, double the standard deduction, a bigger child tax credit. It adds up to serious savings for middle-class families. Today I want to discuss the permanent pay raises, bonuses and new benefits that tax reform has enabled U.S. businesses to provide for their workers. Remember, this is exactly what our democratic colleagues insisted tax reform would not bring about.” Looking Ahead:  Nominations, Farm Bill, Water Infrastructure, and Appropriations. Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, June 26): Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes. UC Items: S.2385 - Authenticating Local Emergencies and Real Threats Act of 2018, with a Schatz amendment Please see Leader McConnell’s floor remarks from this morning on the Farm Bill, as well as more good news on AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000517 DOT_Am.Oversight-000517 the continued benefits from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act!   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2lEk2kO                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2MsPUEr Farm Bill Will Bring Certainty, Predictability to America’s Farmers ‘This bill is too important to let it languish. This is our chance to support the farm families, producers, and rural communities on whom our nation depends. And make no mistake about it -- they need that support. American farmers are staring down falling commodity prices and unstable markets and living under the constant threat of droughts, or floods, or other natural disasters.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding 2018 Farm Bill: “Today, the Senate will continue our work on the Farm Bill. The bipartisan collaboration of Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow has given all senators the opportunity to review and consider this important legislation “Now we start the amendment process. Ideas from many of our colleagues have already been included in the Roberts substitute amendment, but the bill managers are open to considering additional amendments. We’ll start with the Thune amendment regarding the Conservation Reserve Program and go from there. But it remains our intention to finish consideration of the bill this week. This bill is too important to let it languish. “This is our chance to support the farm families, producers, and rural communities on whom our nation depends. And make no mistake about it -- they need that support. American farmers are DOT-18-0010-A-000518 DOT_Am.Oversight-000518 staring down falling commodity prices and unstable markets and living under the constant threat of droughts, or floods, or other natural disasters. “They’re looking for certainty and predictability. This Farm Bill delivers. Quote: ‘The fact is, without the solid foundation of the farm bill and the certainty it provides, many farmers and ranchers would not be able to get operating loans to farm another year.’ Those are the words of the president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, which passionately supports this bill. “So do the Agricultural Equipment Manufacturers. So do the National Association of Counties. So do many other groups dedicated to agriculture, business, hunger prevention, and the health of rural America. That’s because this legislation provides the immediate assistance and stability that farmers count on to keep feeding and supporting this country right now, and because it will empower our farmers and ranchers to invest for the future. Chairman Roberts described this perfectly yesterday. Quote: ‘It takes the government providing tools, and then getting out of the producer’s way.’ “On the latter point, I am most excited about a provision in this bill that will clear the way for the legal farming of industrial hemp by removing current roadblocks that prevent farmers -- in Kentucky and around the country -- from capitalizing on this promising crop. Since the 1970s, except in a few limited cases, American farmers have not been able to grow industrial hemp in their fields. That doesn’t mean consumers aren’t buying hemp. Far from it. “Hemp is in everything from health products to home insulation. The global market for hemp is estimated to consist of more than 25,000 products. According to one estimate, back in 2016, U.S. retail sales of hemp products totaled approximately $688 million. Last year alone, Kentucky hemp recorded more than $16 million in product sales through the state’s pilot program. “So American consumers are buying hemp. But thanks to heavy-handed regulations, the only option at scale is importing hemp from foreign producers. Enough is enough. Industrial hemp is a completely different plant than its illicit cousin. It’s time we get Washington got out of the way and let American farmers meet the growing demand of American consumers. In the last Farm Bill, I championed a hemp pilot program that opened the door to some exploration. “I recently heard from a fifth-generation Kentucky farmer from Garrard County who participates in the program. He wrote, quote, ‘we had no idea what it would turn into.’ He says growing hemp has been, quote, ‘career-defining for me, beyond anything I’d ever imagine.’ At a time when the farm economy is struggling, it’s encouraging to hear such enthusiasm for a new potential cash crop. “Another farmer from Marion County wrote and asked Congress to, quote, ‘continue your efforts until we can grow, research, and market this crop freely without undue restrictions. We have merely scratched the surface of the countless benefits that come from this plant.’ Hemp will be a bright spot for the future. It’s full of economic potential for Kentucky and the nation.  “So, we should pass this Farm Bill without delay. Let’s address farmers’ immediate needs. Let’s give them new tools to help secure their future. And let’s get Washington out of the way in the cases where outdated policies are holding them back. The bill before us is a prime example of the good that can come when we work together. I look forward to the Senate passing it for Kentucky’s farm families. Let’s continue our work to get it done.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2ty3fnR                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2txab4I DOT-18-0010-A-000519 DOT_Am.Oversight-000519 American Businesses Providing Pay Raises, Bonuses, Benefits to Workers Thanks to Tax Reform ‘American workers can only thrive if the American businesses that employ them are given the tools to compete and win on the world stage. Like a 21st-century tax code. Most economists agree that the real impact of tax reform on worker wages is a longterm proposition. The wage gains will roll in over the months and years ahead. But it’s remarkable how quickly a number of American businesses made immediate investments in their workers.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans have seen across the country in the past six months thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: “This week, I’ve been discussing how the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is creating breathing room in family budgets. Yesterday, I focused on the tax cuts themselves. Lower rates, a doubled standard deduction, a bigger child tax credit -- it adds up to serious savings for middle-class families. “Today, I want to discuss the permanent pay raises, bonuses, and new benefits that tax reform has enabled U.S. businesses to provide for their workers. Remember, this is exactly what our Democratic colleagues insisted tax reform would not bring about. To quote my friend the Democratic Leader, right here on the Senate floor in December: ‘There is nothing about this tax bill that's suited to the needs of the American worker.’ “Well, Republicans knew better. We listened to the economists who explained in an open letter that ‘the question isn't whether workers will be helped by a corporate tax rate reduction – it's how much’ they’ll be helped. The reason is simple: American workers can only thrive if the American businesses that employ them are given the tools to compete and win on the world stage. Like a 21st-century tax code. “Most economists agree that the real impact of tax reform on worker wages is a long-term proposition. The wage gains will roll in over the months and years ahead. But it’s remarkable how quickly a number of American businesses made immediate investments in their workers. “At Charter Communications, which employs 95,000 people nationwide, the base wage has already risen to $15 per hour -- because of tax reform. Beginning in April, CVS implemented a new fullypaid parental leave program for full-time employees -- because of tax reform. Educational opportunities are expanding for nearly 400,000 McDonald’s employees across the country, after tax reform allowed the company to ramp up tuition assistance. Tax reform has enabled LHC Group, a major health-care employer with more than 50 locations and 3,600 employees in Kentucky alone, to expand raises for its employees and grow the 401(k) options the company sponsors. “Workers at businesses of every shape and size are being helped, all over the country. Bonuses at a grain merchandiser in Chester, Montana. A quarter-million-dollar expansion plan that’ll create 20 new jobs at a roofing company in Massillon, Ohio. “It appears tax reform is very well-suited to the needs of the American worker, after all. It’s wellsuited to the needs of hard-working parents, who’ve pocketed thousand-dollar bonuses to help with grocery bills and summer camp costs. It’s well-suited to the needs of young Americans on the first rungs of the economic ladder, whose employer can now offer more help with continuing education. This might come as a surprise to my Democrat friends, who opposed tax reform at every turn. It certainly doesn’t surprise those of us who fought for the American people.” ###         AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000520 DOT_Am.Oversight-000520 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Farm Bill Thursday, June 28, 2018 1:27:10 PM Hi everyone -The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of H.R. 2, the farm bill. There are two amendments currently pending to H.R. 2, the farm bill: · Roberts #3224 (the substitute amendment) · Thune #3134 (modify conservation reserve program provisions) is pending to Roberts Amendment #3224 The bill managers are continuing their work to try to clear additional amendments, as well as set up amendment votes. 18 amendments were adopted this week and included in the substitute amendment (list below if you need it). Votes are expected this afternoon. We hope to wrap up consideration of the farm bill this week, a victory for American agriculture   ICYMI: last night cloture was filed on -· Roberts #3224 (the substitute amendment) · H.R. 2, the farm bill (the underlying bill)   Earlier this morning -- Leader McConnell (full remarks below) -Spoke on the upcoming Supreme Court vacancy: “There aren't the final months of a second-term constitutionally lame duck presidency with a presidential election fast approaching. We're right in the middle of this president's very first term. To my knowledge, nobody on either side has ever suggested before yesterday that the Senate should only process Supreme Court nominations in odd-numbered years. The situation today is much like when Justice Kagan was confirmed in 2010 and when Justice Breyer was confirmed in 1994 and Justice Souter in 1990. In each case, the president was about a year and a half into his first term. So just like in numerous other occasions, the process to confirm Justice Kennedy's successor will take place this year.” Spoke on the farm bill: “Agriculture is in the bones of our state. It's a huge part of who we are, from soybeans and corn and hay and tobacco and poultry and livestock, Kentucky agriculture encompasses a multibillion-dollar industry that supports thousands and thousands of good jobs in nearly every corner of the commonwealth. Kentuckians know as well as anyone just how important American agriculture is. And we understand as well as anyone all the unique challenges that it faces. That's why I'm pleased to support this bill, which will bolster the safety net programs for our producers.” Spoke on tax reform: “Already, we’ve seen big headlines. Millions of worker bonuses, plans for thousands of new jobs, and billions of dollars being invested in the United States. Individual companies announcing billions in new American investments. Small business optimism at its highest level since President Reagan’s first term. But these national headlines don’t tell the whole story on their own.”   Thanks, Erica Amendments included in the substitute amendment: DOT-18-0010-A-000521 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000521 1. Jones 3081 (Farm numbers to individuals; include qualified intermediaries as recipients of farm ownership loans) 2. Smith 3082 (modified) (Provide clarity for Buy American requirements) 3. Kennedy 3097 (Reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program) 4. Murkowski 3110 (Provide micro-grants for food security) 5. Hatch 3125 (Issuance of guidance to promote the awareness of donations of wholesome food) 6. Merkley 3147 (Encourage the protection of pollinator habitat) 7. Tester 3148 (Provide for division of counties into administrative units for purposes of agriculture risk coverage) 8. Gillibrand 3154 (Dev. of jobs accelerator centers/programs located in or serving low-income rural communities) 9. Gardner 3157 (Auth. research and extension grants for more precise management of dryland farming ag systems) 10. Moran 3159 (Program to provide advance payments under the emergency conservation program for fence repair) 11. Collins 3160 (Direct Chief of the Forest Service to continue to find efficiencies through use of remote sensing tech.) 12. Peters 3164 (Provide for use of additional Commodity Credit Corporation funds for direct operating microloans) 13. Shaheen 3172 (Reauth. The National Oilheat Research Alliance) 14. Feinstein 3177 (Catastrophic coverage level under dairy risk coverage/increase funding for milk donation program) 15. Cornyn 3186 (Provide for use of funds for inspections of cattle tick fever under emergency assistance for livestock) 16. Crapo/Cantwell 3209 (Mod. provision re: the priority trade fund) 17. Gardner 3218 (Address drought and improve water conservation) 18. Grassley 3231 (To improve the bill) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KEN·TU CKY 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000522 DOT_Am.Oversight-000522 For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 28, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KjHnHh                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2lKiaHz Farm Bill is a Victory for American Agriculture ‘Now, the time has come to deliver. The farm bill is too important a subject to keep our farmers and their families waiting. After all, the groups charged with advocating on their behalf overwhelmingly support it. More than five hundred industry groups and advocates representing agriculture, food, nutrition, hunger, forestry, conservation, faith-based and research interests have already publicly backed the Senate bill.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the 2018 Farm Bill: “We hope to wrap up our consideration of the farm bill, a victory for American agriculture. All week, I’ve highlighted some of the ways this important legislation will support the family farmers whose harvest feeds America and supplies the world. It’s an understatement to say this bill comes at an opportune time. “American farm communities need stability and predictability -- and they need it urgently. The industry is filled with uncertainty. There are volatile world markets. There are persisting low commodity prices. There are natural disasters beyond their control. All these things make it harder for our growers to go about their business. They depend on the kind of long-term certainty that this legislation will provide. “This subject is extremely important to me, as the proud senior senator from the Commonwealth of Kentucky and as a member who has served on the Agriculture Committee since my first day in office. Agriculture is in the bones of our state. It’s a huge part of who we are. From soybeans and corn to hay and tobacco to poultry and livestock, Kentucky agriculture encompasses a multi-billiondollar industry that supports thousands and thousands of good jobs in nearly every corner of the Commonwealth. “Kentuckians know as well as anyone just how important American agriculture is -- and we understand as well as anyone all the unique challenges that it faces. That’s why I’m proud to support this bill, which will bolster the safety net programs for our producers. It will also enhance infrastructure investment in rural communities, on everything from local water projects to broadband internet to helping curb the drug epidemic in rural America. And it gets Washington out of farmers’ way in areas where bureaucracy is holding them back. “One such area is industrial hemp. Consumers across America buy hundreds of millions in retail products every year that contain hemp. But due to outdated federal regulations that do not sufficiently distinguish this industrial crop from its illicit cousin, American farmers have been mostly unable to meet that demand themselves. It’s left consumers with little choice but to buy imported hemp products from foreign-produced hemp. “Fortunately, this farm bill will change that. It builds on the success of the pilot program I helped initiate five years ago, and will break down the major federal barriers that prevent American farmers from fully exploring the burgeoning hemp market. When this becomes law -- subject to proper regulation and oversight -- U.S. producers will no longer be barred from this legitimate U.S. market. “I’m also proud of how this farm bill has come about. The Chairman and Ranking Member assembled it through an exemplary, bipartisan committee process that included 73 amendments. Here on the floor, 18 more bipartisan amendments were adopted in the substitute amendment. It was my personal hope that we could’ve had even more amendment votes. But the Senate is a consent-based institution, and members have the ability to object. Nevertheless, the transparent and open leadership of Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow has been commendable. “Now, the time has come to deliver. The farm bill is too important a subject to keep our farmers and their families waiting. After all, the groups charged with advocating on their behalf overwhelmingly support it. More than five hundred industry groups and advocates representing agriculture, food, nutrition, hunger, forestry, conservation, faith-based and research interests have already publicly backed the Senate bill. “And nearly 70 such groups had this to say in a recent letter to Congress: ‘During a prolonged recession in agriculture, failure to pass a Farm Bill on time would undermine the financial security of America’s food, fuel, crop and fiber producers.’ The Senate must not fail that test. It’s time to pass the farm bill.” AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000523 DOT_Am.Oversight-000523 ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KEN.TU CKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 28, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2MurzOw                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2yX5zKy ‘President’s Nominee Should Be Considered Fairly’ ‘Unfortunately, far-left special interest groups are already calling on Senate Democrats to oppose anyone on President Trump’s long list of potential nominees… Fortunately, we have every reason to expect an outstanding selection. President Trump’s judicial nominations to date have reflected a keen understanding of the vital role that judges play in our constitutional order -- interpreting the law fairly.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding yesterday’s announcement from Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy that he will retire on July 31, 2018: “First, I want to take another opportunity to pay tribute to Justice Anthony Kennedy, who announced yesterday that he’ll retire from active service and assume senior status at the end of July. Justice Kennedy deserves our sincere thanks for his service and our congratulations on a remarkable career. He has served our nation on the federal bench for 43 years, thirty of which he spent as an Associate Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. “His contributions to American jurisprudence have been many. In particular, he’s earned our gratitude for his steadfast defense of the vital First Amendment right to political speech. So we congratulate Justice Kennedy, his wife Mary, and their entire family on this well-earned retirement. We wish them every happiness during the additional time they’ll get to spend together in the years ahead. “As I stated yesterday, the Senate stands ready to fulfill our constitutional role by offering advice and consent on President Trump’s nominee to fill the vacancy that Justice Kennedy’s retirement will create. The Senate will vote to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor this fall. This is not 2016. These aren’t the final months of a second-term, constitutionally lame-duck presidency with a presidential election fast approaching. We are right in the middle of this president’s first term. “To my knowledge, nobody on either side has ever suggested before yesterday that the Senate should only process Supreme Court nominations in odd-numbered years. The situation today is much like when Justice Kagan was confirmed in 2010. And when Justice Breyer was confirmed in 1994. And Justice Souter, in 1990. In each case, the president was about a year and a half into his first term. “So, just like in numerous other occasions, the process to confirm Justice Kennedy’s successor will take place this year. As in the case of Justice Gorsuch, Senators will have the ‎opportunity to meet with President Trump’s nominee, examine his or her qualifications, and debate the nomination. I’m confident Chairman Grassley will capably lead the Judiciary Committee through the confirmation process that lies before us. “The president’s nominee should be considered fairly and not be subjected to personal attacks. Unfortunately, far-left special interest groups are already calling on Senate Democrats to oppose anyone on President Trump’s long list of potential nominees. The ink wasn’t even dry on Justice Kennedy’s resignation letter before my friend the Democratic Leader seemed to echo that, right DOT-18-0010-A-000524 DOT_Am.Oversight-000524 here on the floor -- that none of the exceptional legal minds on this list would be tolerable to him. “Think of that. These are 25 Americans from all over the country who have excelled in their professions. The idea that any of them -- let alone all of them -- would be automatically unacceptable is totally absurd. Unfortunately, I’m afraid this may just be a precursor of all the unfair attacks to come, both from inside and outside the Senate. “Fortunately, we have every reason to expect an outstanding selection. President Trump’s judicial nominations to date have reflected a keen understanding of the vital role that judges play in our constitutional order -- interpreting the law fairly. Applying it even-handedly. Setting aside personal preferences and assessing what the law actually says. These traits have characterized the excellent nominees the president has already sent to the Senate. I look forward to another such nomination.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 28, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2yQI3yD                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Kq5EHL Americans are Paying Less to Keep the Lights On ‘That’s right -- despite warnings from our Democratic colleagues that tax reform savings would never reach consumers, utilities across America are already making that happen. In my home state of Kentucky, the new tax code led to announced rate cuts of up to 6% for Kentucky Utilities and Louisville Gas and Electric customers... Help with the monthly bills. Higher take-home pay. New job opportunities because American enterprise is thriving. This is what tax reform means around middle-class kitchen tables. This is why Republicans passed this historic law.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans have seen across the country in the past six months thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: “It’s been little over six months since this Republican Congress passed historic tax reform legislation. Already, we’ve seen big headlines. Millions of worker bonuses, plans for thousands of new jobs, and billions of dollars being invested in the United States. Individual companies announcing billions in new American investments. Small business optimism at its highest level since President Reagan’s first term. But these national headlines don’t tell the whole story on their own. “This week, I’ve discussed how tax reform is already transforming American families’ kitchen-table conversations. How lower rates and larger deductions are letting them pocket more of their hardearned money. How our new corporate tax structure has already started paving the way for higher wages. If you pick up a local paper in almost any state, you’ll find yet another angle to this story: From Montana to Florida, Americans are paying less to keep the lights on. “That’s right -- despite warnings from our Democratic colleagues that tax reform savings would never reach consumers, utilities across America are already making that happen. “In my home state of Kentucky, the new tax code led to announced rate cuts of up to 6% for Kentucky Utilities and Louisville Gas and Electric customers. Just this month, Idaho Power announced a 7 percent rate cut for customers. And in Pennsylvania, Metropolitan Edison is one of seventeen utilities that are planning to deliver rate savings thanks to the new tax law. On July 1st, more than half a million customers in the Philadelphia area can expect their electric bills to drop by as much as 8%. DOT-18-0010-A-000525 DOT_Am.Oversight-000525 “Help with the monthly bills. Higher take-home pay. New job opportunities because American enterprise is thriving. This is what tax reform means around middle-class kitchen tables. This is why Republicans passed this historic law.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000526 DOT_Am.Oversight-000526 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- Farm Bill Tuesday, June 26, 2018 12:23:00 PM Hello everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill. We are post-cloture on the Farm Bill MTP. We hope to get on the bill today. Please note, all time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2. The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. Looking Ahead: Nominations, Farm Bill, Water Infrastructure, Appropriations. Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, 6/25/18): Roll Call Votes: 1. Passage of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water/Mil Con VA/Leg Branch), as amended (Passed, 86-5) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, Farm Bill (Invoked, 89-3) Executive Session: Cal. #726 - Frank T. Brogan, of Pennsylvania, to be Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education. UC Items: There were no UC items. Rule 14: H.R.6 – Support Act ICYMI: Leader McConnell this morning – full remarks below: Spoke on the farm bill -o              “The reason it's reached the floor in its current form for passage by the full Senate is the leadership of Pat Roberts and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow. They've carried on the committee's proud tradition of focusing on substance and putting partisanship aside. As the senior senator from Kentucky, I know exactly how important this legislation is to agricultural communities in my home state and around the nation. Kentucky has 12.8 million acres dedicated to agriculture. That includes about $1 billion in soybean production last year alone, about three-quarters of a billion dollars in corn, hundreds of millions of the dollars in the production of hay and tobacco, just to name a few. These crops are only part of the story.” Spoke on tax reform -o              “Six months since Republicans implemented a simpler 21st century framework. Six months since updated tax tracts and withholding tables provide more take-home pay. Thanks to lower tax rates, the IRS is withholding less of workers’ paychecks. Because we double the standard deduction, married couples will benefit from a new zero percent tax bracket for the first $24,000 they earn. And parents are looking forward to the bigger tax credits. These tax cuts are just a shot in the arm that our economy needed and they're exactly what middleclass families and workers deserve.”   Thanks, Erica DOT-18-0010-A-000527 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000527   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, June 26, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2lztTZ9                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Isy9CW Farm Bill ‘Takes Serious Steps to Ensure the Future of American Agriculture’ ‘Last evening, the Senate voted overwhelmingly to advance H.R. 2 -- the farm bill. The reason it has reached the floor in its current form, ready for consideration, amendments, and ultimately passage by the full Senate, is the leadership of Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow. They’ve carried on the committee’s proud tradition of focusing on substance and putting partisanship aside.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the 2018 farm bill: “Last evening, the Senate voted overwhelmingly to advance H.R. 2 -- the farm bill. The reason it has reached the floor in its current form, ready for consideration, amendments, and ultimately passage by the full Senate, is the leadership of Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow. They’ve carried on the committee’s proud tradition of focusing on substance and putting partisanship aside. “As the proud senior senator from Kentucky, I know exactly how important this legislation is to agricultural communities in my home state and around the nation. Kentucky has 12.8 million acres dedicated to agriculture. That includes about a billion dollars in soybean production, last year alone; About three-quarters of a billion dollars in corn; And hundreds of millions of dollars in the production of hay and tobacco. Just to name a few.   “These crops are only part of the story. Our leading agricultural commodity is poultry, a billion-plusdollar industry that employs about 7,000 Kentuckians on its own. These are just a few examples of what Kentucky farmers bring to the country, and the world.  Despite the impressive scale, we’re a state that’s dominated by small farms. They form the backbone of rural communities throughout Kentucky.   “But our farm families and those across rural America face a lot of uncertainty: Natural disasters, from droughts to floods, unstable world markets, and falling commodity prices. Earlier this year, the DOT-18-0010-A-000528 DOT_Am.Oversight-000528 USDA Economic Research Service forecast that net farm income is in the process of falling to a 12-year low.   “The farmers that feed and support this country are counting on us to provide the predictability and certainty of a long-term farm bill. So my colleagues and I on the Agriculture Committee have produced a farm bill that shows America’s farmers that we understand their situation, share their concerns, and are taking action to address them.   “My colleagues from every corner of the country can be proud of this legislation. First and foremost, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 strengthens the safety measures that directly help commodity producers as they confront low prices. It also seizes a number of opportunities to invest in the future of American agriculture and rural communities.   “I’m particularly excited about the provision that would empower farmers to begin cultivating industrial hemp, a crop that could play a key role going forward in Kentucky’s economy, and the nation’s. The bill also focuses on rural broadband, rural water infrastructure, and the fight against the opioid epidemic that has hit rural America hard.   “From top to bottom, this farm bill takes serious steps to ensure the future of American agriculture -for the sake of our farmers, our rural communities, and the entire country. This week, my colleagues will have ample opportunity to consider the legislation before us. In a few days, I hope they will join me in voting to pass it.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000529 DOT_Am.Oversight-000529 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update -- final passage, Dodd Frank reform (67-31) Wednesday, March 14, 2018 7:40:49 PM Hi everyone, ICYMI: The Senate just passed Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill, S. 2155, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, as amended (67-31). This was a huge victory for everyone involved, and the first major roll back of Dodd Frank. After that vote, the Senate invoked cloture on Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (79-19).      Also tonight, Leader McConnell filed cloture on H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (combined SESTA/FOSTA). Tomorrow: The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m. Following leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act.   At 5:30 pm on Monday, March 19th, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.   *Please note, there will be no further roll call votes during this week's session of the Senate.   Today in the Senate (Wednesday, March 14):   Roll Call Votes: · Adoption of substitute amendment #2151, as modified, to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. Adopted. (67-31) · Motion to invoke cloture on S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, as amended. Invoked. (67-31) · Motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. Agreed to. (67-31) · Passage of S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, as amended. Passed. (67-31) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Invoked. (79-19)   Executive Session - noms cleared: PN 1357 - Jeffrey DeWit, of Arizona, to be Chief Financial Officer, National Aeronautics and Space Administration.   Wrap Up: S.Res.436 – Girl Scouts DOT-18-0010-A-000530 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000530 S.188 – EGO Act concur in the House amendment H.R.2154 – Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center     Now..a note about rolling back Dodd Frank –   NOTE: The Senate on Wednesday passed a milestone bank deregulation bill that would mark the biggest rollback of financial rules since the 2008 market meltdown. Senate passes landmark bank deregulation bill By Zachary Warmbrodt 03/14/2018 07:08 PM EDT The Senate on Wednesday passed a milestone bank deregulation bill that would mark the biggest rollback of financial rules since the 2008 market meltdown. On a day when Wall Street was observing the 10th anniversary of the Bear Stearns investment bank bailout — a pivotal moment in the global financial crisis — the Senate agreed in a 67-31 bipartisan vote to overhaul a wide range of regulations imposed on small and large lenders in the years since. Yet as the dust settled after a fiery two-week debate, the bill's backers faced the possibility that getting the legislation to President Donald Trump's desk would be delayed — or even derailed — as House Republicans vowed to put their stamp on it. "My job is to represent the House, and we've got a lot of good bills that we want to talk to the Senate about," House Financial Services Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas) said in an interview. "I'm surprised that anybody thought we'd merely rubber-stamp their product." Still, the bill, which was years in the making, was a rare bipartisan accomplishment at a time when Congress is gridlocked on almost all major issues. Sixteen moderate Senate Democrats helped Republicans pass the bill. It was an unusual moment of political unity that sparked a public feud in which the Democratic Party's progressive wing went to war with its more business-friendly centrists. Liberal icon and potential 2020 presidential candidate Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led the charge against the bill. She chastised fellow Democrats by name for backing proposals she said would put consumers at risk and undo key parts of the Dodd-Frank Act, the milestone 2010 law that imposed a raft of new regulations on banks. "There are so many problems the American people are asking us to solve," Warren said Wednesday. "But not one single person at any of my town halls, or meetings, or press interviews, or picking up pizza at Armando's, asked for Congress to work on rolling back the rules on some of the biggest banks in the country so they'll have a chance to crash the economy again." The issue exposed a deep rift inside the party as it struggles with a tug-of-war over what it DOT-18-0010-A-000531 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000531 stands for. "It took a Republican majority with a Republican president for this bill to move because the core of the Democratic Party opposes these kinds of efforts to weaken Wall Street reform," said Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who rallied opposition against the legislation as the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Committee. The bill was the product of years of talks between Senate Banking Chairman Mike Crapo (RIdaho) and a core group of moderate Democrats: Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Jon Tester (DMont.), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.). The Democrats who drafted the bill, including several up for reelection in states that Trump won in 2016, argued that it was an example of Congress finally getting something done that would help the economy. They tried to emphasize the benefits for the smallest lenders and their customers, particularly those in rural areas. They rejected attacks that the bill would blow a hole in regulatory oversight of the biggest Wall Street players. "I don't recognize the bill that's being debated here in the United States Senate because it's not the bill that's been written," co-sponsor Heitkamp said on the Senate floor Tuesday as she rebutted claims from Warren and others. Without a doubt, the bill would have a broad impact on banks and consumers. Included in the legislation: relaxed mortgage regulations for small banks; exemptions from stricter oversight for household-name firms like American Express and SunTrust with $50 billion to $250 billion in assets; and easier capital and liquidity requirements for several of the country's biggest financial institutions, such as BNY Mellon and Citigroup. Beyond the rollbacks, all consumers would be entitled to free credit freezes from creditreporting companies like Equifax. Active-duty members of the military would get free credit monitoring. Another provision would establish new protections for veterans who refinance their mortgages. While the bill is a huge victory for bank lobbyists who have been working to curb Dodd-Frank since it was first drafted, the industry will keep pushing lawmakers and regulators for carveouts in the years to come. "This is a first step," American Bankers Association President and CEO Rob Nichols said. The White House has signaled that Trump would likely sign the bill, after he promised to scale back the Dodd-Frank law, one of former President Barack Obama's biggest achievements. But despite the widespread political support for the legislation, the path forward through the House was unclear. Hensarling, the House Financial Services Committee chairman, has brushed off the idea that the House GOP will simply accept the Senate's legislation — raising the likelihood of a showdown that could drag on for months. An outspoken free-market conservative, Hensarling is set to retire at the end of this Congress AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000532 DOT_Am.Oversight-000532 with a reputation for sometimes favoring ideology over pragmatism, even if it means being rolled by fellow Republicans. He has spent years since the passage of Dodd-Frank advancing deregulatory bills through the House, including his sweeping Financial CHOICE Act that Republicans passed last year without a single Democratic vote. But over the last several months, he has put an emphasis on moving bipartisan legislation, including some proposals that have the backing of liberals such as Rep. Maxine Waters (DCalif.), the top-ranking Democrat on his committee. As it became clear last week that the Senate would not incorporate more of the bipartisan bills he has ushered through the House, Hensarling circulated a list of some 30 proposals he wanted to be considered before the package went to Trump. "There's not a Dodd Act or a Frank Act," Hensarling said Wednesday morning. "There's a Dodd-Frank Act because the House went to conference with the Senate." Hensarling's pledge to keep tweaking the legislation is presenting an opportunity for lobbyists who were dissatisfied with the Senate compromise — including those working for large banks and insurance companies. But it has alarmed representatives from other financial institutions that got what they wanted in the bill and want it signed into law as soon as possible. Some said they will press the House to just take the deal the Senate is delivering. "Based on my meeting with the president, based on my meetings with both the House and Senate, it seems like we have a good bill that could become law very quickly if House leadership would allow that to happen," said Jim Nussle, a former House member who now serves as CEO of the Credit Union National Association. Senate Democrats who toiled for years to pass the bill are daring Hensarling to amend the legislation, which they say rests on a delicate political foundation. They say they have no expectation of having to vote on the bill again — a projection that, one way or another, Hensarling will fail as he makes one last stand to cement his legacy. "It's unfortunate," Tester of Montana said. "If he adds a bunch of crazy shit, it's going to die. That's just the way it is." https://www.politicopro.com/financial-services/article/2018/03/senate-passes-landmark-bankderegulation-bill-416037 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000533 DOT_Am.Oversight-000533 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Immigration Tuesday, February 13, 2018 8:06:21 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed (MTP) to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration. We are still post-cloture on the motion to proceed – meaning we are in the “30 hours post-cloture” on the MTP (FYI: all time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business, and Leader remarks counts post-cloture on the motion to proceed).   Normally, the entire 30 hours of post-cloture debate on the MTP isn’t used, but today Democrats objected to setting up amendment votes, and thus objected to moving this debate forward – so we are still in the 30 hours until tomorrow. As the Leader has noted, and Stew also points out in his note below, everyone has known for weeks that this Immigration debate would begin this week, so there has been ample time to draft and file amendments. Currently, as of tonight there are 14 amendments filed to the bill (13 R, 1 D).   Example of a floor exchange today -- regarding whether or not we should begin debate and set up votes:   12:07 PM (McConnell and Schumer exchange below – a similar exchange occurred between Leader McConnell and Senator Durbin tonight, in which Democrats make clear that they would like to choose which R amendments they would like to vote on. In contrast, Leader McConnell makes an important point – we can start setting up amendment votes for each side, and vote on the amendments of each side’s choosing – emphasis below).   MR. MCCONNELL: Now, Mr. President, for months senators have been clamoring for a floor debate on DACA, border security, and other urgent issues pertaining to immigration. We certainly had ample time to prepare. Now the week we set aside for this debate has arrived. The week my democratic colleagues insisted that we dedicate to this issue. The clock is ticking but the debate has yet to begin. That's because our democratic colleagues have yet to yield back any of their post-cloture time so we can begin this important debate. If we're going to resolve these matters this week, we need to get moving. In my view, the proposal unveiled yesterday by Senator Grassley and a number of other senators offers our best chance to find a solution. I've committed that an amendment process will be fair and both sides will have the opportunity to submit ideas for debate, for votes. But for that to happen, our colleagues will have to actually introduce their own amendments rather than just talk about them. My colleague, Senator Toomey, for example, had done just that. He's put forward an amendment to address one of the most glaring aspects of our nation's broken immigration system, sanctuary cities. I see no reason to further delay consideration of this and other substantive proposals. So let's start by setting up a vote on his amendment and an amendment for my democratic colleagues, an amendment of their choosing, not mine. With their consent we can start the debate and have the first two amendment votes. So, Mr. President, consistent with that, I would ask consent that at 2:15 today, the motion to proceed to H. R. 2579 be agreed to. I ask unanimous consent that Senator Toomey or his designee be recognized to offer amendment 1948, and that the democratic leader or his designee be recognized to offer an amendment. Further, that the time until 3:30 P. M. Be equally divided between the leaders or their designees and that following the use or yielding back of that time, the Senate vote on the amendments in the order listed with 60 affirmative votes required for adoption and that no second-degree amendments be in order prior to the votes. Finally, that if any of the amendments are adopted, they become original text for purpose of further amendment. Mr. Schumer: Mr. President? DOT-18-0010-A-000534 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000534 THE PRESIDING OFFICER: Is there objection? MR. SCHUMER: Reserving the right to object. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: The democratic leader. MR. SCHUMER: Mr. President, I appreciate the process the majority leader agreed to this week, but the proposal he just offered does not address the underlying issues of this debate, why we're here. It doesn't address dreamers nor does it address border security. As I said this morning, the Senate must focus on finding a bipartisan solution that addresses those two issues, dreamers and border security. Rather than the partisan proposal offered by the Republican leader, I suggest we consider two proposals inside the scope of debate. One for each side. Let the Republicans offer the president's plan in the form of legislation carried by the senators from Iowa and Arkansas, which the leader supports, and the democrats will offer the bipartisan Coons-McCain bill, narrow legislation that protects the dreamers, boosts border security, and adds resources for immigration courts. Each is the opening foray, one for democrats, one for republicans, and can start the process and let us know where we stand. Our legislation is ready to go and we'd be happy to vote as soon as the Republicans have their proposal drafted and ready for an amendment vote. To begin this debate as the Republican leader suggests would be getting off on the wrong foot, unrelated to DACA, very partisan. Respectfully, I suggest we move to the bills offered by senators Grassley and Senator Coons instead. Let's get this debate started on the right foot. So I object to the leader's request. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: The objection is heard.   As a reminder, the Senate invoked cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration, yesterday, 97-1.   Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 14th: the Senate will convene at 10:00 am. Following Leader remarks (at approximately 10:30 am) the Senate will proceed to vote on the motion to proceed to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Today in the Senate (Tuesday, February 13, 2018): Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate. Executive Session: Cal. #155 - Adam J. Sullivan, of Iowa, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation. Cal. #261 - Ronald L. Batory, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. Cal. #469 - Raymond Martinez, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate.   Thanks, Erica DOT-18-0010-A-000535 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000535   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  I don’t get it either Remember, Senate Democrats insisted on having an immigration debate this week. In fact, they shut down the government over it. They’ve known the debate would be this week for about a month now. Yet for the second day in a row, Senate Democrats have objected to actually starting debate on DACA/immigration/border security (if you don’t understand their obstruction, you’re not alone—I don’t get it either). The Majority Leader asked consent again this evening to have amendment votes tonight (Coons and Toomey). Sen. Durbin objected to having votes. So, the post-cloture time will continue to run overnight, and the Senate will convene at 10:00 tomorrow and we’ll finally be on the underlying House shell bill (the Dems can no longer stall the motion to proceed at that point). The Senate will adopt the motion to proceed following Leader remarks in the morning. That’s the good news. The bad news is that Dems can continue to object to voting on amendments tomorrow. And they likely will. Again, I don’t understand it either—you’ll need to ask them to explain it. And while Sen. Schumer today said “the sooner, the better” on wrapping up this debate, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in a letter to Sens. Schumer and McConnell today urged the Senate to “work swiftly,” Democrats continue to stall. Just last week, Sen. Schumer said that Democrats are “ready to proceed to a neutral bill—a shell bill— on immigration next week,” and that the Majority Leader “has guaranteed an amendment process, fair on all sides, where we will alternate amendments. That means some of the people who are on the very conservative side will get amendments and some on the very liberal side” will get votes. (Sen. Schumer, Congressional Record, S.795, 2/8/2018)   Yet this week, he objected to proceeding to the neutral bill by refusing to yield back post-cloture time for the second day in a row. He also now refuses to allow alternating amendments from both sides—unless he gets to pick both sides’ amendments and the order in which the Senate votes. That’s not the commitment the Majority Leader made to the Senate. Tomorrow will be a new day, and another chance for Democrats to stop objecting and start voting. But remember, having amendment votes tomorrow requires consent, and Democrats can object if they want to object. Here’s hoping that they won’t. While you’re waiting, maybe you can go here and find a new best friend. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000536 DOT_Am.Oversight-000536 STEW @StewSays     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S.• SENATORft>r- KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2Hbn0H9                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2EZqFab On Immigration Reform, Border Security, Senate Needs to Look Past Talking Points, Focus on Making Law ‘Yesterday, a number of my colleagues announced a reasonable proposal that I believe is our best chance to make law… Their solution provides funding to secure the border, reforms extended family chain migration, and recalibrates the visa lottery program. This proposal has my support. And during this week of fair debate, I believe it deserves the support of every senator who is ready to move beyond making points and make law.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the immigration and border security debate: “Yesterday, the Senate took an initial step toward considering proposals to address DACA, border security, and other immigration issues. This week’s debate comes as no surprise to my colleagues. For a month now, I’ve repeatedly stated my intention to bring these issues to the Senate floor following a government funding agreement. Senators have had plenty of time to prepare. “There is no reason why we should not reach a bipartisan solution this week. But to do this, we need to get the debate started, look past making political points, and focus on making law. Making law will take sixty votes in the Senate, a majority in the House, and the president’s signature. “Yesterday, a number of my colleagues announced a reasonable proposal that I believe is our best chance to make law. It attends to my Democratic colleagues’ stated top priority: A compassionate solution for 1.8 million illegal immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. In exchange, it also delivers on the president’s stated conditions. Their solution provides funding to secure the border, reforms extended family chain migration, and recalibrates the visa lottery program. “This proposal has my support. And during this week of fair debate, I believe it deserves the support of every senator who is ready to move beyond making points and make law. But if other proposals are to be considered, our colleagues will have to actually introduce their own amendments, rather than just talk about them. I made a commitment to hold this debate, and to hold it this week. I have lived up to my commitment. I hope everyone will cooperate so this opportunity does not go to waste.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000537 DOT_Am.Oversight-000537 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2Bu6nGq                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Ep55iD American Households Seeing Lower Utility Bills Thanks To Tax Reform ‘Recently, Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest utility, announced that their savings from tax reform will completely cover the costs of rebuilding critical infrastructure in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Absent tax reform, consumers would have paid for much of the repairs, in the form of higher rates. Now the utility can cover the cost itself, saving Florida families an average of $250. And in other states, from Montana to Massachusetts to my home state of Kentucky, utilities are planning to directly pass along their savings by cutting consumers’ monthly bills.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “Last week, as part of our bipartisan funding agreement, the Senate approved much-needed disaster relief for communities hit by last year’s devastating storms. This was an important accomplishment. But it isn’t the only way this Congress has helped Americans begin to rebuild. “Recently, Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest utility, announced that their savings from tax reform will completely cover the costs of rebuilding critical infrastructure in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Absent tax reform, consumers would have paid for much of the repairs, in the form of higher rates. Now the utility can cover the cost itself, saving Florida families an average of $250. “And in other states, from Montana to Massachusetts to my home state of Kentucky, utilities are planning to directly pass along their savings by cutting consumers’ monthly bills. Of course, lower utility rates aren’t the only way tax reform is helping middle-class Americans. Week after week, the headlines are full of more bonuses, more pay raises, and more new benefits for hardworking Americans as a direct result of tax reform. “With all this good news pouring in, it’s easy to forget just how hotly the debate over tax reform was contested. Republicans argued that letting middle-class families keep more of their own money and giving American job creators a twenty-first-century tax code would unleash more prosperity and directly help American workers. “My Democratic colleagues gambled on a different prediction. Every single House Democrat voted in lock-step with their Leader. She predicted tax reform would bring about, quote, ‘Armageddon.’ Every single Democrat here in the Senate rallied behind their Leader, my friend from New York. He declared there was, quote, ‘nothing about this bill that suits the needs of the American worker.’ “We always knew one side would be proven wrong. Either tax reform would benefit middle-class families and help reignite the economy, or it would not. Well, the early results speak for themselves. “In the great state of Missouri, 20 companies and counting have already announced tax reform bonuses, raises, or benefits. That includes thousand-dollar bonuses for 2,500 workers at Central DOT-18-0010-A-000538 DOT_Am.Oversight-000538 Bank of St. Louis. And at Great Southern Bank in Springfield. And more bonuses at Mid-Am Metal Forming in Rogersville. One of the senators from Missouri voted for the policy that made all this happen. Their other senator tried to block it. “In Ohio, tax reform has already led Jergens to double employees’ annual raise. It’s enabled Sheffer Corporation, a cylinder manufacturer, to give workers four-figure bonuses. Here’s how Sheffer’s CEO responded to the Democrats who’ve been trying to talk down these bonuses: Quote, ‘Some people have said that’s ‘crumbs,’ but for the Sheffer people, we consider that fine dining.’ “And remember, these bonuses and pay raises are just the tip of the spear. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act also directly helps families by cutting tax rates and expanding deductions. In every paycheck, American workers will keep more of what they earn. “But only one senator from Ohio voted to put all this middle-class progress on the menu. Because every single Democrat in the Senate and the House voted to stop tax reform. Fortunately for middle-class families in Missouri, in Ohio, in Kentucky, and across the nation, Republicans overcame the obstruction and passed this historic bill.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000539 DOT_Am.Oversight-000539 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- Immigration Wednesday, February 14, 2018 9:09:28 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate was in session today and did not vote (again) for the third day this week due to objections from Democrats to setting up amendment votes. Not much has changed since my note on this topic yesterday, and please read Stew’s note at the bottom of this email for more color.   After another day of trying to set up alternating votes with Democrats (and their objecting), Leader McConnell filed cloture on the four pending amendments. We hope to have consent tomorrow to have these votes, but if there is no consent the votes will occur Friday morning, under regular order. We will vote on the amendments in the order Leader McConnell filed cloture –   The Leader has filed cloture on the following amendments in relation to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration: 1. Durbin for Coons amendment #1955 (Uniting and Securing America Act of 2018) 2. Toomey amendment #1948 (Sanctuary Cities) 3. Schumer amendment #1958 as modified (the text of which is identical to Rounds/King amendment #2010, the Immigration Security and Opportunity Act) 4. Grassley amendment #1959 (SECURE and SUCCEED Act)   The Senate will convene at 10:00 am tomorrow, Thursday, February 15th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration.   Today in the Senate (February 14, 2018): Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate – I think you know why.   Executive Session: Cal. #586 - Margaret Weichert, of Georgia, to be Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget. United States Coast Guard PN474-02 - The following to be to be Rear Admiral: Rear Adm. (lh) Steven J. Andersen Rear Adm. (lh) Keith M. Smith   Wrap Up: S.2246 – Tallahassee VA Naming S.Res.406 – Legal Counsel Happy Valentine’s Day! DOT-18-0010-A-000540 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000540 ~ c¼2 "l d,,m'tt11rrifrlx 11-1-. u tt;pr d~,urr . Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   A note from Stew -- (b) (6) To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE: Vote update I’ll say it again: Senate Democrats insisted on having an immigration debate this week. In fact, they shut down the government over this issue. They’ve known the debate would be this week for about a month now. But Senate Democrats still don’t have a plan and for the third day in a row are objecting to actually voting on anything. There were no amendment votes today. Again. So, the Majority Leader filed cloture on all four pending amendments to ensure we can at least vote on those. If Sen. Schumer won’t consent to a vote on their amendments, we’ll make sure the amendments at least get a cloture vote. The Leader filed cloture on all four pending amendments: Durbin (for Coons), Toomey, Schumer as modified (for Rounds), Grassley. The cloture votes on those amendments will happen in the order cloture was filed. If an amendment gets 60 votes for cloture, there will then be up to 30 hours of post-cloture time, and the amendment itself is open for amendments. If cloture is not invoked on the first amendment, the Senate will have a cloture vote on the next one (and so on). Under the regular order, the first cloture vote would be on Friday morning, but I predict Democrats will ultimately consent to hold the votes tomorrow. Remember, the Majority Leader lived up to his word and scheduled the debate this week as he committed to doing. He went a step further and proceeded to a neutral bill instead of one of his choosing. He opened the floor to amendments. And he did not “fill the tree.” Despite all of that, Democrats stalled even the basic consideration of the bill until this morning (only because they could no longer delay the motion to proceed), and have objected to voting on amendments all week. Senate Democrats shut down the government over DACA, yet despite having a month to prepare for this week’s debate, Senate Democrats didn’t come into the week with a proposal. Sen. Durbin, a prime proponent of the shutdown-for-DACA strategy, still hasn’t introduced the Durbin bill. I really can’t explain DOT-18-0010-A-000541 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000541 it. On the bright side, you can find some smiles here. STEW @StewSays   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000542 DOT_Am.Oversight-000542 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - judges Monday, January 08, 2018 6:37:16 PM Good evening, The Senate is in session and just voted on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #370, William L. Campbell, Jr., of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee (cloture invoked, 89-1). ICYMI: last week Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following judicial nominations in the following order – votes on these nominations will take up the balance of this week. 1. Cal. #370 - William L. Campbell, Jr., of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee. 2. Cal. #371 - Thomas Lee Robinson Parker, of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Tennessee. 3. Cal. #389 - Michael Lawrence Brown, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Georgia. 4. Cal. #435, Walter David Counts III, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas. Please see a National Review op-ed below from Leader McConnell and Judiciary Chairman Grassley on the historic year for the judiciary in 2017 – more to come! Thanks, Erica PS. List additions: I recently added many of you to my larger listserve during the tax debate. If you would prefer to not receive a daily Senate update email please let me know and I will remove you – I try to send out one email a day when the Senate is in session (updates span all issue areas/whatever is on the Senate floor, press releases, op-eds, messaging, etc.). Thanks and Happy New Year!   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000543 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000543 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, January 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2AHcRNX                 Op-Ed Link: http://bit.ly/2FfgwWB McConnell and Grassley Op-Ed: A Historic Year for the Federal Judiciary ‘In 2017, the Senate evaluated and confirmed a record number of nominations to the circuit courts. One of the most significant accomplishments in President Donald Trump’s first year will serve Americans for decades to come, yet it has received very little fanfare. In the months since taking the oath of office, Trump has sent a steady stream of impressive federal-court nominees to the Senate for our consideration. And the result has been historic.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) published the following op-ed on NationalReview.com:   “In 2017, the Senate evaluated and confirmed a record number of nominations to the circuit courts. One of the most significant accomplishments in President Donald Trump’s first year will serve Americans for decades to come, yet it has received very little fanfare. In the months since taking the oath of office, Trump has sent a steady stream of impressive federal-court nominees to the Senate for our consideration. And the result has been historic.   “After starting the year off with the confirmation of Neil M. Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court, the Senate has focused much of its attention on evaluating Trump’s candidates for lower-court vacancies. All told, the Senate confirmed a record twelve nominees to appellate courts — more than have been confirmed in the first year of any president since the creation of the circuit courts in 1891. “But it should come as no surprise that filling judicial vacancies is an important priority for both the president and the Senate. During the lead-up to the presidential election, then-candidate Trump offered voters a unique window into his ideas for how best to execute one of the president’s most significant duties, duties, which has a lasting impact. By publicizing lists of potential Supreme Court nominees, Trump signaled to the nation that, if elected, he would focus on filling federal-court vacancies with highly respected legal minds who uphold the Founders’ original intentions and the letter of the law. “The job of a judge is to deliver justice based on the meaning of the law and the Constitution at the time they were adopted, rather than his or her own policy preferences. A judiciary that veers away from these constraints risks upsetting the balance of power that holds each branch of government in check. That’s why it is critical that we appoint and confirm fair-minded jurists who strictly adhere to the text of our founding documents and the laws passed by the people’s representatives in Congress. It’s critical not only for pursuit of justice but also for our system of government. “In the Senate, we’ve been hard at work fulfilling our constitutional “advice and consent” role in the nominations process.    Evaluating these nominations is serious business. Each nominee is thoroughly scrutinized by senators and staff who spend countless hours poring over nominees’ personal backgrounds, qualifications, and professional histories. In the Senate Judiciary Committee, nominees face questions under the bright lights, from both Republicans and Democrats. Nominees often must answer follow-up questions before the committee will cast a vote on whether to send the nomination to the full Senate for further evaluation. It’s a time-tested process that helps ensure that a nominee is fit to serve as a federal judge for life. “Despite a coordinated obstruction campaign by Democrats, the Senate confirmed 19 exceptionally well-qualified federal judges this year, including Justice Gorsuch and the record-setting twelve circuit-court judges. Together, they embody a legacy of jurists dedicated to interpreting the law and the Constitution as written regardless of their own policy preferences or personal views. After all, DOT-18-0010-A-000544 DOT_Am.Oversight-000544 judges were never intended to be lawmakers in robes. “They also embody a diverse and well-rounded array of legal experience. Of the twelve newly minted circuit court judges, seven previously clerked for U.S. Supreme Court justices. Ten clerked at the federal appellate level. Five judges have prior experience on the bench at the federal district or state level. Judges Allison Eid, Joan Larsen, and Don Willett served as Supreme Court justices for their respective states. Half of the class served at various posts in the Justice Department, and five judges previously held state government positions in the legal discipline. Seven hail from academia, including Judges Joan Larsen and Stephanos Bibas. Judge Amul Thapar is the first South Asian appointed as a federal judge and the first appointed to the Sixth Circuit. Judge James Ho is the first Asian American appointed to the Fifth Circuit. All twelve earned their stripes in private practice, including many highly esteemed law firms. “We’ve accomplished a lot this year, but we still have a long way to go. We will continue to work with the president to evaluate and approve highly qualified nominees who will help ensure that the federal judiciary fulfills its proper role in our constitutional system.”   ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S K.EN·TUCKY - . SENATOR for - - - For Immediate Release, Monday, January 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2qDRldb                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2qJkoMu Needless Democrat Obstruction Continues in Judicial Confirmation Process ‘Their goal is to waste the Senate’s time and prevent the president from promptly filling judicial vacancies. 2017 was an historic year of partisan obstruction by our Democratic colleagues. Even for uncontroversial judges who went on to unanimous or near-unanimous confirmation votes, my colleagues across the aisle used every possible procedural roadblock to delay and drag their heels. Now 2018 is starting off the same way.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the continued Democrat obstruction in the judicial confirmation process:    “Later today, the Senate will vote to advance the nomination of William L. Campbell, Jr. to serve as a United States District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee. Mr. Campbell’s nomination is not controversial. Like the other three district court nominees before the Senate this week, he is well-qualified. They are the kind of nominees who, until recently, would have sailed quickly and smoothly through the Senate.   “So why will their four nominations consume a week of the Senate’s attention? Why do we need to file cloture on each, and then exhaust the full thirty hours of debate? Because Senate Democrats are choosing – for partisan reasons – to make these nominations take as long as possible.   “Their goal is to waste the Senate’s time and prevent the president from promptly filling judicial vacancies. 2017 was an historic year of partisan obstruction by our Democratic colleagues. Even for uncontroversial judges who went on to unanimous or near-unanimous confirmation votes, my DOT-18-0010-A-000545 DOT_Am.Oversight-000545 colleagues across the aisle used every possible procedural roadblock to delay and drag their heels. Now 2018 is starting off the same way.   “Mr. Campbell is a Marine Corps veteran and a well-respected attorney. His record is not partisan. His nomination was reported out of the Judiciary Committee by voice vote. I look forward to the Senate confirming him, albeit after our Democratic colleagues waste more of the Senate’s time. And I implore my Democratic colleagues to turn the page on the needless obstruction and permit the Senate to function smoothly – so we can attend to more of the people’s business.” ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000546 DOT_Am.Oversight-000546 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - MTP to Immigration Monday, February 12, 2018 6:14:24 PM FYI: Cloture was invoked on the Motion to Proceed to the vehicle for the immigration bill (H.R. 2579) -- Invoked, 97-1.       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000547 DOT_Am.Oversight-000547 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - NDAA Wednesday, June 13, 2018 7:41:27 PM Hi everyone, The Senate was in session today processing NDAA. The Senate will convene at 9:30 am tomorrow, Thursday, June 14th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.5515, NDAA, with the time until the cloture vote equally divided between the two managers of their designees. At 9:30 am there will be a filing deadline for all second degree amendments to Toomey amendment #2700 (REINS on CFIUS). *Please note, if cloture is not invoked on Toomey #2700, the filing deadline for all second degree amendments to Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as modified, will occur at approximately 10:00 am. At 10:30 am, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Toomey amendment #2700 (REINS on CFIUS). Under the regular order, if cloture is not invoked on Toomey amendment #2700, the Senate will immediately proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as modified, in relation to H.R. 5515, NDAA.   Today in the Senate (Wednesday, June 13): Roll Call Votes: Motion to table Reed Amendment #2842, in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. Not agreed to. (47-51) Motion to table Lee Amendment #2366, to H.R.5515, NDAA. Not agreed to. (30-68) Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate. Looking Ahead: Nominations, NDAA, Appropriations, Water Infrastructure, Farm Bill.   Please see the Leader’s remarks from this morning on NDAA and the economy.   Thanks, Erica Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000548 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000548 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2yaVJEo                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2MmfQTb Defense Bill Critical To America’s 21st Century Military  ‘The legislation before us sends a clear message to our men and women in uniform. It tells them that we have their backs. After years of uncertain funding and arbitrary spending limits, we have their backs. In the face of diverse and evolving threats, we have their backs. When I vote, I’ll do it to tell the brave Kentuckians serving at home and abroad that we have their backs. I would hope that each of my colleagues does the same. This bill was crafted in a thorough, bipartisan committee process, and was modified to include more than forty amendments. I look forward to concluding our consideration and passing this NDAA soon.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):  “Last week, Secretary of Defense Mattis met with our NATO allies in Brussels. He offered an important reminder. Quote, ‘threats to our collective security have not waned.’ In other words, it remains a challenging time to defend our nation, our interests and our values.Secretary Mattis has been consistent. Our new National Defense Strategy makes this clear. “Though we face a constant threat from international terrorism, our nation must also enhance our capabilities for a renewed era of international competition between great powers. He, along with our senior military commanders, have shared this message with Congress time and time again. They’ve detailed our servicemembers’ pressing needs, and explained the importance of steady resources in the face of evolving threats. We heard them loud and clear. “Earlier this year, our bipartisan spending agreement eliminated harmful, arbitrary limits on defense spending and delivered the largest year-on-year increase in funding for our military in a fifteen years. Now it’s time to build on this progress and pass our fifty-eighth annual defense authorization bill. This year’s NDAA is rightly named for our friend and colleague Senator McCain. It would authorize $716 billion to equip and train America’s 21st-century forces to meet and overcome today’s challenges. “As the Iranian regime continues its aggressive efforts to expand its sphere of influence throughout the Middle East, this bill will empower our forces to support our strategic partnerships in the region. As China continues testing the boundaries of its power in the Pacific region, the NDAA will extend the authority of the Indo-Pacific maritime security initiative and extend the reach and readiness of naval and air forces within U.S. Pacific Command. And as Russia persists in its efforts to destabilize western democracies and sow doubt within NATO, the bill before us would enhance multilateral security cooperation throughout the alliance and give U.S. Cyber Command the resources to disrupt, deter, and defeat cyber-aggression. “The legislation before us sends a clear message to our men and women in uniform. It tells them that we have their backs. After years of uncertain funding and arbitrary spending limits, we have their backs. In the face of diverse and evolving threats, we have their backs. When I vote, I’ll do it to tell the brave Kentuckians serving at home and abroad that we have their backs. I would hope that each of my colleagues does the same. This bill was crafted in a thorough, bipartisan committee process, and was modified to include more than forty amendments. I look forward to concluding our consideration and passing this NDAA soon.” ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000549 DOT_Am.Oversight-000549   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' u.s. SENATOR for KEN.TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2l8sybK                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2MqePJt More Jobs, More Wage Growth, More Opportunities ‘Transformative new equipment purchases for Main Street small businesses. Pay raises for hardworking middle-class employees. New job openings all over the country, so that new workers just starting out have more opportunities and mid-career professionals who’ve been on the sidelines have the opportunity to clock back in… It’s exactly what we hoped to achieve. It’s exactly the result that our policies were meant to help produce.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “There’s been no shortage of recent reporting on the economic progress that is flooding across our country. Take a New York Times headline from earlier this month: ‘We Ran Out of Words to Describe How Good the Jobs Numbers Are.’ Or this, from a Wall Street Journal editorial: ‘The U.S. economy is picking up speed, and it’s paying dividends in an expanding job market… President Trump’s tax reform and deregulation agenda appears to be working.’ And here’s a welcome development for America’s parents: Quote, ‘Workers age 25 to 34 made up 1.04 million of the 2.58 million jobs added over the last year… Job and wage growth may finally be inducing young people out of their parents’ basements.’ “More jobs. More wage growth. More opportunities for middle-class Americans. It’s good news, plain and simple. Well, apparently it’s not so simple for our friends across the aisle. Because, while Republicans and the rest of the country are cheering on this new prosperity for working families, our Democratic friends are trying to pretend that the facts don’t matter and things aren’t actually getting better. “Here’s how the leader of the House Democrats, the distinguished congresswoman from San Francisco, tried to sarcastically brush away the facts a few days ago: Quote – ‘Hip-hip-hooray. Unemployment is down. What does that mean to me?’ I couldn’t make this up. ‘Hip-hip-hooray,’ she scoffs. Unemployment at an 18-year low. The fewest Americans on unemployment insurance since 1973. And Democratic leadership can’t quite fathom why this would matter for American families and small business owners. “Well, I know plenty of families and job-creators in Kentucky who’d be happy to explain. Texas Roadhouse is a restaurant chain based in Louisville that employs more than 2,500 Kentuckians. They shared recently that tax reform will allow them to invest in their company, customers, and employees. Plus, this economic climate has them planning to open 30 new locations across the country next year. Maybe the new cooks and wait staff at thirty new restaurants could explain to the House Democratic Leader why a falling unemployment rate is a victory for American families. “Just today, Glier’s Meats in Covington, Kentucky is sharing similarly good news. Tax reform is enabling this small business, famous for its German-inspired sausage to make life better for its nearly 30 employees and plant deeper roots in Kenton County. Since the new law passed in December, Glier’s has been able to make capital investments, including new machinery, which is critical to the daily operations of the business. “They’ve been able to resume offering comprehensive health benefits -- which they had to give up DOT-18-0010-A-000550 DOT_Am.Oversight-000550 six years ago as costs soared under Obamacare. They’ve been able to significantly increase employee wages, and they’re on track to hire 5 new workers in the coming months. Our Kentucky State Treasurer, Allison Ball, had it just right in a recent column: Quote, ‘Kentuckians have immediately benefited from federal tax reform.’ “And these immediate benefits are only the beginning. More and more stories like these are being written all the time, as tax reform, regulatory reform, and the rest of Republicans’ opportunity agenda continues helping American workers and job creators. Transformative new equipment purchases for Main Street small businesses. Pay raises for hardworking middle-class employees. New job openings all over the country, so that new workers just starting out have more opportunities and mid-career professionals who’ve been on the sidelines have the opportunity to clock back in. “Unlike leading Democrats, apparently, Republicans don’t need it explained to us why this news matters to workers and families. It’s exactly what we hoped to achieve. It’s exactly the result that our policies were meant to help produce. The distinction couldn’t be clearer. On one side of the aisle are those who mock multi-thousand-dollar tax reform bonuses as ‘crumbs’... who can’t grasp why an 18-year low in unemployment would matter to American families. And on the other side of the aisle are those of us who helped make it happen.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000551 DOT_Am.Oversight-000551 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - NDAA Thursday, June 14, 2018 1:11:16 PM Hi everyone - in case you missed the Leader on the floor just now –   At 1:45 pm the Senate will proceed to up to 5 roll call votes in relation to the following in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA:   1.         Rounds #2273 (re: Transition Assistance Program) (expected to be withdrawn) 2.         Reed #2885 (re: McCain fellowship) 3.         Boozman #2276 (re: US troops in Poland) 4.         Adoption of Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as modified, as amended, if amended 5.         Motion to invoke cloture on H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended, if amended     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000552 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000552 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - NDAA Tuesday, June 12, 2018 8:27:11 PM image001.png Good evening,   The Senate was in session today, processing H.R. 5515, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate will convene at 9:30 am tomorrow and resume consideration of NDAA.   Tonight, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following -  • McConnell (for Toomey) Amendment #2700 to Inhofe Amendment #2282, as modified, to H.R. 5515, the NDAA (to require congressional review of certain regulations issued by CFIUS) • Inhofe Amendment #2282, as modified, to H.R. 5515, NDAA (this is the substitute amendment – the Senate Armed Services Committee reported NDAA bill + the managers package) • H.R. 5515, NDAA (the underlying bill)   *Note: the first degree filing deadline with respect to the above cloture motions filed during today’s session of the Senate will occur at 1:00 pm tomorrow.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, June 11): Roll Call Votes: Motion to proceed to H.R. 5515, the National Defense Authorization Act. Agreed to. (91-4)   Today in the Senate (Tuesday, June 12): Executive Session – noms cleared by consent: Cal. #835 - Christopher Krebs, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for National Protection and Programs, Department of Homeland Security.   Wrap Up: S.Res.542 – C.A.P.S. – CAPS! CAPS! CAPS! S.Res.543 – FSU Softball S.Res.544 – 20th Anniversary U.S. Coral Reef Task Force S.Res.545 – Pulse Nightclub Anniversary Cal. #377, H.R.2229 – All Circuit Review H.Con.Res.111 – FIFA   Rule 14 – added to the Senate Calendar: H.R.5895 – Appropriations Minibus   Below – please find information on the Managers Package amendments to the NDAA (45 amendments). Below that, please see a helpful document from Senate RPC on the NDAA.   Also – a reminder: the Senate Agriculture Committee will meet at 9:30 am tomorrow, Wednesday, June 13, to mark up the 2018 Farm Bill!   Thanks, Erica   NDAA Managers Package:   FYI: Last night Senator Inhofe made pending the substitute amendment #2282, as modified. This includes the SASC-reported NDAA bill, as well as the following amendments (“the managers package”):  DOT-18-0010-A-000553 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000553   1. Rounds #2273 - Require a report on participation in the Transition Assistance Program 2. Rounds #2275 - Require the conduct of a tier 1 exercise of support to civil authorities for a cyber-incident 3. Inhofe #2278 -  Millennium Challenge Corporation/USTR/USAID coordinate efforts re: free trade w/ subSaharan Africa 4. Reed #2283 - Clarify risk assessment reqs. of the Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs re: the National Military Strategy 5. Warner #2285 - Provide for special consideration in awarding DOD Cyber Scholarship Program scholarships and grants 6. Fischer #2286 - Ensure appropriate spectrum planning and interagency coordination to support the Internet of Things 7. Shaheen #2291 - Sense of Congress on KC-46A aerial refueling tanker emergent requirements 8. Feinstein #2293 - Provide for a release on restrictions on real property at University of California, San Diego 9. Peters #2313 - To improve title XXXV 10. Gillibrand #2335, AS MODIFIED - Expand opportunities to employee-owned business concerns through SBA loan programs 11. Heitkamp #2338 - Leverage academic and commercial progress in human machine teaming 12. Smith #2340 - Clarify Nat. Guard installations are included in Readiness/Environmental Protection Integration program 13. Cardin #2347 - Req. report on and to authorize technical assistance for, accountability for war crimes etc. in Syria 14. Wicker #2351 - Req. a business case analysis of Ready reserve Force recapitalization options 15. Inhofe #2353 - Make a technical amendment 16. Menendez #2360 - Auth. transfer of an excess naval vessel to Bahrain 17. Cortez Masto #2367 - Req. an Air Force report on training range requirements to address fifth generation threats 18. Hoeven #2368 - Req. report describing joint development of the long range stand-off weapon by the Air Force & NNSA 19. Perdue #2380 - Req. Def Sec to brief SASC/HASC on how DOD can leverage/partner with universities/industry on cyber 20. Heller #2392 - Req. a review of the effect of other-than-honorable discharges on veteran employment outcomes 21. Inhofe #2402 - Req. Comptroller Gen. to conduct a study on the availability of long term care options from VA 22. Sullivan #2408 - Analysis of potential partnerships w/ State/local private entities in report on cold weather capabilities 23. Nelson #2424 - Req. annual report on differences in ship repair contract and final delivery costs 24. Van Hollen #2426 - Prioritization for demolition w/in FSRM process re: environmental impacts over cost per square ft. 25. Inhofe #2429 - Remove the Rwandan Patriotic Front and Patriotic Army from treatment as a terrorist organization 26. Gardner #2430 - Req. briefing on potential courses of action to begin procurement of APNT solutions 27. Collins #2436 - Req. a report on strengthening NATO cyber defense 28. Young #2463 - Include in quarterly briefing on the F-35 assessment on sustainment costs 29. Cruz #2469 - Req. a core sampling study at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas 30. Nelson #2489 - Req. pln (sic.) from the Navy to allow increased public access to National Naval Aviation Museum 31. Wicker #2503 - Req. briefing on status of Army plan to transition to new insecticide pretreatments on uniforms 32. Manchin #2508 - Transportation to the continental US of retired Military Working dogs outside US for adoption 33. Roberts #2513 - Update Def. Fed. Acquisition Regulatory Supplement to include instruction on pilot prog. re: disabilities AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000554 DOT_Am.Oversight-000554 34. Cotton #2514 - Reinstate certain penalties imposed on certain Chinese telecom companies 35. Udall #2527 - Req. study on phasing out open burn pits and inform individuals who may be eligible for the registry 36. Stabenow #2537 - Sense of Congress re: Soo Locks 37. Donnelly #2542 - Req. additional strategy reqs. for procurement of a new transmission for Bradly Fighting Vehicle family 38. Lankford #2553 - Modify a provision re: removal of Turkey from the F-35 program 39. Fischer #2554 - Req. assessment of the operational requirements of Air Force airfields 40. Cardin #2562 - Report on narcotics trafficking/corruption/illicit campaign finance in Honduras/Guatemala/El Salvador 41. Rubio #2564 - Req. pilot program on testing machine vision tech. to determine authenticity/security of microelectronics 42. Reed #2636 - Make technical corrections to certain cyberspace related matters 43. Schumer #2757 - Provide additional amounts for inertial confinement fusion and high yield program of the NNSA 44. Menendez #2683 - Req. report on the arms embargo on Cyprus 45. Smith #2523 - Provide for the exchanges of Fed land in the Superior National Forest in Minnesota   Also -- please see this very helpful RPC Legislative Notice on the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for FY2019 --         l!IRPC Senator ,John Barrasso , Chairman J1me5, .2018   JOHN S. MCCAIN NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FY2019 NOTEWORTHY Background The Senate Armed Services Committee is expected to file its version of the National Defense Authorization Act on June 5, 2018. The committee voted on May 23 to advance this bill to the Senate floor by a vote of 25-2. The House passed its version of the NDAA, HR 5515, on May 24, 2018, by a vote of 351-66. Floor Situation: The Senate is expected to begin debate on the NDAA as soon as June 6, 2018.   Executive Summary: The fiscal year 2019 NDAA authorizes $707.7 billion for defense spending: $639.2 billion for the base budget (in line with the defense budget cap) and $68.5 billion for the overseas contingency operations budget. The bill authorizes a 2.6 percent pay raise for members of the armed forces, aligns the Department of Defense to achieve the goals in the most recent National Defense Strategy, prioritizes research and development into key technologies, and reforms the military personnel system. DOT-18-0010-A-000555 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000555   OVERVIEW OF THE ISSUE   The Department of Defense’s fiscal year 2019 budget request totaled $708.1 billion for national defense activities. Of that amount, $639.1 billion was for the defense base budget and $69.0 for the overseas contingency operation budget. The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019 authorizes appropriations for defense, military construction, and energy-related national security programs. The Senate Armed Services Committee-reported bill authorizes $639.2 billion for the base budget and $68.5 billion for OCO for a total of $707.7 billion.   CONSIDERATIONS ON THE BILL   The fiscal year 2019 NDAA will be the first Senate bill debated on the floor regarding increased spending for the Pentagon under the 2018 Balanced Budget Agreement that provided DoD with a base budget increase of $74 billion in real (inflation-adjusted) dollars. Senate floor consideration and conference of the National Defense Authorization Act is typically noncontroversial but has been delayed in recent years due to the debate on the share of defense spending compared to non-defense spending. Given the prior agreement on spending caps for both defense and non-defense spending from the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, the fiscal year 2019 NDAA is not likely to be encumbered with a larger budget debate.   NOTABLE BILL PROVISIONS Pay Raise and End Strength Increases the pay of all members of the armed forces by 2.6 percent, the highest pay raise in nearly a decade. Increases the Army end strength by more than 2,000 soldiers to 485,741. Increases the Navy end strength by more than 4,000 sailors to 331,900. Increases the Marine Corps end strength by 100 marines to 186,100. Increases the Air Force end strength by 620 airmen to 325,700. Organization, Management, and Military Personnel Reform Changes the title for the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness to the undersecretary of defense for personnel and chief human capital officer for the Department of Defense. Moves readiness responsibilities in the Office of the Secretary of Defense to the undersecretary for policy. Expands a current position within the undersecretary of defense for policy office to be the new assistant secretary of defense for strategy, plans, assessments, readiness, and capabilities. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000556 DOT_Am.Oversight-000556 Enhances and reforms the assistant secretary of defense for special operations/low-intensity conflict to have authorities over special forces similar to the military service secretaries Modernizes the 38-year old military officer personnel system to provide greater career flexibility to meet the needs of the 2018 National Defense Strategy. Decreases importance of time-in-service as a factor for promotion and allows officers to serve longer in their current rank without being forced to retire. Research and Development Increases overall research and development spending by $1.2 billion above the president’s request. Authorizes an increase of more than $600 million above the president’s budget request for high priority science, technology, and testing programs, including $75 million for university research. Adds the following funding above the president’s budget request in the following areas: · $150 million for hypersonics · $110 million for space constellation efforts · $50 million for rocket propulsion · $40 million for directed energy · $20 million for quantum information sciences Authorizes $150 million and requires DoD to partner with the commercial technology industry and academia to increase private investment in specific hardware with unique national security applications. Permanently authorizes the Small Business Innovation Research program, which allows DoD to award contracts directly to small businesses in response to DoD research and development needs. National Security Provisions Includes the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act as adopted by the Senate Banking Committee to give the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States authority it needs to address national security concerns. Prohibits the secretary of defense from procuring, obtaining, extending, or renewing a contract with an entity that uses telecommunications equipment or services produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation. Authorizes the National Command Authority to direct U.S. Cyber Command to take appropriate and proportional action through cyberspace to disrupt, defeat, and deter systematic and ongoing attacks by Russia in cyberspace. Modernization and Procurement Authorizes $7.6 billion for 75 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft, versus the president’s budget request for 77 aircraft: AMERICAN · $4.2 billion for 47 F-35A fighters for the Air Force · $2.4 billion for 20 F-35B fighters for the Marine Corps pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000557 DOT_Am.Oversight-000557 · $1 billion for eight F-35C fighters for the Navy Authorizes $23.1 billion for shipbuilding – an increase of $1.2 billion over the president’s request – to fully fund 10 new battle ships and accelerate funding for several future ships: · $5.9 billion for Arleigh Burke-class destroyers · $7.4 billion for Virginia-class submarines · $3.0 billion for Columbia-class submarines Fully authorizes $9.9 billion for the Missile Defense Agency to develop advanced technology, protect forces in South Korea, and counter emerging threats. Authorizes $2.3 billion to procure 14 KC-46 aircraft, compared to the president’s budget request of 15 aircraft. Fully funds development of the new B-21 bomber. Authorizes the Coast Guard to acquire six polar-class heavy icebreakers. Allies and Partners Authorizes $5.2 billion for the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund. Authorizes $300 million to train and equip the vetted Syrian opposition to counter ISIS, but limits the use of funds until the president submits a report on U.S. strategy in Syria. Authorizes $850 million to train and equip Iraqi Security Forces to counter ISIS. Authorizes $200 million to provide security assistance to Ukraine, including defensive lethal assistance. Requires the secretary of defense to report on the feasibility and advisability of permanently stationing an Army brigade combat team in Poland. Fully supports the president’s budget request for Israeli missile defense by authorizing $500 million to co-develop and co-produce the Iron Dome, Arrow, and David’s Sling weapon systems.   ADMINISTRATION POSITION   The White House statement of administration policy for the Senate Armed Services Committee reported version of the fiscal year 2019 NDAA is not yet available.   COST   The Congressional Budget Office estimate for the Senate Armed Services Committee reported version of the bill is not yet available.            Erica Suares AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000558 DOT_Am.Oversight-000558 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000559 DOT_Am.Oversight-000559 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - next week // Legislative Highlights of the 115th Congress Wednesday, May 30, 2018 6:53:26 PM Hello everyone, Surprise…! A mid-week recess Senate Update! Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. We’re so thankful for our troops, and those who have come before us who sacrificed their lives for this country, and the men and women around the world tonight who are tirelessly working to secure our freedom (*A beautiful speech and remembrance: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=1Leb7ynduCU). I didn’t send an update at the end of last week, but thought people may be interested in what’s coming up next week: The Senate will convene on Monday, June 4th at 3:00 pm (fyi: a four-week work period before the 4th of July recess) and then proceed to Executive Session to resume the consideration of Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Wier nomination. Please note, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order at the end of last week: 1. Cal. #542 - Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. 2. Cal. #587 - Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. 3. Cal. #625 - Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama. *Additionally, ICYMI -- please see a very helpful list at the end of this email from the Senate GOP Communications Center regarding legislative accomplishments. Leader McConnell on this topic: “One bill after another, one confirmation after another, the Senate continues to produce major accomplishments that will directly improve the lives of the American people.” Recap: Last week in the Senate (Thursday 5/24/18): Roll Call Votes: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of five years. (Confirmed, 69-24) 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years. (Confirmed, by voice vote) 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador of the United States to Luxembourg. (Invoked, 49-44) 4. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador of the DOT-18-0010-A-000560 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000560 United States to Luxembourg. (Confirmed, 48-43) Executive Session – noms cleared by consent: Cal. #848 - David B. Cornstein, of New York, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to Hungary. Cal. #851 - Francis R. Fannon, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Energy Resources). Cal. #852 - Eliot Pedrosa, of Florida, to be United States Alternate Executive Director of the Inter-American Development Bank. Cal. #853 - Jonathan R. Cohen, of California, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of MinisterCounselor, to be the Deputy Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, with the rank and status of Ambassador, and the Deputy Representative of the United States of America in the Security Council of the United Nations. Cal. #854 - Jonathan R. Cohen, of California, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of MinisterCounselor, to be Representative of the United States of America to the Sessions of the General Assembly of the United Nations, during his tenure of service as Deputy Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations. Cal. #898 - Erica H. MacDonald, of Minnesota, to be United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota for the term of four years. Cal. #899 - Scott Patrick Illing, of Louisiana, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Louisiana for the term of four years. COAST GUARD Cal. #859 - Rear Adm. Michael F. McAllister to be Vice Admiral Cal. #860 - Rear Adm. Daniel B. Abel to be Vice Admiral Cal. #861 - Rear Adm. Scott A. Buschman to be Vice Admiral Cal. #862 - Rear Adm. Linda L. Fagan to be Vice Admiral NAVY Cal. #870 - Capt. Peter G. Vasely to be Rear Admiral (lower half) ARMY Cal. #871 - Col. Diron J. Cruz to be Brigadier General AIR FORCE Cal. #872 - Col. Daniel T. Lasica to be Brigadier General Cal. #873 - Lt. Gen. Bradford J. Shwedo to be Lieutenant General   ARMY Cal. #874 – The following to be Major General: Brig. Gen. Antonio A. Aguto, Jr. AMf--f CAN VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000561 DOT_Am.Oversight-000561 Brig. Gen. Maria B. Barrett Brig. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson Brig. Gen. Charles H. Cleveland Brig. Gen. Douglas C. Crissman Brig. Gen. Bradley K. Dreyer Brig. Gen. Jeffrey W. Drushal Brig. Gen. Raul E. Escribano Brig. Gen. John R. Evans, Jr. Brig. Gen. Antonio M. Fletcher Brig. Gen. Sean A. Gainey Brig. Gen. Steven W. Gilland Brig. Gen. Mark W. Gillette Brig. Gen. Karl H. Gingrich Brig. Gen. Charles R. Hamilton Brig. Gen. David C. Hill Brig. Gen. David T. Isaacson Brig. Gen. Kenneth L. Kamper Brig. Gen. Donna W. Martin Brig. Gen. Joseph P. McGee Brig. Gen. Paul H. Pardew Brig. Gen. Patrick B. Roberson Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Rohling Brig. Gen. Richard M. Toy Brig. Gen. Joel K. Tyler Cal. #875 - Col. Wendy L. Harter to be Brigadier General Cal. #876 - Col. Shan K. Bagby to be Brigadier General Cal. #877 - Col. Michael L. Place to be Brigadier General NAVY AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000562 DOT_Am.Oversight-000562 Cal. #878 - Rear Adm. Craig S. Faller to be Vice Admiral AIR FORCE Cal. #879 - Maj. Gen. Warren D. Berry to be Lieutenant General Cal. #880 - Maj. Gen. Donald E. Kirkland to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #881 - Maj. Gen. Darsie D. Rogers, Jr. to be Lieutenant General Cal. #882 - Maj. Gen. Bradley A. Becker to be Lieutenant General NAVY Cal. #883 - Vice Adm. Michael M. Gilday to be Vice Admiral MARINE CORPS Cal. #884 - Lt. Gen. Lewis A. Craparotta to be Lieutenant General Cal. #885 - Lt. Gen. Daniel J. O'Donohue to be Lieutenant General AIR FORCE Cal. #886 - Brig. Gen. David B. Burgy to be Major General Cal. #887 - Col. Michele C. Edmondson to be Brigadier General NAVY Cal. #888 - Capt. Jeffrey S. Scheidt to be Rear Admiral (lower half) ARMY Cal. #889 - Maj. Gen. Joseph M. Martin to be Lieutenant General MARINE CORPS Cal. #890 - Lt. Gen. Joseph L. Osterman to be Lieutenant General *And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard. Cal. #826 - Rubydee Calvert, of Wyoming, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for a term expiring January 31, 2022. Cal. #827 - Laura Gore Ross, of New York, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for a term expiring January 31, 2022. Calendar #168, Annie Caputo, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of five years expiring June 30, 2021 Calendar #169, David Wright, of South Carolina, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of five years expiring June 30, 2020 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000563 DOT_Am.Oversight-000563 Calendar #404, Jeffery Martin Baran, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of five years expiring June 30, 2023 Cal. #865 - Gregory J. Slavonic, of Oklahoma, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Navy. UC Items: S.2952 – CAA Reform Cal. #399, H.R.4910 – Veteran Cemetery Benefit Correction Act H.R.3663 – Woody Williams S.Res.528 – National Public Works S.Res.529 – Minority Health S.Res.531- Brain Tumor Awareness Month Thanks, and see you next week for more! Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) 1 at u lica11. Communication 2i02•228•N Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2J8Qs4B   Continuing To Produce For The American People A Growing List Of Achievements By The 115th Congress   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “One bill after another, one confirmation after another, the Senate continues to produce major accomplishments that will directly improve the lives of the American people.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 5/24/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000564 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000564   With More To Come, Here’s A Look At Some Of The Legislative Highlights Of 115th Congress ü TAX REFORM: Reformed America’s tax code for the first time in 31 years - putting more money in the   American people’s pockets and creating more opportunity for them and their children. ü JUDGES: Set a record last year on circuit court confirmations. Now up to a total of 21 circuit court   confirmations so far, which is one-eighth of all circuit court judgeships, and confirmed Justice Gorsuch to the Supreme Court. ü REGULATORY REFORM: Used Congressional Review Act (CRA) a record-setting 16 times to roll back   Obama-era regulations. ü ENERGY: Opened one of the largest untapped conventional oilfields in North America, in Alaska, to help   keep energy affordable. ü VETERANS: Delivered real reform and real choice to American veterans with the VA MISSION Act,   modernized the veterans appeals process, reformed G.I. bill benefits and further improved VA accountability.  ü DEFENSE: Helped restore America’s defense with the greatest investment in the military in 15 years and   largest troop pay increase in 8 years. ü HEALTHCARE FOR CHILDREN: Enacted the longest S-CHIP extension in history.   ü BANKING REFORM: Provided relief from burdensome Dodd-Frank red tape for Main Street borrowers and   lenders for the first time. ü COMBATING OPIOID ABUSE: Enacted ‘a multibillion-dollar boost’ to combat a nationwide epidemic.   ü HOPE FOR THE TERMINALLY ILL: Provided terminally ill patients access to experimental treatments   (Right to Try legislation). ü SCHOOL SAFETY: Enacted Fix NICS and STOP School Violence Act to help protect America’s children   from gun violence. ü FIGHTING SEX TRAFFICKING: Enacted the Stop Enabling Sex Trafficking Act (SESTA) to combat   trafficking. ü OBAMACARE: Repealed the individual mandate tax that forced Americans to buy something many didn’t   want or couldn’t afford, and ended IPAB. ü FIGHTING TERRORISM: Enacted the Taylor Force Act to disincentivize payments to terrorists.   ü SANCTIONS: Imposed on Iran, Russia, and North Korea.   ü REINING IN THE REGULATORS: Changed the balance of numerous boards and commissions from   Democrat to Republican control, including the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC). DOT-18-0010-A-000565 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000565 ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000566 DOT_Am.Oversight-000566 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - next week Friday, July 06, 2018 1:30:37 PM Hello everyone –   Hope you had a great 4th. Looking ahead to next week –   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm, Monday, July 9th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #836, Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit.   At 5:30 pm there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Bennett nomination.   Please note: ICYMI Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order – how we will process these noms next week:   1. Cal. #836 - Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. 2. Cal. #639 - Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. 3. Cal. #686 - Paul C. Ney, Jr., of Tennessee, to be General Counsel of the Department of Defense.   Also – at the bottom of this email you may be interested to read excerpts from Leader McConnell’s interview last week with Shannon Bream on Fox News discussing the vacant seat on the Supreme Court following Justice Anthony Kennedy’s retirement announcement. You can watch it here.   Thanks and see you next week, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) Last Week Votes and Wrap Up (before the July 4th recess): Roll Call Votes: Motion to table Kennedy/Cruz/Lee amendment #3383 in relation to H.R.2, the Farm Bill. Tabled. (68-30) Adoption of Lee amendment #3074 in relation to H.R.2, the Farm Bill. Not Adopted. (38-57) Passage of H.R.2, the Farm Bill, as amended. Passed. (86-11) Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled. Cleared by UC.   Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal. #923 - Robin S. Bernstein, of Florida, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Dominican DOT-18-0010-A-000567 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000567 Republic. Cal. #925 - Joseph N. Mondello, of New York, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Cal. #927 - Gordon D. Sondland, of Washington, to be Representative of the United States of America to the European Union, with the rank and status of Ambassador. Cal. #928 - Harry B. Harris, Jr., of Florida, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Korea. Cal. #929 - Ronald Gidwitz, of Illinois, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Belgium. Cal. #930 - Brian A. Nichols, of Rhode Island, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Career Minister, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Cal. #932 - Tibor Peter Nagy, Jr., of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (African Affairs). Cal. #902 - Tara Sweeney, of Alaska, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior.   Military Promotions AIR FORCE Cal. #951 - Col. Paul A. Friedrichs to be Brigadier General NAVY Cal. #952 - Rear Adm. Michael T. Moran to be Vice Admiral AIR FORCE Cal. #953 - Brig. Gen. Mark H. Berry to be Major General NAVY Cal. #954 - Capt. Mark J. Mouriski to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #955 - Capt. Eileen H. Laubacher to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #956 - Capt. Ann H. Duff to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #957 - Rear Adm. (lh) John W. Korka to be Rear Admiral Cal. #958 – The following to be Rear Admiral (Lower Half): Capt. Nancy S. Lacore  Capt. Theodore P. Leclair  Capt. Eric C. Ruttenberg Cal. #959 - Rear Adm. (lh) Mary C. Riggs to be Rear Admiral Cal. #960 – The following to be Rear Admiral: Rear Adm. (lh) Alan D. Beal   Rear Adm. (lh) Brian S. Hurley  Rear Adm. (lh) Andrew C. Lennon Cal. #961 - Capt. Robert T. Clark to be Rear Admiral (lower half) MARINE CORPS Cal. #962 – The following to be Major General: Brig. Gen. Michael F. Fahey, III  Brig. Gen. Helen G. Pratt AIR FORCE Cal. #963 - Lt. Gen. Scott A. Howell to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #964 - Lt. Gen. Austin S. Miller to be General MARINE CORPS Cal. #965 - Maj. Gen. Eric M. Smith to be Lieutenant General AIR FORCE Cal. #966 - Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #967 - Lt. Gen. Darryl A. Williams to be Lieutenant General MARINE CORPS AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000568 DOT_Am.Oversight-000568 Cal. #968 - Col. Daniel J. Lecce to be Major General AIR FORCE Cal. #969 - Lt. Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. to be General ARMY Cal. #970 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Narciso Cruz  Col. Mark K. Miera Cal. #971 – The following to be Major General: Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Jarrard  Brig. Gen. Tracy R. Norris Cal. #972 - Brig. Gen. Laurel J. Hummel to be Major General Cal. #973 – The following to be Major General: Brig. Gen. Tommy H. Baker  Brig. Gen. Gregory S. Bowen  Brig. Gen. Scott A. Campbell  Brig. Gen. James D. Craig  Brig. Gen. Gordon L. Ellis  Brig. Gen. John M. Epperly  Brig. Gen. Timothy E. Gowen  Brig. Gen. Paul F. Griffin  Brig. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara  Brig. Gen. Christopher F. Lawson  Brig. Gen. James E. Porter, Jr.  Brig. Gen. Rafael A. Ribas  Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Sheriff  Brig. Gen. Thomas F. Spencer  Brig. Gen. Michael D. Turello  Brig. Gen. Suzanne P. Vares-Lum  Brig. Gen. William J. Walker  Brig. Gen. Ronald A. Westfall Cal. #975 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Miguel Aguilar  Col. Eugene S. Alkire  Col. Mark J. Berglund  Col. Ronald W. Burkett, II  Col. Robert F. Charlesworth  Col. Nick Ducich  Col. Robert D. Ferguson   Col. Adam R. Flasch  Col. Kevin W. Gallagher  Col. John T. Gentry, Jr.  Col. Bryan J. Grenon  Col. John D. Haas  Col. Edward H. Hallenbeck  Col. Joe D. Hargett  Col. Robert F. Hepner, Jr. Col. Charles G. Kemper, IV  Col. Steven T. King Col. Michael J. Leeney  Col. Roy J. Macaraeg  Col. Joanne E. MacGregor  AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000569 DOT_Am.Oversight-000569 Col. Marie M. Mahoney  Col. Shawn P. Manke  Col. James G. McCormack  Col. Miguel A. Mendez  Col. Neal S. Mitsuyoshi  Col. Sharon D. Moore  Col. Michael J. Oster  Col. Gregory C. Parker  Col. Scott T. Petrik  Col. Jerry F. Prochaska  Col. Javier A. Reina Col. Yesenia R. Roque  Col. Leo A. Ryan  Col. Michael J. Schlorholtz  Col. Scott M. Sherman Col. Tyler B. Smith  Col. Walter B. Sturek, Jr.  Col. John F. Taylor, Jr.  Col. Thomas E. Vern, Jr.  Col. Damian K. Waddell  Col. Robert F. Weir Col. Katherine E. White  Col. James C. Wilkins  Col. Timothy J. Winslow NAVY Cal. #976 – Capt. Cristopher C. French to be Rear Admiral (lower half) MARINE CORPS Cal. #977 – Maj. Gen. Carl E. Mundy, III to be Lieutenant General Cal. #978 – Maj. Gen. Loretta E. Reynolds to be Lieutenant General AIR FORCE Cal. #979 – Lt. Gen. Giovanni K. Tuck to be Lieutenant General Cal. #980 – Maj. Gen. Joseph T. Guastella, Jr. to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #981 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Robert G. Carruthers, III Col. Quvator R. Gore Col. Adam L. Robinson Col. Kevin L. Vines Cal. #982 – Col. Stephen M. Rutner to be Brigadier General NAVY Cal. #983 – Rear Adm. (lh) Marcus A. Hitchcock to be Rear Admiral MARINE CORP Cal. #984 – Maj. Gen. John K. Love to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #985 – Maj. Gen. John C. Thomson, III to be Lieutenant General Cal. #986 – Col. Joseph R. Baldwin to be Brigadier General NAVY Cal. #987 – Capt. William P. Pennington to be Rear Admiral AIR FORCE Cal. #988 – Lt. Gen. Thomas W. Bergeson to be Lieutenant General Cal. #989 - Maj. Gen. James C. Slife to be Lieutenant General AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000570 DOT_Am.Oversight-000570 NAVY Cal. #990 – Rear Adm. John G. Hannink to be Vice Admiral Cal. #991 – Rear Adm. James J. Malloy to be Vice Admiral Cal. #992 – Vice Adm. Andrew L. Lewis to be Vice Admiral MARINE CORPS Cal. #993 – Maj. Gen. John M. Jansen to be Lieutenant General And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Foreign Service. Wrap Up (before the July 4th recess): S.2245 - KIWI Act H.R.1029 – Pesticide Registration Enhancement Act S.Res.567 – AHA 40th Anniversary S.Res.568 – Great Outdoors Month Cal. #414, S.2559 - Marrakesh Treaty Implementation H.R.5956 - Northern Mariana Islands Workforce   Hydro Energy Bills: Cal.#100, S.724 – A bill to amend the Federal Power Act to modernize authorizations for necessary hydropower approvals. Cal.#306, H.R.219 - Swan Lake Hydroelectric Project Boundary Correction Act  Cal.#159, H.R.220 - To authorize the expansion of an existing hydroelectric project, and for other purposes. Cal.#96, S.215 - A bill to authorize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to issue an order continuing a stay of a hydroelectric license for the Mahoney Lake hydroelectric project in the State of Alaska, and for other purposes. Cal.#130, S.490 - A bill to reinstate and extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project involving the Gibson Dam. Cal.#139, H.R.2292 - To extend a project of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission involving the Cannonsville Dam. Cal.#144, H.R.951 - To extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project. Cal.#136, H.R.446 - To extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project. Cal.#137, H.R.447 - To extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project. Cal.#138, H.R.2122 - To reinstate and extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project involving Jennings Randolph Dam.   Postal Namings En Bloc: Cal. 453, S. 2549 - A bill to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1234 Saint Johns Place in Brooklyn, New York, as the ‘‘Major Robert Odell Owens Post Office’’. Cal. 454, S.2692 - A bill to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 4558 Broadway in New York, New York, as the ‘‘Stanley Michels Post Office Building’’. Cal. 455, H.R.1496 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3585 South Vermont Avenue in Los Angeles, California, as the ‘‘Marvin Gaye Post Office’’. Cal. 456, H.R.2673 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 514 Broadway Street in Pekin, Illinois, as the ‘‘Lance Corporal Jordan S. Bastean Post Office’’. Cal. 457, H.R.3183 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 13683 James Madison Highway in Palmyra, Virginia, as the ‘‘U.S. Navy Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby Post Office’’. Cal. 458, H.R.4301 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 201 Tom Hall Street in Fort Mill, South Carolina, as the ‘‘J. Elliott Williams Post Office Building’’. Cal. 459, H.R.4406 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 99 Macombs Place in New York, New York, as the ‘‘Tuskegee Airmen Post Office Building’’. Cal. 460, H.R.4463 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 6 Doyers Street in New York, New York, as the ‘‘Mabel Lee Memorial Post Office’’. Cal. 461, H.R.4574 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 108 West DOT-18-0010-A-000571 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000571 Schick Road in Bloomingdale, Illinois, as the ‘‘Bloomingdale Veterans Memorial Post Office Building’’. Cal. 462, H.R.4646 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1900 Corporate Drive in Birmingham, Alabama, as the ‘‘Lance Corporal Thomas E. Rivers, Jr. Post Office Building’’. Cal. 463, H.R.4685 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 515 Hope Street in Bristol, Rhode Island, as the ‘‘First Sergeant P. Andrew McKenna Jr. Post Office’’. Cal. 464, H.R.4722 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 111 Market Street in Saugerties, New York, as the ‘‘Maurice D. Hinchey Post Office Building’’. Cal.465, H.R.4840 - An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 567 East Franklin Street in Oviedo, Florida, as the ‘‘Sergeant First Class Alwyn Crendall Cashe Post Office Building’’.     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r K.EN.TUCKY For Immediate Release, Friday, June 29, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KwpeSF                 Video: https://bit.ly/2tMRDwJ McConnell on Fox News: Senate Can Act on SCOTUS Nomination by Early Fall ‘We expect to get a nomination from the president rather soon. And we should be able to work our way through the confirmation process sometime before early fall. Hopefully in time for the new justice to begin the fall term of the Supreme Court.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) appeared on Fox News @ Night with Shannon Bream to discuss the newly vacant seat on the Supreme Court following Justice Anthony Kennedy’s retirement announcement this week.  The following are excerpts from the interview: On the confirmation process for the president’s Supreme Court nominee: “We expect to get a nomination from the president rather soon. And we should be able to work our way through the confirmation process sometime before early fall. Hopefully in time for the new justice to begin the fall term of the Supreme Court… the first Monday in October.” “We’re hoping there will be some Democratic support. Remember that Justice Gorsuch got at least three Senate Democrats who supported his confirmation. Those individuals are still in the Senate. We’re not assuming this is just going to be a straight party-line vote. I think there will be some Democrats who find the nominee attractive. We’ll have to see—we don’t have a nominee yet. It’s a lot easier to talk about it once you do.” On the predictable attacks from the Left: “Well it’s pretty obvious they’re ready to fight no matter who the nominee is. Look, the stakes are big.” “[L]et me tell you what they want and the kind of people they put on the courts: Activist judges— what do we mean when we say an ‘activist judge’? Someone who acts like they were elected to the Congress to make policy. Justice Scalia, who was a towering figure on the Supreme Court right up there with Oliver Wendell Holmes in the annals of Supreme Court history in the United States, always used to say that you’re not a very good judge if occasionally you don’t reach a conclusion you don’t like. And the reason for that is the law requires it. The plain meaning of the law requires it, or the constitution requires it. And if you want to make policy you ought to run for office. So, the DOT-18-0010-A-000572 DOT_Am.Oversight-000572 kind of people the president’s been sending up for the circuit courts, the nomination of Neil Gorsuch —these are people who don’t believe the job of a judge is to act like you’re a member of Congress. But rather, to interpret the law, which is clearly what the founding fathers clearly had in mind for the judicial branch.” ###         AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000573 DOT_Am.Oversight-000573 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- next week Thursday, July 26, 2018 3:11:09 PM Hi everyone –   ICYMI: Leader McConnell just filed cloture on the substitute and underlying bill for Minibus Approps (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud).  A reminder that votes on amendments (post-cloture) could happen next week. Additionally, the bill managers will continue to work on a managers’ package.   Please see Stew’s note below about next week’s items.   I’d also like to direct your attention to the Leader’s floor remarks from this morning – especially his comments on Senate Democrats’ rhetoric on Judge Kavanaugh.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  Items to be completed next week.   The Majority Leader filed four cloture motions today on items to be completed next week (in the following order):   • The nomination of Britt Cagle Grant to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit • The four-bill appropriations ‘minibus’ (one cloture on the substitute amendment; one on the • • Flood insurance extension underlying bill) National Defense Authorization Act conference report   The Senate will complete work on all four items next week. The House has already passed the NDAA conference report and the flood insurance extension, so those will go to the President for signature after the Senate’s action next week. The appropriations bill will head to a conference with the House.   The Senate is also expected to vote to go to conference on the Farm Bill next week.   Other items are likely, so stay tuned.   The vote on the Grant nomination will be at 5:30 on Monday DOT-18-0010-A-000574 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000574   Also, here are some sights that I won’t see during August. Here are some sights that I will see during August.   STEW @StewSays MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER K.EN.TUCKY u.s. SENATOR fo r For Immediate Release, Thursday, July 26, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2OkXu5J                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2uSsPVp Who Do They Expect To Believe This Stuff? Senate Majority Leader speaks out on Democrats’ hysterical rhetoric about Judge Kavanaugh ‘I am sorry to say that for most Senate Democrats, I’m afraid it would not matter if there were a million pages of documents. Or ten million. Or a hundred million. It wouldn’t make any difference. No matter how many documents are produced, many of our Democratic colleagues are making it abundantly clear they will never support his nomination.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding President Trump’s nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: ‘I’d like to talk about the president’s well-qualified nominee for the Supreme Court. A number of us have already met with Judge Kavanaugh. More senators, from both sides of the aisle, have meetings scheduled. By all accounts, including my own, he’s a fair and thoughtful jurist with a brilliant legal mind. “But some Senators have a different view than their colleagues, different from the experts. Here’s how the junior senator from New Jersey characterized this nomination, with the senior senator from Massachusetts right beside him. Quote: ‘We are walking through the valley of the shadow of death.’ “‘You are either complicit in the evil, you are either contributing to the wrong, or you are fighting against it.’ This, from a member of the Judiciary Committee. He hasn’t met with Judge Kavanaugh. He hasn’t heard a word of testimony. And he’s citing Scripture to proclaim that this nominee is pure evil, of Biblical proportions? He’s claiming that the Senators and the American people who have an open mind on this nominations are ‘complicit in the evil.’ It’s truly outrageous—and not a single Democrat has come forward to condemn it. “Our friends on the left are locked in this bizarre competition to wear out the volume knob and outdo each other with this angry nonsense. Before the president even selected Judge Kavanaugh, the junior senator from California -- another member of the Judiciary Committee -- declared that whoever he nominated would bring about – quote – ‘a destruction of the Constitution of the United States.’ She’d made up her mind before any hearings, any testimony… before there was even a nominee, in fact. “Less than 24 hours after Judge Kavanaugh was announced, the senior senator from Connecticut followed suit. He said: ‘Judge Kavanaugh is your worst nightmare.’  Another member of the Judiciary Committee. So for those keeping score at home, Democrats want you to believe Judge Kavanaugh is your worst nightmare, will put the American people in the valley of the shadow of death and destroy the Constitution, all by himself.  Oh, and don’t forget, anyone who doesn’t agree with them is ‘complicit in evil.’ “Who do they expect to believe this stuff? Here’s another quote: ‘This is a nominee who wants to DOT-18-0010-A-000575 DOT_Am.Oversight-000575 pave the path to tyranny.’ That was our colleague the junior senator from Oregon, at a rally with farleft special interests. Here’s another quote: ‘The nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh will threaten the lives of millions of Americans for decades to come.’ That one was the former Democratic Governor of Virginia, who actually used to chair the Democratic National Committee. “Now, it’s hard to keep a straight face when you hear this hysteria. And I really can’t keep a straight face at all when our Democratic colleagues say these things… and then turn around and insist they need extra time, extra information, extra documents in order to make up their minds. Do the people making these comments sound open-minded? Do they sound persuadable? “The Democratic Leader has insisted that Judge Kavanaugh’s long and extensive judicial record isn’t enough, and Democrats need to see practically every scrap of paper from the Bush White House before they can decide. But about two weeks ago, when the ink was barely dry on Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination, he himself told a national television audience, ‘I will oppose him with everything I’ve got.’ Doesn’t sound undecided to me. Doesn’t sound like a guy who needs documents to make up his mind. “So, let’s be clear what this is about. Judge Kavanaugh has been a judge for over a decade. He has written over 300 opinions. He just produced over 6,000 pages of documents as part of his questionnaire. And many more documents will be produced in the coming weeks. In fact, it’s likely that more documents will be produced with respect to his nomination than any Supreme Court nomination in history. But it’s becoming pretty clear that none of this will really matter. “I am sorry to say that for most Senate Democrats, I’m afraid it would not matter if there were a million pages of documents. Or ten million. Or a hundred million. It wouldn’t make any difference. No matter how many documents are produced, many of our Democratic colleagues are making it abundantly clear they will never support his nomination. Never. So the complaint about documents is not about assessing his record in an open-minded, fair, and dispassionate way. It’s all about the desire to obstruct and delay. The American people will give this demagoguery and these delaying tactics the short shrift they deserve.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, July 26, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2NMVIcz                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2NOVxh9 Appropriations Bill A Win For Families, Communities Nationwide ‘This bill will keep resources flowing to a long list of key government functions. We’re talking about everything from food safety inspections to anti-drug enforcement to child nutrition to the Forest Service. It attends to a number of specific policy priorities that we all hold in common, like providing major resources to rebuild America’s infrastructure and to the fight against opioid abuse.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Senate’s continued bipartisan work on appropriations: DOT-18-0010-A-000576 DOT_Am.Oversight-000576 “This week, the Senate has continued our regular appropriations process. We’re considering four important funding measures that will account for about an eighth of discretionary spending. This bill will keep resources flowing to a long list of key government functions. We’re talking about everything from food safety inspections to anti-drug enforcement to child nutrition to the Forest Service. “It attends to a number of specific policy priorities that we all hold in common, like providing major resources to rebuild America’s infrastructure and to the fight against opioid abuse. My constituents in Kentucky will benefit from new funding for rural development grants and loans, and more resources to fight everything from illegal drugs to invasive species like Asian Carp. Communities in every single state will win because of this work. “So I want to express gratitude to members on both sides of the aisle. Our subcommittee chairs who helped shape the bills in this minibus -- Senators Murkowski, Collins, Hoeven, and Lankford. All our colleagues on the Appropriations Committee, and their fearless leaders Chairman Shelby and Vice-Chairman Leahy, for keeping this process bipartisan and keeping it moving. And Senator Murkowski once more, for her work managing this legislation here on the floor.   “I’m proud of the regular appropriations process we are rebuilding together. I’m proud that we’ve been able to process several amendments and hope we can continue to process more. But I’m especially proud of the good things this legislation will do for families and communities nationwide.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR fo r K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, July 26, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2NOP4Tp                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2OfxIjk American Workers, Job Creators Continue to Thrive  ‘[T]he Obama economy was a tough pill to swallow. Tax hikes. Burdensome regulations. Their policies cut against the rhetoric… When Vice President Pence lands in West Virginia today, he’ll be able to share a different story. He’ll be able to say that, thanks in part to regulatory relief and generational tax reform, the number of Americans saying now is a good time to find a quality job hit a 17-year high just two months ago. He’ll be able to say that West Virginia’s unemployment rate has been lower in every month of this unified Republican government than it was during any month of the Obama presidency.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Later today, Vice President Pence will visit Wheeling, West Virginia to discuss Republicans’ progrowth agenda. Now, for the better part of a decade, the people of West Virginia heard a lot of talk DOT-18-0010-A-000577 DOT_Am.Oversight-000577 from Washington. During the 2008 presidential campaign, then-Senator Biden told a crowd in Charleston, West Virginia that he supported the coal industry and Democrats’ policies would help West Virginia’s economy. ‘This is about jobs,’ he said. “But the Obama-Biden administration turned out to be a crash course in the difference between rhetoric and results. Across the entire private sector, fewer West Virginians were employed the day President Obama left office than on the day he was sworn in. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state’s manufacturing workforce shrunk more than 13 percent from 2009 through 2016. And its mining and logging workforce collapsed by 37 percent.   “Let’s be clear: Public policy is not the only factor at work in our economy. But there is no denying that Washington D.C. can make life harder for job creators, or make it easier. And the Obama economy was a tough pill to swallow. Tax hikes. Burdensome regulations. Their policies cut against the rhetoric. And the outcome was disappointing. That was then. This is now.   “When Vice President Pence lands in West Virginia today, he’ll be able to share a different story. He’ll be able to say that, thanks in part to regulatory relief and generational tax reform, the number of Americans saying now is a good time to find a quality job hit a 17-year high just two months ago. He’ll be able to say that West Virginia’s unemployment rate has been lower in every month of this unified Republican government than it was during any month of the Obama presidency. It’s the American people who are achieving all this. Republicans are just happy that our policies are helping create the conditions for workers and job creators to thrive.   ###         AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000578 DOT_Am.Oversight-000578 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Omni // votes Friday, March 23, 2018 12:07:04 AM FYI: A 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.1625, Omnibus Appropriations just started.   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, March 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2GbmCuH                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2HWdjMo Government Funding Bill Contains Significant Victories For The Nation ‘Yesterday evening, the House filed a landmark appropriations bill for the remainder of fiscal year 2018. Months of in-depth, bicameral, bipartisan negotiations and committee work have led up to this point. The result is legislation that neither side sees as perfect -- but which contains a host of significant victories and important achievements on behalf of the American people.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the government funding bill:   “Yesterday evening, the House filed a landmark appropriations bill for the remainder of fiscal year 2018. Months of in-depth, bicameral, bipartisan negotiations and committee work have led up to this point. The result is legislation that neither side sees as perfect -- but which contains a host of significant victories and important achievements on behalf of the American people. “First and foremost, in my view, this bill will mark the end of disproportionate and harmful cuts to Department of Defense funding. It delivers the largest year-on-year increase in defense spending in fifteen years. These new funding levels will ensure the training and tools available to our servicemembers remain on the cutting edge. And at long last, veterans will receive more transparent and more accessible care. “This has been a top priority, on our side of the aisle especially: To deliver for our men and women in uniform. To deliver for the future of national security. This bill will get it done. Of course, our armed forces aren’t the only vital priority this measure will address. “It’s a victory for families caught in the grip of the opioid epidemic. This bill scales up research, treatment and prevention funding and provides for grants to first responders. It will confront the scourge of addiction head-on and help save lives. For rural communities, like many in my home state of Kentucky, this is a big deal. “The measure is also a victory for safe, reliable 21st-century infrastructure. It will fund long-overdue improvements to roads, rails, airports, and inland waterways to ensure that our growing economy has the support system it needs. DOT-18-0010-A-000579 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000579 “Importantly, the bill also contains a number of provisions to provide more safety for American families. It expands funding for federal law enforcement. It allocates new resources to border security and immigration enforcement, including an important step forward for President Trump’s proposed wall. The total miles of new and upgraded walls and barriers funded by this bill exceeds even the Administration’s initial request for this fiscal year. And it also provides the necessary funds to keep Guantanamo Bay open and operating. “The legislation also delivers for students and teachers across our nation, who deserve to learn and work without fear of violence. At the insistence of the Speaker and myself, this bill will include two important, bipartisan, commonsense measures to address real issues facing the nation: the Fix NICS bill and the STOP School Violence Act. “Thanks to the leadership of Senator Hatch, this bill represents a major step forward for school safety. It provides millions of dollars in new funding for early intervention and prevention programs to stop school violence before it happens. These grants will include funding training of students and school personnel for identifying and responding to safety threats as well as for implementing enhanced technology and equipment to improve school security.   “And thanks to the dogged efforts of Senator Cornyn, the ‘Fix NICS’ provision to repair and improve firearm background checks is also included. Both of these bipartisan accomplishments are the direct result of tireless work by those who have been most tragically affected by violence in America’s schools. “Here’s how Mark Barden, a cofounder of Sandy Hook Promise, described the school safety provision: ‘This legislation will save lives.’ Likewise, the Parkland, Florida families recently wrote all four congressional leaders to ask that we include these two particular measures in this piece of legislation. I am proud that we could deliver -- for them, and for the safety of schools around the nation.   “Let’s take one more look at just a few of the good things this bill will accomplish. The largest yearon-year funding increase for our warfighters in 15 years. New resources for the fight against opioids, and for border security and the president’s wall. Major enhancements for law enforcement and school safety. These provisions, and the entirety of this omnibus, represent months of bipartisan work. I look forward to considering it soon.”   ###       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000580 DOT_Am.Oversight-000580 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Omni Thursday, March 22, 2018 5:26:07 PM FYI if you’re not watching the Senate floor –   Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to H.R.1625, the Omnibus appropriations bill. Under regular order this vote will occur Saturday. By consent the time could be compressed on cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 1625.   We’ll keep you posted on votes, etc.   Also, ICYMI: Senator Collins was just on the floor and asked consent that the Senate adopt the Bipartisan Healthcare Stabilization Act (also commonly referred to as “Collins-Alexander-Walden”) as an amendment to the Omni. Senator Murray objected.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000581 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000581 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Passage of the Omni Friday, March 23, 2018 12:43:18 AM H.R.1625, the Omnibus Appropriations, has passed 65-32.   Thanks, Erica   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000582 DOT_Am.Oversight-000582 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Senate to confirm 13th Circuit Court judge of the Trump Administration Tuesday, January 30, 2018 2:23:07 PM Hello everyone –   The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #622, David Ryan Stras, of Minnesota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit, post-cloture. All time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on the Stras nomination.   At 2:15 pm (now), the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Stras nomination.   This will be the 13-th--Circuit Court judge nominated by President Trump and confirmed by the GOP controlled Senate.   As you know, tonight is the State of the Union Address. Please read Leader McConnell’s remarks below on the President’s address to the nation.   Also, ICYMI: the Senate will join the House for the remainder of this week for an issues/policy planning conference.   Thanks, Erica   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, 1/29/18): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2311, Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. Not invoked. (51-46) Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #622, David Ryan Stras, of Minnesota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit. Invoked. (57-41)   Wrap Up: H.Con.Res.101 – State of the Union   Executive Session: Cal. #497 - Gregory E. Maggs, of Virginia, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR fo r K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, January 30, 2018 DOT-18-0010-A-000583 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000583 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2FtvOXa YouTube: https://youtu.be/m8CivZ0mGQs    Major Progress for the American People ‘[F]rom middle-class Americans’ pocketbooks to the ongoing fight against ISIL, there is more good news than I can begin to recite this morning. I look forward very much to attending the State of the Union tonight and hearing from the president. And on behalf of all the Americans we represent – men and women from coast to coast who are seeing the economy turn around and their country grow stronger before their eyes – I am glad there will be so much to applaud.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s State of the Union address tonight and the benefits Kentuckians across the Commonwealth continue to see from tax reform:   “This evening, President Trump will deliver his first State of the Union address. As tens of millions of Americans tune in, he will continue a time-honored tradition by taking stock of the past year and laying out his vision for the future. And for anyone who’s been reading the headlines over the last year and paying attention to the issues that directly impact middle-class families, the state of our union will not come as a surprise.   “Unemployment is low. Consumer confidence is high. The news is packed with all the pay increases, special bonuses, expanded benefits, and new investments that are flowing into American households and communities because of the landmark tax reform law that Congress passed and President Trump signed in December.   “Hundreds of companies have announced that a more competitive tax code is allowing them to quickly ramp up the amount they can invest in their own American workers. This includes some of our country’s largest employers. Walmart is increasing its starting wage for all hourly associates, expanding maternity and parental leave, and giving its own $1,000 bonus to employees. Disney, AT&T, and Bank of America are giving $1,000 tax reform bonuses to more than 100,000 workers each. The list goes on. And it’s not just the big guys who are benefitting.   “Yesterday afternoon, here on the floor, I talked about Verst Logistics in Walton, Kentucky, which paid its full-time workers bonuses as a result of tax reform. I shared the story of a woman who works for Verst. She fought back tears as she explained what this bonus would do for her family. Money had gotten tight around the holidays, so while she and her husband had saved enough to give their five children a merry Christmas, Mom and Dad were planning to go without gifts of their own. But because Congress seized this opportunity to modernize our tax code, she got her very own tax reform bonus. With that extra money, she and her husband were able to buy each other Christmas presents, after all – and enjoy a nice dinner out, to boot.   “I could share these stories all day. I am so proud that Congress and the president teamed up to take money out of Washington’s pocket and put it back in the pockets of the hardworking Americans who earned it. But some of my Democratic colleagues don’t seem to feel that way. They all voted against a law that will raise take-home pay for American families, who have spent a decade struggling not just to get ahead, but oftentimes to stay afloat. And several have made news in recent days by scoffing at these bonuses, pay raises, and new benefits.   “My friends the Democratic Leaders in both the Senate and the House have both used the word ‘crumbs.’ One of their colleagues, former chair of the DNC, said she doesn’t think $1,000 – quote – ‘goes very far for almost anyone.’ A thousand dollars doesn’t go far for anyone? That might be true in New York or San Francisco. It sure isn’t true in Kentucky. And I think taking that argument to most kitchen tables would get you laughed out of the room.   “Of course, immediate raises, bonuses, and worker benefits are far from the whole story. Tax AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000584 DOT_Am.Oversight-000584 reform will also deliver direct relief to middle-class families across America by cutting their tax rates and doubling the standard deduction. A typical family of four earning the median family income will get to keep more than $2,000 of their own money that they would have otherwise sent to the IRS next year.   “Further, the law repeals Obamacare’s punitive individual mandate tax, and soon many Americans are likely to see lower utility rates as utility companies pass along their savings to consumers. Just yesterday, two major Kentucky utilities asked the Kentucky Public Service Commission for permission to pass $180 million in tax reform savings on to their consumers, which could lower their bills this year.   “And we’re already seeing early signs that tax reform will create an environment where wages will be higher and opportunity will be more abundant for years, even decades, to come. President Trump and Republicans in Congress understand that when you make America a more attractive place to invest and create jobs, you are helping American families and communities.   “We understand that the myth of an ‘us-versus-them’ economy, where employers must lose for workers to win, is nothing more than a divisive political talking point with no basis in economics. That’s why we seized this generational opportunity to provide a twenty-first-century tax code that will give our country a fairer fight with our competitors overseas. And we’re already seeing new factories announced and new investments pouring into our country as a result.   “Tax reform is far from the only way this president and this Congress have gone to bat for the future of our country. We’ve taken a machete to the forest of red tape that the Obama administration left behind. To name just three examples, Congress and the White House have teamed up to roll back regulations that: threatened hundreds of thousands of coal jobs; required states to give grants to Planned Parenthood; and that had needlessly blocked oil exploration in a small portion of federal land in Alaska.   “After the Senate confirmed President Trump’s cabinet, from Secretary Mattis at the Pentagon to Administrator Pruitt at the EPA, these fine officials have notched achievement after achievement for the American people, laying the groundwork for a stronger and safer nation.   “We’ve made major progress for American veterans – like Corporal Matthew Bradford of central Kentucky, a true American hero who will be attending tonight as a guest of the First Lady. Congress has passed and the President has signed laws that will help our veterans access the health care options they need and the employment training programs they deserve. We have much more to do for our heroes, but these first steps are promising.   “We’ve taken big steps in the war against addiction and the scourge of opioids – an issue that is deeply personal for far too many American families.   “And in just his first year in office, the president has begun to transform the federal judiciary. President Trump had more new circuit court judges confirmed in his first year than any prior president, a testimony to the fine quality of the nominees he sends here to the Senate. We’ll vote to confirm another excellent judge later today. And the president rose to the occasion of a Supreme Court vacancy by filling it with a brilliant, experienced jurist in Justice Gorsuch.   “On all these fronts, from middle-class Americans’ pocketbooks to the ongoing fight against ISIL, there is more good news than I can begin to recite this morning. I look forward very much to attending the State of the Union tonight and hearing from the president. And on behalf of all the Americans we represent – men and women from coast to coast who are seeing the economy turn around and their country grow stronger before their eyes – I am glad there will be so much to applaud.”   ### AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000585 DOT_Am.Oversight-000585       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, January 30, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2ns3CMV                   Op-Ed Link: http://cjky.it/2GvmXpp McConnell Op-Ed: After Historic Year Under President Trump and Republican Congress, the State of our Union is Strong   ‘The Trump administration has worked with the Republican Congress to improve the lives of the American people. While liberal Washington Democrats have obstructed the president’s agenda at every turn to satisfy the far-left, Republicans have remained focused on the issues important to middle-class families and workers.’  WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) published the following op-ed on Courier-Journal.com:   “When President Trump delivers his State of the Union address, he will have outstanding news to share. After a decade of sluggish growth and stagnant paychecks, our country is back on the right track. Optimism is sweeping across the country, and the economy is finally gaining momentum. “The Trump administration has worked with the Republican Congress to improve the lives of the American people. While liberal Washington Democrats have obstructed the president’s agenda at every turn to satisfy the far-left, Republicans have remained focused on the issues important to middle-class families and workers.  “In a once-in-a-generation effort, the Republican-led Congress passed comprehensive tax reform legislation last year helping middle-class families, small businesses and workers keep more of their hard-earned money. In other words, we took money out of Washington’s pocket and put it back in the pockets of the middle-class families who earned it. The historic tax law also repealed Obamacare’s unpopular individual mandate tax, which disproportionally impacted low- and middleincome families by forcing them to purchase health insurance plans they often didn’t want or couldn’t afford. “Almost immediately, American businesses began sharing their historic tax benefits with their employees. Already, hundreds of companies — large and small — have announced special bonuses, higher wages, retirement savings contributions and other benefits for their workforces thanks to tax reform. Major corporations like Walmart, Home Depot, Verizon, Disney and Starbucks are sharing the benefits of tax reform. American businesses have also announced plans to build new facilities in America, buy more American products and create more American jobs. “Locally, Fifth Third Bank and U.S. Bank will deliver bonuses and raise the minimum hourly wage for many employees as a result of tax reform. Humana, employing more than 12,000 Kentuckians, recently announced it is accelerating pay incentives and increasing its minimum hourly wage. Brown Forman — a global spirits company in Louisville employing more than 1,000 Kentuckians — is starting a community investment foundation and committing $120 million to fund pensions. And many small businesses, like an event equipment rental business in Nicholasville, Kentucky, expect to now be able to purchase new capital inventory and hire additional employees. These types of announcements are happening around the country — and they keep coming. “The Senate has also prioritized confirming talented judges to the federal bench, beginning with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch. In fact, we confirmed a record 12 circuit court judges last year — including two Kentuckians. That’s the most circuit court confirmations in a president’s first DOT-18-0010-A-000586 DOT_Am.Oversight-000586 year in office since the creation of the circuit courts in 1891. It will continue to be a top priority in 2018. “After years of stifling overreach, Congress and the White House delivered regulatory relief by helping reverse Obama-era regulations, which devastated coal communities, like those in Kentucky. We repealed a wide range of burdensome regulations, from rules that were harmful to coal families to regulations on how teachers prepare their curriculums to a rule forcing states to fund Planned Parenthood. “Already, 2018 has seen important successes for those who need it most. Congress passed the longest extension in the history of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, which provides health coverage to more than 9 million children from low-income families, including several thousand children in Kentucky. At the same time, Congress delayed unpopular Obamacare taxes. Also, Congress reauthorized one of the most important tools used by our national security community to combat terrorism and keep Americans safe. And President Trump signed legislation to help stop the flow of opioids from entering this country, building upon years of progress and comprehensive action including prevention, enforcement and treatment. “In his address, President Trump will lay out his legislative agenda. Part of that plan is a muchanticipated infrastructure proposal. Our network of roads, bridges, airports and waterways is critical to nearly every segment of our economy, and working with the administration, we can develop a bipartisan plan to help businesses get their products to consumers and help all of us travel more safely and efficiently. “The Senate will also continue bipartisan discussions about fixing our broken immigration system. Last year, President Trump asked us to try to address President Obama’s unlawfully established program for illegal immigrants who were brought here as children called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). I hope that ongoing negotiations will lead to results that address DACA, border security and other related immigration issues. We will also continue bipartisan budget negotiations on important priorities, including adequate defense funding for our servicemembers as Defense Secretary Mattis leads the efforts to rebuild our great military. “During the State of the Union, President Trump can herald the many accomplishments of his first year in office and lay out his vision for the second. As he discusses the strong state of our union, I will be proud to stand up and applaud. Mitch McConnell, a Republican, is Kentucky’s senior senator and the United States Senate majority leader. ###           MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, January 29, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2nkg0iW                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2DJhI3q Serious and Constructive Talks Continue on Border Security, Immigration, Defense Funding ‘Last week the administration provided its framework for immigration legislation. As I DOT-18-0010-A-000587 DOT_Am.Oversight-000587 noted, it builds upon the four pillars for reform that the president has consistently put forth, and indicates what is necessary for him to sign a bill into law. As discussions continue in the Senate on the subject of immigration, members on both sides of the aisle should look to this framework as they work towards an agreement.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding ongoing discussions on border security, immigration and defense funding:   “A great deal of work remains before the Senate in the coming days. Bipartisan discussions continue on a variety of important issues – including immigration and border security, disaster relief, healthcare, and funding for our armed forces. With our February 8th deadline fast approaching, it is vital that we continue these serious and constructive talks. “Last week the administration provided its framework for immigration legislation. As I noted, it builds upon the four pillars for reform that the president has consistently put forth, and indicates what is necessary for him to sign a bill into law. As discussions continue in the Senate on the subject of immigration, members on both sides of the aisle should look to this framework as they work towards an agreement. “The president’s proposal has received praise as a serious effort to solve some of the problems with our broken immigration system. Not surprisingly with a subject this complicated, it has also received criticism on both the right and the left. Constructive critiques are one thing. But the type of irresponsible racial invective used—yet again—on this subject by the Democratic Leader of the House is decidedly unhelpful. Those comments are precisely the kind of divisive partisanship that can dim the prospects that a bipartisan compromise could become law. “The American people elected us to legislate, not to trade insults. To resolve president Obama’s unlawfully established DACA program and other important issues in immigration, I urge my Democratic colleagues to put serious, good-faith discussions ahead of cheap partisan pointscoring.” ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000588 DOT_Am.Oversight-000588 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- up next: Dodd Frank reform next week Thursday, March 01, 2018 5:54:30 PM Hi everyone, The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm, Monday, March 5th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #438, Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas, post-cloture. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to up to three roll call votes on the following: 1.         Confirmation of the Scholer nomination. 2.         Confirmation of Executive Calendar #439, Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia. 3.         Confirmation of Executive Calendar #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana. Please note, this afternoon the Leader filed cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. Please see Leader McConnell’s full floor remarks (end of this email) from earlier today on the ongoing successes of tax reform. An excerpt: Leader McConnell on tax reform: 0 “Now, Mr. President, on another matter, it's been just over two months since the united Republican government delivered historic tax reform to middle-class families all across the country. So how is it working? -- How is it working? We've all seen the national news. Walmart is giving raises or new benefits to more than a million -- a million hourly workers. Boeing is investing $300 million in workforce development and corporate giving. Apple is bringing hundreds of billions of dollars back home. But no less important are the stories making front page news in hometown newspapers all across our country.”  And a sampling of today’s headlines:       · U.S. jobless claims fall to lowest level since 1969 · Manufacturing in U.S. Expands at Fastest Pace Since May 2004 · Real Disposable Incomes in U.S. Increase Most Since 2015 Thanks, Erica DOT-18-0010-A-000589 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000589   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) Today in the Senate (Thursday, March 1, 2018): Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #437, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina. Confirmed. (69-28) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #438, Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas. Invoked. (96-1) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #439, Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia. Invoked. (85-12) · Motion to invoke cloture on the Executive Calendar #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana. Invoked. (94-2) Executive Session: Cal. #398 - Gregory Doud, of Kansas, to be Chief Agricultural Negotiator, Office of the United States Trade Representative, with the rank of Ambassador. Cal. #399 - Jason Kearns, of Colorado, to be a Member of the United States International Trade Commission for the term expiring December 16, 2024. Cal. #698 - Dennis Shea, of Virginia, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Geneva Office), with the rank of Ambassador. Cal. #699 - C. J. Mahoney, of Kansas, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Investment, Services, Labor, Environment, Africa, China, and the Western Hemisphere), with the rank of Ambassador.               AIR FORCE Cal. #700 – Col. Lee H. Harvis to be Brigadier General Cal. #701 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Michael L. Ahmann    AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000590 DOT_Am.Oversight-000590 Col. Peter G. Bailey   Col. Malinda M. Beggs    Col. Eric L. Bratu    Col. Benjamin M. Cason    Col. Mark A. Chidley    Col. Troy T. Daniels    Col. Nicholas A. Gentile, Jr.    Col. Thomas F. Grabowski   Col. Andrew W. Love   Col. Richard R. Neely   Col. Russell L. Ponder Col. Donna M. Prigmore    Col. Robert D. Reyner    Col. James A. Roberts    Col. Raymond S. Robinson, IV    Col. James P. Ryan    Col. Darrin E. Slaten    Col. Christopher L. Smith    Col. Jeffrey S. Smith    Col. Justin B. Smith    Col. Mark A. Weber    Col. Jeffrey L. Wilkinson    Col. John P. York Cal. #702 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Christopher R. Alderdice    Col. Robert S. Grant   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000591 DOT_Am.Oversight-000591 Col. Paul N. Loiselle    Col. Wayne M. McCaughey    Col. David J. Mounkes MARINE CORPS Cal. #703 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Timothy L. Adams    Col. Mark A. Hashimoto    Col. Karl D. Pierson AIR FORCE Cal. #704 – The following to be Major General: Brig. Gen. John J. DeGoes Brig. Gen. Robert I. Miller Brig. Gen. Lee E. Payne ARMY Cal.#705 – Brig. Gen. Jeffrey P. Kramer to be Major General NAVY Cal. #706 – Rear Adm. (lh) Gordon D. Peters to be Vice Admiral Cal. #707 – Rear Adm. Brian B. Brown to be Vice Admiral AIR FORCE Cal. #708 – Col. John J. Allen to be Brigadier General ARMY Cal. #709 – Col. Todd M. Lazaroski to be Brigadier General And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and Navy. Wrap Up: Cal. #305, S.1621 – Rural Wireless Access H.R.3656 – VA Memorial Headstones S.2248 – Tribal Burial Benefits AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000592 DOT_Am.Oversight-000592 S.2372 – Veterans Cemetery Benefit Correction S.Res.419 – National Eating Disorder Awareness Week S.Res.420 – World Wildlife Day S.Res.421 – Parkland Florida S.Res.422 – Read Across America Day S.Res.423 – Rare Disease Day MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, March 1, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2GU84fL                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Fc2FDA Workers, Small Business Owners Already Reaping Benefits From Tax Reform ‘It’s a shame our Democratic colleagues still haven’t been able to extract themselves from their lock-step opposition to this historic law. If they’d gotten their way, none of this good news would have happened.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:     “It’s been just over two months since this united Republican government delivered historic tax reform to middle-class families across America. So how’s it working? “We’ve all seen the national news: Walmart is giving raises or new benefits to more than a million hourly workers. Boeing is investing $300 million in workforce development and corporate giving. Apple is bringing hundreds of billions of dollars back to America.   “But no less important are the stories making front-page news in hometown newspapers across the country. Thanks to tax reform, in North Lima, Ohio, Sheely’s Furniture and Appliance is planning to issue $1,000 bonuses to full-time workers and expand the sales floor by 4,500 square feet.   “In Cushing, Iowa -- population 220 -- tax reform is allowing John Anfinson to give $1,000 bonuses and 5% pay raises to all his employees at the farm store that his grandfather founded in 1918. ‘I work every day shoulder to shoulder with everyone,’ Mr Anfinson explained. ‘When you work every day with a group of people, you know them and their family...They are the most valuable asset in any business.’ His customers will also likely be breathing easier. Tax reform is enabling farmers and ranchers across America to immediately expense the cost of important investments, and it’s taking a big bite out of the death tax.   “Senators heard stories just like these during last week’s state work period. Just ask Senator DOT-18-0010-A-000593 DOT_Am.Oversight-000593 Toomey what tax reform is doing in Pennsylvania. He stopped by New Hudson Facades, a manufacturer in Linwood. Tax reform enabled them to increase wages by 5%, and a partner company is contributing $3,000 to every factory worker’s 401(k).   “How about Montana? Senator Daines’ trip across his state took him to Pacific Steel in Great Falls, where sales are up 25% since tax reform passed. In West Virginia, Senator Capito joined a roundtable at the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce. She heard from local business leaders about, quote, ‘increased optimism.’ And in Nevada, 90% of the small business owners Senator Heller recently spoke with said they planned to raise wages, increase benefits, award bonuses, hire more workers, or invest in their operations.   “It’s a shame our Democratic colleagues still haven’t been able to extract themselves from their lock-step opposition to this historic law. If they’d gotten their way, none of this good news would have happened.   “Only one of the senators from Pennsylvania voted for the law that is allowing that Linwood manufacturer to expand. Only one senator from Ohio voted for the law that’s helping those workers in North Lima. Only one senator from Nevada voted to give small businesses the flexibility to invest more in their employees. Only one senator from West Virginia and one senator from Montana voted to take money out of Washington’s pocket and put it back in the pockets of the middle class.   “Every single Senate Democrat did all they could to block tax reform. Fortunately, every Republican voted to pass it. And because Congress passed tax reform and the president signed it into law, workers and small business owners are already reaping the benefits.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000594 DOT_Am.Oversight-000594 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update -- votes (fyi) Tuesday, February 27, 2018 12:39:36 PM FYI: at 4:00 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy   Director of the Office of Management and Budget. MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2HQ4og9                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2sZel7w Senate To Vote On Another Worthy Judicial Nominee ‘I encourage all my colleagues to join me in voting to confirm Elizabeth Branch today. Let’s continue to fulfill our constitutional responsibility and confirm the president’s outstanding judicial nominees.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, Judge Elizabeth Branch:   “The Senate will soon vote to confirm another fine candidate to serve on the federal bench. Yesterday afternoon, we voted to advance the nomination of Judge Elizabeth Branch for the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Judge Branch has sat on the Georgia Court of Appeals since 2012. This follows a fine career that spanned both private practice and public service.   “Judge Branch had previously answered the call to serve at the Department of Homeland Security, where she worked as Associate General Counsel, and then at the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. Her record and qualifications are well-known. Our colleagues on the Judiciary Committee reported her nomination favorably by an overwhelming vote.     “Confirming this worthy nominee will be a further credit to the outstanding work of Chairman Grassley and the members of the committee. I encourage all my colleagues to join me in voting to confirm Elizabeth Branch today. Let’s continue to fulfill our constitutional responsibility and confirm the president’s outstanding judicial nominees.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000595 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000595 Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000596 DOT_Am.Oversight-000596 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Votes (noms) Wednesday, January 24, 2018 2:20:33 PM Hello,   At 2:15 pm today the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of the Azar nomination (Secretary of HHS) – vote starting now. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #620, Samuel Dale Brownback, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. 3. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #552, R. D. James, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army. (voice vote expected)   Thank you, Erica   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S . SENATOR ft>r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2E1OVbf                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2DDlFdg Alex Azar: Extensive Qualifications And An Excellent Reputation ‘In his impressive testimony before the Finance Committee, Mr. Azar discussed his intention to confront head-on the opioid crisis that is hurting so many families across the country, including in my home state of Kentucky. He made clear that he will place an important priority on prevention, education and enforcement to halt the advance of this scourge.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Alex Azar:   “Yesterday, the Senate took another important step in confirming President Trump’s qualified nominees. In strong bipartisan fashion, we confirmed Jerome Powell to serve as Chairman of the Federal Reserve by a vote of 84-13. Mr. Powell was a fine choice to lead the Federal Reserve System. His public service and private-sector work alike have received accolades from across the political spectrum.   “He joined the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in 2012. And he has demonstrated an expert grasp of monetary policy and a commitment to improving the Fed’s transparency and accountability to Congress and to the public. I enjoyed meeting with him during the confirmation process and look forward to his service in this new position.   “The position of Fed chairman is integral to the health of the U.S. economy. Washington must DOT-18-0010-A-000597 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000597 empower the American people to create prosperity, through sound policy that gets the government out of the way of workers and job creators. Jay Powell is up to the task. I was proud to vote to confirm him yesterday.   “The Senate also voted yesterday to advance the nomination of another highly-qualified nominee – Alex Azar, who will serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services.   “In his impressive testimony before the Finance Committee, Mr. Azar discussed his intention to confront head-on the opioid crisis that is hurting so many families across the country, including in my home state of Kentucky. He made clear that he will place an important priority on prevention, education and enforcement to halt the advance of this scourge.    “But he recognizes we need effective, compassionate treatment options for those who are seeking recovery. And for all Americans he will work to expand access to high-quality, affordable healthcare options. His distinguished record – including prior HHS service as deputy secretary and private-sector work – shows he is the right man for the job.   “It is vital that this department be headed by a leader with Mr. Azar’s extensive qualifications and excellent reputation. He will be responsible for overseeing $1.13 trillion in department spending, supervising critical research, and administering – and reforming – programs that touch millions of Americans’ lives, such as Medicare and Medicaid. I look forward to voting soon in support of his confirmation.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000598 DOT_Am.Oversight-000598 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - Votes (noms) Wednesday, January 24, 2018 5:02:43 PM Hello, At 5:00 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #620, Samuel Dale Brownback, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom (ICYMI: cloture was invoked on Brownback this afternoon, 50-49, with Vice President Pence in the chair casting the tie-breaking vote). Please note, the previously expected vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #552, R. D. James, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army will now be a roll call vote at 1:45 pm tomorrow, Thursday, January 25th.   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000599 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000599 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - votes 5:30 pm // WH SAP - S.2311, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Monday, January 29, 2018 4:56:26 PM s2311.sap.pdf Hello everyone,   At 5:30 pm today the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #294, S.2311, Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. Please also see a SAP for S. 2311, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (attached).   Please note, if cloture is not invoked, the Senate will immediately proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #622, David Ryan Stras, of Minnesota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit.   Please see two statements below from Leader McConnell on the Pain Capable bill, as well as a WSJ article.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, January 29, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2DMKynR                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2BB6b4y Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Should Not Be a Partisan Issue DOT-18-0010-A-000600 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000600 ‘[T]he Senate will vote to take up a measure that would ensure the most vulnerable in our society are granted the protection they deserve under law. The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act reflects a growing mainstream consensus that unborn children should not be subjected to elective abortion after 20 weeks.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Pain Cable Unborn Child Protection Act and Senate consideration of the nomination of David Stras to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit:   “These negotiations aren’t the only important business before us this week. We will also consider another of President Trump’s well-qualified judicial nominees – David Stras of Minnesota, to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. “Mr. Stras currently serves as Associate Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Three of his former colleagues on that Court, now retired, praised him in an open letter last year for his sterling academic record, his considerable experience, and his ability to hear cases – quote – ‘with objectivity and an open mind.’ “Their testimony only confirms Mr. Stras’s well-known reputation for thoughtfulness, fairness, and intellectual excellence. I look forward to voting to advance his nomination, and to send this capable jurist to the federal bench. “But first, the Senate will vote to take up a measure that would ensure the most vulnerable in our society are granted the protection they deserve under law. The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act reflects a growing mainstream consensus that unborn children should not be subjected to elective abortion after 20 weeks. “There are only seven countries left in the world that still permit this. That includes the United States along with China and North Korea. It is long past time that we heed both science and commonsense morality and remove ourselves from this undistinguished list. “Some refer to this legislation as ‘Micah’s Law,’ in honor of a little boy who was born premature at just 22 weeks. Today, Micah Pickering is a healthy five-year-old boy. He shows what can happen when we give life a chance. This afternoon, every one of us will go on the record on this issue. On the commonsense side of this issue are 63% of Americans – according to a recent survey – and every other country in the world, save seven. “There is no reason why this should be a partisan issue. I hope that my Democratic colleagues will not obstruct the Senate from taking up this bill. I urge every one of my colleagues to join me in voting to advance it this afternoon.” ###         Senate Plans Vote on Bill Banning Abortions After 20 Weeks   By  Michelle Hackman and   Natalie Andrews Jan. 29, 2018 7:00 a.m. ET AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000601 DOT_Am.Oversight-000601 WASHINGTON—The Senate on Monday evening is set to consider a bill criminalizing abortions performed after 20 weeks of pregnancy, a vote that is almost certain to fail but may force Democrats up for re-election in largely Republican states to publicly take sides on the issue. The legislation has become a core plank of the antiabortion movement’s federal strategy, and its leaders plan to force lawmakers to repeatedly cast votes on the issue to raise public awareness. The House passed an identical bill in October on a party-line vote and has passed similar legislation three times since 2013.  The Senate voted on a similar bill in 2015 and two Republicans, Sen. Susan Collins of Maine and then-Sen. Mark Kirk of Illinois, opposed it, while three Democrats—Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Bob Casey of Pennsylvania and Joe Donnelly of Indiana—backed it. All of those Democratic senators are facing re-election this year, along with seven others in states that President Donald Trump won in 2016. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R., S.C.,) the bill’s Senate co-sponsor, told reporters that Monday’s vote highlights the importance of electing Republicans. “We wouldn’t be bringing this to the floor if Mitch McConnell weren’t the majority leader, so that matters,” he said. Sen. McConnell, of Kentucky, is also co-sponsoring the bill and called elective abortion after 20 weeks an “obvious and tragic moral wrong” on the Senate floor when introducing the procedural vote to move on to the bill. The Susan B. Anthony List, an antiabortion political outside group, has set up door-knocking operations in Florida, Indiana, Missouri and Ohio—all states where it hopes to unseat vulnerable Senate Democrats. The group spent $18 million during the 2016 campaign. “If red-state Dems hold the party line on this vote, it will allow their opponents to show how the extremist pro-abortion forces on the left have forced these senators way out of step with their constituents,” said GOP campaign strategist Chris Wilson. “And that’s an issue that will both motivate the GOP base and help to win over swing voters.” Mr. Trump secured the support of many social conservatives when he promised during the 2016 campaign to adopt the antiabortion movement’s top priorities, including the ban on abortions AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000602 DOT_Am.Oversight-000602 after 20 weeks. His administration has taken other significant steps to restrict access to the procedure, including allowing states to exclude abortion providers like Planned Parenthood from their Medicaid and Title X family planning programs. Planned Parenthood, which runs a similar political operation and supports abortion rights, spent $30 million in 2016 supporting Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Senate Democratic candidates, a funding commitment it hopes to match this year, according to a spokeswoman. “Now that we are into 2018, we can expect the floor agenda in Congress to be dominated by votes intended to try to rally the conservative base ahead of the midterms and try to squeeze red-state Democrats,” said Brian Fallon, a senior adviser for Priorities USA, a Democratic super PAC. “There is no reason why Mitch McConnell has to put a bill like this on the floor right now, rather than begin a debate on the far more urgent immigration issues, other than 2018 politics.” In the Senate, some Republicans and a handful of Democrats inclined to vote for the bill have raised concerns about its restrictions. Under the legislation, a woman could have an abortion after 20 weeks if her life was deemed at risk, a restriction that critics fear wouldn’t exempt a woman with serious health issues like cancer. The bill would permit abortions in cases of rape and incest, though a woman would need to first report the crime to police, a requirement that abortion-rights advocates say would place undue pressure on women. If the bill were to pass, it would almost certainly face a constitutional challenge under the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion through about 28 weeks of pregnancy. Though Republicans have struggled to establish national restrictions on abortion in recent years, they have enjoyed more success at the state level. Twenty states have enacted similar bills banning abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a pro-abortion rights research group that tracks reproductive health policy. Write to Michelle Hackman at Michelle.Hackman@wsj.com and Natalie Andrews at Natalie.Andrews@wsj.com   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000603 DOT_Am.Oversight-000603   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, January 25, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Senate to Vote on Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Next Week ‘There are only seven countries left that still permit elective abortion after 20 weeks— including us, China, and North Korea. On issues of human dignity, this is not the company we ought to keep.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks Thursday on the Senate floor regarding the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The Senate will have a cloture vote on proceeding to the bill next week:     “This week, the Senate has moved past partisan paralysis and checked off several important items for the American people. On Monday, of course, we passed the bipartisan measure that funds the federal government through February 8th.  “But that bill didn’t only end the shutdown. It also extended the State Children’s Health Insurance Program for six years. That’s long-term security for millions of vulnerable children and peace of mind for their families. And the bill delayed three onerous taxes that Obamacare would otherwise have imposed on the American people. “Yesterday, I filed cloture on commonsense legislation to protect unborn children who can feel pain. There are only seven countries left that still permit elective abortion after 20 weeks—including us, China, and North Korea. On issues of human dignity, this is not the company we ought to keep. I look forward to voting to advance this bill next week.” ###         DOT-18-0010-A-000604 DOT_Am.Oversight-000604 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - votes at noon; 2 pm Wednesday, April 18, 2018 11:32:39 AM Good morning,   The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of S.J.Res.57 (the Auto Lending CRA) with the time until noon equally divided between the managers or their designees.   At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following:   1. Passage of S.J.Res.57, the Auto Lending CRA (simple majority). 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.140, with a further amendment - Coast Guard (at 60).   Further, at approximately 2:00 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Education.   Reminder: on 4/17 Leader McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #609, James Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000605 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000605 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update -- votes CR Thursday, December 21, 2017 6:40:59 PM Hello everyone –   The (other) moment everyone has been waiting for this week -  The Senate just started a vote series (2 roll call votes) on the following in relation to the House message to accompany H.R. 1370, the Short Term CR:   1. Motion to waive the Budget act (info below) – voting now 2. Motion to concur in the House message (passage of the CR; funds the government through Jan. 19, 2018)   Note courtesy of Senate RPC on the Motion to waive the Budget Act:   Senator Paul has raised a section 306 point of order against the CR vehicle, H.R. 1370. Courtesy of the Budget Committee, a section 306 point of order lies against these provisions in H.R. 1370:   “Budget Committee Jurisdiction. The legislation includes a provision to delay Budget Control Actimposed sequestration reports, which prevents a sequestration order from being issued to remedy discretionary cap breaches. It also directs scorekeepers to exempt the effects of Divisions C and D from the pay-as-you-go (PAYGO) scorecard, as well as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1). The bill also includes directed scorekeeping language to count the budgetary effects of Divisions C and D as mandatory spending. As these provisions fall within Budget Committee jurisdiction, they trigger a point of order under section 306 of the Budget Act.”   Merry Christmas!!   This mint 1970 Christmas stamp was issued on November 5, 1970 and features "The Nativity" by Lorenzo Lotto (1480-1556). This painting is located in the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.      DOT-18-0010-A-000606 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000606 Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000607 DOT_Am.Oversight-000607 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update - votes soon Thursday, April 12, 2018 9:30:18 AM Good morning,   The Senate convened at 9:15 am and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #605, Patrick Pizzella, of Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of Labor.   At 9:30 am, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Pizzella nomination (Executive Calendar #605) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #666, Andrew Wheeler, of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000608 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000608 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update - voting now (cloture on budget agreement) Friday, February 09, 2018 1:07:10 AM Hi everyone –   An update on where we are:   The Senate adjourned briefly tonight to begin a new legislative day, and then convened again at 12:01 am, February 9.   The Senate is voting now on a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further amendment to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act (CR + bipartisan spending caps deal attached).   After that, members can speak for up to an hour each.   Then we will have a vote on the motion to waive the budget act, and then a vote on passage of the budget agreement.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000609 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000609 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update (votes) Wednesday, April 18, 2018 1:58:43 PM FYI: Cloture was not invoked on the motion to concur in the House Amendment, with a further amendment, to S. 140, the vehicle for the Coast Guard reauthorization bill (56-42).   Three original democrat cosponsors of the VIDA provision (vessel discharge, which was in the underlying bill) voted against cloture on the bill. These three cosponsors cast the deciding votes against moving the bill forward. *The Leader has entered a motion to reconsider (note/fyi: McConnell is a “no” vote so he could enter a motion to reconsider).    The Senate is currently in a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #609, James Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration-NASA.   Also FYI: the previously expected roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Education will now occur at approximately 2:30 pm.   Earlier: S. J. Res. 57, the Auto Lending CRA passed, 51-47.     Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   DOT-18-0010-A-000610 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000610 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, December 04, 2017 6:50:01 PM Good evening -  FYI: The Senate just had a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #495, Kirstjen Nielsen, of Virginia, to be Secretary of Homeland Security (cloture was invoked: 59-33).   We are now in the 30 hours post-cloture time on the Nielsen nomination. We expect a confirmation vote tomorrow (time TBD).   This week the Senate will work to pass a two-week CR from the House to fund the government past December 8th, and also vote to go to conference with the House on tax reform.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Tax Reform   ICYMI: Leader McConnell on the Floor today -Spoke on the nomination of Kirstjen Nielson to be Secretary of Homeland Security. ·---------0 “We'll do that by investigating to advance the nomination of Kirstjen Nielsen the president chose to serve as secretary of homeland security. As my colleagues know, this is an incredibly important position within our government with responsibilities ranging from cyber security to protecting our borders to the continued recovery efforts from the recent natural disasters. The Department of Homeland Security requires strong leadership to get the job done. Miss Nielsen is a qualified candidate with the talent and experience for succeed as chief of staff to the previous D.H.S secretary-- General John Kelly. She understands the daily operations of the department and shares our goals for its future. In addition, her previous tenure with the department makes her an ideal candidate to be ready to lead the agency on day one. Miss Nielsen is an experienced professional who will help lead the department as it faces constantly evolving threats.” Spoke on government funding legislation. ·----0 “This bill, one without any controversial policy riders will continue government funding and give the House and Senate time to complete their work on a long-term solution. It will keep the government open and functional and it includes critical resources for our national defense and to give states certainty to continue the children's health insurance program while the bipartisan work on CHIP reauthorization continues.” Spoke on tax reform. • --0 “Soon the House and Senate will meet in conference to produce a final bill so we can send it to the president's desk. Then the American people can begin to enjoy the relief. I want to take a few minutes to thank a number of people who were key to getting us to this point. First, President Trump and Vice President Pence who fought for the promise they made to the American people to caught their taxes. Their tenacity, commitment to the effort and engagement with the senate were invaluable. I look forward to working with them on the DOT-18-0010-A-000611 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000611 many other priorities we plan to deliver for our country. The president and vice president are great allies and we accomplish much working together.”   Also to note: A big shout out to the man of the hour, my colleague and Senate BFF -- Brendan Dunn - Leader McConnell’s tax policy advisor who helped get the tax bill across the finish line Friday night in the Senate. Please see the Leader’s remarks below about Brendan:   “And finally, to the man who has been the steady hand in the tax reform effort in my office, Brendan Dunn.  His leadership and counsel over the last several months has been unparalleled. Brendan many days worked around the clock to hear from our members on what they were hearing from their constituents and helped us get to passage of this incredibly significant piece of legislation. He worked with committees to draft language, rework ideas, present thoughts and prioritize member feedback. I couldn’t be more proud of Brendan and the work he has done.  Brendan, you have my deep gratitude and admiration for how you’ve helped manage this critical bill. It’s an honor to call you a colleague and also a friend.”   Please see several statements below from Leader McConnell. The Leader was on two Sunday shows this past weekend -- a few highlights from those interviews are below.   To watch the shows: Face the Nation: VIDEO This Week: VIDEO   Thanks! Erica   PS. I know there have been questions on when the 2018 Senate calendar will be out … very soon!   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENA'TE MAJORITY LEADER' K.ENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for For Immediate Release, Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                  McConnell on ABC’s ‘This Week’ and CBS’s ‘Face the Nation’ “It was pretty clear during this debate we have a very different view of what America ought to look DOT-18-0010-A-000612 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000612 like. Our Democratic friends are quite content with slow growth and little opportunity to improve your condition. We think we need to jumpstart the economy and provide more jobs and more opportunity for the American people.” LOUISVILLE, KY- U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) appeared on ABC’s ‘This Week’ and CBS’s ‘Face the Nation’ to discuss Senate passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The following are excerpts from the interviews:   ABC’s ‘This Week’   On Middle Class Tax Relief and Jobs “We’re doing a lot to keep our jobs from going overseas by making sure the business tax rates are competitive in this global economy. Of course we didn’t leave behind the middle class, either. The average tax-paying family gets a $2,200 tax cut. We double the standard deduction. We increased the child care credit.”   “This is very much oriented toward not only middle class tax relief but making sure our jobs are still here and there are jobs in the United States rather than somewhere else.”   On Regular Order “There were tons of hearings. Over and over. The Democrats went to them. The Democrats had the opportunity to offer amendments in committee. They had an opportunity to offer amendments on the floor. For example they were complaining about our repealing the Individual Mandate in Obamacare in this bill, but none of them offered an amendment to take it out. They had plenty of opportunity.”   “They decided it was important to them politically to oppose this tax measure and take that to the American people- and we're prepared to do that because we think this country has been underperforming and we believe this will get the country performing better, providing jobs and opportunity for the vast number of people who’ve been displaced during the Obama years.”   CBS’s ‘Face the Nation’   On Tax Reform Jumpstarting our Nation’s Economy “[Tax reform] coupled with the regulatory relief the administration has been providing are the reasons the economy is beginning to pick up. Consumer confidence is up.”   “This is designed to get the economy growing again. We didn’t have a single year of three percent growth during all of the Obama years. We were clearly underperforming- and you have to ask the question, why? It was a combination of over-regulation and a lousy tax code.”   “It was pretty clear during this debate we have a very different view of what America ought to look like. Our Democratic friends are quite content with slow growth and little opportunity to improve your condition. We think we need to jumpstart the economy and provide more jobs and more opportunity for the American people.”   ###         DOT-18-0010-A-000613 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000613 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, December 4, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2A2RfA6                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2igA8zr Congress To Pass Government Funding Bill ‘This week, Congress will consider short-term funding legislation to provide resources to address many important issues facing our country. The House recently released its legislative text to fund the government through December 22, and I look forward to our colleagues’ consideration of the measure. This bill – one without any controversial policy riders – will continue government funding and give the House and Senate time to complete their work on a long-term solution.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding government funding legislation:   “This week, Congress will consider short-term funding legislation to provide resources to address many important issues facing our country. The House recently released its legislative text to fund the government through December 22, and I look forward to our colleagues’ consideration of the measure. This bill – one without any controversial policy riders – will continue government funding and give the House and Senate time to complete their work on a long-term solution.   “It will keep the government open and functional, and it includes critical resources for our national defense and to give states certainty to continue the Children’s Health Insurance Program while the bipartisan work on CHIP reauthorization continues.   “Congressional leaders continue to work with the administration on a long-term funding proposal to help agencies accomplish their goals and plan for the future. As we wait for the House to take the next steps, I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to review the legislation. We will pass it before the end of the week.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, December 4, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2je6Lyz                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2AUaw6U DOT-18-0010-A-000614 DOT_Am.Oversight-000614 Kirstjen Nielsen Has The Talent And Experience To Succeed At DHS ‘Today, the Senate will continue to fulfill its important responsibility to confirm critical nominees to President Trump’s administration. We’ll do that by voting to advance the nomination of Kirstjen Nielsen, the president’s choice to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Secretary of Homeland Security, Kirstjen Nielsen:   “Today, the Senate will continue to fulfill its important responsibility to confirm critical nominees to President Trump’s administration. We’ll do that by voting to advance the nomination of Kirstjen Nielsen, the president’s choice to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security.   “As my colleagues know, this is an incredibly important position within our government. With responsibilities ranging from cybersecurity, to protecting our borders, to the continued recovery efforts from the recent natural disasters, the Department of Homeland Security requires strong leadership to get the job done.   “Ms. Nielsen is a qualified candidate with the talent and experience to succeed. As Chief of Staff to the previous DHS Secretary, General John Kelly, she understands the daily operations of the Department and shares our goals for its future. In addition, her previous tenure with the Department makes her an ideal candidate to be ready to lead the agency on day one.   “Ms. Nielsen is an experienced professional who will help lead the Department as it faces constantly-evolving threats. I look forward to advancing her nomination later today, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting Ms. Nielsen for this critical national security post.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY   For Immediate Release, Monday, December 4, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Leader McConnell Thanks Those Who Helped Make Passage of Tax Reform Possible ‘I want to take a few minutes to thank a number of people who were key to getting us to this point.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the passage of tax reform and Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) legislation:   “Last week, the Senate passed a critical tax reform bill to jumpstart the American economy by putting more money into the pockets of hardworking families and small businesses, creating more jobs and economic opportunity, and taking steps to ensure that jobs and business stay in America. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and we’re meeting the challenge. Soon, the House and DOT-18-0010-A-000615 DOT_Am.Oversight-000615 the Senate will meet in a conference to produce a final bill so we can send it to the president’s desk. Then the American people can begin to enjoy the relief.   “I want to take a few minutes to thank a number of people who were key to getting us to this point. First, President Trump and Vice President Pence, who fought for the promise they made to the American people to cut their taxes. Their tenacity, commitment to the effort and engagement with the Senate were invaluable. I look forward to working with them on the many other priorities we plan to deliver for the country. The president and vice president are great allies and we will accomplish much together.   “I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Secretary Mnuchin, Director Cohn, General Kelly, Marc Short, and many others at the White House who worked with us in this effort. Speaker Ryan, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Brady and our friends in the House have done great work as well and we’re looking forward to getting a final bill to the president’s desk soon.   “To my Leadership team, who provide good counsel and good humor even in the most trying of times, thank you. Most especially to Majority Whip John Cornyn who is not only a valued colleague but a trusted friend. John and his whip team, led by Monica Popp, helped navigate many challenges along the way. There is no doubt – we wouldn’t have made it this far without them.   “The Chairman of the Finance Committee, Orrin Hatch. His many years of service in the Senate have brought the expertise and steady hand we needed to get this bill written, out of committee, and to the floor. Not only is Orrin an expert at legislating, but he also is a trusted friend, and I thank him for his many years of work to get us to this point.    “And to the Chairman of the Budget Committee, Mike Enzi. There are few people around here who understand this complicated process better than Chairman Enzi, and we are grateful to him as well. And the Chair of the Energy Committee, Lisa Murkowski. This is an important moment for Alaska and for American energy security.   “To the committee staffs: Finance, led by Jay Khosla; Energy and Natural Resources, led by Brian Hughes; and Budget, led by Betsy McDonnell. And of course the Senate’s dean of the tax counsels, Mark Prater. Thank you.    “There are a number of other members who have been critical to the process… Senators Thune, Portman, Toomey and Scott took on the yeoman’s work in the Finance Committee as we worked to unite our conference on a bill that everyone could support. I will never forget the time and energy they put into this effort and can’t thank them enough. My staff calls them the ‘core four’ of tax reform.   “I would also like to extend my gratitude to:   “To the Senate parliamentarians, who worked long hours and weekends with Republicans and Democrats alike to apply the Rules of the Senate in a fair and unbiased manner.   “The floor staff, doorkeepers, those working for the Sergeant at Arms, Secretary of the Senate and Architect of the Capitol; those behind the scenes that provide essential support for the Senate whenever we’re in session. You are the reason this institution functions so well no matter the challenges before us.  We appreciate your commitment and service.   “To the members of the United States Capitol Police, who stand constant guard and protect the members, staffs, and the millions of visitors who travel here, we are always grateful for your service.   “We all know that without our teams on the floor and in the Cloakroom, this place simply wouldn’t run the way it should. Secretary for the Majority Laura Dove, Robert Duncan and the whole Cloakroom team are invaluable to the work we do each day, and I’d like to thank them for the hours they put in no matter what the issue of the day is.   “And finally, to my own team:   “First to Sharon Soderstrom, who leads my staff with focus and commitment to success. I am lucky to have her by my side each day.  She makes each of us better by not letting us forget why we’re here: to do the right thing for the American people. We’ve seen a lot of debates together over the last 10 years, and her counsel is always steady and straightforward.  She truly is the best of the best.   “Don Stewart.  Stew keeps us all on our toes, but always with a laugh. The communications team of Robert Steurer, Antonia Ferrier, David Popp, Stephanie Penn, Kevin Grout and many more helps communicate in a challenging news environment every single day, and I’m thankful for their efforts.   AMERI AN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000616 DOT_Am.Oversight-000616 “Hazen Marshall, who has been in the trenches on this every day since we started our work on this bill.  Hazen may be the most likeable guy in the Senate, but with a backbone of steel. Jane Lee, my budget lead, smart, cheerful and determined. To my Leader office policy team who get to work with the committees as well as folks outside the Senate to help keep everyone informed, field questions and address concerns, thank you. Scott Raab, Terry Van Doren, and Erica Suares each played a role in this and I want to thank them.   “Phil Maxson and my personal office staff, including Katelyn Conner and Liz Strimer, that each day helps my whole team keep Kentucky at the forefront of anything we are working on. I can’t thank them enough. And to the many others in both my state operation, especially Terry Carmack, and my Leader office team, while I can’t name everyone by name, know that my appreciation goes to each of you as well. And of course Stef Muchow, my Director of Operations. She keeps everything running, is always working, and I can’t imagine this success without her.   “And finally, to the man who has been the steady hand in the tax reform effort in my office, Brendan Dunn.  His leadership and counsel over the last several months has been unparalleled.  Brendan many days worked around the clock to hear from our members on what they were hearing from their constituents and helped us get to passage of this incredibly significant piece of legislation. He worked with committees to draft language, rework ideas, present thoughts and prioritize member feedback. I couldn’t be more proud of Brendan and the work he has done.  Brendan, you have my deep gratitude and admiration for how you’ve helped manage this critical bill. It’s an honor to call you a colleague and also a friend.”   ###           AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000617 DOT_Am.Oversight-000617 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Neill, Jim (McConnell) Senate Update // changing of the guard Monday, February 26, 2018 5:21:14 PM Good afternoon,   The Senate is in session and convened at 3:00 pm today. Following the close of Morning Business, Senator Peters delivered Washington’s Farewell Address. The Senate then proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Branch nomination.   This week will be spent processing nominations. ICYMI: Leader McConnell filed cloture on several nominations before the recess week. We will process these nominations in the order he filed cloture.   Please note the Leader has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (2/15/18): · Cal. #623 - Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. · Cal. #153 - Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget. · Cal. #437 - A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina. · Cal. #438 - Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas. · Cal. #439 - Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia. · Cal. #536 - Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana.   Announcements:   We are very excited to announce a new McConnell team member – Jim Neill. Jim came to the Leader’s office from the Senate Budget Committee where he handled outreach and coalitions. Many of you know Jim from his good work during budget reconciliation on health care and tax reform.   Jim will handle all Conservative Coalitions for Leader McConnell, and can be reached at: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov - --- VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000618 DOT_Am.Oversight-000618   I won’t be going far! – I’ll be handling Business relations, Governors outreach, and an internal role here with our Legislative Directors.   FYI: The daily “Senate Update” email will go on! Starting tomorrow you may receive this update from either me or Jim – let us know if you have any questions!   Best, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-A-000619 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000619 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update // ICYMI: McConnell Announces Senate Republican Members of Joint Select Committees Tuesday, February 27, 2018 6:56:29 PM Hi everyone, The Senate will convene at 12:45 pm tomorrow, Wednesday, February 28th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, post-cloture. *All time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on the Vought nomination. FYI: At 10:25 am Members will meet in the Senate Chamber to proceed as a body to the Rotunda for the Arrival Ceremony for Reverend Billy Graham. At 4:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #437, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina.   Today in the Senate (Tuesday, 2/27/18): Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. Confirmed. (73-23) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Invoked. (49-48) Executive Session: Cal. #387 - William Northey, of Iowa, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services. Wrap Up: S.Res.415 – National Speech and Debate Education Day S.Res.416 – Career and Technical Education Month S.Con.Res.35 – Use of Emancipation Hall Rule 14 – add to the Senate Calendar: DOT-18-0010-A-000620 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000620 S.2464 - 3 Year Border/DACA   FYI – ICYMI – press release on Joint Select Committees (Budget & Approps Reform and Pensions): MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S. SENATORfol" KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 27, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2CMugG3 McConnell Announces Senate Republican Members of Joint Select Committees   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced the Senate Republican Joint Select Committee assignments:   Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform: Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO)   Senator David Perdue (R-GA)   Senator James Lankford (R-OK)   Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)     Joint Select Committee on Solvency of Multiemployer Pension Plans: Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) (Co-Chair)   Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN)   Senator Michael Crapo (R-ID)   Senator Rob Portman (R-OH)       ###   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader DOT-18-0010-A-000621 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000621 U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000622 DOT_Am.Oversight-000622 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update // Judges Tuesday, December 12, 2017 11:47:10 AM The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #533, Steven Grasz, of Nebraska, to be United States Circuit Court Judge for the Eighth Circuit, post-cloture. We expect a vote on the Grasz nomination later today.   Reminder: on Thursday, December 7, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations (as well as Grasz).   · Executive Calendar #534, Don Willett, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit. · Executive Calendar #535, James Ho, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   Leader McConnell this morning on the pending judicial nominations. “Yesterday the Senate advanced the nomination of Leonard Steven Grasz to be a judge on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr. Grasz has sterling credentials and strong support from the Nebraska legal community. I proudly voted to advance his nomination and the senate will confirm him soon. Next we'll vote to advance the nomination of another well qualified individual, Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Justice Willett respects the rule of law and foundational legal principles and he will be a strong addition to the Fifth Circuit. His story is an inspirational one, adopted at a young age and raised by a widowed mother in a town of 32 people. He was the first person in his family to graduate from high school.”   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Tax Reform.     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000623 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000623 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, December 11, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2BUBKH9                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2BdrgWA Senate To Consider Three More Well-Credentialed Circuit Judges ‘First, the Senate will consider the nomination of Leonard Steven Grasz to serve on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Then, it will consider the nomination of Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. And finally, later this week, the Senate will also consider the nomination of James Ho to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Each of these nominees will make strong additions to the federal bench, and I look forward to considering them in the coming days.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the three circuit court nominees the Senate is set to consider this week:   “This week, the Senate will consider three more outstanding individuals nominated by President Trump to serve on our nation’s federal circuit courts. For eight years, we had a president who selected judicial nominees based on a so-called ‘empathy standard.’ It was an ideological litmus test designed to find nominees who would favor certain groups or individuals over others. While that may sound like a good standard to the party in the case for whom the judge has empathy, it doesn’t sound so great if you’re the other person.   “On the other hand, President Trump has nominated talented individuals who will ensure that the federal judiciary maintains its particular role in our constitutional system. The judicial nominees before the Senate this week are each well-credentialed and have the integrity and temperament to serve our nation on the circuit courts. They are dedicated to upholding the rule of law and giving every litigant a fair shake. That’s how the American people expect judges to decide cases. And the Senate is working to confirm President Trump’s nominees who will do just that.   “First, the Senate will consider the nomination of Leonard Steven Grasz to serve on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Then, it will consider the nomination of Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. And finally, later this week, the Senate will also consider the nomination of James Ho to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.   “Each of these nominees will make strong additions to the federal bench, and I look forward to considering them in the coming days. I would like to once again commend Chairman Grassley for his leadership of the Senate Judiciary Committee. His excellent work has allowed us to bring these nominees to the floor.   “Later today, the Senate will advance the nomination of Mr. Grasz, a talented individual with experience in both private practice and public service. After graduating from law school at the University of Nebraska, Mr. Grasz began a distinguished career in the law. Working as the Chief Deputy Attorney General of Nebraska for nearly twelve years, he excelled representing the State of Nebraska in numerous appellate cases, including before the United States Supreme Court.   “Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, along with five other top state officials, wrote a letter to the Judiciary Committee supporting Mr. Grasz’s nomination. Here’s what they had to say:   “‘Steve has become a leading expert on state and federal constitutional law. His demeanor and temperament have earned the respect of Nebraskans across the political spectrum in our state.’   DOT-18-0010-A-000624 DOT_Am.Oversight-000624 “Mr. Grasz has won the support of prominent Nebraskans from both sides of the aisle. Our former colleague, Senator Ben Nelson, came to know Mr. Grasz when Senator Nelson was the Governor of Nebraska. Senator Nelson wrote, ‘Steve won my respect by putting his considerable skills to work as an effective legal advocate for our state.’   “‘We sometimes found ourselves disagreeing on policy,’ he continued, ‘nevertheless, I quickly learned that Steve was the kind of consummate professional who is capable of putting whatever personal views he may have aside when appropriate in his capacity as a public servant.’    “‘He was an asset to our state, and Nebraskans benefitted from having such a capable and thoughtful professional in public service.’   “Furthermore, the Obama Administration’s U.S. Attorney for Nebraska worked with Mr. Grasz in the state, and she wrote in support of his nomination. ‘Steve has always enjoyed a reputation for honesty, impeccable integrity and dedication to the rule of law.’   “‘He possesses an even temperament well-suited for the bench,’ she continued, ‘and always acts with respect to all [who] interact with him.’   “In addition, a letter from the current and previous presidents of the Omaha Bar Association stated that the Omaha legal community supports Mr. Grasz’s nomination, ‘without hesitation.’ The letter goes on to say that he, ‘possesses the legal expertise, professionalism, character, and ethics that are demanded of a Judge on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.’  The local legal community – both government officials and private attorneys –overwhelmingly attest not just to Mr. Grasz’s impressive qualifications but to his commitment to fairness and the rule of law.   “Through his decades of legal practice, Mr. Grasz has shown that he is the right choice to serve on the Eighth Circuit.  I am proud to join with our colleagues from Nebraska in supporting Mr. Grasz’s nomination. I look forward to voting to advance his nomination later today, and to confirming all three of these circuit court nominees this week.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S- . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY - - - For Immediate Release, Tuesday, December 12, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2BbGrij                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2jzilI6 Justice Don Willet Will Be A Strong Addition To The Fifth Circuit ‘I would like to commend President Trump for nominating Justice Willett to the Fifth Circuit. And under Chairman Grassley’s leadership, the Judiciary Committee has done an outstanding job processing this nomination and many others. By joining the Fifth Circuit, Justice Willett will use his talents to continue to serve his state and his nation. I look forward to advancing his nomination, and I urge my colleagues to join me in doing so.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding President Trump’s nominee for the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willet: DOT-18-0010-A-000625 DOT_Am.Oversight-000625   “Yesterday, the Senate advanced the nomination of Mr. Leonard Steven Grasz to be a judge on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr. Grasz has sterling credentials and strong support from the Nebraska legal community. I proudly voted to advance his nomination, and the Senate will confirm him soon.   “Next, we will vote to advance the nomination of another well-qualified individual, Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Justice Willett respects the rule of law and our foundational legal principles, and he will be a strong addition to the Fifth Circuit.   “His story is an inspirational one. Adopted at a young age and raised by a widowed mother in a town of 32 people, he was the first person in his family to graduate high school. As our colleague Senator Cornyn said at the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing, Justice Willet’s life ‘[reflects] the best of Texas, and the best of America.’ From these humble beginnings, Justice Willett has led a remarkable career.   “After graduating from the Duke School of Law, he clerked for Judge Jerre Williams of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, the panel he has now been nominated to join. He spent a short time in private practice before entering public service in then-Governor George W. Bush’s Administration as a legal and policy advisor. When President Bush entered the White House, Justice Willett joined him as the Special Assistant to the President. In that role, he helped shape the domestic legal policy of the Bush Administration, especially in the president’s efforts to increase charitable activities in neighborhoods across the nation.   “The next year, he became the Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Policy. There he oversaw both civil and criminal policy initiatives, including what became the PROTECT Act of 2003, which increased law enforcement’s ability to prevent and prosecute violent crimes against children. Afterward, Justice Willett returned to Texas to serve as the Deputy Attorney General for Legal Counsel. As the top legal aide to then-Attorney General Greg Abbott, he advised the office on a wide variety of legal matters.   “In 2005, he was appointed to serve as a justice on the Texas Supreme Court. Elected to a full term in 2006 and reelected in 2012, Justice Willett has served with distinction on the Texas high court for over a decade. During that time, he has ruled fairly and impartiality. Four of his former colleagues on the Texas Supreme Court wrote a letter to the Judiciary Committee supporting Justice Willett’s nomination.   “They wrote that ‘[h]is demonstrated belief is that the courts should enforce both constitutional rights and constitutional limitations and uphold the rule of law, but not enforce a personal agenda.’   “‘On occasion,’ they continued, ‘we did not agree with each other or with him on the disposition of an appeal but we respected Don’s opinions and never doubted his devotion to principle.’   “In addition, retired Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson recommended Justice Willett’s nomination, writing that he will be ‘a thoughtful, hardworking, diligent, and influential member of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.’ Justice Willett has also been recognized for his excellence by the Texas Review of Law and Politics, which named him its Distinguished Jurist of the Year in 2014.   “I would like to commend President Trump for nominating Justice Willett to the Fifth Circuit. And under Chairman Grassley’s leadership, the Judiciary Committee has done an outstanding job processing this nomination and many others. By joining the Fifth Circuit, Justice Willett will use his talents to continue to serve his state and his nation. I look forward to advancing his nomination, and I urge my colleagues to join me in doing so.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000626 DOT_Am.Oversight-000626 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update // Looking Ahead // Major Accomplishments Of The 115th Congress (attachment) Thursday, August 02, 2018 11:52:33 AM Hi everyone – The Senate will next convene Wednesday, August 15th at 12:00 pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #1008, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit. At 5:30 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Quattlebaum nomination.   Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order: 1. Executive Calendar #1008, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit. 2. Executive Calendar #1009, Julius Ness Richardson, of South Carolina, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit.   We have just had an extremely productive period in the Senate – from completing work on appropriations bills (7 of 12 finished) to helping shape the judiciary (24 circuit judges and 26 district court judges) and more, the Senate is on a one-week state work period and will convene again the week of August 13.   Below, please see wrap up from last night. And at the bottom of this email please find two helpful lists – 1) a summary & look ahead for August from STEW and 2) a list of major accomplishments of the 115th Congress. Attached to this email you’ll also find it in printable pocket card format.   Have a great week and let us know if you have any questions! Summer reading road trip suggestion! The Bonfire of the Vanities By: Tom Wolfe Narrated by: Joe Barrett Length: 27 hrs and 28 mins Unabridged Audiobook If you haven’t read this or it’s been a while, try the audio with narration by Joe Barrett – it’s incredible…   See you in a week! Erica Erica Suares DOT-18-0010-A-000627 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000627 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6)   Yesterday in the Senate (8/1/18): Roll Call Votes: 1. Adoption of Leahy amendment #3464 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Not adopted, 50-47) 2. Adoption of Lee amendment #3522 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Not adopted, 14-84) 3. Adoption of Baldwin amendment #3524 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 83-15) 4. Motion to table Cruz amendment #3402 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Tabled, 54-44) 5. Passage of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations, as amended. (Passed, 92-6) 6. Adoption of the Conference Report to accompany H.R.5515, NDAA 2019. (Adopted, 87-10) Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal.#697 - Jason Klitenic, of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Cal.#630 - Emily Coody Marks, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Alabama. Cal.#631 - Jeffrey Uhlman Beaverstock, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Alabama. Cal.#632 - Holly Lou Teeter, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. Cal.#730 - Colm F. Connolly, of Delaware, to be United States District Judge for the District of Delaware. Cal.#732 - Maryellen Noreika, of Delaware, to be United States District Judge for the District of Delaware. Cal.#767 - Jill Aiko Otake, of Hawaii, to be United States District Judge for the District of Hawaii. UC Items: S.Res.604 – Legal Counsel H.R.2345 – National Suicidal Hotline Improvement Cal.#369, S.1668 – Joseph Sanford Jr. Channel H.R.6414 – Tribal Transportation S.2101 – Gold Medal with a Donnelly amendment House Message S.770 – MAIN STREET Cybersecurity DOT-18-0010-A-000628 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000628 Cal.#519, S.2497 - U.S.-Israel Security Assistance with a Rubio amendment To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  Done, and to-do The Senate had another productive week: o Four more appropriations bills passed (for a total of seven) o Another circuit court nominee confirmed (24 circuits confirmed so far in this Congress) o Six more district court judges confirmed o General Counsel of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence confirmed o National Defense Authorization Act passed and will be sent to the President o Flood insurance extension passed and will be sent to the President o The Animal Drug and Animal Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2018 (H.R.5554) passed and will be sent to the President o The National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act of 2018 passed and will be sent to the President o The United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act of 2018 passed o Appointed conferees to the Farm Bill   --The week of August 13th, will be yet another productive week: The Senate will confirm two more circuit court nominees AND begin processing two more appropriations bills (Defense and Labor/HHS)   And there’s a lot more on the agenda. Remember, the Senate does not have its traditional August recess, allowing more time to confirm nominations, pass appropriations and other important legislation.   Here are some of the other items that the Senate will be considering in the weeks and months ahead:   •          Opioids legislation (in addition to the funding that’s already passed) •          Water infrastructure bill •          FAA reauthorization •          Judicial nominations •          Executive branch nominations •          Farm bill conference •          Appropriations conferences AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000629 DOT_Am.Oversight-000629 •          And many other items Any questions? And I hope this doesn’t ruin your productivity.  Meanwhile, I’m here in August recess FOMO. STEW @StewSays Improving The Lives Of The American People   The Major Accomplishments Of The 115th Congress ü TAX REFORM: Reformed America’s tax code for the first time in 31 years - putting more money in the pockets of American families and creating more opportunity for them and their children. ü JUDGES: Confirming President Trump’s judicial nominees at a historic pace – 51 total, including 24 circuit judges, 26 district court judges, and Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court.  ü APPROPRIATIONS: Providing certainty to the American people with a restored regular order appropriations process by passing 7 of 12 appropriations bills through the Senate – the first time that’s happened by the beginning of August since 2000.  ü FARM BILL: Working to provide farmers and ranchers with the certainty and predictability they deserve with Senate passage of a critical Farm bill.  ü DEFENSE: Restoring America’s defense with the greatest investment in the military in decades, including the largest troop pay raise in nearly ten years.  ü COMBATING OPIOID ABUSE: Enacted ‘a multibillion-dollar boost’ to combat a nationwide epidemic. ü VETERANS: Delivered real reform and real choice to American veterans with the VA MISSION Act, modernized the veterans appeals process, reformed G.I. bill benefits and further improved VA accountability.  ü SAFE MEDICATIONS: Reauthorized the FDA programs that ensure safe and effective medications can help patients by getting to market. ü REGULATORY REFORM: Used Congressional Review Act (CRA) a record-setting 16 times to roll back Obama-era regulations. ü EDUCATING AMERICA’S WORKFORCE:  Enacted a law to provide better education and training to help expand career opportunities for American workers.  ü ENERGY: Opened one of the largest untapped conventional oilfields in North America, in Alaska, to help keep energy affordable. ü BANKING REFORM: Provided Main Street borrowers and lenders relief from burdensome DoddFrank red tape for the first time. ü HOPE FOR THE TERMINALLY ILL: Provided terminally ill patients access to experimental treatments (Right to Try legislation). ü FIGHTING SEX TRAFFICKING: Enacted the Stop Enabling Sex Trafficking Act (SESTA) to combat DOT-18-0010-A-000630 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000630 trafficking. ü OBAMACARE: Repealed the individual mandate tax that forced Americans to buy something many didn’t want or couldn’t afford, and ended IPAB. ü FIGHTING TERRORISM: Enacted the Taylor Force Act to disincentivize payments to terrorists. ü SANCTIONS: Imposed on Iran, Russia, and North Korea. ü REINING IN THE REGULATORS: Changed the balance of numerous boards and commissions from Democrat to Republican control, including the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC). ü HEALTHCARE FOR CHILDREN: Enacted the longest S-CHIP extension in history. ü SCHOOL SAFETY: Enacted Fix NICS and STOP School Violence Act to help protect America’s children from gun violence.     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000631 DOT_Am.Oversight-000631 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update // McConnell On Tax Reform: Congress Is Standing At The Doorstep Of An Historic Opportunity Tuesday, December 19, 2017 12:05:42 PM Hello -  The Senate convened at 10:00 am today.   At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #430, Jennifer Gillian Newstead, of New York, to be Legal Adviser of the Department of State with 10 minutes of debate.   At 12:10 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Newstead nomination.   Please note, following the disposition of the Newstead nomination, the Senate will recess until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   Tax Reform: The Senate is expected to vote on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Report after receiving it from the House. There will be up to 10 hours of debate and a vote on passage. Vote timing TBD – will send an update later!   Also to note – we are still collecting names of supporters of Tax Reform. I’ll send an updated list later today. Please also send letters of support, key votes, etc. to the House and Senate. Additionally, if you have not put out a statement but would like to be added to the “supporters list” please let us know!   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Report, and Appropriations.   Monday's Session: Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #241, J. Paul Compton, Jr., of Alabama, to be General Counsel of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. (Confirmed, 62-34) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #193, Owen West, of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense. (Confirmed, 74-23)   UC Items: There were no UC items.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol DOT-18-0010-A-000632 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000632 - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2AYFnM0                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2B0hwvj McConnell On Tax Reform: Congress Is Standing At The Doorstep Of An Historic Opportunity ‘The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver historic tax relief to American families. It will help put our country on a trajectory towards more innovation and better-paying jobs. It will repeal an unfair tax at the center of Obamacare and will help America achieve greater energy security.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:   “Congress is standing at the doorstep of an historic opportunity. Today, the House will vote on the conference report of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the most significant overhaul of our nation’s tax code in more than thirty years. This major tax reform legislation will provide much-needed relief to middle-class families and small businesses, and will set America on a trajectory towards more opportunity and greater prosperity.   “After the House votes this afternoon, the Senate will begin debate, and will proceed to a vote on passage later this evening. The final text of this bill is the product of extensive open debate. It is the result of dozens of hearings on tax reform in recent years and an open amendment process. Then, the House and Senate joined together in a conference committee that carefully reconciled the two chambers’ bills. Now the time has come to vote.   “When Senators vote for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they will be voting for a bill that substantially cuts taxes for middle-class families. By reducing rates, it will let working Americans keep more of their paycheck and send less of their hard-earned money to Washington. In addition to lower rates, middle-class families will benefit from a standard deduction that is almost double its present level, and a doubling of the Child Tax Credit. They will benefit from the ability to deduct more of their medical expenses, increasing their tax savings during difficult times.   “And despite what opponents of the bill have claimed, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act achieves all this while preserving the charitable deduction and the adoption tax credit. It protects the exemption for university tuition benefits. A mortgage interest deduction remains, as does a deduction for state and local taxes. The result is a comprehensive tax reform bill that does what we set out to do: take money out of Washington’s pocket and put it back into the pockets of the middle-class Americans who earned it.   “Consider a typical family of four that earns the median family income. A vote for the conference report is a vote to cut their tax bill by more than $2,000 next year. After a disappointing decade of stagnant wages and shrinking opportunity under the Obama Administration, middle-class families are counting on Congress to keep our promise and give them that much-needed relief.    “In addition to directly cutting taxes for American families, this landmark bill will also set America on a trajectory towards higher wages and better job opportunities by making our country a better place to do business. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act contains a number of provisions that will make it easier to run and grow a small business, to create jobs, and to invest in the United States. The bill creates DOT-18-0010-A-000633 DOT_Am.Oversight-000633 new tax relief for Main Street businesses. It makes it easier for American companies to bring their earnings back home instead of parking that money elsewhere.   “It eliminates incentives to ship jobs and manufacturing overseas, and replaces them with new incentives to invest and expand operations here at home. And to make America more competitive in the global economy, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act cuts our corporate tax rate from 35 percent -one of the highest rates in the developed world – to 21 percent.   “That is good news for workers. As more than 100 economists agreed in a recent open letter, ‘the question isn’t whether American workers are hurt by our country's corporate tax rate – it's how badly.’ Another expert put it this way in a recent op-ed: It is ‘the consensus view of professional economists’ that ‘lowering corporate income taxes would increase the wages of workers.’   “Perhaps that’s why reforming the corporate tax rate used to be a bipartisan goal. During the previous administration, prominent Democrats said they supported bringing our rate in line with our competitors overseas. There may be a new occupant of the White House, but the need for reform has not changed. I hope our colleagues on both sides of the aisle will support this pro-growth, proworker policy.   “It’s no wonder that job creators are enthusiastic about what they will be able to accomplish when tax reform becomes law. I recently received a letter from the chief operating officer of a construction equipment dealer in Louisville. This is a direct quote: ‘We’ll hire more employees and plan investments in our company that we weren’t considering prior to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.’    “This bill will also help Americans by repealing a punitive tax at the very heart of Obamacare. For low- and middle-income families who are suffering under the individual mandate tax – including many in my home state of Kentucky – repeal means relief.   “If the health insurance plans available under Obamacare are not affordable or not desirable, the blame lies with that failing law, not with Americans who are already struggling to make ends meet. It is unfair and illogical to penalize them further because Obamacare is failing to meet their needs. By erasing this individual mandate tax, we will give Americans both tax relief and healthcare flexibility — two things that Obamacare has failed to provide.   “There is one more element of this bill that deserves special attention. It provides the nation, and particularly the people of Alaska, with a tremendous opportunity to develop the state’s bountiful natural resources. In 1980, Congress set aside a particular non-wilderness area within Alaska’s National Wildlife Refuge for potential development of its oil and gas resources.   “This bill is our chance to finally make good on that promise, enhancing our country’s energy security and creating good-paying jobs in the process. Unlocking the resources of this area will provide a boon to Alaska’s economy. But more broadly, it will also advance America’s standing as an energy superpower, helping to cut Americans’ energy costs and strengthening our national security.   “For too long, special interests have stood in the way of responsible development. The people of Alaska have shown time and again that resource development can go hand in hand with environmental protection, and surface development will be limited to just one ten-thousandth of the total land in the Reserve. It is long past time to finish what Congress started almost 40 years ago and begin reaping the benefits of responsible development.   “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver historic tax relief to American families. It will help put our country on a trajectory towards more innovation and better-paying jobs. It will repeal an unfair tax at the center of Obamacare and will help America achieve greater energy security.   “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. I commend the hard work of Chairman Hatch, Chairman Enzi, and Chairman Murkowski to bring it within reach. And I urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting to approve the conference report and complete this victory for the American people.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000634 DOT_Am.Oversight-000634 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update + SFC Summary of Tax Extenders (Div D) Thursday, February 08, 2018 10:53:10 AM Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, Revenue Measures.pdf Good morning,   The Senate convened at 10:30 am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the House Message to accompany H.R.695, Department of Defense Appropriations Act.   Under the regular order, at 11:30 am the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the House Message to accompany H.R.695 (House-passed full year DoD Approps).   Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further amendment to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act (CR + bipartisan spending caps deal attached). This CR runs until March 23, 2018. We expect this cloture vote later – time TBD.   The Leader just now on the Senate floor:   Senator McConnell: (10:32 am) • • Spoke on defense spending. 0 “If we act now, we can start rebuilding our military and provide our troops the training and equipment they need to defend the homeland and protect the American people. The crisis in our military is acute. Just this week headlines revealed that two-thirds of the Navy's FA-18 aircraft are not prepared to fly. The fleet which must secure sea lines of communication across the globe and patrol the Persian Gulf and the South China Sea has shrunk to the smallest ship count in nearly three decades. We've become too reliant on special operations forces and radically drawn down our conventional force structure. This has not been lost on China or Russia. They're improving their conventional forces and intimidating their neighbors.”   Spoke on government funding legislation. 0 “This agreement provides for new grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement initiatives to bolster existing national and state efforts. The legislation secures relief for families who are still struggling to rebuild in the wake of last year's spade of natural disasters. This provision was only made possible by tireless work from several of my colleagues. Thanks to the leadership of Senator Cornyn and Senator Rubio who led on behalf of Florida and spoke up for the people of Puerto Rico, help will soon be on the way. And the agreement also provides for new investment in our nation's infrastructure, a shared bipartisan priority.”   Looking Ahead: Nominations and Appropriations   Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, February 7, 2018):   Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes. Executive Session (noms cleared): Cal. #599 - Barbara Stewart, of Illinois, to be Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service. DOT-18-0010-A-000635 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000635 Cal. #602 - Brett Giroir, of Texas, to be Medical Director in the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, and to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services. UC Items: S.Res.385 – National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month S.Res.397 – School Counseling S.Res.398 – Girls and Women in Sports S.Res.399 – Philadelphia Eagles   FYI: I will send another email with all section-by-section committee summaries shortly – I am attaching the tax extenders document from Senate Finance to this email.   Also, please see a note below from STEW last night – for additional context on where we are.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, February 7, 2018 11:49 PM Subject: You up? (bipartisan agreement update)   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE: Here we go… The Senate just voted (voice vote) to proceed to the House-passed CR. The Majority Leader then offered the bipartisan deal announced earlier today as an amendment (in nerd-speak: he moved to concur with a further amendment to the House message). He then filed cloture on the whole enchilada. As the Majority Leader described the legislation earlier today: “The compromise we’ve reached will ensure that, for the first time in years, our armed forces will have more of the resources they need to keep America safe. It will help us serve the veterans who have bravely served us. And it will ensure funding for important efforts such as disaster relief, infrastructure, and building on our work to fight opioid abuse and drug addiction.” The Senate will vote as early as tomorrow on the bipartisan, bicameral agreement; its passage will send it back to the House for consideration. Bill text is available here. And check out these pups.       DOT-18-0010-A-000636 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000636 Pres FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 7, 2018 Release Contacts: David Popp/Antonia Ferrier (McConnell): 202-224-2979 AshLee Strong/Doug Andres (Ryan): 202-225-0600 Link: http://bit.ly/2FVRaNa   BIPARTISAN BUDGET ACT Investing in Defense, Veterans, Disaster Relief, Combatting Opioids, Infrastructure “We need Congress to lift the defense spending caps and support a two-year budget agreement for our military…. We expect the men and women of our military to be faithful in their service even when going in harm's way. We have a duty to remain faithful to them.”  --Secretary of Defense James Mattis, 2/7/2018 A bipartisan, bicameral agreement was reached on a long-term budget agreement that, for the first time in years, will ensure that America’s armed forces have more of the resources they need to keep America safe. The two-year budget agreement also makes critical investments in America’s veterans, disaster relief, infrastructure, and further combatting opioid abuse and drug addiction. • This agreement will unwind the sequestration cuts that have hamstrung America’s armed forces and jeopardized our national security by funding the military at this year’s National Defense Authorization Act levels. • It breaks the spending “parity” demanded for years by Democrats by giving defense a larger funding increase than non-defense discretionary spending. Compared to current law spending caps, the agreement increases defense discretionary funding by $80 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 and $85 billion in FY 2019 vs. an increase in non-defense domestic discretionary of $63 billion in FY 2018 and $68 billion in FY 2019. • This agreement provides for America’s veterans by helping reduce the maintenance backlog at the Veterans Administration. • It also provides almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations for disaster relief efforts for communities crippled by hurricanes in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Florida and Texas. • This agreement includes $6 billion over two years to bolster the ongoing fight against opioid addiction and substance abuse by funding grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement efforts in vulnerable communities across the country. • The agreement includes a $20 billion new investment in America’s infrastructure -- a bipartisan priority shared by the President and lawmakers in both parties. • • The agreement lifts the debt limit through March 1, 2019. It includes structural reforms to Medicare and cuts to Obamacare, and repeals the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) from Obamacare. • • It includes an extension of funding for Community Health Centers. • • It includes $2 billion in funding over two years for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This agreement includes an extension of tax relief provisions that are supported by Republicans and Democrats. It establishes two committees to address pension and budget/appropriations reform. Continuing Resolution & Disaster Supplemental: The agreement includes a Continuing Resolution (CR) that funds the government at current levels through March 23, 2018 in order for the Appropriations Committees to negotiate detailed appropriations and deliver full funding for the remainder of FY 2018, and begin the process for FY 2019. The legislation also contains almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations to help states, DOT-18-0010-A-000637 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000637 communities, businesses, and individuals respond and recover from recent hurricanes, wildfires and other disasters. Within in this funding, $4.9 billion is provided to increase Medicaid caps for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands for two years, along with program requirements. Tax & Health Care Policies: The agreement includes a one-year extension of critical tax provisions that help families, individuals and small businesses across the country. These provisions expired at the end of 2016. It includes an additional four years of authorization for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).   The measure also includes a package of bipartisan Medicare provisions, known as Medicare extenders, and funding for community health centers. ### AMf--f CAN VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000638 DOT_Am.Oversight-000638 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Wednesday, December 06, 2017 12:23:20 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am today.   Leader McConnell then called up the House request for conference on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. There is now up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided on the Message (we are in the 10 hours right now).   We will vote to go to conference (“the compound motion to go to conference”) this afternoon and then vote on motions to instruct (MTI) conferees. These MTIs are non-binding. A mini vote-a-rama is possible this afternoon. At some point at the end of this process the chair will name conferees (we’ll announce those after they are named).   Also: Please note, by consent, at a time and date to be determined the Senate will have 60 minutes of debate followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #321, Joseph Balash, of Alaska, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Tax Reform.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, 12/5/17): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #495, Kirstjen Nielsen, of Virginia, to be Secretary of Homeland Security. (Confirmed, 62-37) Executive Session: Cal. #455 - Emily Webster Murphy, of Missouri, to be Administrator of General Services. Cal. #501 - Glen R. Smith, of Iowa, to be a Member of the Farm Credit Administration Board, Farm Credit Administration. UC Items: There were no UC items. Rule 14 (added to the Senate calendar): S.2192 – SECURE Act     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000639 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000639 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, December 6, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2AfMy6k                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2jlGfTZ One Step Closer To Tax Reform ‘Earlier this week, our colleagues in the House voted to work with the members of the Senate to produce a final bill to send to the president’s desk. And later today, the Senate will do the same. We will vote to join our colleagues in a conference to finish our work on tax reform. The American people deserve taxes that are lower, simpler, and fairer. By voting to go to conference, we will be one step closer to getting it done. I look forward to voting to send our legislation to conference later today.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding a conference with the House on tax reform:   “Last week, Senators answered the calls of our constituents by voting to overhaul our complex and outdated federal tax code. We seized the opportunity to spur economic growth, to help create jobs right here at home, and to take more money out of Washington’s pocket and put more money into the pockets of hardworking American families.   “Our bill also helps provide for our country’s energy security by further developing Alaska’s oil and gas potential in an environmentally responsible way. And it delivers relief to low- and middleincome Americans by repealing Obamacare’s individual mandate tax.   “I would like to once again thank every one of my colleagues who supported this once-in-ageneration effort to make our tax code work for the middle class and help them get ahead. Since the beginning of this process, we said that tax reform would be done through regular order and an open process. That’s exactly what has happened.   “Under Chairman Hatch’s leadership, the Senate Finance Committee hosted dozens of hearings over multiple years and a full committee markup. Members on both sides of the aisle had the chance to offer amendments both in the committee and here on the floor. We considered numerous amendments, and, when it came time to vote, the Senate approved the bill. This has been a yearslong process to deliver tax reform. We have come a long way, and we still have more work ahead of us.   “Earlier this week, our colleagues in the House voted to work with the members of the Senate to produce a final bill to send to the president’s desk. And later today, the Senate will do the same. We will vote to join our colleagues in a conference to finish our work on tax reform. The American people deserve taxes that are lower, simpler, and fairer. By voting to go to conference, we will be one step closer to getting it done. I look forward to voting to send our legislation to conference later today.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000640 DOT_Am.Oversight-000640 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, December 6, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2jl776N                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2jjzUbK Continuing Resolution Will Allow Congress To Finalize Long-Term Funding Solution ‘By sending this short-term funding provision to the president for his signature, we will ensure that the government remains open while bipartisan discussions continue with our colleagues in Congress and the White House on a long-term funding solution. In the meantime, it is important to recognize that this bill doesn’t have any contentious provisions. We should all support it.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding government funding legislation:   “With the cooperation of our colleagues, Congress will pass a short-term continuing resolution before the end of the week. Once the House passes the continuing resolution, the Senate will have the chance to consider it as well.   “By sending this short-term funding provision to the president for his signature, we will ensure that the government remains open while bipartisan discussions continue with our colleagues in Congress and the White House on a long-term funding solution. In the meantime, it is important to recognize that this bill doesn’t have any contentious provisions. We should all support it.   “A vote for this short-term measure will help maintain our military. It will continue the important work of federal agencies. And it will provide states with the certainty to continue funding the Children’s Health Insurance Program until a bipartisan CHIP reauthorization agreement is finalized.   “So, when the House sends us the short-term continuing resolution later this week, I would urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting for it. That way, we can continue the critical operations of the federal government while we work to finalize a long-term solution.”   ###       AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000641 DOT_Am.Oversight-000641 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Friday, December 22, 2017 3:48:11 PM image002.png Hello everyone, The Senate will convene at 12:00 pm, Wednesday January 3rd. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of Morning Business with Senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each. At 5:30 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #508, John C. Rood, of Arizona, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. ICYMI: Last night the Senate cleared 28 nominations. There are 150 nominations (list at the bottom of this email) that will remain in “status quo,” – meaning these nominations will stay in the Senate on the calendar and will not be sent back to the White House to be renominated. Tax Reform: Today, President Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act into law! I have more additions to the Tax Reform “supporters list” and will be sending around an updated list in early January – please continue to send in names of companies, trades, and organizations who may want to be added to the list. Our efforts on this front will continue, even after a bill becomes law! A note: 2017, Year in Review: There are several excellent press pieces on GOP accomplishments this year. It truly has been an historic year. From massive regulatory rollback via the Congressional Review Act (15 CRAs signed into law – a historic number!), to confirming pro-life judges – from Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, to the 12 Circuit Court judges – the most confirmed ever in a first year of a president since the Circuit Court system began (more info on this in the below document from the Senate GOP Comms Center). From passing Tax Reform -- bringing real relief to Middle Class families and making American businesses more competitive -- to repeal of the Individual Mandate – the centerpiece of Obamacare, and finally, to making America more energy independent by opening up ANWR, it has been a year for the books. Many thanks to each of you for your help on these important wins! See you in 2018! Merry Christmas!!   Erica PS. A quick note of apology (!!!) if I have not returned an email to you in the past few days. Will respond soon! Last night in the Senate – Thursday, December 21, 2017: Roll Call Votes: Motion to waive the Budget Act in relation to the House Message to accompany H.R.1370, the Short Term CR. Agreed to. (91-8) Motion to concur in the House Message in relation to accompany H.R.1370, the Short Term CR. Agreed to. (66-32) Executive Session: 1. Cal. #525 - Kenneth J. Braithwaite, of Pennsylvania, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to DOT-18-0010-A-000642 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000642 the Kingdom of Norway. 2. Cal. #526 - M. Lee McClenny, of Washington, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Paraguay. 3. Cal. #528 - Brock D. Bierman, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development. 4. Cal. #530 - Christopher Ashley Ford, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (International Security and Non-Proliferation). 5. Cal. #311 – Robert P. Storch, of the District of Columbia, to be Inspector General of the National Security Agency. (New Position) 6. Cal. #456 - Hester Maria Peirce, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission for a term expiring June 5, 2020. 7. Cal. #457 - Robert J. Jackson, Jr., of New York, to be a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission for the remainder of the term expiring June 5, 2019. 8. Cal. #545 - Timothy R. Petty, of Indiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior. 9. Cal. #546 - Linda Capuano, of Texas, to be Administrator of the Energy Information Administration. 10. Cal. #576 - John G. Vonglis, of New York, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy. 11. Cal. #578 - Irving Dennis, of Ohio, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Housing and Urban Development. 12. Cal. #503 - Suzanne Israel Tufts, of New York, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. 13. Cal. #577 - Leonard Wolfson, of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. 14. Cal. #299 - Robert Charrow, of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Department of Health and Human Services. 15. PN 1286 - Tadd M. Johnson, of Minnesota, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation for a term expiring October 6, 2022, vice Terrence L. Bracy, term expired 16. PN 1287 - Lisa Johnson-Billy, of Oklahoma, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation for a term expiring August 25, 2018, vice Diane Humetewa, resigned 17. PN 1288 - Lisa Johnson-Billy, of Oklahoma, to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation for a term expiring August 25, 2024 (Reappointment)  18. PN1035 - Kenneth E. Allen, of Kentucky, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2021. 19. PN1036 - A. D. Frazier, of Georgia, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2022 20. PN1037 - Jeffrey Smith, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2022 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000643 DOT_Am.Oversight-000643 21. PN1038 - James R. Thompson III, of Alabama, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2021 22. PN1172 - Christopher Caldwell, of Arkansas, to be Federal Cochairperson, Delta Regional Authority 23. Cal. #502 - Katherine Brunett McGuire, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Labor. 24. Cal. #554 - Kate S. O'Scannlain, of Maryland, to be Solicitor for the Department of Labor. 25. Cal. #556 - Preston Rutledge, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Labor. 26. Cal. #559 - Johnny Collett, of Kentucky, to be Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. 27. PN 1196 - Douglas Webster, of Virginia, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Education, vice Lawrence A. Warder, resigned 28. PN 1109 Jon J. Rychalski, of Montana, to be Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Wrap Up: S.1438 - Gateway Arch National Park Designation Act H.R.1927 - African American Civil Rights Network Act of 2017 Cal. #49, S. 35 – Black Hills National Cemetery Land Conveyance w/ Committee amdt Cal. #54, S. 432 – Rio Grande del Norte National Monument Wilderness   Cal. #55, S. 466 – Northern Arizona Land Exchange Amendment Cal. #62, H.R. 267 – Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park Addition Cal. #64, H.R. 560 – Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Road Fees Cal. #72, H.R. 699 – Mt. Hood – Cooper Spur Land Exchange Cal. #88, H.R. 863 – Coltsville National Historical Park Amendments Cal. #125, S. 167 – National Memorial to Fallen Educators w/ Committee amdt Cal. #148, H.R. 381 – Sky Point Designation Cal. #170, H.R. 954 – Rockingham County, VA land uses H.R. 1242 – 400 years of African-American History Commission H.R. 1306 – Oregon Tribal Land Conveyances H.R. 2611– Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act  Cal. #241, S.1208 – Secure Mail Initiative Cal. #261, H.R.195 – Federal Register Printing Savings w/ Grassley amdt Cal. #270, S.2070 - Kevin and Avonte's Law of 2017 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000644 DOT_Am.Oversight-000644 S.Res.139 – Baha’i minority human rights S.2030 – Ceiling Fan Energy Conservation S.2273– Shipping Vessel Discharge S.Res.336 – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Awareness Month S.Res.364, NCAA Division II Women's Soccer S.Res.365 - Nebraska Volleyball S.Res.327 – Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Awareness H.R. 518 – EPS Improvement Act H.R.2142 – INTERDICT Act H.R. 2228 – Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act H.R.2331, Connected Government Act H.R.4661 – United States Fire Administration, AFG, SAFER Rule 14 – to add to the calendar: S.2274 – Retroactive Pay Bill Nominations in Status Quo: The following nominations will remain in status quo (meaning they will remain in the senate on the calendar) and will not be sent back to the White House (to be renominated): COMMERCE Calendar #155, Adam J. Sullivan, of Iowa, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation Calendar #261, Ronald L. Batory, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration Calendar #467, Bruce Landsberg, of South Carolina, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board for a term expiring December 31, 2022 Calendar #469, Raymond Martinez, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Calendar #471, Nazakhtar Nikakhtar, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce Calendar #472, Neil Jacobs, of North Carolina, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce PN474-2, Admiral Steven Andersen, US Coast Guard PN474-2, Admiral Keith Smith, US Coast Guard          EPW Calendar #168, Annie Caputo, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000645 DOT_Am.Oversight-000645 five years expiring June 30, 2021 Calendar #169, David Wright, of South Carolina, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of five years expiring June 30, 2020 Calendar #404, Jeffery Martin Baran, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the term of five years expiring June 30, 2023 Calendar #552, R. D. James, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army (SASC and EPW) AGRICULTURE Calendar #270, Dawn DeBerry Stump, of Texas, to be a Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission for a term expiring April 13, 2022 Calendar #387, William Northey, of Iowa, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services Calendar #544, Stephen Alexander Vaden, of Tennessee, to be General Counsel of the Department of Agriculture BANKING Calendar #579, Spencer Bachus III, of Alabama, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2019 Calendar #580, Spencer Bachus III, of Alabama, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2023 Calendar #581, Judith Delzoppo Pryor, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2021 Calendar #582, Kimberly A. Reed, of West Virginia, to be First Vice President of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2021 Calendar #583, Claudia Slacik, of New York, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2019 Calendar #584, Claudia Slacik, of New York, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Export Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20, 2023 PN893, Mark L. Greenblatt, of Maryland, to be Inspector General, Export Import Bank INTELLIGENCE Calendar #465, John C. Demers, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General, term expiring June 5, 2019 PN1216, Jason Klitenic, of Maryland, to be General Counsel of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence PN1252, Michael K. Atkinson, of Maryland, to be Inspector General of the Intelligence Community, Office of the Director of National Intelligence PN925, Christopher Sharpley, Inspector General, CIA ARMED SERVICES Calendar #552, R. D. James, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army (SASC and EPW) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000646 DOT_Am.Oversight-000646 Calendar #497, Gregory Maggs, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces for the term of fifteen years to expire on the date prescribed by law Calendar #496, Anthony Kurta, to be a Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense Calendar #508, John C. Rood, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy PN857, John Henderson, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force PN1096, Alex Beehler, Assistant Secretary of the Army PN1317, Gregory Slavonic, Assistant Secretary of the Navy PN1193, Michael D. Griffin, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering INDIAN AFFAIRS PN1179, Tara Sweeney, of Alaska, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior PN1180, Robert M. Weaver, of Oklahoma, to be Director of the Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services, for the term of four years JUDICIARY Cal. #370, William L. Campbell, Jr., of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee Cal. #371, Thomas Lee Robinson Parker, of Tennessee, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Tennessee Cal. #389, Michael Lawrence Brown, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Georgia Cal. #435, Walter David Counts III, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas Cal. #437, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina Cal. #438, Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas, Cal. #439, Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia Cal. #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana Cal. #539, Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky Cal. #540, John W. Broomes, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas Cal. #541, Rebecca Grady Jennings, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky Cal. #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky Cal. #570, Andrei Iancu, of California, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000647 DOT_Am.Oversight-000647 the United States Patent and Trademark Office PN928 Adam I. Klein, of the District of Columbia, to be Chairman and Member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board for the remainder of the term expiring January 29, 2018 PN929 Adam I. Klein, of the District of Columbia, to be Chairman and Member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board for a term expiring January 29, 2024 PN931 Jonathan F. Mitchell, of Washington, to be Chairman of the Administrative Conference of the United States for the term of five years PN985 R. Stan Baker, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Georgia PN991 Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas PN1044           Norman Euell Arflack, of Kentucky, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Kentucky for the term of four years PN1045           Michael T. Baylous, of West Virginia, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of West Virginia for the term of four years PN1046           David G. Jolley, of Tennessee, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Tennessee for the term of four years PN1047           Daniel R. McKittrick, of Mississippi, to be United States Marshal for the Northern District of Mississippi for the term of four years PN1050           Ryan T. Holte, of Ohio, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years PN1052           Matthew D. Krueger, of Wisconsin, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin for the term of four years PN1053           Matthew D. Krueger, of Wisconsin, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin for the term of four years PN1088           Frank M. Coffman, of Oklahoma, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Oklahoma for the term of four years PN1090           Thomas M. Griffin, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States Marshal for the District of South Carolina for the term of four years PN1091           Mark S. James, of Missouri, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Missouri for the term of four years PN1092           Johnny Lee Kuhlman, of Oklahoma, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Oklahoma for the term of four years PN1093           Daniel C. Mosteller, of South Dakota, to be United States Marshal for the District of South Dakota for the term of four years PN1094           Gary G. Schofield, of Nevada, to be United States Marshal for the District of Nevada for the term of four years PN1198           James R. Sweeney II, of Indiana, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000648 DOT_Am.Oversight-000648 Indiana PN1205           John C. Anderson, of New Mexico, to be United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico for the term of four years PN1206           Joseph D. Brown, of Texas, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas for the term of four years PN1207           John H. Durham, of Connecticut, to be United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut for the term of four years PN1208           Brandon J. Fremin, of Louisiana, to be United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana for the term of four years PN1209           Robert K. Hur, of Maryland, to be United States Attorney for the District of Maryland for the term of four years PN1211           McGregor W. Scott, of California, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of California for the term of four years PN1307           Matthew D. Harris, of Utah, to be United States Marshal for the District of Utah for the term of four years PN1308           Ted G. Kamatchus, of Iowa, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Iowa for the term of four years PN1309           Joseph P. Kelly, of Nebraska, to be United States Attorney for the District of Nebraska for the term of four years PN1310           Joseph D. McClain, of Indiana, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Indiana for the term of four years PN1311           Scott W. Murray, of New Hampshire, to be United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire for the term of four years PN1312           David A. Weaver, of Colorado, to be United States Marshal for the District of Colorado for the term of four years PN1313           David C. Weiss, of Delaware, to be United States Attorney for the District of Delaware for the term of four years PN1329, Susan Paradise Baxter, of Pennsylvania, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania PN1330, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit PN1331, Colm F. Connolly, of Delaware, to be United States District Judge for the District of Delaware PN1332, Kari A. Dooley, of Connecticut, to be United States District Judge for the District of Connecticut PN1333, Gordon P. Giampietro, of Wisconsin, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Wisconsin PN1334, Marilyn Jean Horan, of Pennsylvania, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000649 DOT_Am.Oversight-000649 PN1335, Chad F. Kenney, of Pennsylvania, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania PN1336, Maryellen Noreika, of Delaware, to be United States District Judge for the District of Delaware PN1337, William F. Jung, of Florida, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Florida. PN1339, William W. McSwain, of Pennsylvania, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for the term of four years. PN1338, William Jill Alko Otake, of Hawaii, to be United States District Judge for the District of Hawaii, vice Susan Oki Mollway, retired. PN1340, Billy J. Williams, of Oregon, to be United States Attorney for the District of Oregon for the term of four years. SMALL BUSINESS PN1078, David Christian Tryon, of Ohio, to be Chief Counsel for Advocacy, Small Business Administration PN1100, Hannibal Ware, of the Virgin Islands, to be Inspector General, Small Business Administration SFRC Calendar #330, Steven T. Mnuchin, of California to be United States Governor of the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, United States Governor of the African Development Fund, and United States Governor of the Asian Development Bank Calendar #331, Steven T. Mnuchin, of California, to be United States Governor of the International Monetary Fund, United States Governor of the African Development Bank, United States Governor of the Inter-American Development Bank, and United States Governor of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development for a term of five years PN872, Thomas J. Hushek, of Wisconsin, to be Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan PN912, Edward Masso, of Virginia, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia PN1184, Carlos Trujillo, of Florida, to be Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the Organization of American States, with the rank of Ambassador PN1185, Peter Hendrick Vrooman, of New York, to Ambassador to the Republic of Rwanda PN1195, Joel Danies, of Maryland, to be Ambassador to the Gabonese Republic, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe PN1203, Robin S. Bernstein, of Florida, to be Ambassador to the Dominican Republic PN1215, Robert Frank Pence, of Virginia, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Finland PN1280, Joseph E. Macmanus, of New York, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Colombia PN1289, Erik Bethel, of Florida, to United States Alternate Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development for a term of two years PN1290, David T. Fischer, of Michigan, to be Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000650 DOT_Am.Oversight-000650 PN1291, Judy Lynn Shelton, of Virginia, to be United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development PN1326, Andrea Thompson, to be Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security HSGAC Cal. #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget Cal. #359, John Marshall Mitnick, of Virginia, to be General Counsel, Department of Homeland Security Cal. #474, Jonathan H. Pittman, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years PN695, Michael Rigas, of Massachusetts, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Personnel Management PN727 Joshua A. Deahl, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals for the term of fifteen years PN920 Frederick M. Nutt, of Virginia, to be Controller, Office of Federal Financial Management, Office of Management and Budget PN924 Margaret Weichert, of Georgia, to be Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget PN983 Jeff Tien Han Pon, of Virginia, to be Director of the Office of Personnel Management for a term of four years PN995 Rainey R. Brandt, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years PN996 Deborah J. Israel, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years PN1107, John Edward Dupuy, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Office of Personnel Management PN1187, Carmen Guerricagoitia McLean, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years PN1188           Robert M. Duncan, of Kentucky, to be a Governor of the United States Postal Service for a term expiring December 8, 2018 PN1189           Robert M. Duncan, of Kentucky, to be a Governor of the United States Postal Service for a term expiring December 8, 2025 PN1190           Calvin R. Tucker, of Pennsylvania, to be a Governor of the United States Postal Service for a term expiring December 8, 2023 PN1191           David Williams, of Illinois, to be a Governor of the United States Postal Service for a term expiring December 8, 2019 PN1247           Thomas D. Homan, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security HELP AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000651 DOT_Am.Oversight-000651 Calendar #376, Carlos G.Muniz, to be General Counsel, Department of Education PN1293, Mark Schneider, of the District of Columbia, to be Director of the Institute of Education Science, Department of Education for a term of six years PN1294, Barbara Stewart, to be Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service PN1328, Frank T. Brogan, of Pennsylvania, to be Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education PN1318, Chai Feldblum, Member of the EEOC Cal. #379, Janet Dhillon, of Pennsylvania, to be a Member of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for a term expiring July 1, 2022 Cal. #381, Daniel M. Gade, of North Dakota, to be a Member of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for a term expiring July 1, 2021 SASC PN1325, Lisa Gordon Hagerty, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Nuclear Security, Department of Energy FINANCE Cal.#297, Matthew Bassett, of Tennessee, to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services Cal. #298, Gilbert B. Kaplan, of the District of Columbia, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Cal. #397, Jeffrey Gerrish, of Maryland, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Industrial Competitiveness), with the rank ofAmbassador Cal. #398, Gregory Doud, of Kansas, to be Chief Agricultural Negotiator, Office of the United States Trade Representative, with the rank of Ambassador Cal. #399, Jason Kearns, of Colorado, to be a Member of the United States International Trade Commission for the term expiring December 16, 2024" PN602, Lynn A. Johnson, of Colorado, to be Assistant Secretary for Family Support, Department of Health and Human Services PN741, Dennis Shea, of Virginia, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Geneva Office), with the rank of Ambassador PN785, John J. Bartrum, of Indiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services PN826, C. J. Mahoney, of Kansas, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Investment, Services, Labor, Environment, Africa, China, and the Western Hemisphere), with the rank of Ambassador PN869, Elizabeth Ann Copeland, of Texas, to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for a term of fifteen years PN870, Patrick J. Urda, of Indiana, to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for a term of fifteen years AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000652 DOT_Am.Oversight-000652 PN1058, Dennis M. Devaney, of Michigan, to be a Member of the United States International Trade Commission for a term expiring June 16, 2023 PN1059, Randolph J. Stayin, of Virginia, to be a Member of the United States International Trade Commission for a term expiring June 16, 2026 PN1102, Gail S. Ennis, of Maryland, to be Inspector General, Social Security Administration PN1202, Jeffrey Kessler, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce Privileged nominations portion of Calendar: Calendar #1248, Melissa Burnison, Assistant Secretary of Energy (Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs) *Please note, the Senate will convene on the following dates and times for pro forma session only with no business conducted: · Saturday, December 23rd at 11:00am · Wednesday, December 27th at 10:00am · Friday, December 29th at 11:30am · Tuesday, January 2nd at 4:00pm   ·, at R ublica11. Communicat· ons Center 202•228•N EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2Drx3WT     On Judges: A Year Of Extraordinary Accomplishment AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000653 DOT_Am.Oversight-000653     ‘Gorsuch’s Confirmation … A Marquee Accomplishment For President Trump’ “The U.S. Senate confirmed Neil M. Gorsuch to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court… Gorsuch’s confirmation is a marquee accomplishment for President Trump and his young administration…” (“Senate Confirms Neil Gorsuch To Supreme Court,” Washington Post, 4/7/2017)   The Senate Has Confirmed An Historic 12 Circuit Court Judges This Year – The Most In A President’s 1st Year In Office Since The Creation Of Circuit Courts In 1891 SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Today, the Senate will continue another historic week confirming more of President Trump’s impressive judicial nominees to the federal bench. … Under Chairman Grassley’s leadership, the Senate Judiciary Committee has done outstanding work to move these judicial nominees to the floor.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 12/14/2017) The Twelve   Amul R. Thapar of Kentucky confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 52 - 44 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit   · SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Judge Thapar will make an outstanding addition to the U.S. Appeals Court for the Sixth Circuit. He has a reputation as a qualified judge with an impressive legal mind. He will fairly apply the law to all who enter his courtroom because, in Judge Thapar’s own words, ‘the most important attribute of a judge is to be open-minded and not to prejudge a case without reading the briefs, researching the law, and hearing from the parties.’ … Judge Thapar has the necessary credentials, integrity, and respect from his colleagues to join the Sixth Circuit.” (Sen. McConnell, Press Release, 5/25/2017) John Kenneth Bush of Kentucky confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 51 - 47 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit   · SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “President Trump made an excellent choice in nominating Mr. Bush to serve as a Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit… an impressive nominee, with a strong legal ability and a thoughtful demeanor. …as a judge, he will be open-minded, fair, and committed to the rule of law.” (Sen. McConnell, Press Release, 6/14/2017) DOT-18-0010-A-000654 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000654 Kevin Christopher Newsom of Alabama confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 66 - 31 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit   · SEN. RICHARD SHELBY (R-AL): “As the former solicitor general of Alabama, Kevin has proved to be an exceptionally skilled attorney. He understands and respects the law, and I believe he will be an asset to our Nation’s judicial system as a Federal judge on the Eleventh Circuit. … I am confident that Kevin Newsom will serve honorably and apply the law with impartiality and fairness, which I believe is required of all judges. I believe that President Trump has made the right decision in selecting Kevin Newsom to sit on the Eleventh Circuit.” (Sen. Shelby, Congressional Record, S.4640, 8/1/2017) Ralph R. Erickson of North Dakota confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 95 - 1 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit   · SEN. JOHN HOEVEN (R-ND): “Judge Erickson has served the people of North Dakota and the United States well on the U.S District Court and I support his nomination to serve on the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals… Judge Erickson has tremendous experience having served for 23 years in various judicial positions from his start as a Magistrate judge to his current position on the U.S. District Court. Throughout his career, he has upheld the rule of law and shown deep respect for the Constitution.” (Sen. Hoeven, Press Release, 6/7/2017) Amy Coney Barrett of Indiana confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 55 - 43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit,   · SEN. TODD YOUNG (R-IN): “I rise today to speak in support of a fellow Hoosier, Amy Coney Barrett, who has been nominated by President Trump to serve on the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Professor Barrett’s credentials are well known. She is a mother of seven children, a distinguished legal scholar at the University of Notre Dame Law School, where she herself graduated with high honors and served as editor of the Notre Dame Law Review. She clerked for Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court of the United States and Judge Silberman on the Circuit Court for the District of Columbia, and she is an expert on the Federal courts. … She brings the skill set and the temperament needed for the job. She will rule according to the law and according to controlling precedents, and she will be faithful to the Constitution. There is no question that Professor Barrett will make an outstanding appellate judge. … This is a historic opportunity, as Professor Barrett would be the first Hoosier woman to have a seat on the Seventh Circuit Court.” (Sen. Young, Congressional Record, S.6906, 10/31/2017) Joan Louise Larsen of Michigan Confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 60 - 38 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit   · SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY (R-IA): “Justice Larsen's nomination is supported by a broad coalition of lawyers, judges, academic colleagues…. Justice Larsen began her legal career clerking for Justice Sentelle of the D.C. Circuit and Justice Scalia on the Supreme Court…. Justice Larsen has taught constitutional law and criminal law at the University of Michigan Law School since 1998, where she has earned the respect of faculty members and students alike. She won the L. Hart Wright Award for Excellence in Teaching early in her career…. Justice Larsen served as deputy assistant attorney general in the office of legal counsel, working to provide legal advice to the president and executive agencies on difficult issues of constitutional law and statutory interpretation.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 9/06/2017)   Allison H. Eid of Colorado confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 56 - 41 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit · SEN. CORY GARDNER (R-CO): “It is an honor … and genuine pleasure to be here to introduce DOT-18-0010-A-000655 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000655 my good friend, Justice Allison Eid and to offer my strong support for her confirmation as a judge on the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. There's no doubt that Justice Eid is superbly qualified for the position… For the past decade, she has served as a justice on the Colorado Supreme Court and in 2008, Justice Eid was overwhelmingly retained by the people of Colorado. Prior to her appointment, Justice Eid represented the State of Colorado before the state and federal courts as the state’s solicitor general. She also served as a tenured member on the faculty at … the University of Colorado School of Law where she has taught courses in constitutional law, legislation and torts and published scholarly articles on the topics of federalism and tort law. In addition, Justice Eid has practiced commercial and appellate litigation at the Denver office of the law firm, Arnold & Porter. Justice Eid began her legal career as a law clerk to Judge Jerry Smith on the United States Circuit Court for the Fifth Circuit. She then served as a law clerk to the United States Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas…. What her resume makes clear is that whatever Justice Eid does, she does it at the highest and best levels.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 9/20/2017) Stephanos Bibas of Pennsylvania confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 53 - 43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit   · SEN. PAT TOOMEY (R-PA): “Professor Bibas's outstanding credentials, wealth of experience, and understanding of the role of a judge in America's constitutional system make him well-qualified to serve as a judge. In addition to serving as a Professor of Law at the University of Pennsylvania and as the Director of the University's Supreme Court clinic, Professor Bibas clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, worked as a federal prosecutor, and argued six cases before the Supreme Court of the United States. Most importantly, Professor Bibas understands that the proper role of a judge is to apply the law as written and to treat everyone who comes before him equally, not to impose his policy preferences from the bench or choose winners or losers. I believe that Professor Bibas will make an outstanding addition to the Third Circuit and that his intellect, experience, and temperament will serve him well as a federal appellate judge.” (Sen. Toomey, Press Release, 11/3/2017) Gregory G. Katsas of Virginia confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 50-48 to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit   · SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY (R-IA), Judiciary Committee Chairman: “Greg Katsas … there’s no disputing that he’s very well qualified for this job. He has degrees from Princeton and Harvard, and he clerked for the Third Circuit, the D.C. Circuit, and the Supreme Court. He has years of experience in the public sector—where he led divisions at the Department of Justice—and in the private sector—where he was a partner at Jones Day. He currently serves as Deputy Counsel to the President in the White House Counsel’s Office. … [he] has served his country with distinction for many years.” (U.S. Senate, Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 11/9/2017) Leonard Steven Grasz of Nebraska confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-48 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit   · SEN. DEB FISCHER (R-NE): “Steve Grasz has extraordinary ethics, sterling credentials, and bipartisan support from across the state of Nebraska. Without a doubt, he is the right choice for this seat on the Eighth Circuit.” (Sen. Fischer, Press Release, 12/7/2017) · SEN. BEN SASSE (R-NE): “Steve is a Nebraskan through and through. He’s a fifth-generation Nebraskan and like a lot of Nebraska kids, he grew up on a family farm – walking beans, raising sheep and pigs, branding cattle. That family farm in the Nebraska Panhandle taught hard work and honesty. The University of Nebraska taught him the law. … Steve stayed in Nebraska for law school, graduated at the top of his class, and was the Executive Editor of the Nebraska Law Review. Steve went to work for Nebraskans, serving as the Chief Deputy Attorney General for more than a decade. He litigated multiple cases in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Nebraska Supreme Court. Whenever he was called on to argue on behalf of DOT-18-0010-A-000656 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000656 Nebraskans, Steve did so with integrity, humility, and decency. Steve bleeds Husker red but knows that a judge must clothe themselves in the black robes of impartiality.” (U.S. Senate, Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 11/1/2017) Don R. Willett of Texas confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-47 to be a Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit James C. Ho of Texas confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 53-43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit · SEN. JOHN CORNYN (R-TX): “Jim Ho and Justice Don Willett are two stars in the Texas legal firmament already. These nominees reflect the comprehensive process of both the bipartisan Texas Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee that Senator Cruz and I have established as well as the White House Counsel’s Office and the Department of Justice, and I commend the President on these excellent nominations.” (Sen. Cornyn, Press Release, 11/15/2017)   · SEN. TED CRUZ (R-TX): “Justice Don Willett and Jim Ho are nominees of deep intellect and principle… Both of them, with their remarkable academic backgrounds and professional careers, have demonstrated a commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. I am confident they will make extraordinary appellate judges, and look forward to their swift confirmation.” (Sens. Cornyn & Cruz, Press Release, 12/7/2017) ‘Congress, In The Judiciary Act Of 1891, Commonly Known As The Evarts Act, Established Nine Courts Of Appeals’ “The Evarts Act: Creating the Modern Appellate Courts  -- Congress, in the Judiciary Act of 1891, commonly known as the Evarts Act, established nine Courts of Appeals, one for each judicial circuit at the time. The Act created another judge position for each circuit, identified in the legislation as the circuit justice. Appeals from trial court decisions were heard by three-judge panels made up of the circuit justice, a court of appeals judge, and a district court judge. The Act recognized nine circuits. Today 12 Circuits hear appeals. Fast Fact: The Evarts Act established the structure of the appellate courts.” (“The Evarts Act: Creating The Modern Appellate Courts,” Uscourts.Gov, Accessed 12/14/2017) President         Calendar Year  Circuit Courts Trump              2017                 12   Obama             2009                 3 G.W. Bush       2001                 6 Clinton             1993                 3 G.H.W. Bush    1989                 5 Reagan            1981                 8 Carter               1977                 10 Nixon               1969                 11 Johnson           1965                 8 Kennedy          1961                 11 Eisenhower      1953                 0 Truman            1949                 7 FDR                 1933                 4 Hoover             1929                 6 Coolidge          1925                 6 Harding            1921                 3 Wilson             1913                 3 Taft                  1909                 2 Roosevelt         1905                 7 McKinley          1897                 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000657 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000657 Cleveland         1893                 6 (Federal Judicial Center, Accessed 12/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER         Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol 202.228.NEWS (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000658 DOT_Am.Oversight-000658 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, January 16, 2018 10:09:19 AM Good morning,   The Senate will convene at 4:30 pm today, Tuesday, January 16th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the House Message to accompany S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle.   The filing deadlines under Rule XXII with respect to the cloture motion filed during today’s session will be as follows: • 4:45pm, First Degree amendments • 5:15pm, Second Degree amendments   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the House Message to accompany S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle.   Last week in the Senate (Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018): Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #389, Michael Lawrence Brown, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Georgia. Confirmed. (92-0) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #435, Walter David Counts III, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas. Invoked. (90-1) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #435, Walter David Counts III, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas. Confirmed. (96-0) · Motion to proceed to the consideration of the House Message to accompany S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle. Agreed to. (68-27)\   Wrap Up: H.R.984 – Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of VA (by live voice vote)                                           H.R.4641 – Medal of Honor – John L. Canley S.Res.372 – North Dakota State University Football   Please see two Senate GOP Comms Center docs below that highlight how the Tax Reform bill is already helping American workers and families!   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000659 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000659   1at u Ii n Communicat· ons Center 2i02•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2qSiqcN   Tax Reform: Benefits Aplenty For Workers   Walmart Becomes The Latest Major American Company To Announce Worker Benefits Due To Tax Reform   Changes Due To Tax Reform Will ‘Benefit More Than 1 Million U.S. Hourly Workers’ At Walmart WALMART: “Today, Walmart announced plans to increase the starting wage rate for all hourly associates in the U.S. to $11, expand maternity and parental leave benefits and provide a one-time cash bonus for eligible associates of up to $1,000. The company is also creating a new benefit to assist associates with adoption expenses. The combined wage and benefit changes will benefit the company’s more than one million U.S. hourly associates.” (Walmart, Press Release, 1/11/2018)   “Walmart's employees will soon reap the benefits of the recent tax law changes, as the company raises its starting wage, creates new benefits and distributes bonuses to eligible workers.” (“Walmart To Raise Its Starting Wage To $11, Give Some Employees Bonuses Following Tax Bill Passage,” CNBC, 1/11/2018)   ·   ·   “The pay increase and bonus will benefit more than 1 million U.S. hourly workers, it said.” (“Walmart Raises Minimum Wage To $11 An Hour In Wake Of U.S. Tax Law,” Reuters, 1/11/2018) “Wal-Mart is the largest private employer in the world with 2.2 million employees, including more than 1.5 million [employees] in the U.S. Its current starting salary in the U.S. is $10 an hour after workers take a training course. The new wage increase will take effect in February.” (“Wal-Mart To Raise Minimum U.S. Wage To $11 An Hour,” The Wall Street Journal, 1/11/2018) “Walmart Stores Inc. said on Thursday it would raise entry-level wages for hourly employees to $11 an hour as it benefits from the biggest overhaul of the U.S. tax code in 30 years.” (“Walmart Raises Minimum Wage To $11 An Hour In Wake Of U.S. Tax Law,” Reuters, 1/11/2018)   “The world’s largest retailer said the increase would take effect in February and that it would also expand maternity and parental leave benefits and offer a one-time cash bonus of up to $1,000.” (“Walmart Raises Minimum Wage To $11 An Hour In Wake Of U.S. Tax Law,” Reuters, 1/11/2018)   ·   ·   “Those workers with more than 20 years of experience will qualify to receive the full $1,000.” (“Walmart To Raise Its Starting Wage To $11, Give Some Employees Bonuses Following Tax Bill Passage,” CNBC, 1/11/2018) “Employees with 15 to 19 years of service at Walmart will receive $750, while those with 10 to 14 years of work there will receive a $400 bonus, and five to nine years of experience merits a $300 bonus, he said.” (“Walmart To Raise Its Starting Wage To $11, Give Some Employees Bonuses Following Tax Bill Passage,” CNBC, 1/11/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000660 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000660 ·   “…workers with two to four years of experience will receive $250, a Walmart spokesman told CNBC.” (“Walmart To Raise Its Starting Wage To $11, Give Some Employees Bonuses Following Tax Bill Passage,” CNBC, 1/11/2018) “The company said the salary change would add $300 million to its annual expenses and it expects to take a $400 million charge in the current quarter for the one-time bonus.” (“Wal-Mart To Raise Minimum U.S. Wage To $11 An   Hour,” The Wall Street Journal, 1/11/2018)   Other Major Companies With More Than 100,000 Workers Have Also Announced Bonuses And Wage Hikes For American Workers WELLS FARGO: With 250,000 plus employees “Wells Fargo, meanwhile, also said it would be boosting its minimum wage for employees to $15 an hour. The bank alsopo said it would target $400 million in donations to community and nonprofit organizations next year.” (“Wells Fargo, Fifth Third Bancorp Unveil Minimum Wage Hikes After Tax Bill Passage,” CNBC, 12/20/2017)   AT&T: “AT&T Is Giving $1,000 Bonuses To 200,000 Employees After Tax Bill: AT&T was quick to respond to news of U.S. tax reform, announcing it would give some employees bonuses once the legislation is signed into law. The telecom giant said in a press release Wednesday that it would give more than 200,000 U.S. union members a special bonus of $1,000.” (“AT&T Is Giving $1,000 Bonuses To 200,000 Employees After Tax Bill,” CNBC, 12/20/2017)   DARDEN RESTAURANTS: “Restaurant companies are joining the corporate chorus rushing to praise the tax bill Congress passed last month as Orlando-based Darden Restaurants said the legislation will save it about $70 million. Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse parent company Darden Restaurants said the new tax reform plan will cut taxes by about $70 million in the third quarter. The Orlando-based restaurant chain said Monday the tax cut will prompt it to spend an additional $20 million on its 175,000-plus employees this year…” (“Darden Says Tax Reform Will Save It $70 Million,” Orlando Sentinel, 1/8/2018)   BOEING: “Boeing Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Dennis Muilenburg praised the tax bill passed by Congress and about to be signed into law as a critical driver of business, economic growth and innovation for the United States and for Boeing…. While Boeing is still studying all of the provisions of the new legislation, Muilenburg announced immediate commitments for an additional $300 million in investments that will move forward as a result of the new tax law: · $100 million for corporate giving, with funds used to support demand for employee gift-match programs and for investments in Boeing's focus areas for charitable giving: in education, in our communities, and for veterans and military personnel. · $100 million for workforce development in the form of training, education, and other capabilities development to meet the scale needed for rapidly evolving technologies and expanding markets. · $100 million for ‘workplace of the future’ facilities and infrastructure enhancements for Boeing employees.”   (Boeing, Press Release, 12/20/2017) BANK OF AMERICA: “Bank of America will give some of its employees a $1,000 bonus, citing the tax bill that was just signed into law. ‘Beginning in 2018, we will see benefits from the tax reform ... in the form of lower corporate tax rates,’ CEO Brian Moynihan said in an internal memo to employees obtained by CNBC. He also said that about 145,000 employees will receive the bonus.” (“Bank Of America Is Giving Some Employees A $1,000 Bonus, Citing Tax Bill,” CNBC, 12/22/2017)   AMERICAN AIRLINES: To more than 100,000 employees “We are pleased to announce that in light of this new tax structure and in recognition of our outstanding team members, American will distribute $1,000 to each team member (excluding Officers) at our mainline and wholly owned regional carriers. These distributions will total approximately $130 million and will be made in the first quarter of 2018.” (American Airlines, Press Release, 1/2/2018)   COMCAST: “Based on the passage of tax reform … Brian L. Roberts, Chairman and CEO of Comcast NBCUniversal, announced that the Company would award special $1,000 bonuses to more than one hundred DOT-18-0010-A-000661 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000661   thousand eligible frontline and non-executive employees.” (Comcast, Press Release, 12/20/2017)     . u 11 n 1at Communicat· on Center 202 228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2Fokrki   Tax Reform: Lower Utility Rates ‘Regulators From Montana To Kentucky Have Ordered Utilities To Act Now To Ensure Ratepayers Share In The Windfall From The Tax Bill’   SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “All around the country, utility companies that will benefit from our new tax cuts are already discussing plans to pass their savings on to consumers. Major power companies in Illinois, Maryland, and Massachusetts are already proposing plans to give their customers tens of millions of dollars in relief by lowering the rates they charge for energy. And get this – according to CNBC, a South Carolina electric and gas utility is planning to give a cash payment directly to its customers — averaging $1,000 per household. More are following suit. In Montana, Louisiana, and Indiana, regulators are already working with utilities to determine how households will benefit from the tax savings. In my own state of Kentucky, the Public Service Commission directed a number of electric, gas, and water companies to track their savings and make plans to cut rates for customers. As any mother or father who has to balance a checkbook and pay bills every month can attest, this is welcome news for middle-class families. And these reductions will be especially helpful to the most vulnerable in our society.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 1/10/2018)     In Many Parts Of The County, Utility Bills Are Expected To Decrease Due To Tax Reform “Regulators from Montana to Kentucky have ordered utilities to act now to ensure ratepayers share in the windfall from the tax bill signed into law by President Donald Trump ... ‘It is consumer money,’ said David Springe, executive director of the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates. ‘Everybody is focused on making sure this doesn’t just vanish.’” (“Trump Tax Reform Has States Hungry for Lower Utility Bills,” Bloomberg, 1/5/2018)   ·   “Exelon Corp., the biggest U.S. utility owner by sales, is already offering to reduce bills.” (“Trump Tax Reform Has States Hungry for Lower Utility Bills,” Bloomberg, 1/5/2018) SOUTH CAROLINA: “A $7.9 billion deal between utility companies Dominion Energy and Scana includes an unusual term loosely related to the tax bill that passed Congress at the end of 2017. All residential customers of Scana's South Carolina Electric & Gas utility will get an average cash payment of $1,000 within 90 days of the deal being completed, the companies said in a statement. … Scana and Dominion are one of the first companies to explicitly say they will give their customers a credit as a result of the tax bill.” (“Customers Of This South Carolina Utility Will Get $1,000 In Cash As Part Of A Merger Deal,” CNBC, 1/3/2018)   MARYLAND: “Today [Baltimore Gas and Electric Company] will file with the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) to pass approximately $82 million in annual tax savings to customers, resulting from federal tax cost DOT-18-0010-A-000662 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000662 reductions. If approved by the PSC, the average BGE residential electric customer can expect to see an estimated $2.31 decrease on their monthly bill, and the average residential combined natural gas and electric customer can expect an estimated $4.27 monthly reduction, effective in February 2018.” (BGE, Press Release, 1/5/2018)   ILLINOIS: “Today ComEd is filing a petition with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) seeking approval to pass along approximately $200 million in tax savings to its customers in 2018. If approved by the ICC, the average ComEd residential customer can expect to see an estimated $2-$3 decrease on their monthly bill related to the tax reduction.” (ComEd, 1/5/2018)   KENTUCKY: “The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) has ordered for-profit utilities to track their savings under lower corporate tax rates that took effect yesterday, paving the way for those savings to be passed on to customers in the form of lower electric, gas or water rates. In two orders issued Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017, the PSC noted that investor-owned utilities recover their federal tax expenses from ratepayers. Under the federal tax law enacted last month, the corporate income tax rate will decline from 35 percent to 21 percent this year, substantially reducing the tax burden on for-profit, investor-owned utilities. ‘Since ratepayers are required to pay through their rates the tax expenses of a utility, any reduction in tax rates must be timely passed through to ratepayers,’ the PSC said in the orders.” (Kentucky Public Service Commission, Press Release, 1/2/2018)   MISSOURI: “Investor-owned utilities in Missouri have until Jan. 31 to report how much money they will save from recently enacted federal tax cuts, the Missouri Public Service Commission ordered today, the first step toward a potential rate cut for consumers. The commission voted 5-0 to require for-profit electric and gas providers, and the Missouri American Water Company, to answer five questions focusing on the financial impact of the tax bill that cut the corporate income tax from 35 to 21 percent. Three questions ask for suggestions on the best way to pass the financial benefits to ratepayers, including in pending rate cases, and another asks whether the different types of corporations should be treated differently.” (“Tax Cut Prompts PSC To Look At Electric, Gas Rates,” Columbia Daily Tribune, 1/4/2018)   MONTANA: “The Montana Public Service Commission today took the first step to ensure that utility customers realize benefits from sweeping tax reform signed into law last week. The Commission directed regulated utilities in the state to calculate the change in tax liability that each company expects to receive under the new tax bill and to come forward with a proposal for how to apply those benefits by the end of March. ‘Consumers are currently paying more in taxes through utility rates than the actual tax expense that utilities will incur next year,’ he said. ‘The Commission wants to ensure that this money is not simply captured by shareholders, but instead is directed in a way that provides a long-term benefit to the consumer.’” (Montana Public Service Commission, Press Release, 12/27/2017)   WASHINGTON, D.C.: “Pepco today announced they will file with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia in early February, outlining plans to provide annual tax savings to more than 296,000 electric customers in the District of Columbia. If approved, Pepco would plan to begin providing a credit lowering customer bills starting in the first quarter of 2018. … ‘The tax law will result in lower bills for our customers and lower taxes for Pepco,’ said Dave Velazquez, President and CEO, Pepco Holdings, which includes Pepco. ‘We are pleased to provide these savings to our customers, while at the same time ensuring we are making prudent investments in the local power grid to maintain the safe, reliable, and affordable service our customers have come to expect.’” (Pepco, Press Release, 1/5/2018)   MASSACHUSETTS: “Eversource’s customers in eastern Massachusetts will see a reduction in rates of around $35.4 million instead of an approved increase of $12.2 million; its customers in western Massachusetts also stand to gain.” (“Trump Tax Reform Has States Hungry for Lower Utility Bills,” Bloomberg, 1/5/2018)   OREGON & WASHINGTON: “Pacific Power says they are committed to passing the benefit of this tax cut on to customers. ‘We strive to provide our customers reliable service while keeping rates low,’ said Stefan Bird, President and CEO of Pacific Power. ‘The benefit of this tax cut should be passed on to our customers – and we will work with our regulators and stakeholders on the best way to do that.’” (“Pacific Power Says They Will Lower Rates With Tax Cuts,” My Columbia Basin, 1/3/2018)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000663 DOT_Am.Oversight-000663 UTAH, WYOMING, & IDAHO: “Rocky Mountain Power says it plans to pass some of its federal tax savings on to customers. But, the company isn't sure how much or when. ‘We strive to provide our customers reliable service while keeping rates low,’ said Cindy Crane, President and CEO of Rocky Mountain Power. ‘The benefit of this tax cut should be passed on to our customers — and we will work with our regulators and stakeholders on the best way to do that.’” (“Rocky Mountain Power Promises To Share Tax Windfall,” Local New 8, 1/4/2018)   ‘Poor Americans Have Some Of The Highest Electricity Bills’   MICHELLE MOORE, Groundswell’s CEO: “We can’t afford the social cost of leaving economically challenged communities behind. The people who can least afford the cost are paying the biggest electricity bills.” (“Why Poor Americans Have Some Of The Highest Electricity Bills,” The Atlantic, 4/18/2016)   “For many of the poorest households in the U.S., though, the [electric] bill is disproportionately high—precisely because they are poor.” (“Why Poor Americans Have Some Of The Highest Electricity Bills,” The Atlantic, 4/18/2016)   ·   “…the share of income that low-earning households spend on electricity rose by one-third in the last decade, according to a new analysis by the nonprofit renewable-energy advocacy group Groundswell. In fact, the bottom 20 percent of earners spend almost 10 percent of their income on electricity, more than seven times the portion of income that the top 20 percent pays.” (“Why Poor Americans Have Some Of The Highest Electricity Bills,” The Atlantic, 4/18/2016)     ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000664 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000664 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, January 17, 2018 10:34:38 AM Good morning,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am today. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle, post-cloture. The time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business and Leader remarks will count postcloture (up to 30 hours of debate) on the motion to concur.   Looking Ahead: Nominations and Appropriations.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, Jan. 16): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle. (Invoked, 60-38)   UC Items: There were no UC items.   Rule 14 (to add to the Senate calendar): S.2311 – Pain-Capable Unborn   Please see a document below from the Senate GOP comms center on funding the government, and full floor remarks from Leader McConnell on the impact of the tax bill.   Leader McConnell floor remarks this morning - excerpts:   Senator McConnell: (10:04 a.m) • • • Spoke on tax reform. 0 “I know the wave of economic optimism is breaking across America after last month's historic tax reform legislation. Already for weeks, we've seen special bonuses, pay increases, and other tax reform benefits delivered to workers across the nation. These immediate benefits are just the first fruits. Tax reform is also planting the seeds of long-term wage growth and job creation by making America a more attractive place for entrepreneurship and for investment. We learned last week that the automaker Fiat-Chrysler is renewing production lines in America where prohibitive business taxes once stood in the way.” Spoke on FISA Section 702. 0 “On another matter, the Senate will soon vote to reauthorize important provisions of the FISA Amendments Act. This includes Section 702, one of the most important tools used by our national security community to combat terrorism and to keep Americans safe. It gives our law enforcement and intelligence community the ability to collect communications from foreign terrorists on foreign soil who wish harm on America and our allies. This capability is absolutely vital to the success of defense and intelligence operations.” Spoke on government funding legislation. 0 “Now, on another matter, as we all know, Congress has until Friday to reach an agreement that ensures continued funding for the federal government. By now it is clear that we are not yet ready to move ahead with a major agreement on long-term funding for our armed forces, nor on our immigration policy. Serious bipartisan talks are under way on these issues and other key priorities. Compromise solutions are not out of reach. But for now, congress needs to keep the government running. There's no cause whatsoever DOT-18-0010-A-000665 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000665 • for manufacturing crisis and hoping up funding for the vital services of the federal government.” Spoke in tribute to a staffer. 0 “Now, finally, on an entirely different matter, Mr. President, I'd like to say a few words about Reb Brownell, a key member of my team who is departing the Senate today. He has served with distinction in my office for nearly 13 years. He began as an aide on foreign affairs, defense, and veterans issues. Since then he has risen through the ranks and now serving as my personal office deputy chief of staff. He is a tireless worker, a loyal public servant.”   Also – on a housekeeping matter: I had a few listserve issues the past couple weeks (if you didn’t receive an update from me for some reason), but everything is fixed now. Thanks.   Thanks, Erica     11at .u 11 an Communicat· on Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2EMT3v2   ‘That’s Wrong’ Sen. Feinstein: ‘The Last Thing We Need Is For The Government To Shut Down’   FLASHBACK: SEN. CHUCK SCHUMER (D-NY): “…basically, it's sort of like this. Someone goes into your house, takes your wife and children hostage and then, says, let's negotiate over the price of your house. You know, we could do the same thing on immigration. We believe strongly in immigration reform. We could say, ‘we’re shutting down the government, we’re not gonna raise the debt ceiling, until you pass immigration reform.’ It would be governmental chaos.” (ABC’s “This Week,” 10/6/13)     SEN. MANCHIN: ‘Shame On Any Of Us If We Sit Here And Say, OK, We’re Going To Let It Run Out For The Sake Of Politics And Shut The Government Down’ SEN. BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT): “…I certainly hope there is not a government shutdown. Government shutdown would be a disaster to this country…” (ABC News’ “This Week,” 1/7/2018)   CHUCK TODD, NBC: “Before I let you go, we’re shutting down the government if DACA -- if a DACA compromise doesn’t happen?” SEN. MICHAEL BENNET (D-CO): “I -- Chuck, I hope it doesn’t come to that.” TODD: “But it is worth it? It is potentially worth it?” BENNET: “We -- it should not come to that. We should stop shutting this government down.” (NBC’s “Meet The Press,” 1/14/2018)   SEN. CLAIRE McCASKILL (D-MO): “I am not interested in drawing a line in sand as negotiations continue because I think that’s how negotiations get blown up.” (“As Shutdown Talk Rises, Trump’s Immigration Words Pose Risks For Both Parties,” The New York Times, 1/16/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000666 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000666   ·   “‘Welcome to our world,’ said Senator Claire McCaskill, Democrat of Missouri... ‘We’ve got people running for president all trying to find their base, and then you’ve got people from Trump states that are trying to continue to legislate the way we always have — by negotiation,’ Ms. McCaskill said. ‘And never the twain shall meet.’” (“As Shutdown Talk Rises, Trump’s Immigration Words Pose Risks For Both Parties,” The New York Times, 1/16/2018) SEN. CHRIS COONS (D-DE): “No one should want a shutdown.” (@FrankThorp, Twitter, 1/16/2018)   SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-WV): “If my fellow colleagues and Democrats in the caucus want to do something with that [threaten a shutdown over DACA], that’s wrong. That doesn’t fix anything. We have a shutdown looming. We have to make sure this government runs and operates in a functional way. It takes all of us working as Americans.” (CBS’ “Face The Nation,” 1/14/2018)   ·     JOHN DICKERSON, CBS: “Let me ask you, speaking of extremes, government funding looks like it`s going to run out here. Is there going to be a deal on that, are we headed for another one of these moments?” SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-WV): “Well, first of all, John, shame on any of us if we sit here and say, OK, we’re going to let it run out for the sake of politics and shut the government down. None of us should be sitting there, none of us even should be representing the good states that we represent, such as West Virginia and Colorado and Arkansas, if we allow that to happen. There’s no sense for that to happen. We can come to an agreement.” (CBS’ “Face The Nation,” 1/14/2018) DECEMBER FLASHBACK: Many Senate Dems Were ‘Resolutely Against Shut Down Under Any Circumstances’ SEN. TIM KAINE (D-VA): Is “resolutely against shut down under any circumstances.” (“Divisions In Both Parties Over Spending Raise Risks Of A Shutdown On Friday,” Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/5/2017)   ·   SEN. KAINE: “I will exercise every bit of leverage I can for the Dream Act, but if there is a vote that would lead to a shutdown, that’s where I draw the line.” (“Democrats Unlikely To Force DACA Vote This Week, Probably Averting Shutdown,” The Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/19/2017) SEN. DIANNE FEINSTEIN (D-CA): “The last thing we need is for the government to shut down.” (“Trump, Democrats Restart Talks To Avert Shutdown,” Politico, 12/04/2017)   SEN. JON TESTER (D-MT): “I still don’t think government shutdown is a good thing.” (“Schumer Walks Tightrope On Shutdown, Immigration Fights,” The Hill, 12/7/2017)   · TESTER: “I think it’s stupid talk. You don’t want to shut the government down. That’s not where I’m going to be.” (“GOP And Dems Bitterly Divided By Immigration,” The Hill, 12/06/2017)   SEN. SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D-RI): “I do not want to participate in creating an environment in which anything looks like an ultimatum that can be used by the Republicans to shift the blame for a shutdown.” (“Dems Back Away From Brink On Dreamers,” Politico, 12/12/2017)   SEN. CHRIS MURPHY (D-CT): “Obviously, I want a Dreamers fix… I’m not sure that it serves our purposes to draw hard lines in the sand in the middle of negotiations.” (“Dems Back Away From Brink On Dreamers,” Politico, 12/12/2017)   SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-VW): “‘I’m not shutting anything down. I just want to work through. It’s ridiculous to have a shutdown in any conversation.’ … When asked about immigration, Manchin cut off a reporter. ‘You’re talking about DACA and dreamers? Yeah, that’s very, very important, and I really sympathize with them, but I’ve told them that I’m not a vote to shut down.’” (“Divisions In Both Parties Over Spending Raise Risks Of A Shutdown On Friday,” Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/5/2017) DOT-18-0010-A-000667 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000667   ·     SEN. MANCHIN: “I understand the passion on that. I’m not in favor of voting to shut down the government…. There are a lot of things I feel passionate about. But I’m not going to make 300 million people suffer because I can’t get the process working the way it should.” (“Dems Divided On When To Fight Over Fate Of Young Immigrants,” The Associated Press, 12/12/2017) “Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Tuesday batted down suggestions that a fight over a key Obama-era immigration program would spark a government shutdown. ‘We don't think we're going to get to that.’” (“Schumer Downplays Shutdown Chances Over DACA Fight,” The Hill, 12/5/2017) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORl iTY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for KENTU,CKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, January 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2B9p9Pa                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Dq8Qmg Tax Reform Benefits For American Workers ‘Just yesterday, I was pleased to announce that Humana – which employs more than 12,000 Kentuckians – is accelerating pay incentives and increasing its minimum hourly wage because of tax reform. The good news keeps coming. Toyota and Mazda are doubling down on existing investments in the U.S., announcing plans to create 4,000 new jobs in Huntsville, Alabama. The world is noticing that America is open for business. And in large part, it’s because we have shaken off an outdated, burdensome tax code.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans are seeing across the country thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:   “Another wave of economic optimism is breaking across America after last month’s historic tax reform legislation. Already, for weeks, we’ve seen special bonuses, pay increases, and other tax reform benefits delivered to workers across the nation. These immediate benefits are just the first fruits. Tax reform is also planting the seeds of long-term wage growth and job creation by making America a more attractive place for entrepreneurship and investment.   “We learned last week that the automaker Fiat-Chrysler is renewing production lines in America, where prohibitive business taxes once stood in the way. Now 2,500 new jobs are coming to Detroit, thanks to tax reform. Just yesterday, I was pleased to announce that Humana – which employs more than 12,000 Kentuckians – is accelerating pay incentives and increasing its minimum hourly wage because of tax reform.   “The good news keeps coming. Toyota and Mazda are doubling down on existing investments in the U.S., announcing plans to create 4,000 new jobs in Huntsville, Alabama. The world is noticing that America is open for business. And in large part, it’s because we have shaken off an outdated, burdensome tax code.   “Reforming the tax code was not easy. It was made even more challenging when none of my Democratic colleagues in the House or the Senate – not one – stood with taxpayers and job creators to vote for this once-in-a-generation tax relief. But thanks to Republican majorities in Congress and a Republican White House, the benefits for working Americans are just beginning.”   ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000668 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000668 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, January 18, 2018 11:10:14 PM Good evening,   The Senate will convene at 11:00 am Friday, January 19th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CHIP/One Month CR. Votes times will be announced. Excerpt: Senator McConnell (full remarks below): • Spoke on government funding legislation. 0 “This bill continues government funding, prevents a needless shutdown, and extends a key health insurance program for vulnerable children for six years. Its content is bipartisan. There are no provisions that any of my democratic friends oppose. It's a simple step that will let us continue bipartisan talks without throwing the government into disarray for no reason -- no reason. Americans are surprised this is even a debate. I don't blame them.”   Today/tonight - Roll Call Votes: · Motion to concur in the House amendment to S.139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act vehicle. Agreed to. (65-34) · Motion to proceed to the House message to accompany H.R.195, CHIP/One Month CR. Agreed to. (97-2)   Wrap Up: H.Con.Res.98 – Enrollment Correction S.Res.375 – Alabama Football   Please also see several Senate GOP Comms Center docs below on funding the government and preventing a shutdown.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORl iTY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENJU ,CKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, January 18, 2018 DOT-18-0010-A-000670 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000670 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2mKJkho                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Dn7hGG McConnell Statement on House-Passed Government Funding, S-Chip Bill ‘The House has sent us a bill that should be an easy ‘yes’ vote for every Senator in this chamber – an easy ‘yes’ vote This bill continues government funding, prevents a needless shutdown, and extends a key health insurance program for vulnerable children for six years. Its content is bipartisan. There are no provisions that any of my Democratic friends oppose. It is a simple step that will let us continue bipartisan talks without throwing the government into disarray for no reason. Americans are surprised this is even a debate. I don’t blame them.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the need to prevent a government shutdown:    “The House has sent us a bill that should be an easy ‘yes’ vote for every Senator in this chamber – an easy ‘yes’ vote. This bill continues government funding, prevents a needless shutdown, and extends a key health insurance program for vulnerable children for six years. Its content is bipartisan. There are no provisions that any of my Democratic friends oppose. It is a simple step that will let us continue bipartisan talks without throwing the government into disarray for no reason. Americans are surprised this is even a debate. I don’t blame them.   “I share their surprise that some Democratic Senators see the prospect of a government shutdown for more than 300 million Americans. See a possible lapse in health coverage for 9 million vulnerable American kids. And are tempted to hold all that hostage until we resolve a non-imminent problem related to illegal immigration.   “The surprise is compounded for anyone who listens to the public statements of my Democratic colleagues and takes them at their word.   “Less than a week ago, the senior Senator from Colorado was asked whether it was prudent to shut the government down over the issue of illegal immigration. He insisted it was not.   “Last month, my friend the senior Senator from West Virginia said, quote, ‘I’m not going to make 300 million people suffer because I can’t get the process working the way it should.’   “The junior Senator from Virginia put it even more clearly: ‘I will exercise every bit of leverage I can…but if there is a vote that would lead to a shutdown, that is where I draw the line.’   “And not more than two days ago, the senior Senator from Missouri said she wasn’t ‘interested in drawing a line in the sand’ – because, quote, ‘that’s how negotiations get blown up.’   “I hope their votes this evening reflect those statements.   “Some of my colleagues say they are reluctant to support this measure not because of illegal immigration, but simply because they are tired of continuing resolutions. They point out that this is a suboptimal way to fund our government, especially our warfighters. That is precisely why Republicans worked hard all last month, and all this month, to try and negotiate a long-term spending caps agreement that would bring stability back to government funding.   “But the Democratic leadership made it clear that they would not be serious about these spending talks until this unrelated immigration issue was solved. So now, unfortunately, a continuing resolution is the only option our armed forces have this evening. Let’s not pretend for a moment that our men and women in uniform – and their families – benefit from a government shutdown.   “This is how we got here. My Democratic colleagues’ demands on illegal immigration, at the behest of their far-left base, have crowded out all other important business. Crowded it all out over the issue of illegal immigration. And now they are threatening to crowd out the needs of veterans, military families, opioid treatment centers, and every other American who relies on the federal government. All over illegal immigration.   “There is no imminent deadline facing the DACA program. Congress has at least until March to arrive at a bipartisan solution that is acceptable to Republicans, Democrats, and – the person who needs to sign the bill – the President of the United States. Do veterans, opioid treatment centers, and the families of fallen soldiers need to suffer until a compromise is reached? Democratic Senators’ fixation on illegal immigration has already blocked us from making progress on long-term spending talks. Now, that same fixation has them threatening to filibuster funding for the whole government. Over illegal immigration.   “Years ago, my friend the Democratic leader described how irresponsible it would be to shut down AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000671 DOT_Am.Oversight-000671 the government over the issue of immigration. He said it would result in ‘governmental chaos.’ That was my friend the Democratic leader a while back. But earlier today, on the floor, he insisted that we put every other American priority on hold until we resolve immigration. Only then, he said, can we work on defense spending, or domestic spending, or CHIP, or disaster relief. All of that on hold over the issue of illegal immigration with no imminent deadline.  Only needs to be addressed by March.   “Well that’s apparently how our Democratic colleagues rank their priorities. It is not how I rank mine. I don’t think it is how many of our colleagues – on either side – would rank theirs either. We’ll have the chance to find out in the coming days. It is certainly not how the American people expect us to act. The bill before us is an opportunity to correct course. It is a chance for my colleagues to remember that we represent millions and millions of American citizens.   “The American people want the federal government open for veterans, military families, and the vulnerable. They want food and drug inspections to continue without interruption. They want death benefits to continue to go out to the families of servicemembers killed in action. They want children in low-income families to continue receiving health coverage through S-CHIP. They want a sensible compromise on immigration – but they cannot, for the life of them, understand why some Senators would hold the entire country hostage until we arrive at a solution to a problem that doesn’t fully materialize until March.   “Military families, veterans, and children benefiting from the S-CHIP program don’t need to be shoved aside while we continue good faith negotiations. We ought to pass this resolution and we ought to get back to work.”   ###         11at , ublican Communicat· on Center 202•22S•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2mT46fw   Dems ‘Do Not Oppose A Single Thing In This Bill’   Will Democrats Really ‘Filibuster Government Funding And Shut Down Vital Programs For Americans’? SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “My friends on the other side of the aisle do not oppose a single thing in this bill. They know they can’t possibly explain to our warfighters and veterans, to our seniors, to our opioid treatment centers, to the millions of vulnerable children and their families who depend on S-CHIP for coverage, or to all the Americans who rely on the federal government for critical services like food inspections and Social Security checks. Why they would filibuster government funding and shut down vital programs for Americans because we have not yet agreed on the best way to settle an unrelated issue that we still have at least until March to resolve. Let’s fund the government, extend S-CHIP, and do right by the millions of Americans who elected us to serve them.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 1/18/2018)   · All Senate Finance Committee Democrats Voted For A 5 Year S-CHIP Extension In October: October 4, 2017: “The Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday approved by voice vote its bipartisan bill to renew funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program. … The bill (S 1827) by Chairman Orrin G. Hatch, R-Utah, and Wyden would renew funding for the program for five years…” (“Panel Backs Bill To Renew Children's Health Insurance Funding,” CQ 10/4/2017)   SEN. ORRIN HATCH (R-UT): “[T]he House legislation addresses some other long-term priorities of mine: The AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000672 DOT_Am.Oversight-000672 taxes imposed by the so-called Affordable Care Act. Under the bill, the job-killing medical device tax will be delayed for another two years. This foolhardy tax, which has been criticized and condemned by members of both parties, came back into effect at the start of this year.…The House package also extends the delayed impact of the socalled Cadillac Tax, which was another one of Obamacare’s ill-advised shots aimed at the middle class. Again, members from both parties have expressed concern and opposed this tax. Previous delays have received broad, bipartisan support. The House bill would put off the impact of the Cadillac Tax through 2021 … Finally, the bill would pull back the Health Insurance Tax, another reckless tax provision, in 2019. This tax targets small businesses and middle class consumers.” (U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Press Release, 1/17/2018)   Ten Current Senate Democrats Co-Sponsored A Repeal Of The Obamacare Cadillac Tax Last Year (S.58) 1. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) 2. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) 3. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)   4. Sen. Joe Donnelly (D-IN)             5. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)    6. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)   7. Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI)          8. Sen. Margaret Hassan (D-NH) 9. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH)       10. Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) (S.58, “Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act of 2017,” Introduced 1/9/2017)   SEN. SHERROD BROWN (D-OH): “We can control health costs while standing up for working Americans…. By repealing the Cadillac tax, we can prevent certain employer-provided health plans from being taxed.” (Sen. Brown, Press Release, 9/24/2015)   · “U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and nine of his Senate colleagues introduced legislation today to improve the health law by repealing the so-called ‘Cadillac tax.’ … U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Bob Casey (D-PA) are cosponsors. “ (Sen. Brown, Press Release, 9/24/2015)   Thirteen Current Senate Democrats Also Co-Sponsored A Repeal Of The Obamacare Cadillac Tax In 2015 (S.2075) 1. Sen Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) 2. Sen Michael Bennet (D-CO) 3. Sen Dick Blumenthal (D-CT) 4. Sen Bob Casey (D-PA) 5. Sen Mazie Hirono (D-HI) 6. Sen Pat Leahy (D-VT) 7. Sen Chris Murphy (D-CT) 8. Sen Gary Peters (D-MI) 9. Sen Bernie Sanders (I-VT) 10. Sen Brian Schatz (D-HI) 11. Sen Chuck Schumer (D-NY) 12. Sen Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) 13. Sen Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) (S.2075, “American Worker Health Care Tax Relief Act of 2015,” Introduced 9/24/2015)   Seven Current Senate Democrats Co-Sponsored A Medical Device Tax Repeal Last Year (S.108) 1. Sen Dick Blumenthal (D-CT) 2. Sen Bob Casey (D-PA) 3. Sen Joe Donnelly (D-IN) 4. Sen Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) 5. Sen Margaret Hassan (D-NH) 6. Sen Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) 7. Sen Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) (S.108, “Medical Device Access And Innovation Protection Act,” Introduced 1/12/2017)   DOT-18-0010-A-000673 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000673 SEN. BOB CASEY (D-PA): “The current tax on medical devices presents significant challenges for businesses in Pennsylvania who innovate and create jobs.” (Sen. Casey, Press Release, 1/13/2015)   · “U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) along with a bipartisan group of ten Senators, today introduced the Medical Device Access and Innovation Protection Act, S. 149, a bill to repeal the medical device tax that was implemented as a part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).” (Sen. Casey, Press Release, 1/13/2015)   Five Current Senate Democrats Co-Sponsored A Bill For A Health Insurance Tax Moratorium Last Year (S.1978) 1. Sen Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) 2. Sen Joe Donnelly (D-IN) 3. Sen Bill Nelson (D-FL) 4. Sen Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) 5. Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) (S.1978, “Small Business and Family Health Tax Relief Act of 2017,” Introduced 10/18/2017)   SEN. HEIDI HEITKAMP (D-ND): “Today, I’m … offering a new bill to help reduce the harmful impact of the Health Insurance Tax on families and businesses, which Republicans and Democrats in Congress have voted to delay.” (Sen. Heitkamp, Press Release, 10/18/2017)   · “U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today introduced legislation to help reduce the burden of the Health Insurance Tax – a fee that directly impacts health care affordability for families and small businesses – by delaying the tax for two years, and making it tax deductible going forward should the fee go into effect.” (Sen. Heitkamp, Press Release, 10/18/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS       t , at R ublican Communicat·on Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2FPv4wt   Government Shutdown ‘Tough’ For Military Bases, Communities   Workers In Ohio, Florida, Virginia, Washington, Colorado, Missouri And Elsewhere Worry ‘If The Base Shuts Down, That Affects Everybody In This Area,’ ‘Will Have An Incredible Impact’ DOT-18-0010-A-000674 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000674 THEN-SECRETARY OF DEFENSE CHUCK HAGEL: “…what happened in 2013 when we had to stop training, stop flying, stop sailing, when we had a government shutdown for more than two weeks. We had to also furlough civilians. That was a tough time.” (“Remarks By Secretary Hagel At A Troop Event At Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri,” 1/13/2015)     OHIO: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base ‘Employs More People At One Work Site Than Any Other In Ohio,’ In 2013 ‘An Estimated 8,700 Civil Service Workers Were Sent Home’ “Thousands of federal workers in the Miami Valley have high stakes in congressional lawmakers’ attempts to reach a budget deal … Wright-Patterson [Air Force Base], which employs more people at one work site than any other in Ohio, has 13,000 civil service workers, or nearly half the workforce at the base…. ‘While military personnel would not be impacted by the shutdown, a lapse in appropriations would further impede our ongoing efforts to restore readiness and modernize to meet rapidly evolving global threats,’ [Wright-Patterson spokesman Daryl] Mayer said in an email.” (“Congress Votes To Keep Government Open; Wright-Patterson Was Preparing For Shutdown,” Dayton Daily News, 4/28/2017)   · “Many of those civilian government workers faced a government shutdown [in 2013] … An estimated 8,700 civil service workers were sent home. They were in every corner of the base, from the Air Force Materiel Command, which oversees purchases of major weapon systems, to the Air Force Reserve 445th Airlift Wing, which flies C-17 Globemaster III troop transport and cargo missions around the world. At the time, base officials estimated with so many off the job lost wages added up to $2.1 million a day, with a multiplier effect of a $5 million economic impact in the region each day of the shutdown.” (“Congress Votes To Keep Government Open; Wright-Patterson Was Preparing For Shutdown,” Dayton Daily News, 4/28/2017)   “People who work on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base say they are worried about a possible government shutdown, which could have a major impact on operations at the base…. ‘If the base shuts down, that affects everybody in this area,’ said Dennis Schumacher, who works at the commissary on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Schumacher and his wife Pamela, who is also employed at the commissary, were out of work the last time the government shut down in 2013. ‘You’re sitting there in two weeks, don’t know if you’re going to go back to work the next day or if you’re going to be off for a year or two,’ he said. ‘And you can’t go look for another job because you already have a job.’” (“WPAFB Workers Concerned About Possible Government Shutdown,” WDTN-TV Dayton, 12/08/2017)   · “The possible shutdown also has Penelope Smith, a server at Fairborn Family Diner and Restaurant, feeling anxious. Her other job is at a store on the base. ‘How and why is there even a need for us to be open if there is a shutdown?’ Smith said. She said she is also concerned about the diner, where most of the customers work on Wright-Patt. ‘If they are shut down and they don’t have the income, then they’re not going to be spending their money,’ Smith said.” (“WPAFB Workers Concerned About Possible Government Shutdown,” WDTN-TV Dayton, 12/08/2017)     FLORIDA: At Cape Canaveral ‘I Can’t Launch Rockets With A Quarter Of My Work Force’ “Air Force: Budget uncertainty threatens Cape Canaveral rocket launches … Before a rocket blasts off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, a system drenches the launch pad with water to cool it down from the gas and flames bellowing out of engines firing with a million pounds of thrust or more. If that water supply failed, the rockets couldn’t launch…. It’s the kind of work the [45th Space] Wing's commander considers vital to supporting the Cape’s growing launch rate — projected to reach nearly 50 annually within five years — but it could be derailed, he fears, if Congress and the White House fail to compromise on a budget deal. ‘Without that, the Wing will suffer the impact from that as we try to defend the nation,’ Brig. Gen. Wayne Monteith told FLORIDA TODAY. ‘And for us, defending the nation is getting capability on orbit. Our military cannot fight without space assets. That’s why we say, “Control of the battlefield begins here.”’” (Air Force: Budget Uncertainty Threatens Cape Canaveral DOT-18-0010-A-000675 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000675 Rocket Launches,” Florida Today¸12/01/2017)   · “Without a deal, in a worst-case scenario, the government would shut down, as it did for 16 days in 2013. Then only about 900 uniformed personnel — a quarter of the 45th Space Wing’s work force — would report to work until the shutdown ended…. ‘I can’t launch rockets with a quarter of my work force,’ said Monteith.” (Air Force: Budget Uncertainty Threatens Cape Canaveral Rocket Launches,” Florida Today¸12/01/2017)   “If congressional squabbling over Obamacare leads to a government shutdown, hundreds of civilians at MacDill Air Force Base will be forced to take unpaid time off and the efficiency of the base and its two major military commands will be greatly affected, military officials said Monday.... ‘If the government shuts down, MacDill would be affected just like every other military installation around the world,’ said Terry Montrose, a spokesman for the 6th Air Mobility Wing, the base host unit. ‘Most operations and activities will halt and many civilian employees assigned to the 6th Air Mobility Wing will be furloughed. The absence of our civilian airmen will have an incredible impact on services across the base.’” (“MacDill AFB Braces For Hardships Of Federal Shutdown,” Tampa Bay Times, 9/30/2013)   ·   ·     “Family readiness, education and training and medical programs would all be adversely affected, said Montrose. ‘The government shutdown will have a lasting impact on our families and service men and women...” (“MacDill AFB Braces For Hardships Of Federal Shutdown,” Tampa Bay Times, 9/30/2013) “‘The Centcom command and staff know that the uncertainty of the current situation puts our civilian workforce in a difficult situation and, should a lapse occur, it could potentially impose hardships on many employees,’ [Oscar] Seara [a Centcom spokesman] wrote in an email to The Tampa Tribune. ‘Without question, the efficiencies of Centcom would be significantly impacted if furloughs are implemented. Like the rest of the Defense Department, it could impose hardships on many employees and impact important national security projects.’” (“MacDill AFB Braces For Hardships Of Federal Shutdown,” Tampa Bay Times, 9/30/2013) VIRGINIA: ‘If The Shutdown Happens, It Could Have A Huge Effect On Hampton Roads,’ ‘If The Federal Government Catches A Cold, The Hampton Roads Economy Ends Up The ICU’ “[T]he clock is ticking towards another possible federal government shutdown…. If the shutdown happens, it could have a huge effect on Hampton Roads. During the last government shutdown in 2013, a 21,000 civil servants were furloughed locally. ‘When you take away that portion of my budget, it hurts. It really does,’ furloughed civil servant Jeff Collis told 13 News Now in 2013. ‘And I work paycheck to paycheck.’” (“Clock Is Ticking Towards Possible Government Shutdown On Friday,” WEVC-TV Norfolk, 12/4/2017)   · “The 2013 shutdown lasted thirteen days. The Hampton Roads Planning District Commission estimated that it cost the region $6.3 million per day in lost wages.” (“Clock Is Ticking Towards Possible Government Shutdown On Friday,” WEVC-TV Norfolk, 12/4/2017)   · “Although the workers were eventually reimbursed, during the time of the shutdown, they didn't know that, so local commerce came to a brief halt. Everything from pizzas, to cars, and houses. The workers didn't buy any. They couldn't.  ‘It affects everyone from restaurants to real estate to people who cut people's hair to grocery stores to automobile salesmen to jewelry stores,’ said Old Dominion University economics professor Bob McNab. ‘A long shut down reduces consumption.’” (“Clock Is Ticking Towards Possible Government Shutdown On Friday,” WEVC-TV Norfolk, 12/4/2017)   · “‘About 40 percent of our economy is directly related to defense and the federal government,’ [McNab] said.  ‘Anytime you have a disruption of defense spending, the Hampton Roads economy slows. If the federal DOT-18-0010-A-000676 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000676 government catches a cold, the Hampton Roads economy ends up the ICU.’” (“Clock Is Ticking Towards Possible Government Shutdown On Friday,” WEVC-TV Norfolk, 12/4/2017)   WASHINGTON: 2013 Flashback -- ‘Our Economy Depends On These People Having A Wage’   “Only essential operations at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard will continue during the federal government shutdown, and that means thousands of people in Western Washington are being furloughed. Business owners in Bremerton say they’re also going to take a hit.” (“Bremerton Businesses Brace For Fallout From Shutdown,” KCPQ-TV Seattle, 10/01/2013)   · “The Navy confirmed furlough notices went out to 3,500 civilian employees [in 2013]. They were on what’s considered non-essential operations, so they’ll be without a job and a paycheck until Congress takes action. ‘These are human beings; these are people’s lives,’ business owner Todd Best said. ‘Our economy depends on these people having a wage.’ Best, a veteran, says the Navy can’t operate without its civilian workers. ‘We’ve got to remember who’s here fixing our ships, running our shipyard, who’s maintaining our military apparatus and ships that we have,’ he said. ‘At some point or another, we’re going to pay the price. We’re going to play catch-up because we’re falling behind now.’” (“Bremerton Businesses Brace For Fallout From Shutdown,” KCPQ-TV Seattle, 10/01/2013)   “Fairchild Air Force Base, the largest employer in Spokane County, said [in 2013] the government shutdown in Washington, D.C. has been very disruptive to the base's operations. It's disruptive because civilians are a key part of nearly every operation at the base and when the government shut down, 300 civilians and 248 full-time Guardsmen arrived at work Tuesday only to be told to go home. Each was briefed and told don't come back until the Congress passes funding for their positions. ‘The government shutdown here at Fairchild is greatly and extremely disruptive,’ 1st Lieutenant Matthew Sanders said.” (“Shutdown Forces Hundreds To Be Furloughed At Fairchild,” KXLY Spokane, 10/01/2013)   · “The services closed by the shutdown include the teen center, and the base library, while the base commissary will close Wednesday indefinitely, leaving people to stock up on groceries Tuesday afternoon. ‘Without those government civilians working, airmen and excepted civilians will have to try and share the load,’ Sanders said. From serving food and helping maintain the base gym to aircraft maintenance and flight scheduling, no sector of Fairchild was safe from the shutdown. ‘Even our flying mission is impacted somewhat because we do have civilians that help,’ Sanders said.” (“Shutdown Forces Hundreds To Be Furloughed At Fairchild,” KXLY Spokane, 10/01/2013)     COLORADO: ‘During The Last Shutdown … More Than 6,000 Civilian Defense Department Workers Were Off The Job In Colorado Springs,’ ‘A Massive Impact’ “Hurried shutdown planning meetings began at military bases across the Pikes Peak region Wednesday as leaders prepared for federal budget gridlock that would come if a deal isn't approved by Friday. The biggest impact of a federal shutdown would hit at the five bases, where as many as 6,000 civilian employees face furloughs, troops could see pay delays and amenities like military grocery stores and daycare centers could shutter until a budget accord is reached.” (“Potential Shutdown Would Hit Hardest At Colorado Springs Military Bases,” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette, 1/17/2018)   ·   “During the last shutdown on Oct. 1 2013, more than 6,000 civilian Defense Department workers were off the job in Colorado Springs, veterans disability claims piled up and federal parks closed. The suffering of 2013 may have been at its worst at the Air Force Academy, where a civilian employee in charge of ordering toilet paper for dormitories was furloughed, creating a temporary crisis for cadets.” (“Potential Shutdown Would Hit Hardest At Colorado Springs Military Bases,” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette, 1/17/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000677 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000677 ·   · “On the home front, though, shutdowns impact most of the military's civilian workers. At Peterson Air Force Base alone, that's nearly 3,000 employees. There are hundreds more at Schriever Air Force Base, the academy and Fort Carson. Some workers will be deemed ‘essential’ under Pentagon plans, allowing them to stay on the job, though they may have to wait for pay. The rest will be placed on unpaid leave.” (“Potential Shutdown Would Hit Hardest At Colorado Springs Military Bases,” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette, 1/17/2018) “[I]n Colorado Springs, where an estimated 50 cents of every payroll dollar comes from Pentagon spending, a long-term shutdown would have a massive impact. An estimated one worker in five here is on the federal payroll, and the overwhelming majority of those federal workers are in military-related jobs. Annually, the military pumps $7.7 billion into El Paso County. Defense contractors, who bring in an estimated $2.1 billion in military spending here, could see their budgets impacted if the federal standoff lingers.” (“Potential Shutdown Would Hit Hardest At Colorado Springs Military Bases,” The [Colorado Springs] Gazette, 1/17/2018)     MISSOURI: 2013 Flashback -- ‘Shutdown Hits America’s First Line of Attack, Whiteman AFB’ “Shutdown Hits America’s First Line of Attack, Whiteman AFB … The government shutdown forced hundreds of thousands of civilian employees to go home early [in 2013], including thousands in the military installations around Kansas City. Fort Leavenworth and Fort Riley in central Kan., and Whiteman Air Force Base near Knob Noster, Mo., all furloughed technicians and workers.” (“Shutdown Hits America’s First Line of Attack, Whiteman AFB,” KCUR, 10/01/2013)   · “…while America’s enemies can’t seem to touch B-2 bombers, the shutdown will take a toll on their base. ‘We are going to see impacts all across base, as a result of the government shutdown,’ says [Capt. John Severns, the Chief of Public Affairs at Whiteman]. At least 500 civilians have been furloughed at Whiteman, he says, including about 230 National Guard technicians. Some of them maintain those stealth bombers, which cost about $2.2 billion each. ‘We are going to be losing some of our maintainers, some of (our) munitions folk, people we rely on a day-to- day basis to conduct this mission,’ says Severns.” (“Shutdown Hits America’s First Line of Attack, Whiteman AFB,” KCUR, 10/01/2013)   · “The effects of the shutdown spread across Whiteman on Tuesday. Crowds descended like hurricane refugees after word got out that the base grocery store was closing, indefinitely…. People in Knob Noster, Mo., the little town jammed up against Whiteman, aren’t happy either. Linda Miller runs the BBQ restaurant, a place she and her family just opened this spring, in an old post office that had been empty for years. ‘It makes us feel a little frustrated,’ Miller says. ‘We came thinking we were going to have a very good crowd here, and a new business always has a lot of costs starting up. And that will impact us, if we can’t make those costs. Like many other businesses in the area, we could be forced to shut down.’” (“Shutdown Hits America’s First Line of Attack, Whiteman AFB,” KCUR, 10/01/2013)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS       DOT-18-0010-A-000678 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000678 ,at ublicar1 Communicat·ons 2,02•228• Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2Do1csX     Center EWS Will They? SEN. SCHUMER: ‘We Could Say, “We’re Shutting Down The Government… Until You Pass Immigration Reform.” It Would Be Governmental Chaos’ Dem Flashback: ‘Holding Pieces Of Legislation Hostage … Is Wrong,’ ‘Just Ridiculous,’ ‘Really Bullying Behavior’   SEN. CHUCK SCHUMER (D-NY): “…basically, it's sort of like this. Someone goes into your house, takes your wife and children hostage and then, says, let's negotiate over the price of your house. You know, we could do the same thing on immigration. We believe strongly in immigration reform. We could say, ‘we’re shutting down the government, we’re not gonna raise the debt ceiling, until you pass immigration reform.’ It would be governmental chaos.” (ABC’s “This Week,” 10/6/13)   · SEN. SCHUMER: “You cannot negotiate with a hostage situation like that. You cannot negotiate with a gun to your head.” (CNN, 10/7/13)   · “‘I’ll give you the basic line,’ Mr. Schumer relented after twice declining to comment on the shutdown situation. ‘The basic line is: No matter how strongly one feels about an issue, you shouldn’t hold millions of people hostage. That’s what the other side is doing. That’s wrong and we can’t give in to that.’” (“Chuck Schumer Slams Republican ‘Fanatics’ In Federal Shutdown Fight,” NY Observer, 9/29/2013)   REP. NANCY PELOSI (D-CA): “I join the American people in their disgust in what happened in terms of the shut down of government. That’s an unthinkable tactic to use in a political debate.” (ABC News’ “This Week,” 10/20/2013)   · “‘I call them 'legislative arsonists',’ [Pelosi] said. ‘They're there to burn down what we should be building up in terms of investments and education and scientific research, and all that it is that makes our country great and competitive.’” (“Pelosi Calls Republicans 'Legislative Arsonists' Over Government Shutdown,” Guardian, 9/22/2013)   SEN. PATTY MURRAY (D-WA): “I think the lessons from last year that holding pieces of legislation hostage to our economy and to the certainty that American people want is wrong, and I don't believe that will happen again next year either.” (MSNBC, 12/18/13)   · MURRAY: “[The American people are] sick of partisanship, sick of showboating and saber rattling. They were tired of turning on their televisions at night and seeing elected officials saying: It is my way or the highway, and they had no more patience for politicians holding the economy and the Federal Government hostage to extract concessions or score political points.” (Sen. Murray, Congressional Record, S.8870, 12/17/13)   SEN. HEIDI HEITKAMP (D-ND): “I am hopeful we can get good people to step forward, to stand up to behavior that can only be described in some ways—it has been talked about as hostage-taking here. It is really bullying behavior when the small minority does this. Let’s step forward. Let’s do the right thing.” (Sen. Heitkamp, Congressional Record, S.7202, 10/4/13)   SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-WV): “…I'm not going to hold this country hostage and have millions of people suffering because of what I like and don't like. I came here to represent the people, to do the best I can for my country and my state of West Virginia. And I'm going to do that. I hope that our leaders will move ahead.” (CNN, 10/15/13)   · MANCHIN: “…this is not the place for it Joe, I can't hold the government hostage or the country hostage and inflict pain on innocent DOT-18-0010-A-000679 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000679 people. I won't do that.” (MSNBC, 10/14/13)   SEN. BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT): “…stop holding this government and the American people hostage.” (CNN, 10/10/13)   · SANDERS: “What they are saying to the American people tonight is: Maybe we lost the Presidential election. Maybe we lost seats in the Senate and in the House. It doesn’t matter. We can now bring the government to a shutdown, throw some 800,000 hard-working Americans out on the street, and we are going to get our way no matter what. I think that is a horrendous precedent to be established for this body. Let’s be clear. If we surrendered to that hostage-taking tonight, without a shadow of a doubt these guys would be back 2 weeks from today. At that point they would say to us: Here is our laundry list of demands. If you don’t give us what we want, we are going to bring down the financial system of the United States of America, bring down the world financial system, and if it leads to a worldwide recession, well, that is the way it goes. But what is most important is we get our way and we don’t care about the repercussions. ... Ultimately, what we are dealing with tonight is an extraordinarily antidemocratic act. Every Member of the Senate has strong feelings. Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose. But when they are in the minority—they do not control the White House, they do not control the Senate—they cannot force the American people to give them what they want.” (Sen. Sanders, Congressional Record, S.7050-1, 9/30/2013)   SEN. DEBBIE STABENOW (D-MI): “We need to act now so our veterans have the certainty and the peace of mind they need to move forward with their lives. We should not be involved in wrangling, in folks trying to find political advantage, and take political hostages, score points in some way.” (Sen. Stabenow, Congressional Record, S.870, 2/11/14)   SEN. ANGUS KING (I-ME): “So, I'd like to get back to democracy with a small ‘d’, following the Constitution, and abide by the rules as they've been established, and not go through this constant hostage-taking situation to get something in that process that you couldn't get through the normal process.” (Fox News, 10/16/13)   · KING: “Police, intelligence people, and military officers tell us they don’t negotiate with hostage-takers, and the reason they don’t is because they would empower, enable, and ensure it will happen again, and that is what worries me. ” (Sen. King, Congressional Record, S.7223, 10/5/13)   SEN. PAT LEAHY (D-VT): “It is a form of extortion that has no place in a democracy. … They want to hold the country hostage. They want to put our backs up against the wall, or the backs of the American people. Why?” (Sen. Leahy, Congressional Record, S.7313, 10/9/13)   SEN. RICHARD BLUMENTHAL (D-CT): “…moving from one self-inflicted wound to another when the kinds of hostage taking demands are made has to stop.” (MSNBC, 10/10/13)   · BLUMENTHAL: “…we are willing to compromise and collaborate but not with hostage-taking tactics that in effect say to everyone else in the country: It is our way or the highway.” (Sen. Blumenthal, Congressional Record, S.7252, 10/7/13)   SEN. BILL NELSON (D-FL): “One doesn’t hold the country hostage and disrupt people’s lives to get their particular agenda done…” (Sen. Nelson, Congressional Record, S.7512, 10/16/013)   · NELSON: “There is real hurt going on in this country, and it's time for folks like you to start slamming your fists down and saying, ‘We've had enough of this.’” (Sen. Nelson, Press Conference, 10/8/13)   SEN. SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D-RI): ‘Get off of hostage negotiations’ “I think what we want to see is the government put back to work, as well. And I think there's support for that in the Senate. That way we get off of hostage negotiations that are going on right now. We get to regular negotiations. Everybody I know in Rhode Island knows the difference between negotiating and negotiating while holding hostages. … This is negotiating with hostages with a very real threat to shoot them, and very real damage to the country if we do. … I think that's fundamentally wrong, and it's fundamentally un-American.” (CNN, 10/10/13)   · WHITEHOUSE: “…we want you to do what you're supposed to do, which is be responsible about paying the country's bills and not use this as an opportunity to take hostages or extract ransom.” (Sen. Whitehouse, Politico Discussion, 2/6/14)   SEN. JEANNE SHAHEEN (D-NH): “Holding the economy and critical services hostage to score political points is irresponsible.” (Sen. Shaheen, Congressional Record, S.7319, 10/9/13)   SEN. BOB MENENDEZ (D-NJ): “They just want to make a political point, and they are holding the country hostage in order to make it.” (Sen. Menendez, Congressional Record, S.7377, 10/10/13)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000680 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000680       t , at ubl1 ar1 Communicat· on Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS   Bipartisan Govs: ‘Reauthorize CHIP As Quickly As Possible’ 8.9 Million Children Nationwide Covered by State Children’s Health Insurance Program   SEN. ORRIN HATCH (R-UT), Finance Committee Chairman: “[T]he House bill would extend funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program for six years, which is the longest extension since the creation of the program…. I’ll remind my colleagues that, this past September, the Finance Committee’s Ranking Member, Senator Wyden, and I introduced a long-term, bipartisan CHIP extension bill that was overwhelmingly reported out of the committee…. The House’s bill is identical to the legislation Senator Wyden and I introduced last fall, except that the funding continues for one more year….” (U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Press Release, 1/17/2018)     Twelve Bipartisan Governors: ‘Give The Families Who Rely On CHIP The Peace Of Mind Of Knowing That Their Children Will Be Able To Get The Health Care They Need’ “We ask that you make it a priority to reauthorize the Children's Health Insurance program (CHIP) as quickly as possible. We believe covering children and pregnant women without disruption is one thing we can all agree on. For twenty years, this program has successfully provided vital health coverage and care to about nine million children. Without it, access to essential health services like well child exams, asthma medicine, and hospitalizations will be at risk. As health insurance premiums climb at unsustainable rates, this program gives hard-working families access to otherwise unaffordable coverage…. We encourage you to … allow this important program to continue and give the families who rely on CHIP the peace of mind of knowing that their children will be able to get the health care they need in the new year.” (12 Governors, Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 12/12/2017)   Letter signed by: Gov. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Gov. John Kasich (R-OH), Gov. Bill Walker (I-AK), Gov. John Bel Edwards (D-LA), Gov. Tom Wolf (D-PA), Gov. Chris Sununu (R-NH), Gov. Charles Baker (R-MA), Gov. Steve Bullock (D-MT), Gov. Phil Scott (R-VT), Gov. Brian Sandoval (R-NV), Gov. Mark Dayton (D-MN), Then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D-VA)     State-by-State SCHIP Coverage Total SCHIP-Funded Coverage - 2016 State Population     United States Total Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut   8,900,074 150,040 15,662 88,224 120,863 2,022,213 167,227 25,551 DOT-18-0010-A-000681 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000681 Delaware 17,784 District of Columbia 13,943 Florida 374,884 Georgia 232,050 Hawaii 25,780 Idaho 35,964 Illinois 325,990 Indiana 114,927 Iowa 84,989 Kansas 79,319 Kentucky 92,728 Louisiana 161,565 Maine 23,257 Maryland 137,592 Massachusetts 185,578 Michigan 82,693 Minnesota 3,876 Mississippi 88,531 Missouri 87,790 Montana 44,688 Nebraska 55,041 Nevada 68,951 New Hampshire 17,946 New Jersey 230,960 New Mexico 15,100 New York 684,625 North Carolina 256,446 North Dakota 4,955 Ohio 223,583 Oklahoma 187,971 Oregon 140,786 Pennsylvania 342,268 Rhode Island 36,262 South Carolina 81,574 South Dakota 18,501 Tennessee 105,990 Texas 1,075,212 Utah 58,410 Vermont 5,305 Virginia 192,831 Washington 66,517 West Virginia 48,187 Wisconsin 171,552 Wyoming 7,387 (“Child Enrollment In CHIP And Medicaid By State, FY 2016,” MACStats, 12/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER         AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000682 DOT_Am.Oversight-000682 ,at ublicar1 Communicat·ons 2,02•228• Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2mEp8hh   Act Now On Children’s Health Insurance Program   Dems Rhetoric: ‘Stop Playing Political Football With The Health Care Of Our Children,’ ‘Children’s Lives At Risk’ FLASHBACK: All Senate Finance Committee Democrats Voted For A 5 Year S-CHIP Extension In October: October 4, 2017: “The Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday approved by voice vote its bipartisan bill to renew funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program. … The bill (S 1827) by Chairman Orrin G. Hatch, R-Utah, and Wyden would renew funding for the program for five years…” (“Panel Backs Bill To Renew Children's Health Insurance Funding,” CQ 10/4/2017)   Inaction On S-CHIP ‘Inexcusable,’ ‘There Is No Excuse For This Delay,’ ‘Should Be A NoBrainer,’ ‘Every Day That Goes By, People Are Worried’   NOW-SEN. DOUG JONES (D-AL): “Funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program has reached a crisis level and my future colleagues must stop playing political football with the health care of our children and act now to ensure Alabama's most vulnerable do not begin losing coverage… It is absolutely unacceptable for partisan fighting to delay renewing funding for CHIP.” (“Doug Jones Urges Congress To Renew CHIP Funding Affecting 150K Alabama Children,” Al.Com, 12/19/2017)   SEN. DIANNE FEINSTEIN (D-CA): “Healthcare coverage for kids … should be a no-brainer. I strongly support these programs and hope we can provide stability soon.” (Sen. Feinstein, Congressional Record, S.8233, 12/21/2017)   SEN. BOB MENENDEZ (D-NJ): “I never thought the day would come when Congress would put children’s lives at risk by allowing funding for CHIP to lapse… it’s time we vote on a long-term solution that upholds our promise to America’s children.” (Sen. Menendez, Press Release, 1/12/2018)   SEN. SHERROD BROWN (D-OH): “Crystal and her son Noble… are scared to death about what will happen to them if Congress doesn’t save CHIP. She said CHIP is ‘the difference between living a middle class lifestyle, or being part of the poverty line.’ It is the difference between a middle-class lifestyle or being part of the poverty line. … We passed a bipartisan CHIP extension out of the Finance Committee. It is ready to go. If Republican leaders would put it on the floor today, it would pass. I assume it would pass with at least 90 votes. There is no excuse for this delay. … This is about whose side you are on. Do we work for corporations that send our jobs overseas, or do we work for families, such as Crystal Lett and her son Noble?” (Sen. Brown, Congressional Record, S.8212, 12/21/2017)   · SEN. BROWN: “It is bipartisan. It has never had much of any opposition. … Healthcare for our kids shouldn’t be controversial. ... It shouldn’t be partisan. It should be easy. … It is past time for folks in Congress, with taxpayer-funded healthcare, to do their jobs and extend CHIP.” (Sen. Brown, Congressional Record, S.101, 1/9/2018)   SENS. MARK WARNER (D-VA) & TIM KAINE (D-VA): “We write again to emphasize our support for the prompt reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). We ask that you include bipartisan legislation reauthorizing CHIP in any upcoming funding legislation. Prompt reauthorization of this program is necessary to protect the health of thousands of Virginia children and families… It is imperative that Congress act quickly to end the uncertainty around health care coverage for thousands of Virginia children. The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services is preparing to notify families of the impending loss of coverage. As such, we request that a full CHIP reauthorization be included in the next available legislative vehicle, so we can prevent letters from going out in Virginia that will unnecessarily frighten parents whose children are in CHIP. On January 31, 2018, Virginia will have insufficient funds to continue the program, and thousands of children in our state would be at risk of losing health care coverage. We can, and must, put an end to this uncertainty.” (Sens. Warner & Kaine, Letter To Sen. McConnell, 12/7/2017)   DOT-18-0010-A-000683 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000683 SEN. ELIZABETH WARREN (D-MA): “…the Congress has put our children’s health and well-being on the back burner. My colleagues and I do not think that children’s health belongs on the back burner. … Mothers are lying awake at night. Fathers are tossing and turning, worrying about their healthcare coverage. … leaders in Congress just don’t seem to care. They don’t seem to care if these families have the health insurance coverage they need so they can get an x ray or pay for an antibiotic or run some tests.” (Sen. Warren, Congressional Record, S.6805, 10/25/2017)   SEN. ANGUS KING (I-ME): “Access to top-quality health services helps people care for their families and builds a healthy Maine community… Right now, Congress’s neglect to fully fund CHIP and community health centers puts families in our state at an unnecessary risk. This is an abdication of our responsibility to the people we serve. For the hundreds of thousands of Maine people who use these essential services, and for millions more across the country, I urge my colleagues to act now and fund CHIP…” (Sen. King, Press Release, 12/15/2017)   SEN. JEFF MERKLEY (D-OR): “This program, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, was forged in bipartisanship. ...struggling families would like to have some stability, not have their children be a bargaining chip in some broader vision… Let’s put aside that vision of using our kids as a bargaining chip and pass this bill and get it to the President’s desk.” (Sen. Merkley, Congressional Record, S.76, 1/8/2018)   SEN. DEBBIE STABENOW (D-MI): “It is important that we act. We could act right now. This is bipartisan. We passed a bipartisan bill out of the Finance Committee in September, before the deadline. … Every day that goes by, people are worried about what is going to happen. Are they going to be able to take their child to the doctor, be able to get their asthma treatments, handle their juvenile diabetes, cancer treatments, or the normal things that happen to kids every day? I am not sure if there will be any votes today. We could, today, pass the Children’s Health Insurance Program … and let families across America know they are going to be able to have the medical care they need for themselves and their children coming into the new year.” (Sen. Stabenow, Congressional Record, S.8165, 12/20/2017)   · SEN. STABENOW: “The clock is ticking every single day, and it has not been done. Folks may be trying to hold it hostage politically for some reason or trying to work on some deal at the end of the year. In the meantime, families are worrying, men and women are worrying, and veterans are worrying about what is going to happen, whether or not they are going to continue to get their healthcare.” (Sen. Stabenow, Congressional Record, S.7881, 12/6/2017)   SEN. BILL NELSON (D-FL): “It would be nice if our colleagues showed as much urgency for some of the other things we should be doing in the Senate, such as providing millions of kids with health insurance through the CHIP program… That is what we ought to be worrying about. … we should be focused on reauthorizing the Children’s Health Insurance Program, CHIP, so that 9 million children across the country, including nearly 400,000 in Florida, can continue to have access to the health coverage they desperately need.” (Sen. Nelson, Congressional Record, S.8059, 12/18/2017)   SEN. PAT LEAHY (D-VT): “It has been 3 months since Congress let funds expire for the Children’s Health Insurance Program, CHIP, putting at risk the 9 million children nationwide who depend on the program for health insurance coverage. …we should be able to reauthorize CHIP —for longer than 3 months—without undermining public health. We should not have to make this choice, but here we are, being forced to choose between a misguided short-term patch or a wholesale government shutdown.” (Sen. Leahy, Congressional Record, S.8236, 12/21/2017)   SEN. BOB CASEY (D-PA): “I rise this afternoon to talk about the Children’s Health Insurance Program and, particularly, the reauthorization of that program. By reauthorization I mean taking action to continue a program that is not just worthy but battle-tested now for almost a quarter of a century nationally, at least 20 years. In States like Pennsylvania, it is more than 20 years, more like 25. The unfortunate reality, though, is this isn’t done. This program should have been reauthorized at the end of September, and it is not done yet. It has gone from unacceptable to inexcusable.” (Sen. Casey, Congressional Record, S.8157, 12/20/2017)   · SEN. CASEY: “We know CHIP expired on September 30. It is a total failure of the government to allow that to happen. …any uncertainty about the Children’s Health Insurance Program is also an insult to the country.” (Sen. Casey, Congressional Record, S.8030, 12/14/2017)   SEN. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN (D-MD): “Now, with respect to the Children's Health Insurance Program, you're absolutely right, the authorization expired in September. And we need to address that issue.” (MSNBC, 12/21/2017)   SEN. CHRIS COONS (D-DE): “We urgently need to fund the Children's Health Insurance Program, known as CHIP, which is a literal lifeline for more than nine million low-income children across the United States. Funding for CHIP ran out months ago in September, and already, some states have had to notify parents their children's health care coverage will soon lapse. That's just unacceptable.” (Sen. Coons, Democratic Weekly Address, 12/8/2017)   SEN. JOE DONNELLY (D-DE): “I have long supported the CHIP program. This program is vital to our families and vital to our children. We should reauthorize the CHIP program right away.” (Sen. Donnelly, Congressional Record, S.93, 1/9/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000684 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000684 SEN. MARIA CANTWELL (D-WA): “We must never forget what this program means for millions of children and their families.  We must keep the focus on covering kids and the adult population that go along with them in the most cost-effective way possible.” (Sen. Cantwell, Press Release, 10/4/2017)   SEN. CHRIS MURPHY (D-CT): “This is about people's lives. And our failure to do our job, our failure to pass a budget and to extend lifesaving programs like the Children’s Health Insurance Program, it's not about politics. It's not about headlines. It's not about point scoring.” (Sen. Murphy, Press Release, 1/11/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     11at R . ubl1 an Communicat Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2EMT3v2     ons Center ‘That’s Wrong’ Sen. Feinstein: ‘The Last Thing We Need Is For The Government To Shut Down’ FLASHBACK: SEN. CHUCK SCHUMER (D-NY): “…basically, it's sort of like this. Someone goes into your house, takes your wife and children hostage and then, says, let's negotiate over the price of your house. You know, we could do the same thing on immigration. We believe strongly in immigration reform. We could say, ‘we’re shutting down the government, we’re not gonna raise the debt ceiling, until you pass immigration reform.’ It would be governmental chaos.” (ABC’s “This Week,” 10/6/13)   SEN. MANCHIN: ‘Shame On Any Of Us If We Sit Here And Say, OK, We’re Going To Let It Run Out For The Sake Of Politics And Shut The Government Down’   SEN. BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT): “…I certainly hope there is not a government shutdown. Government shutdown would be a disaster to this country…” (ABC News’ “This Week,” 1/7/2018)   CHUCK TODD, NBC: “Before I let you go, we’re shutting down the government if DACA -- if a DACA compromise doesn’t happen?” SEN. MICHAEL BENNET (D-CO): “I -- Chuck, I hope it doesn’t come to that.” TODD: “But it is worth it? It is potentially worth it?” BENNET: “We -- it should not come to that. We should stop shutting this government down.” (NBC’s “Meet The Press,” 1/14/2018)   SEN. CLAIRE McCASKILL (D-MO): “I am not interested in drawing a line in sand as negotiations continue because I think that’s how negotiations get blown up.” (“As Shutdown Talk Rises, Trump’s Immigration Words Pose Risks For Both Parties,” The New York Times, 1/16/2018)   · “‘Welcome to our world,’ said Senator Claire McCaskill, Democrat of Missouri... ‘We’ve got people running for president all trying to find their base, and then you’ve got people from Trump states that are trying to continue to legislate the way we always have — by negotiation,’ Ms. McCaskill said. ‘And never the twain shall meet.’” (“As Shutdown Talk Rises, Trump’s Immigration Words Pose Risks For Both Parties,” The New York Times, 1/16/2018)   SEN. CHRIS COONS (D-DE): “No one should want a shutdown.” (@FrankThorp, Twitter, 1/16/2018)   SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-WV): “If my fellow colleagues and Democrats in the caucus want to do something with that [threaten a shutdown over DACA], that’s wrong. That doesn’t fix anything. We have a shutdown looming. We have to make sure this government runs and operates in a functional way. It takes all of us working as Americans.” (CBS’ “Face The Nation,” 1/14/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000685 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000685   ·   JOHN DICKERSON, CBS: “Let me ask you, speaking of extremes, government funding looks like it`s going to run out here. Is there going to be a deal on that, are we headed for another one of these moments?” SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-WV): “Well, first of all, John, shame on any of us if we sit here and say, OK, we’re going to let it run out for the sake of politics and shut the government down. None of us should be sitting there, none of us even should be representing the good states that we represent, such as West Virginia and Colorado and Arkansas, if we allow that to happen. There’s no sense for that to happen. We can come to an agreement.” (CBS’ “Face The Nation,” 1/14/2018) DECEMBER FLASHBACK: Many Senate Dems Were ‘Resolutely Against Shut Down Under Any Circumstances’   SEN. TIM KAINE (D-VA): Is “resolutely against shut down under any circumstances.” (“Divisions In Both Parties Over Spending Raise Risks Of A Shutdown On Friday,” Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/5/2017)   · SEN. KAINE: “I will exercise every bit of leverage I can for the Dream Act, but if there is a vote that would lead to a shutdown, that’s where I draw the line.” (“Democrats Unlikely To Force DACA Vote This Week, Probably Averting Shutdown,” The Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/19/2017)   SEN. DIANNE FEINSTEIN (D-CA): “The last thing we need is for the government to shut down.” (“Trump, Democrats Restart Talks To Avert Shutdown,” Politico, 12/04/2017)   SEN. JON TESTER (D-MT): “I still don’t think government shutdown is a good thing.” (“Schumer Walks Tightrope On Shutdown, Immigration Fights,” The Hill, 12/7/2017)   · TESTER: “I think it’s stupid talk. You don’t want to shut the government down. That’s not where I’m going to be.” (“GOP And Dems Bitterly Divided By Immigration,” The Hill, 12/06/2017)   SEN. SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D-RI): “I do not want to participate in creating an environment in which anything looks like an ultimatum that can be used by the Republicans to shift the blame for a shutdown.” (“Dems Back Away From Brink On Dreamers,” Politico, 12/12/2017)   SEN. CHRIS MURPHY (D-CT): “Obviously, I want a Dreamers fix… I’m not sure that it serves our purposes to draw hard lines in the sand in the middle of negotiations.” (“Dems Back Away From Brink On Dreamers,” Politico, 12/12/2017)   SEN. JOE MANCHIN (D-VW): “‘I’m not shutting anything down. I just want to work through. It’s ridiculous to have a shutdown in any conversation.’ … When asked about immigration, Manchin cut off a reporter. ‘You’re talking about DACA and dreamers? Yeah, that’s very, very important, and I really sympathize with them, but I’ve told them that I’m not a vote to shut down.’” (“Divisions In Both Parties Over Spending Raise Risks Of A Shutdown On Friday,” Washington Post’s Powerpost, 12/5/2017)   · SEN. MANCHIN: “I understand the passion on that. I’m not in favor of voting to shut down the government…. There are a lot of things I feel passionate about. But I’m not going to make 300 million people suffer because I can’t get the process working the way it should.” (“Dems Divided On When To Fight Over Fate Of Young Immigrants,” The Associated Press, 12/12/2017)   “Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Tuesday batted down suggestions that a fight over a key Obama-era immigration program would spark a government shutdown. ‘We don't think we're going to get to that.’” (“Schumer Downplays Shutdown Chances Over DACA Fight,” The Hill, 12/5/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER     202.228.NEWS     DOT-18-0010-A-000686 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000686 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Sunday, January 21, 2018 1:48:29 PM Hello,   The Senate convened at 1:00 pm today and resumed consideration of the House Message to accompany H.R. 195, the vehicle for the CR.   The Senate was in session yesterday. Yesterday afternoon was spent on dueling healthcare UC’s and objections. There were no roll call votes.   There could be procedural votes today. We will keep you posted.   Under regular order there will be a 1 am vote tonight on an amendment that funds the government until Feb. 8 (with 6-year CHIP and ACA tax delays). This vote could be moved up by consent.   Leader McConnell this morning -“Here we are, Mr. President. This is day two of the Senate Democrats' government shutdown. Day two since the Democratic leader made the political calculation to do something that according to a recent survey even most Democrats don't support, he shut down the government to appease a portion, a portion of his party's left-wing base. Makes you shake your head. Who comes up with ideas like this?”   Please see several helpful Senate GOP Comms Center documents below.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) t , at ublicar1 Communicat· ons Center 2,02 228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2FWPqUy   DOT-18-0010-A-000687 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000687 S-CHIP Regrets, They’ve Had A Few   SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Thanks to the Democratic Leader’s decision, along with my friend from Michigan, to filibuster an extension of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, low-income families will slip closer to losing health coverage for their kids. And in many states this is an emergency. There was a carefully crafted compromise that she and every Democrat on the committee supported.  The Senate has not reviewed this new proposal. But if members are serious about funding CHIP, there is a bill before us that reauthorizes the program for a full six years—and can be signed into law today. The only thing preventing CHIP reauthorization from being signed into law today, is the Democrat filibuster of the House-passed bill.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 1/20/2018)   The Following 44 Democrats Voted Against A 6-Year S-CHIP Reauthorization Yesterday Sens. Baldwin (D-WI), Bennet (D-CO), Blumenthal (D-CT), Booker (D-NJ), Brown (D-OH), Cantwell(D-WA), Cardin (D-MD), Carper (D-DE), Casey (D-PA), Coons (D-DE), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Duckworth (D-IL), Durbin (D-IL), Feinstein (D-CA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Harris (D-CA), Hassan (D-NH), Heinrich (D-NM), Hirono (D-HI), Kaine (D-VA), King (I-ME), Klobuchar (D-MN), Leahy (D-VT), Lee (R-UT), Markey (D-MA), Menendez (D-NJ), Merkley (D-OR), Murphy (D-CT), Murray (D-WA), Nelson (D-FL), Paul (R-KY), Peters (D-MI), Reed (D-RI), Sanders (I-VT), Schatz (D-HI), Schumer (D-NY), Shaheen (D-NH), Smith (D-MN), Stabenow (D-MI), Tester (D-MT), Udall (D-NM), Van Hollen (D-MD), Warner (D-VA), Warren (D-MA), Whitehouse (D-RI), Wyden (D-OR)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     ,at u lica11. Communicat· on Center 2,02 228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2rsbN1b   Children’s Health Insurance: ‘Vital To Millions Of Children And Families’ Children’s Hospitals, Pediatricians, And Health Professionals Warn That ‘Congressional Inaction On CHIP Along With A Government Shutdown Is A Dangerous Combination For Families’   Health Professionals Urge Congress To ‘Pass CHIP This Week’   CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION: “The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is vital to millions of children and families…. States are exhausting all available program funds and have announced plans to freeze DOT-18-0010-A-000688 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000688 enrollment and, in some cases, end their programs altogether. Kids can’t wait any longer. Congress has a chance to pass a long-term extension of CHIP that will provide security for millions of kids. The continuing resolution being considered by Congress includes a six-year extension of CHIP. Children’s hospitals support a long-term extension of CHIP and urge Congress to take this opportunity to pass CHIP this week. The time is now to extend funding for this lifeline millions of children and their families count on every day.” (Children’s Hospital Association, Press Release, 1/18/2018)   AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS: “There is no excuse for Congress failing to extend long-term funding for CHIP, which is a vital source of coverage for these children…. The American Academy of Pediatrics urges Congress to extend CHIP … at the soonest possible moment so that families can continue to rely on the care their children need…. Congressional inaction on CHIP along with a government shutdown is a dangerous combination for families.” (American Academy of Pediatrics, Press Release, 1/19/2018)   AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION: “As Congress works to finalize a continuing resolution that will keep the government running until the end of 2018, the ADA is asking legislators to include two provisions important to dentistry: a six-year reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program and a two-year moratorium on the 2.3 percent excise tax imposed on the sale of medical devices.” (“ADA Asks Congress To Prioritize CHIP, Repeal Medical Device Tax,” ADA, 1/18/2018)   · ADA president Joseph P. Crowley and Executive Director Kathleen T. O’Loughlin: “CHIP provides much needed oral health services to nearly 9 million children and pregnant women… Dental care has the highest level of cost barriers compared to other health care services, with more individuals forgoing needed dental care over prescription drugs, medical care, eyeglasses or mental health services…. Ensuring access to comprehensive coverage and providing continuity of coverage for our nation’s low-income children should be a priority.” (“ADA Asks Congress To Prioritize CHIP, Repeal Medical Device Tax,” ADA, 1/18/2018)   ALLIANCE OF SPECIALTY MEDICINE: “As patient and physician advocates, we write to urge the inclusion of reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in the continuing resolution (CR) to be considered this week…. As this program is funded jointly by states and the federal government, we urge Congress to reauthorize funding for this program to prevent any disruption in coverage and access to care for eligible children.” (Alliance of Specialty Medicine, Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 1/18/2018)   · Alliance includes: American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, American College of Mohs Surgery, American College of Osteopathic Surgeons, American Gastroenterological Association, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association, American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Urological Association, Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and National Association of Spine Specialists   AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: “On behalf of our physician and medical student members, the American Medical Association (AMA) strongly urges Congress to reauthorize funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) … This situation has already created unnecessary anxiety for beneficiaries, their parents, and physicians. Should Congress fail to reauthorize CHIP, the nine million low-income children and thousands of pregnant women who rely on this program may experience grave health consequences.” (James L. Madera, AMA Executive VP, Letter to Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 12/15/2017)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000689 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000689       11at . ubli a11 Communicat· ons Center 202•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2DU7L4a   Blocked Democrats’ ‘Risky’ Shut Down Strategy Opposed By Majority Of Americans, Impact Felt Across Country   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Day one of the Senate Democrats’ government shutdown…. [L]ike the president, like the House, and like a bipartisan majority of Senators, the American people cannot begin to understand why the Senate Democratic Leader thinks the entire government should be shut down until he gets his way on illegal immigration…. Senate Democrats are starting to realize all this. They are starting to realize that their constituents, the president, the House, and a majority in the Senate are on one side of this. On the other side, all alone, is their Democratic Leader, who invented this unfortunate hostage situation and has led his party into this untenable position.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 1/20/2018)   Democrats’ ‘Wrong Bet On The Shutdown’   “Why Democrats may be making the wrong bet on the shutdown … A majority of Americans, 56%, said approving a budget to avoid a government shutdown was more important for Congress to do than passing a bill to maintain the DACA program. Only one in three Americans, 34%, said they prioritized a DACA fix over avoiding a shutdown. The preference for avoiding a shutdown holds across most demographic groups, even those that are traditionally Democratic-leaning.” (“Why Democrats May Be Making The Wrong Bet On The Shutdown,” CNN, 1/20/2018)   · “Overall, 8 in 10 Americans said it is extremely or very important for the President and Congress to fund the Children's Health Insurance Program this year … That ranks as a higher priority for Americans than DACA overall …” (“Why Democrats May Be Making The Wrong Bet On The Shutdown,” CNN, 1/20/2018)   ‘Senate Democrats Blocked Passage Of A Stopgap Spending Bill,’ ‘A Risky Strategy To Force Republicans To Negotiate With Them On A Legislative Fix For … Immigrants Who Illegally Came To The Country’   AP: “The Latest: Senate Democrats derail bill to avert shutdown” (AP, @AP_Politics, Twitter, 1/19/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000690 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000690   · “Last-minute negotiations crumbled as Senate Democrats blocked a four-week stopgap extension in a late-night vote, causing the fourth government shutdown in a quarter century.” (“US Government Shuts Down; Dems, GOP Blame Each Other,” The Associated Press, 1/20/2018)   NEW YORK TIMES: “Senate Democrats blocked passage of a stopgap spending bill to keep the government open.” (The New York Times, @nytpolitics, Twitter, 1/19/2018)   · “Much of the federal government officially shut down early Saturday morning after Senate Democrats … blocked consideration of a stopgap spending measure to keep the government operating.” (“Government Shuts Down as Bill to Extend Funding Is Blocked; Senators Continue to Seek Deal,” The New York Times, 1/20/2018)   BLOOMBERG: “Senate Democrats block GOP funding plan as shutdown kicks in” (Bloomberg, @business, Twitter, 1/20/2018)   FOX NEWS: “In a late-night vote, Senate Democrats joined to block a bill that would have kept the government running until mid-February. A flurry of last-minute negotiations failed to produce an agreement. Democrats tried to use the Friday night funding deadline to win concessions from Republicans, including an extension of DACA, an Obama-era program protecting some young immigrants from deportation.” (“Government Braces For Shutdown As Senate Fails To Meet Deadline For Spending Deal,” Fox News, 1/20/2018)   THE HILL: “Most Democrats voted against the bill as part of a risky strategy to force Republicans to negotiate with them on a legislative fix for ‘Dreamers,’ immigrants who illegally came to the country at a young age …” (“Senate Rejects Funding Bill, Just Before Shutdown Deadline,” The Hill, 1/19/2018)   ‘Effects Of Government Shutdown Felt Here At Home’ In Florida, Montana, Ohio, And Pennsylvania   Florida: ‘Some Long-Term Federal Responses To Natural Disasters Such As Hurricanes Irma And Maria Will Stop’   “Although most essential services will continue, South Florida will still feel the effects of the shutdown. Here's how: All National Parks will be closed because of the shutdown. However, the Trump administration said individual parks will ‘try to allow limited access wherever possible.’ … Hurricane relief: Some long-term federal responses to natural disasters such as hurricanes Irma and Maria will stop and will not resume until the shutdown is over.” (“How Does The Government Shutdown Affect South Florida?,” WPLG Local 10, 1/20/2018)   · “Former FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, a Florida native, said a shutdown would be ‘a huge deal,’ according to The Washington Post. Any lapse in federal appropriations would result in temporary furloughs or unpaid leaves of absence for FEMA workers considered nonessential. ‘Who do you think processes the payments?’ Fugate asked, according to the Post. ‘Who do you think does all that back-end stuff? IT stuff? Plus, if you have policy issues, there’s no one to turn to.’” (“Florida Braces For Impact Of Federal Government Shutdown,” Miami Herald, 1/19/2018)   “A shutdown extending beyond the weekend inevitably will affect employees and missions at Kennedy Space Center, Patrick Air Force Base and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and could potentially delay rocket launches…. Brig. Gen. Wayne Monteith, commander of the 45th Space Wing, previously told DOT-18-0010-A-000691 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000691 FLORIDA TODAY that only uniformed personnel would report to work in the event of a shutdown. That makes up only about a quarter of the Wing’s roughly 4,000-person work force. Civilians would be furloughed. Without access to his civilians, Monteith said, ‘I just can’t launch rockets.’ … ‘I would much rather be working to launch a rocket or working to fix my infrastructure, than I would be preparing to furlough folks,’ Monteith said in November …” (“The Shutdown In Brevard: How You Will Be Affected,” Florida Today, 1/20/2018)   “Florida is No. 3 in the number of veterans … other [non-health] Department of Veterans Affairs functions would be impaired, such as non-medical benefits offered through the Veterans Benefits Administration and burial services offered through the National Cemetery Administration. Roughly a third of the VBA’s approximately 23,000 workers are subject to furlough, while one-fourth of the NCA’s 2,000 workers would face furloughs.” (“Florida Braces For Impact Of Federal Government Shutdown,” Miami Herald, 1/19/2018)   Montana: Second-Largest State Employer Is The Federal Government   “Here's how a government shutdown will affect Montanans: Montana community healthcare providers like Riverstone Health in Billings will be negatively affected. In a press release, Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) spoke on this possibility.” (“Here's How A Government Shutdown Will Affect Montana,” KPAX-TV Missoula, 1/19/2018)   · “State Budget Director Dan Villa put out a [memo] Friday on the impact of a lapse of federal appropriations on the state. Villa said agencies should know there are no assurances expenditures of federal funds during a lapse will be subsequently backfilled. He said state employees whose salaries are partially or fully funded by the federal government should report to work as scheduled … He also said contracts and grants which include federal dollars as a primary or secondary source of funds should not be signed, extended or renewed until such time as the federal funds have again been appropriated by Congress. As of 2015 the federal government is Montana’s second-largest employer with 12,500 employees. The state was the top employer with 23,500 workers.” (“Gov. Bullock: State Government Remains Open,” Great Falls Tribune, 1/20/2018)   Ohio: ‘By Far The Brunt Of Any Shutdown Will Be Felt By Ohio's 49,500 Federal Workers’   “The impending government shutdown will be felt far beyond Washington - including right here in northeast Ohio…. [R]angers [in Cuyahoga Valley National Park] will have to shut down anything that involves using park staff or indoor resources. A shutdown would mean that most park employees would be furloughed, and the visitor center would be closed. In addition, NASA Glenn says most of its 3,300 people would be furloughed as well for the duration of any shutdown.” (“Effects Of Government Shutdown Felt Here At Home,” Fox 8 Cleveland, 1/19/2018)   “By far the brunt of any shutdown will be felt by Ohio's 49,500 federal workers and Kentucky's 22,800. If you're a researcher at the Forensic Chemistry Center in Bond Hill, a branch of the federal Food and Drug Administration, for example, you could be furloughed. Same for the Environmental Protection Agency workers in Corryville.” (“Federal Government Shutdown: What You Need To Know In Greater Cincinnati,” Cincinnati Enquirer, 1/19/2018)   Pennsylvania: ‘Many Federally-Funded State Programs Could Be Affected’   “The last shutdown happened in 2013 … this one will have implications for many thousands of federal employees in Pennsylvania. The commonwealth has over 96,000 such employees total, many of whom would be furloughed without pay for however long the impasse lasts.” (“Here's How PA Would Be Affected In A Government Shutdown,” WITF Harrisburg, 1/19/2018) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000692 DOT_Am.Oversight-000692   · “JJ Abbott, a spokesman for [Democratic] Governor Tom Wolf, said states have gotten some guidance from the White House on handling a shutdown…. He noted that depending on how long a shutdown lasts, many federally-funded state programs could be affected. Also affected would be federal parks, like Valley Forge and Gettysburg. They would close unless the state wanted to pay to keep them operating.” (“Here's How PA Would Be Affected In A Government Shutdown,” WITF Harrisburg, 1/19/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS       t , at ublicar1 Communicat· ons Center 2i02•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2DqOLx9   Far-Left Demands ‘Governmental Chaos’ And Sen. Schumer & Senate Democrats Deliver With A Government Shut Down   SEN. MITCH MCCONNELL (R-KY): “This vote should be a ‘no-brainer.’ And it would be – except that the Democratic Leader has convinced his members to filibuster any funding bill that doesn’t include legislation they are demanding for people who came to the United States illegally. What has been shoehorned into this discussion is an insistence that we deal with an illegal immigration issue. He’s insisted that he won’t support any legislation at all for the American people – no matter how noncontroversial or how bipartisan – unless we pass a bill on illegal immigration first. If that means shutting down funding for veterans, military families, opioid treatment centers, and even federal grants to his home state of New York — so be it. If it means throwing a wrench into the gears of the U.S. economy, just as Americans are starting to feel the benefits of historic tax reform – so be it. If it means failing to renew the children’s health program which the House-passed bill funded for a full six years — apparently that’s just fine with those on the other side.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 1/19/2018)     Liberal: Democrats ‘Have To Be Willing To Go All The Way To Government Shutdown’ “The Battle Over DACA Reaches a Fever Pitch: Democrats punted the immigration fight in December, but with another shutdown deadline looming, Dreamer activists are warning them not to do so again.” (“The Battle Over DACA Reaches A Fever Pitch,” The Atlantic, 1/9/2018)   ·   · “Illegal immigrant Dreamers said they have been betrayed by Democratic leaders who failed to force a government shutdown showdown [in December]…” (“Immigrants Feel Betrayed By Democrats Who Promised Dream Act Or Government Shutdown,” The Washington Times, 12/20/2017) “‘They have to be willing to go all the way to government shutdown,’ said Tereza Lee, who helped stage a sitDOT-18-0010-A-000693 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000693 in on Tuesday at Senator Chuck Schumer’s office in New York City demanding that he win protection for young undocumented immigrants threatened with deportation. ‘This is the only way.’” (“Liberal Activists To Democrats:   ·   Protect Young Immigrants Or Shut Down Government,” The New York Times, 12/8/2017) NEW YORK DEMOCRAT: “I am a constituent of yours in New York. I insist #NoDreamNoDeal. Shut the government down unless Dreamers are protected…” (@DgMuir, Twitter, 1/9/2018) “The January battle to keep the government open is the fight Democrats have been itching for. On three occasions in recent months, Democrats punted on some of their top priorities as the GOP passed short-term funding bills — a strategy that outraged liberals eager for confrontation on issues like immigration…” (“Itching For A Fight, Dems Vow To Hold The Line,” The Hill, 1/3/2018)   ·   ·   “Most recently, Schumer declined to filibuster a Dec. 21 CR that did not include a DACA fix, even after House Hispanic lawmakers marched to his Capitol office to press their case.” (“Itching For A Fight, Dems Vow To Hold The Line,” The Hill, 1/3/2018) “Liberal groups want Democrats to use what leverage they have to force immigrant protections into government spending legislation that must be passed by Jan. 19 — even if that triggers a government shutdown.” (“Divided Democrats Face Liberal Backlash On Immigration,” AP, 1/4/2018)   FLASHBACK SEN. CHUCK SCHUMER (D-NY): “…basically, it's sort of like this. Someone goes into your house, takes your wife and children hostage and then, says, let's negotiate over the price of your house. You know, we could do the same thing on immigration. We believe strongly in immigration reform. We could say, ‘we’re shutting down the government, we’re not gonna raise the debt ceiling, until you pass immigration reform.’ It would be governmental chaos.” (ABC’s “This Week,” 10/6/13)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS       DOT-18-0010-A-000694 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000694 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, January 24, 2018 7:41:24 PM Good evening, The Senate will convene at 10:00 am tomorrow, Thursday, January 25th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #552, R. D. James, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Army. At 1:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the James nomination. Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the following items in the following order: 1.         Motion to proceed to Calendar #294, S.2311, Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. 2.         Executive Calendar #622, David Ryan Stras, of Minnesota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit. Today in the Senate (Wednesday, 1/24/18): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #597, Alex Michael Azar II, of Indiana, to be Secretary of Health and Human Services. Confirmed. (55-43) Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #620, Samuel Dale Brownback, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. Invoked. (50-49) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #620, Samuel Dale Brownback, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. Confirmed. (50-49) Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate. Please see a statement below from Leader McConnell about proceeding to the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. “The United States is currently one of just seven countries – including China and North Korea – that permits elective abortion after 20 weeks. It is time we begin to remedy this obvious and tragic moral wrong. This long-overdue legislation would do just that.”   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)       DOT-18-0010-A-000695 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000695 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S . SENATOR for K.EN1TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2rFmCwM                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2BqKO5y McConnell Sets Up Vote on Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act ‘The United States is currently one of just seven countries – including China and North Korea – that permits elective abortion after 20 weeks. It is time we begin to remedy this obvious and tragic moral wrong. This long-overdue legislation would do just that.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The Senate will have a cloture vote on proceeding to the bill next week:   “Last week, Americans from all across the country—including many from Kentucky—came here to Washington to speak up for unborn children whom our legal system has denied the right to life. Now, Congress has an opportunity to take a step forward.   “The United States is currently one of just seven countries – including China and North Korea – that permits elective abortion after 20 weeks. It is time we begin to remedy this obvious and tragic moral wrong. This long-overdue legislation would do just that.   “I am pleased to have filed cloture on this bill to protect unborn children who are capable of feeling pain. I am proud to co-sponsor it, along with many of my colleagues. And I look forward to voting for it early next week.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000696 DOT_Am.Oversight-000696 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Friday, February 02, 2018 5:12:00 PM Hi everyone -  The Senate will convene Monday at 3:00 pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of Morning Business with Senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #570, Andrei Iancu, of California, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.   Reminder: the Continuing Resolution to fund the government expires at the end of the day on Thursday, February 8, 2018.   Thanks, Erica   Last week in the Senate:   Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #622, David Ryan Stras, of Minnesota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit. Confirmed. (56-42)   Wrap Up: S.Res.389 – USS Omaha S.Res.390 – National Stalking Awareness Month S.534 – Protecting Victims from Sexual Assault and Safe Sport Authorization H.R.4708 – DHS Blue Campaign Reauthorization    Executive Session: Cal. #297 - Matthew Bassett, of Tennessee, to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services.   ARMY Cal. #649 – Maj. Gen. Scott D. Berrier to be Lieutenant General AIR FORCE Cal. #650 – Brig. Gen. Charles L. Plummer to be Major General Cal. #651 - Col. Sharon R. Bannister to be to be Brigadier General Cal. #652 - Maj. Gen. Jeffery A. Rockwell to be to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #653 – The following to be Brigadier General: Col. Anthony R. Hale Col. Garrick M. Harmon DOT-18-0010-A-000697 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000697 Cal. #654 - Maj. Gen. Eric J. Wesley to be Lieutenant General Cal. #655 - Maj. Gen. Theodore D. Martin to be Lieutenant General Cal. #656 - Col. Susie S. Kuilan to be Brigadier General Cal. #657 - Maj. Gen. Leslie C. Smith to be Lieutenant General NAVY Cal. #658 - Rear Adm. (lh) Johnny R. Wolfe, Jr. to be Vice Admiral Cal. #659 - Capt. John C. Ring to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #660 - Rear Adm. (lh) Scott D. Conn to be Rear Admiral And all nominations on the Secretary's Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Foreign Service. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000698 DOT_Am.Oversight-000698 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, February 06, 2018 9:59:24 AM Good morning –   The Senate will convene at 10:00 am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of Morning Business with Senators permitted to speak therein until 12:00 pm, with the time equally divided between the two Leaders or their designees.   The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   The current CR funds the government through Thursday, February 8th. We expect votes this week to continue to fund the government past that date.   Additionally, we expect votes on the House-passed DoD Appropriations bill. Leader McConnell on this last night:   “Last week, a bipartisan majority in the House passed a bill that would fund our national defense through fiscal year 2018. Democrats and Republicans came together, voting to secure adequate, predictable, annual funding for our armed forces while we continue our productive negotiations on other subjects. The Senate will soon take up this House-passed bill. I’ve recently heard many of my Democratic colleagues detail the harmful effects of short-term funding measures on our service members. Soon, each one of us will have the chance to vote to give them the certainty they deserve while our other work continues.”   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, February 5, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #570, Andrei Iancu, of California, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Confirmed. (94-0)   Wrap Up: H.R.582 – Kari’s Law with a Klobuchar amendment   Rule 14 (add to the calendar): H.R.2372 – VETERAN Act H.R.2579 – Broader Options for Americans Act H.R.1551— Nuclear Power Facilities   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol DOT-18-0010-A-000699 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000699 - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR.for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, February 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2EGhrj3                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2sfkcpc Middle Class Families Across the Country Seeing Tax Reform Benefits ‘On Thursday, another major American employer, Lowe’s, announced it will give bonuses up to $1,000 to more than a quarter-million hourly employees and expand family-friendly employee benefits like adoption assistance and paid parental leave. And the very same day, the major pharmaceutical company Amgen -- which houses a distribution facility in Louisville -- announced that tax reform is causing them to shift more of their planned investments here to the U.S., including the construction of a new, quote, ‘next-generation manufacturing plant’ right here at home.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:    “In his State of the Union address last week, President Trump detailed signs that our nation’s economy is thriving under the policies of his administration and this Republican Congress. Evidence keeps piling up that good things happen when the government takes its foot off the brake and gets out of the way of American workers and job creators. “Last week, UPS -- the largest private employer in my hometown of Louisville, Kentucky -announced that tax reform will enable them to invest $12 billion in expanding their Smart Logistics Network, funding employee pensions, and other capital improvements. Their chairman and CEO had this to say: ‘We applaud President Trump and Congress for their bold action...Tax reform is a tremendous catalyst.’   “On Thursday, another major American employer, Lowe’s, announced it will give bonuses up to $1,000 to more than a quarter-million hourly employees and expand family-friendly employee benefits like adoption assistance and paid parental leave. And the very same day, the major pharmaceutical company Amgen -- which houses a distribution facility in Louisville -- announced that tax reform is causing them to shift more of their planned investments here to the U.S., including the construction of a new, quote, ‘next-generation manufacturing plant’ right here at home.   “Already, our historic tax reform law is giving employers the flexibility to invest more, expand more, hire more American workers, and give bonuses, pay raises, and new benefits to their employees. And already, middle-class families across the country are seeing the benefits.” DOT-18-0010-A-000700 DOT_Am.Oversight-000700   ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, February 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2BcN4Bj                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2B9fImK Bipartisan Discussions On Long-Term Funding Agreement Continue ‘Last week, a bipartisan majority in the House passed a bill that would fund our national defense through fiscal year 2018... The Senate will soon take up this House-passed bill. I’ve recently heard many of my Democratic colleagues detail the harmful effects of short-term funding measures on our servicemembers. Soon, each one of us will have the chance to vote to give them the certainty they deserve while our other work continues.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding government funding and the need to provide the necessary resources for our military:   “Our deadline to fund the federal government is this Thursday. Serious, bipartisan negotiations continue on long-term spending levels, along with other important issues. I am optimistic these talks will bear fruit. But in the meantime, as broader discussions continue, we have the opportunity to remove the uncertainty facing our all-volunteer armed forces. “Since the passage of the Budget Control Act, it has become increasingly obvious that current funding levels are not sufficient for our armed services to accomplish each of the missions and tasks that our nation asks of them. Secretary Mattis’s new National Defense Strategy will require considerable new investment. And he has repeatedly pointed out that short-term continuing resolutions harm the readiness of our forces.   “I’m pleased that we are making real headway in our negotiations over spending caps and other important issues. But there’s no reason why our warfighters need to continue to face uncertainty until all these other issues are resolved.   “Last week, a bipartisan majority in the House passed a bill that would fund our national defense through fiscal year 2018. Democrats and Republicans came together, voting to secure adequate, predictable, annual funding for our armed forces while we continue our productive negotiations on other subjects.   “The Senate will soon take up this House-passed bill. I’ve recently heard many of my Democratic colleagues detail the harmful effects of short-term funding measures on our servicemembers. DOT-18-0010-A-000701 DOT_Am.Oversight-000701 Soon, each one of us will have the chance to vote to give them the certainty they deserve while our other work continues.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, February 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2nEr5eS                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2BYbB9Z Senate Offers Condolences To Victims Of Train Accidents ‘I want to begin this afternoon by offering condolences to the family and friends of Christopher Foley of Louisa County, Virginia. Mr. Foley was killed last Wednesday when his truck collided with an Amtrak train carrying many of my fellow lawmakers to a conference in West Virginia. He was just twenty-eight years old… [I]n the few days since last week’s tragedy, yet another fatal train crash has already taken place. Two lives were lost yesterday, when a passenger train and a freight train collided in South Carolina.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the train crashes that took place this past week in Virginia and South Carolina, and the need for the senate to confirm an Administrator for the Federal Railroad Administration:    “I want to begin this afternoon by offering condolences to the family and friends of Christopher Foley of Louisa County, Virginia. Mr. Foley was killed last Wednesday when his truck collided with an Amtrak train carrying many of my fellow lawmakers to a conference in West Virginia. He was just twenty-eight years old. He leaves behind a fiancee, Adriana, and Rylan, their one-year-old son. “Our thoughts are with them especially, along with all of Christopher’s family, his community, and his colleagues at Time Disposal. They -- and all those who were injured in the accident -- are in our prayers. Our heartfelt thanks are with the first responders who rushed to the scene. It is too easy to take for granted that our brave law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency personnel will be there for us on our worst days -- forgetting that, for them, heroism and service are everyday realities.   “And I would like to recognize some of our own colleagues who immediately sprang into action to assist the wounded. Senator Cassidy and Congressmen Wenstrup, Burgess, Roe, and Bucshon are all doctors by training. So are Senator Cassidy’s wife Laura and Congressman Bucshon’s wife Kathryn.   “All of them sprang into action and rushed to aid the victims alongside our attending physician, Dr. Brian Monahan. Several others, including Senator Flake, also hurried to help. I thank all of them for their efforts when every moment counted. I am proud to call them colleagues and friends. DOT-18-0010-A-000702 DOT_Am.Oversight-000702   “Now, on a related matter, in the few days since last week’s tragedy, yet another fatal train crash has already taken place. Two lives were lost yesterday, when a passenger train and a freight train collided in South Carolina.   “And last December, three were killed and scores were injured near Seattle when a passenger train jumped its tracks and crashed onto a busy highway. This worrying spate of accidents offers a sobering reminder that partisan obstruction has kept the Federal Railroad Administration, the top rail regulator, without an Administrator.   “The president’s nominee, Ronald Batory, has more than 40 years of rail experience. I know of no questions about his qualifications.  He was reported out of committee by voice vote on August 2nd - meaning this important safety regulator has now been sitting on the Calendar for six months. My Democratic colleagues are holding his nomination over a parochial issue, unrelated to rail safety.   “That needs to come to an end. The FRA Administrator is the nation’s top rail safety regulator. There’s an urgent need, and a highly qualified candidate. I hope my colleagues across the aisle will put a stop to their partisan games on this front. We can and should confirm Mr. Batory today.”     ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, January 31, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2GA9U5S McConnell Comments on Train Accident   WHITE SULFUR SPRINGS, WV – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding the train accident in Virginia:   “My colleagues and I are deeply saddened by today’s fatal train accident in Virginia. “My condolences, and those of the entire Senate family, go out to the victim’s family, friends, and coworkers. Our prayers are with the other accident victims who are fighting to recover from their injuries. And our deep gratitude is with the police, firefighters, and medical personnel who sped to the scene. “It is impossible to overstate how much we Americans owe to our brave first responders – today and every day.”   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000703 DOT_Am.Oversight-000703 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, February 07, 2018 12:47:02 PM Good afternoon -  The Senate convened at 11:30 am today and resumed consideration of the House Message to accompany H.R.695, Department of Defense Appropriations Act.   Leader McConnell is on the floor right now giving a caps deal update, explaining the path forward on funding the government and increasing defense spending. Remarks to follow.   FYI: Also: please note, at 1:00pm there will be a filing deadline for all 1st degree amendments to the House Message to accompany H.R.695.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, 2/7/18):   Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes.   UC Items: S.Res.393 – Minority Committee Assignments S.Res.394 – National Mentoring Month   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000705 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000705 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Sunday, February 11, 2018 4:55:39 PM Hello everyone – The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm tomorrow, Monday, February 12th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. *ICYMI - the Leader filed cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration, at the end of the night after the final budget act vote. At 5:30 pm Monday the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Also, please see a note at the bottom of this email from Stew on where we are headed with Immigration this week.   Last week in the Senate – Thursday, February 8/Friday, February 9, 2018: Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on the House Message to accompany H.R.695, Department of Defense Appropriations Act. Not invoked. (55-44) Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further McConnell amendment #1930 to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act. Invoked. (73-26) Motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further McConnell amendment #1930 to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act. Agreed to. (71-28) Wrap Up: H.Con.Res.102 – Use of Emancipation Hall - Frederick Douglass S.Res.400 – Tribal Indian Colleges and Universities H.Con.Res.104 – Enrollment Correction with a McConnell amendment H.R.1301 – Reimbursement Authority   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares DOT-18-0010-A-000706 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000706 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE: DACA/Border debate next week ----------------------In order to begin the debate on DACA, border security and other issues, the Senate Majority Leader today called up an unrelated House-passed revenue bill (H.R. 2579) that will be used as the vehicle for consideration of immigration legislation.  It is necessary to use a revenue bill so that Senate amendments which affect revenues or provide appropriations do not cause the bill to be “blue slipped”, or rejected by the House for procedural reasons.   Senators will have the ability to offer their proposals as amendments to the underlying vehicle.  Those amendments are likely to include complete substitutes, as well as perfecting amendments .   On Wednesday, the Majority Leader reiterated his plans for the Senate’s border security/immigration debate:   “And on one final matter, as I’ve said publicly many times, our upcoming debate on DACA, border security, and other issues will be a process that is fair to all sides. The bill I move to, which will not have underlying immigration text, will have an amendment process that will ensure a level playing field at the outset. “The amendment process will be fair to all sides, allowing the sides to alternate proposals for consideration and for votes. While I obviously cannot guarantee any outcomes, let alone supermajority support, I can ensure the process is fair to all sides. And that is what I intend to do.”   The Leader filed cloture on the motion to proceed to the House-passed bill. The cloture vote on the motion to proceed is scheduled for Monday at 5:30 p.m.   Once the Senate has adopted the motion to proceed to the underlying bill (early next week) Senators will then have their proposals considered. Under the regular order, amendments will have a 60-vote threshold before they can be adopted.   We’ll have more information on floor schedule and amendments in the days to come as members introduce their proposals.   And since you’ve read this far… DOT-18-0010-A-000707 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000707 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, March 05, 2018 7:30:35 PM Good evening,   The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #438, Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas, postcloture.   At 5:30 pm today the Senate had two roll call votes:   1. Confirmation of the Scholer nomination (Confirmed, 95-0). 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #439, Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia (Confirmed, 85-11).   ICYMI: Last week Leader McConnell filed cloture on the motion to proceed (MTP) to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill). We expect to be on this bill all week.   The Senate will convene at 10:00 am tomorrow, Tuesday, March 6.   At 11:00 am tomorrow, , the Senate will have two roll call votes -  1. Cloture on the MTP to Dodd Frank reform --  S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana.   Today in the Senate (Monday, March 5, 2018):   Executive Session: Cal. #397 - Jeffrey Gerrish, of Maryland, to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Industrial Competitiveness), with the rank of Ambassador.   Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, SESTA, Appropriations, FAA, Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares DOT-18-0010-A-000708 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000708 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR .fo r KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, March 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Fe6SqT Leader McConnell Statement on Senator Thad Cochran ‘Today, the Senate learned that one of our longest-serving colleagues, Senator Thad Cochran, will retire on April 1st to focus on his health and enjoy more time with his family… Senator Cochran departs with our congratulations and gratitude for so many years of honorable and distinguished service, from his time as a Navy officer to nearly four decades in the Senate, and our warmest wishes for his retirement.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding Senator Thad Cochran’s retirement announcement:   “Today, the Senate learned that one of our longest-serving colleagues, Senator Thad Cochran, will retire on April 1st to focus on his health and enjoy more time with his family. Thad’s well-earned reputation as a ‘quiet persuader’ has endeared him to all his colleagues. Whatever the issue at hand, his allies and adversaries have always admired his unfailingly even keel, sober expertise, and respectful demeanor. “Thad knows there’s a big difference between making a fuss and making a difference. And the people of Mississippi—and our whole nation—have benefitted from his steady determination to do the latter. Senator Cochran’s talents made him chairman of the Appropriations Committee. At this key post, his calm and collegial approach to even the most intense debates have made his broad experience and deep expertise that much more valuable to his colleagues, his constituents, and his country.   “His friends here in the Senate are sad to see him leave us. But the Senator leaves behind an outstanding legacy of standing up for all of his constituents – from farmers to historically black colleges and universities to Gulf Coast communities that were reeling after Hurricane Katrina. Senator Cochran departs with our congratulations and gratitude for so many years of honorable and distinguished service, from his time as a Navy officer to nearly four decades in the Senate, and our warmest wishes for his retirement.”   ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000709 DOT_Am.Oversight-000709   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, March 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2FqKgCP                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2oNwktd Tax Reform: A Simple Idea With An Extraordinary Impact ‘It’s not complicated. The bill passed by Republicans in Congress last year was designed with a very simple philosophy in mind. That when we put more of Americans’ hard-earned money back in their own hands, they’ll know best what to do with it. When we level the playing field and take weight off the shoulders of small businesses, they’ll help their communities thrive. And when we welcome investment from entrepreneurs and job creators, instead of discouraging it, the economy will respond in kind.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:     “It’s been just 73 days since President Trump signed historic tax reform into law. It feels like it’s been longer than that, because practically every day, another major national employer announces a new commitment to invest in American workers because of tax reform. Every day, we hear about more local businesses realizing new savings and putting it toward equipment, expansion, and employees. Every day, we hear about how bonuses, rising wages, expanded benefits and lower taxes are giving middle-class families a whole lot more breathing room. “But every day, we’re reminded that some of our friends across the aisle are still desperately trying to minimize this good news. Democratic leaders have tried to say these new jobs, raises, bonuses, and business expansions amount to no more than, quote, ‘crumbs.’ I’ll leave the final verdict to hardworking families across the country, including the many Kentuckians I hear from. “In the meantime, the economic data are painting quite an optimistic picture. Last week, the Labor Department announced that weekly jobless claims had reached a 48-year low. Let me repeat that: Fewer Americans are filing for unemployment today than at any time since 1969. The labor market is tightening. Employers are competing for talent. And workers and their families are coming out on top. “In January, Americans’ real disposable income rose more quickly than it had since April 2015. That’s the biggest jump in spending money available to American families, accounting for tax rates and inflation, in nearly three years. That’s more money to save for a home purchase or a college fund. It’s more to save for retirement or spend on a family vacation. U.S. consumer confidence is higher today than it’s been since 2000. And last week, news broke that U.S. manufacturing is expanding at its fastest pace since 2004. “It’s not complicated. The bill passed by Republicans in Congress last year was designed with a very simple philosophy in mind. That when we put more of Americans’ hard-earned money back in their own hands, they’ll know best what to do with it. When we level the playing field and take weight off the shoulders of small businesses, they’ll help their communities thrive. And when we welcome investment from entrepreneurs and job creators, instead of discouraging it, the economy will respond in kind. “The idea was simple enough. But as we’re already seeing, because Republicans in Congress and the president were able to overcome lock-step partisan opposition on the other side and get tax DOT-18-0010-A-000710 DOT_Am.Oversight-000710 reform across the finish line, that simple idea is having an extraordinary impact.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000711 DOT_Am.Oversight-000711 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Thursday, March 08, 2018 3:04:28 PM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill). Last night there was a voice vote to get on the bill (S.2155).   ICYMI: This afternoon Leader McConnell filed cloture on the Crapo substitute amendment #2151 to S.2155, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. Several amendments have been filed and the bill managers will continue to work to set up amendments votes next week.   Excerpt from the Senate floor this morning (full remarks below) – Leader McConnell on Dodd-Frank relief: “Local lenders provide a majority of small business loans and nearly three-quarters of agricultural loans and in low-income communities, when a local bank closes, research suggests that loans to nearby small businesses plummet by 40%. Farmers, ranchers, small business, vulnerable communities, Americans need community banks and they need credit unions. But Dodd-Frank is making it harder for these institutions to survive. Millions of Americans from rural areas to inner cities now find themselves in what researchers call banking deserts. Fortunately, help is on the way.”   Also, ICYMI: Leader McConnell filed cloture this afternoon on Exec. Cal. #598 Kevin McAleenan to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection – this vote will ripen next week after Dodd-Frank reform.   Also -- here’s a note from Stew on what’s ahead: To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  Floor update   The Majority Leader just filed cloture on:   · · ·   The Crapo substitute amendment to the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act  (as amended) The nomination of Kevin K. McAleenan to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Under the regular order, those votes will begin early next week.   There is not yet an agreement from the Democrat side of the aisle for votes on amendments. The Leader’s remarks this morning on the Crapo bill can be found here. DOT-18-0010-A-000712 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000712   Other upcoming items in this work period include Sen. Portman’s anti-trafficking legislation and the government funding legislation.   Some really good dogs can be found here.   @StewSays Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, March 7, 2018): Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes. Executive Session- noms cleared by UC: Cal. #688 - Michael Rigas, of Massachusetts, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Personnel Management. Cal. #689 - Jeff Tien Han Pon, of Virginia, to be Director of the Office of Personnel Management for a term of four years. Cal. #695 - McGregor W. Scott, of California, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of California for the term of four years. Cal. #696 - Gary G. Schofield, of Nevada, to be United States Marshal for the District of Nevada for the term of four years. Cal. #716 - Billy J. Williams, of Oregon, to be United States Attorney for the District of Oregon for the term of four years. Cal. #717 - Mark S. James, of Missouri, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Missouri for the term of four years. Cal. #718 - Daniel C. Mosteller, of South Dakota, to be United States Marshal for the District of South Dakota for the term of four years. Cal. #719 - Jesse Seroyer, Jr., of Alabama, to be United States Marshal for the Middle District of Alabama for the term of four years. UC Items: Cal. #153, S.97 – Advanced Nuclear Energy Licensing with a Crapo amendment S.Res.425 – Colorectal Cancer Cal. #313 through Cal. #334 – Postal Namings en bloc   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol DOT-18-0010-A-000713 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000713 - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S.• SENATOR for KEN.TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, March 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2FtMnCR                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2IckNvt Regulatory Relief for Small Community Banks, Credit Unions ‘Farmers, ranchers, small businesses, vulnerable communities -- Americans need community banks and credit unions. But Dodd-Frank is making it harder for these institutions to survive. Millions of Americans, from rural areas to inner cities, now find themselves in what researchers call “banking deserts.” Fortunately, help is on the way.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act:   “The Dodd-Frank Act became law in 2010. It ostensibly targeted banks deemed too big to fail. But seven and a half years later, Dodd-Frank has proved to be far too blunt an instrument. For one thing, it’s imposed a crushing regulatory burden on small community banks and credit unions. Rather than fixing too big to fail, Dodd-Frank has threatened to make many of these Main Street mainstays ‘too small to succeed.’ “This is especially problematic because of the central role that local financial institutions play in their communities. Local lenders provide a majority of small business loans, and nearly three quarters of agricultural loans.   “And in low-income communities, when a local bank closes, research suggests that loans to nearby small businesses plummet by forty percent. Farmers, ranchers, small businesses, vulnerable communities -- Americans need community banks and credit unions. But Dodd-Frank is making it harder for these institutions to survive. Millions of Americans, from rural areas to inner cities, now find themselves in what researchers call ‘banking deserts.’ Fortunately, help is on the way.   “Thanks to the leadership of Senator Crapo, Democrats and Republicans have joined together to cosponsor a modest but important bill that would streamline the obstacles tripping up these smaller institutions. It’s a commonsense, compromise measure -- and Senators do not need to resolve all our differences on Dodd-Frank in order to unite behind it. I look forward to voting to pass these reforms soon.”   ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000714 DOT_Am.Oversight-000714   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, March 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Fmxlmn                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2DaCpEB Tax Reform Puts Money Back in the Pockets of Hard-Working Americans ‘By lowering the tax burden on companies large and small, America turned on a bright neon sign that’s telling the world we’re open for business. Democrats want to unplug it. By lowering middleclass rates and expanding deductions, we gave families all across the country more breathing room to save or pay their bills. Democrats want to claw that money back. Fortunately for the American people, Republicans in the House, the Senate, and the White House won’t let them take your tax relief, your lower utility rates, your bonuses or your new opportunities.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “As I’ve discussed, a number of America’s largest employers are already reinvesting their tax reform savings in bonuses, pay raises, and new benefits for their employees. Higher take-home pay and lower tax rates are helping families cover today’s expenses and save for the future. “In Nebraska, the Lincoln Journal-Star reports that hometown companies, Nelnet and Pinnacle Bank, have awarded tax reform bonuses to thousands of workers. In Iowa, the Des Moines Register reports utilities will pass along $147 million in tax reform savings to customers. And Acadia Healthcare, with operations in my home state of Kentucky, announced that tax reform will enable it to build additional facilities on the front lines of the opioid epidemic.   “This week, Vice President Pence has been on the road, hearing how tax reform is changing Americans’ lives and livelihoods for the better. He visited all three of those states, listening to workers and small business owners. It’s interesting, though. The huge number of early tax reform success stories aren’t getting the applause they deserve from across the aisle.   “Every one of my Democratic colleagues in the House and the Senate made the political calculation to vote along party lines and try to sink tax reform. Every one of them. Fortunately, those efforts failed. But even with tax reform now the law of the land, it seems my Democratic friends are so unwilling to admit their mistake that they’d rather try to sabotage the law that is already helping families and making American job creators more competitive.   “Just yesterday, Senate Democrats announced they’d like to spend a trillion dollars of taxpayer money – and they want to roll back Americans’ brand-new tax cuts while they’re at it. There they go again. Tax more. Spend more. Take money away from American families and give it to the federal government. This is a familiar refrain from our Democratic friends.   “Even amidst this tidal wave of good news from tax reform. Even in the face of higher take-home pay, new jobs, new investments, raises, worker bonuses, and foreign competitors like China getting DOT-18-0010-A-000715 DOT_Am.Oversight-000715 nervous. Democrats can’t help themselves. They can’t resist turning back to their old, top-down, tax-and-spend playbook.   “By lowering the tax burden on companies large and small, America turned on a bright neon sign that’s telling the world we’re open for business. Democrats want to unplug it. By lowering middleclass rates and expanding deductions, we gave families all across the country more breathing room to save or pay their bills. Democrats want to claw that money back.   “Fortunately for the American people, Republicans in the House, the Senate, and the White House won’t let them take your tax relief, your lower utility rates, your bonuses or your new opportunities. We’re proud that we took money out of Washington’s pocket and put it back in the pockets of hardworking Americans. And that’s exactly where it will stay.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000716 DOT_Am.Oversight-000716 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, March 12, 2018 4:35:57 PM Good afternoon –   The Senate convened at 4:00 pm today and resumed consideration of Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill  S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.   At 5:30 pm today, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on substitute amendment #2151, as modified, to S.2155.   Please note, the Leader filed cloture on substitute amendment #2151, as modified, in relation to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, and the underlying bill S.2155.   He also filed cloture on Exec. Cal. #598 Kevin McAleenan to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection – this vote will ripen after Dodd-Frank reform.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, SESTA, Appropriations, and Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Please read a Senate GOP Comms Center document below on bringing regulatory relief to community banks, credit unions, and other smaller sized banks.   Note:   “[S]ince the federal government implemented massive new regulations under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act, our community banks and credit unions have been getting squeezed. Dodd-Frank’s imprecise, inefficient, one-size-fitsall framework dropped these small institutions into the regulatory maze that was intended for Wall Street…. Senator Crapo’s Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act is … an important step toward unwinding the harm caused by the Obama administration’s knee-jerk reaction to the 2008 financial crisis. And importantly, this bill has strong bipartisan support. On both sides of the aisle, members with a diversity of views on Dodd-Frank itself have recognized that this set of commonsense fixes deserves all of our support.” – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)       DOT-18-0010-A-000717 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000717   1at u Ii n Communicat· ons Center 2i02•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2Dl8vxv   Making It Easier For Consumers ‘Commonsense Fixes’ In Sen. Crapo’s Bill Will Provide ‘Regulatory Relief For Banks And Credit Unions, Especially The Smaller Ones’   SEN. MIKE CRAPO (R-ID), Senate Banking Committee Chairman: “The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act is aimed at rightsizing regulation for financial institutions, including community banks and credit unions, making it easier for consumers to get mortgages and to obtain credit.  As I have often said, the real victims of what I am talking about are … the people, the small businesses--those who need to have access to credit and need to have the ability to get a loan to purchase a house or to start a small business or to expand a small business or other important needs.” (Sen. Crapo, Congressional Record, S. 1424, 3/07/2018)   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “[S]ince the federal government implemented massive new regulations under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act, our community banks and credit unions have been getting squeezed. Dodd-Frank’s imprecise, inefficient, one-size-fits-all framework dropped these small institutions into the regulatory maze that was intended for Wall Street…. Senator Crapo’s Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act is … an important step toward unwinding the harm caused by the Obama administration’s knee-jerk reaction to the 2008 financial crisis. And importantly, this bill has strong bipartisan support. On both sides of the aisle, members with a diversity of views on Dodd-Frank itself have recognized that this set of commonsense fixes deserves all of our support.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 3/07/2018)   SEN. JOHN CORNYN (R-TX): “You might ask: Why do we care about providing regulatory relief for banks and credit unions, especially the smaller ones that are in our communities? Well, that is where people go when they want to buy a house and they need a mortgage, when they need some startup money for a new business, where they need to go borrow money, for example, to buy seed and equipment to plant a crop. If you are in the agriculture sector, that is where they get access to credit, and that is why it is so important.” (Sen. Cornyn, Congressional Record, S. 1408, 3/07/2018)     ‘Fix The Regulatory Regime So We Can Get Community Banks Back In Business’ SEN. BOB CORKER (R-TN): “…we’ve ended up in a situation now where our community banks and credit unions that serve our communities, that cause economic growth to occur, [due to Dodd-Frank] now have these large back-office operations that are spread over a smaller asset base. It has made them noncompetitive and has made it very difficult for them to do the jobs that we all cherish that they do back home, which is help to grow those economies. And so this bill is focused on them. … What we’re doing is taking a very constructive step to make sure that these smaller institutions, which represent a very small amount of the assets in our nation but have such outsized impact on the communities that they are in, have the ability again to flourish and do the things that are necessary for our economies back home to grow.” (Sen. Corker, Press Release, 3/6/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000718 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000718 SEN. DEAN HELLER (R-NV): “For nearly a decade, burdensome financial regulations meant to protect Americans during the Financial Crisis hurt small community lenders in Nevada, which stifled economic growth and lending in my home state of Nevada… I’m pleased that the Senate advanced a bipartisan, regulatory relief package that includes my seven measures to help community lenders, protect consumers and veterans, and increase oversight of the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department.” (Sen. Heller, Press Conference, 3/8/2018)   SEN. TIM SCOTT (R-SC): “Several initiatives introduced by U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) have been included in S. 2155, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which the U.S. Senate is debating this week. … ‘It is a great day when we have the opportunity to pass legislation that will create real, tangible change for the American people,’ said Scott. ‘I am very pleased that my amendments will be included, as they will take a significant step forward in curbing ‘synthetic ID fraud’ – a crime that negatively impacts millions of people, and also a seeks to help credit-invisible Americans be more competitive for mortgage lending and homeownership.’” (Sen. Scott, Press Release, 3/8/2018)   SEN. MIKE ROUNDS (R-SD): “As a member of the Senate Banking Committee, I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of this important legislation, which will provide much-needed regulatory relief to our community banks and credit unions, whose ability to serve their customers has been made more difficult since the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act. … Making sure American families and businesses have access to credit when they need it is critical as we work to further grow our economy and create jobs. The ‘Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act’ will strengthen America’s financial system and expand economic opportunities across the country, especially in rural areas, which are often the most underserved.” (Sen. Rounds, Press Release, 3/7/2018)   SEN. DAVID PERDUE (R-GA): “Local banks, credit unions, and regional banks, are the banks supporting our local main street, providing small businesses with capital, and sponsoring little league baseball games. For nearly eight years, small-town banks have been hammered by big government regulations enacted by DoddFrank. … Small banks often spend too much time and resources dealing with the regulations and compliance costs that Dodd-Frank has created. Put simply, Dodd-Frank is another one-size-fits-all, Washington, bureaucratic policy that hurts the very people it claims to champion, the middle class, working poor, and those communities that have the least access to capital. Fortunately, we have an opportunity to do something today to fix these problems.” (Sen. Purdue, Press Release, 3/7/2018)   SEN. THOM TILLIS (R-NC): “This legislation provides relief to community banks and midsize regional banks. It does not restrict the regulators from going down the chain and identifying any practices that need additional regulations, but instead of assuming you have to overregulate, do it when the behavior of the banks warrants it. What we are trying to do is fix the regulatory regime so we can get community banks back in business. We have seen a dramatic fall in the number of community banks that have a personal relationship with the people seeking loans. We have bipartisan support for this bill because we have fixed the regulatory burden on smaller banks, we think it makes sense, and believe it will have a positive effect on the banking sector.” (Sen. Tillis, Press Release, 3/8/2018)   SEN. JOHN KENNEDY (R-LA): “I believe that it’s time to swing the pendulum back towards simple, sensible regulations, and the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act is a vital step in the right direction.  Dodd-Frank was like using a sledgehammer to go after a gnat.  All this reform package is suggesting is that we should try a flyswatter.” (Sen. Kennedy, Press Release, 3/6/2018)   SEN. JERRY MORAN (R-KS): “Today we have a regulatory environment in which bankers are fearful of making a home loan to a citizen within their community. If somebody wants to buy a home or build a home, they are told by their local bank: We can't afford the cost associated with the regulations for making these loans. We can't afford the risk that if we make a technical error, the financial consequences to our bank will be so great, we will be out of the home loan business…. We need more banks, more financial institutions making home loans in more communities so that more people in rural American can access the American dream…. I have indicated that in communities that I represent, it is often true that economic development can be the difference between whether or not there is a grocery store in town.” (Sen. Moran, Congressional Record, S. 1358, 3/06/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000719 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000719 SEN. ROY BLUNT (R-MO): “Credit unions and community banks provide critical financial services for families and for small businesses across Missouri and across the country. When the Dodd-Frank bill became law, small and medium-sized banks and credit unions were faced with huge regulatory burdens. Big banks got bigger, and small banks got bought and went out of business way too often. There was negative impact on their ability to maintain service on Main Street in a small community…. In talking about the bill that I am pleased to be a cosponsor of, the president of the Missouri Bankers Association, Max Cook, said: ‘This common-sense legislation will allow banks to better serve the needs of customers and businesses in our communities.’” (Sen.   Blunt, Press Release, 12/12/2017)     ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000720 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000720 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, March 13, 2018 12:15:24 PM Good afternoon,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am and resumed consideration of Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill, S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.   We are currently in the up to 30 hours post-cloture debate time on the Crapo substitute amendment (#2151). Note: all time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business, and Leader remarks will count post-cloture on substitute amendment #2151, as modified. An effort to set up votes on amendments continues.   The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   As a reminder, last Thursday Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following, in the order below, setting up votes to finish the Dodd Frank reform bill this week and confirm the commissioner of USCBP:   · The Crapo substitute amendment to the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act · The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act  (as amended) · The nomination of Kevin K. McAleenan to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection   Looking Ahead: Nominations, SESTA, Appropriations, and Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, March 12, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on substitute amendment #2151, as modified, to S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. (Invoked, 66-30)   UC Items: There were no UC items.   Please see two statements below from Leader McConnell on, 1) Rex Tillerson, and 2) how we continue to see the benefits of the tax reform bill.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell DOT-18-0010-A-000721 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000721 - ---S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, March 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2tF584A McConnell Statement on Rex Tillerson ‘Rex took the depth of knowledge and experience formed of decades as one of America’s leading business executives and adapted it to the world of diplomacy, quickly learning the details and national security imperatives he pursued as Secretary of State. Our national security was enhanced through his service and I wish him well in the future.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding Secretary of State Rex Tillerson:   “Over the last year, the Trump Administration confronted myriad national security threats—the terrorist threat from ISIL and Al Qaeda, the dramatic advancement in North Korea’s missile program, crafting new strategies in Afghanistan and Iraq, standing up to Russian malign behavior and confronting the ongoing civil war in Syria—each of which presented a unique challenge to our nation. Through it all, our country was able to call upon the unique talents of Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State.   “Rex took the depth of knowledge and experience formed of decades as one of America’s leading business executives and adapted it to the world of diplomacy, quickly learning the details and national security imperatives he pursued as Secretary of State. Our national security was enhanced through his service and I wish him well in the future.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000722 DOT_Am.Oversight-000722 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, March 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2FB5lr5                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2GoBROB Good News About Tax Reform Keeps Pouring In ‘[W]ith every favorable story, my Democratic friends tie themselves in knots trying to convince everyone that new investments, new jobs, new raises and bonuses, and companies repatriating money back home are somehow not good news after all. Even as billions of dollars are put towards raises, bonuses, and new worker benefits, they say it’s nothing more than “crumbs.” Even as billions more are invested in U.S. manufacturing and new jobs, they stick by their predictions of “Armageddon.”’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “It’s been less than three months since historic tax reform became law. Less than three months since we cut taxes significantly for middle-class families by lowering rates and increasing the standard deduction. Since we created new deductions to help small businesses keep more of what they earn and purchase new equipment more easily. Since we leveled the playing field for American producers by making our corporate tax rates more competitive -- a measure that mainstream economists agree will boost future wages for workers. “There’s a common theme here. Each part of this bill was built on the simple idea that American workers, job creators, and middle-class families know best what to do with their own hard-earned money. And they ought to be able to keep more of it. It’s a defining philosophy on our side of the aisle.   “But Democrats don’t seem to share it. The Democratic Leader in the House called these historic tax cuts, quote, ‘probably one of the worst bills in the history of the United States of America.’ Here in the Senate, my Democratic colleagues’ predictions were equally dire. My friend the Democratic Leader offered this assessment: Quote, ‘There is nothing about this bill that suits the needs of the American worker.’   “Tax reform used to be a shared, bipartisan priority. Not anymore. Now our Democratic friends seem fully committed to the notion there’s no problem Washington D.C. can’t solve by raising taxes and imposing more regulations.   “Just last week, my friend the Democratic Leader made this clear. He announced he wants to claw back tax reform and have Americans send more money to the IRS. Here’s his rationale. Quote: ‘There are much better uses for the money.’ The unspoken assumption here is unmistakable: Democratic Senators know how to spend that money better than citizens and employers. Government knows best.   “Of course, just a few months in, we’re getting a clear picture of which philosophy really works. The good news about tax reform keeps pouring in. And with every favorable story, my Democratic friends tie themselves in knots trying to convince everyone that new investments, new jobs, new raises and bonuses, and companies repatriating money back home are somehow not good news after all. DOT-18-0010-A-000723 DOT_Am.Oversight-000723   “Even as billions of dollars are put towards raises, bonuses, and new worker benefits, they say it’s nothing more than ‘crumbs.’ Even as billions more are invested in U.S. manufacturing and new jobs, they stick by their predictions of ‘Armageddon.’ All this, even as tax reform is achieving specific goals they’ve spent years claiming to support.   “Consider the issue of the minimum wage. Because of tax reform, Hormel Foods has raised starting pay to $13. Wells-Fargo has established a $15 minimum wage. And Wal-Mart has raised the starting wage for its associates. That’s great, but apparently Senate Democrats have better uses for the money going toward your raise.   “Or take the subject of family leave. Because of tax reform, including the family-leave incentive championed by Senator Fischer, huge national employers such as Starbucks and CVS are expanding paid family leave programs or creating new ones.   “These new family leave programs are great -- but I guess Senate Democrats have other designs on the private dollars financing these programs. They have better uses in mind for the tax savings that are flowing to charities and nonprofits around the country, like the women’s shelter in Washington state that’s getting a million dollars toward a brand-new building   “Republicans don’t see it that way. Rather than trying to regulate our way into prosperity through high taxes and heavy-handed mandates, we believe in simply taking Washington’s foot off the brake. And because we did, American free enterprise is creating the very pay raises and benefits that our Democratic colleagues insisted only government could provide.   “My friends across the aisle may want to repeal the tax cuts that have generated these raises, bonuses, new jobs, new investments, minimum wage increases, and paid family leave expansions. They may want to raise taxes so badly that they’d be willing to shrink workers’ paychecks and send jobs and investment back overseas. Fortunately, Republicans in Congress will not let that happen. We’re standing with the American people.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000724 DOT_Am.Oversight-000724 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, March 14, 2018 1:33:28 PM Hi everyone -  The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of Senator Crapo’s Dodd Frank reform bill, S.2155, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.   At 3:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following in relation to S.2155:   1. Adoption of substitute amendment #2151, as modified. 2. Cloture on S.2155, as amended, if amended.   Please note, if cloture is invoked on S.2155, the time will count as if invoked at midnight Wednesday, March 14th.   Additional votes are likely this evening. Vote time TBD.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, SESTA, Appropriations, and Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, March 13):   Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes.   Executive Session: Cal. #298 - Gilbert B. Kaplan, of the District of Columbia, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade.   UC Items: Cal. #308, S.2286 – Peace Corps with a Corker amendment     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000725 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000725 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Tuesday, March 20, 2018 11:40:37 AM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.1865, SESTA. This morning Senator Sanders was recognized to offer a motion to discharge S.J.Res.54, the Sanders-Lee Yemen War Powers Resolution.   Sanders-Lee Yemen War Power Resolution: There will be 4 hours of debate equally divided between the opponents and the proponents of the resolution. The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for weekly conference meetings. If all debate time is used, at approximately 4:15 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote in relation to the motion to discharge S.J.Res.54, Yemen War Powers Resolution.   SESTA/FOSTA: At a time to be determined on Wednesday, March 21st, the Senate will proceed to up to 4 hours of debate concurrently on Wyden amendments #2212 and #2213 to H.R.1865, SESTA. Following the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will vote in relation to the amendments (60 vote threshold) in the order listed. The Senate will then vote on passage of H.R.1865, as amended, if amended.   Balance of the week: The rest of this week will be spent processing the Omni.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, and Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, March 19, 2018): Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #598, Kevin K. McAleenan, of Hawaii, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. (Confirmed, 77-19) · Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.1865, SESTA. (Invoked, 94-2) Executive Session-noms cleared: Calendar #471, Nazakhtar Nikakhtar, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce. UC Items: H.R.3731 – Secret Service Recruitments and Retention with a Grassley substitute amendment   Please see Leader McConnell’s floor remarks below regarding Senator Portman’s Stop Enabling Sex DOT-18-0010-A-000726 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000726 Traffickers Act (SESTA). Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2IDv1FJ                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2IBzpVs Bill to Combat Sex Trafficking Would Close Loophole In Current Law ‘My friend and colleague from Ohio, Senator Portman, has been especially committed to rooting out the cause of this crisis. He has built a broad, bipartisan coalition in support of the legislation currently before the Senate. It’s designed to close a loophole in existing law that allows websites to avoid responsibility even as they knowingly facilitate trafficking. It would ensure any institutions that are party to this reprehensible practice are subject to the strict penalties they deserve.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA):   “Today, the Senate continues to consider a bill that would strike back against the evils of sex trafficking. The topic is all too familiar to me and many of my colleagues, who have fought against child exploitation for decades. But in recent years, as trafficking has migrated from street corners to smartphones, reports of child sex trafficking have ticked up dramatically. “My friend and colleague from Ohio, Senator Portman, has been especially committed to rooting out the cause of this crisis. He has built a broad, bipartisan coalition in support of the legislation currently before the Senate.   “It’s designed to close a loophole in existing law that allows websites to avoid responsibility even as they knowingly facilitate trafficking. It would ensure any institutions that are party to this reprehensible practice are subject to the strict penalties they deserve. I urge each of my colleagues to join us in taking decisive action for our nation’s children.”   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000727 DOT_Am.Oversight-000727 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Wednesday, March 21, 2018 1:36:28 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 11:00 am and resumed consideration of Senator Portman’s anti-trafficking bill, SESTA -- H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act. We are in the up to four hours of debate concurrently on Wyden Amendments #2212 and #2213, to SESTA.   SESTA votes: At 2:45 pm today, the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following in relation to H.R.1865, SESTA:   1.         Wyden amendment #2212 (60 vote threshold) 2.         Wyden amendment #2213 (60 vote threshold) 3.         Passage of H.R.1865, SESTA, as amended, if amended   Omni: The balance of the week will be dedicated to processing the Omni, after the Senate receives it from the House. Government funding expires at midnight Friday, March 23.   Please see excerpts from Leader McConnell on the floor just now (full floor remarks on SESTA below):   Senator McConnell: (12:43 pm) • • • Spoke on the Omni and upcoming legislative agenda. 0 “I will have more to say once the bill has been filed, but I'm proud to announce it will meet a number of vitally important objectives. This includes the largest year on-year increase in funding for our service members in 15 years. Along with major steps forward for law enforcement and border security, for the fight against opioid addiction, for our veterans, and for a number of other priorities. But before we take up that measure, the Senate has a very important piece of business to tackle. This afternoon, we'll vote on the anti-sex trafficking legislation we have been considering this week. I want to thank Senator Portman who has worked hard to advance this reform, Chairman Thune for shepherding it through the Commerce Committee.” Spoke on tax reform. 0 “The bigger paychecks for middle-class Americans as the IRS withholds less of their money. But other exciting parts of this once in a generation reform aren't receiving the attention they deserve. Today, for example, is an initial deadline for states to nominate areas they would like to be designated as opportunity zones. This is thanks to a provision incorporated into the tax reform through the unflagging dedication of our colleague, Senator Scott.” Unanimous Consent – 0 That at 1:45 p.m. today, Senator Wyden be recognized for up to 60 minutes to offer and debate concurrently his Amendments #2213 and #2212, to H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act. 0 That these be the only amendments in order and that following the use or yielding back of that time, the Senate vote in relation to the amendments in the order listed with a 60-vote affirmative DOT-18-0010-A-000729 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000729 0 0 threshold required for adoption of each amendment.  Finally, that following disposition of these amendments, the bill be read a third time and the Senate vote on passage of H.R. 1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act, as amended, if amended.  (Without Objection)     Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, and Coast Guard Reauthorization.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, March 21, 2018):   Roll Call Votes: Motion to table the motion to discharge S.J.Res.54, Yemen War Powers Resolution. (Agreed to, 55-44)   Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal. #735 - William M. McSwain, of Pennsylvania, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for the term of four years. Cal. #736 - Matthew D. Harris, of Utah, to be United States Marshal for the District of Utah for the term of four years. Cal. #737 - Johnny Lee Kuhlman, of Oklahoma, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Oklahoma for the term of four years. Cal. #738 - Joseph D. McClain, of Indiana, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Indiana for the term of four years. Cal. #739 - David A. Weaver, of Colorado, to be United States Marshal for the District of Colorado for the term of four years.   UC Items: S.Res.434 – AmeriCorps S.899 – Veteran Disability Leave   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000730 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000730 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2puiGeY                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2pr1p6s Senate to Vote on Bill to Combat Sex Trafficking ‘The legislation before us reforms a misused provision in a 1996 telecommunications act, which currently shields companies that facilitate -- and profit from -- the disgusting exploitation of women and children. Later today, my colleagues will have the opportunity to implement commonsense reform with the potential to change vulnerable children’s lives for the better. I urge every one of us to vote to pass it.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA):   “The Senate has a very important piece of business to tackle. This afternoon, we will vote on the anti-sex-trafficking legislation we’ve been considering this week. I want to thank Senator Portman, who has worked hard to advance this reform, and Chairman Thune, for shepherding it through the Commerce Committee. “Many of us have paid careful attention to the scourge of child trafficking over the years. It’s been a high-priority issue for me since before I arrived in the Senate. But as traffickers move their crimes from the street corner to the smartphone, the data tell us unambiguously that more action is required.   “The legislation before us reforms a misused provision in a 1996 telecommunications act, which currently shields companies that facilitate -- and profit from -- the disgusting exploitation of women and children. Later today, my colleagues will have the opportunity to implement commonsense reform with the potential to change vulnerable children’s lives for the better. I urge every one of us to vote to pass it.”   ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000731 DOT_Am.Oversight-000731 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Friday, March 23, 2018 6:57:02 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm on April 9, 2018 (following a two-week recess). The Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #539, Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.   At 5:30 pm, April 9, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Boom nomination.   ICYMI: late last night Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (this is the order we will process the nominations):   1. Cal. #539 - Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. 2. Cal. #728 - John F. Ring, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2022. 3. Cal. #605 - Patrick Pizzella, of Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of Labor. 4. Cal. #666 - Andrew Wheeler, of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. 5. Cal. #540 - John W. Broomes, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. 6. Cal. #541 - Rebecca Grady Jennings, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.   The Senate will convene for pro forma session only with no business conducted on the following dates at the following times: · Monday, March 26th at 11:30am · Thursday, March 29th at 3:45pm · Monday, April 2nd at 12:00pm · Thursday, April 5th at 11:30am   Yesterday in the Senate – Thursday, March 23 (roll call votes / wrap up – noms & legislation cleared by consent):   Roll Call Votes: · Motion to instruct the Sergeant at Arms to request the presence of absent Senators. Agreed to. (91-6) · Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.1625, Omnibus Appropriations. Invoked. (67-30) · Motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.1625, Omnibus Appropriations. Agreed to. (65-32)   Executive Session: 1. Cal. #762 - Thomas T. Cullen, of Virginia, to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia for the term of four years. 2. Cal. #763 - Robert K. Hur, of Maryland, to be United States Attorney for the District of Maryland for the term of four years. 3. Cal. #764 - David C. Joseph, of Louisiana, to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana for the term of four years. 4. Cal. #330 – Steven T. Mnuchin, of California, to be United States Governor of the European Bank for DOT-18-0010-A-000732 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000732 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. Reconstruction and Development, United States Governor of the African Development Fund, and United States Governor of the Asian Development Bank. Cal. #331 – Steven T. Mnuchin, of California, to be United States Governor of the International Monetary Fund, United States Governor of the African Development Bank, United States Governor of the InterAmerican Development Bank, and United States Governor of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development for a term of five years. Cal. #721 - Anne Marie White, of Michigan, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Environmental Management). Cal. #722 - Brent K. Park, of Tennessee, to be Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation, National Nuclear Security Administration. Cal. #723 - James Edwin Williams, of Utah, to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Labor. Cal. #725 - Mark Schneider, of the District of Columbia, to be Director of the Institute of Education Science, Department of Education for a term of six years. Cal. #616 - Carlos Trujillo, of Florida, to be Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the Organization of American States, with the rank of Ambassador. Cal. #752 - Robert Frank Pence, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Finland. Cal. #753 - Edward Charles Prado, of Texas, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Argentine Republic. Cal. #754 - Trevor D. Traina, of California, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Austria. Cal. #755 - Erik Bethel, of Florida, to be United States Alternate Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development for a term of two years. Cal. #756 - Judy Lynn Shelton, of Virginia, to be United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Cal. #759 - Kevin Edward Moley, of Arizona, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (International Organization Affairs). Cal. #760 - Josephine Olsen, of Maryland, to be Director of the Peace Corps. Cal. #761 - Marie Royce, of California, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Educational and Cultural Affairs). PN 1369 - Tim Thomas, of Kentucky, to be Federal Cochairman of the Appalachian Regional Commission. 19.   ARMY Cal. #742 – Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Hilty to be Major General NAVY Cal. #743 – Vice Adm. Matthew J. Kohler to be Vice Admiral AIR FORCE Cal. #744 – The following to be to be Major General: Brig. Gen. Vincent K. Becklund   Brig. Gen. Charles S. Corcoran   Brig. Gen. Barry R. Cornish   Brig. Gen. Christopher E. Craige   Brig. Gen. Andrew A. Croft   Brig. Gen. Allan E. Day   Brig. Gen. Eric T. Fick   Brig. Gen. Chad P. Franks   Brig. Gen. John R. Gordy, II   Brig. Gen. Gregory M. Guillot   Brig. Gen. Stacey T. Hawkins  Brig. Gen. Cameron G. Holt  Brig. Gen. Kevin A. Huyck   Brig. Gen. David J. Julazadeh  DOT-18-0010-A-000733 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000733 Brig. Gen. Kevin B. Kennedy Brig. Gen. Kyle J. Kremer   Brig. Gen. Peter J. Lambert   Brig. Gen. William J. Liquori, Jr.   Brig. Gen. Randall Reed  Brig. Gen. Lenny J. Richoux   Brig. Gen. Carl E. Schaefer   Brig. Gen. John E. Shaw   Brig. Gen. Brad M. Sullivan   Brig. Gen. Stephen C. Williams MARINE CORPS Cal. #745 – The following to be to be Major General: Brig. Gen. James W. Bierman, Jr.  Brig. Gen. David J. Furness   Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen   Brig. Gen. Michael E. Langley  Brig. Gen. David A. Ottignon   Brig. Gen. Thomas D. Weidley AIR FORCE Cal. #746 – Lt. Gen. Timothy M. Ray to be General Cal. #747 – Maj. Gen. David D. Thompson to be Lieutenant General NAVY Cal. #748 – Vice Adm. Christopher W. Grady to be Admiral Cal. #749 – Rear Adm. Timothy J. White to be Vice Admiral Cal. #750 – Capt. David A. Welch to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #751 – Rear Adm. Scott A. Stearney to be Vice Admiral And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.   Rule 14 – added to the Senate calendar: S.2629 – Postal Service Reform S.5247 – Right to Try   Wrap Up - cleared: H.R.4851 – Kennedy-King Commemorative Site with a Young amendment S.772 – Amber Alerts Cal. #24, S.269 – Tanana Tribal Council Cal. #229, S.607 – DOI Business Incubators with a Hoeven amendment Cal. #248, S.1116 – Native American Business Development with a Hoeven amendment Cal. #272, S.1223 – Klamath Tribe Judgement Fund Repeal Cal. #295, S.943 – Johnson O’Malley Supplemental Indian Education with a Lankford amendment Cal. #342, S.292 – Childhood Cancer STAR Cal. #343, S.1091 – Supporting Grandparents Raising Grandchildren S.Res.405 – National CACFP S.Res.445 – Hurricane Maria S.Res.446 – Cerebral Palsy S.Res.447 – Rehabilitation Counselors S.Res.448 – Women’s History S.Res.449 – Asbestos Awareness H.R.4547 – Social Security   Also, please see several helpful documents from the Senate GOP Comms Center below.   DOT-18-0010-A-000734 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000734 We’ll see you after the recess. Happy Easter (in advance)!   Of interest: “Holy Week Around the World:” https://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2016/mar/25/holy-weekcelebrations-around-the-world-in-pictures   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   11at R .-ubl1-an Communica 1 • ons Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2pxs8gQ   Restoring America’s Military Omnibus Bill ‘Delivers The Largest Year-On-Year Increase In Defense Spending In Fifteen Years’   SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: “The agreement provides the biggest year-over-year increase in defense funding in 15 years.  Combined with FY2018 funding previously approved by Congress for missile defense and disaster response, the Defense Department will receive more than $61 billion over the 2017 enacted level.  The omnibus measure funds a 2.4 percent pay increase for troops and includes substantial increases to support aircraft, ship, and equipment procurement.  It also provides flexibility to execute operation and maintenance accounts more efficiently.” (Senate Appropriations Committee, Press Release, 3/21/2018)   ·   · “WINNERS: The troops: All military personnel will get a 2.4 percent pay raise…” (“The Daily 202: Winners And Losers In The Spending Bill,” The Washington Post, 3/22/2018) “In the broadest strokes, the bill gives Republicans a major win by delivering … [an] increase in military spending…” (“Congressional Negotiators Reach Deal On $1.3 Trillion Spending Bill Ahead Of Friday Government Shutdown Deadline,” The Washington Post, 3/21/2018)     SEN. MCCONNELL: ‘First And Foremost, In My View, This Bill Will Mark The End Of Disproportionate And Harmful Cuts To Department Of Defense Funding’ DOT-18-0010-A-000735 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000735 SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “First and foremost, in my view, this bill will mark the end of disproportionate and harmful cuts to Department of Defense funding. It delivers the largest year-onyear increase in defense spending in fifteen years. These new funding levels will ensure the training and tools available to our servicemembers remain on the cutting edge.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 3/22/2018)   ·   SEN. McCONNELL (R-KY): “…building on the funding agreement passed in February, the measure will deliver the resources and certainty that America’s military deserves. To be specific, this legislation will provide the largest year-on-year increase in defense funding in fifteen years. After years of disproportionate cuts to our armed services, Congress has begun to provide adequate resources -- to put an end to the harmful decline in combat readiness. To fulfill our commitments to American families who sacrifice through service -- many of them in my home state of Kentucky. For our men and women in uniform, this means a well-deserved pay raise. … Our warriors on the front line deserve to be trained to the highest standards, as do the units that replace them. Now our commanders can work to restore combat readiness. And not a moment too soon. Threats around the world are only growing in number and intensity. By strengthening our investment in missile defense; by funding new weapons systems; by scaling up shipbuilding and aircraft procurement; and by investing in our all-volunteer servicemembers; we will send a strong message to our allies and our foes alike that America’s military is regaining dominance.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 3/21/2018) SPEAKER PAUL RYAN (R-WI): “We made a promise to the country that we would rebuild our military. Aging equipment, personnel shortages, training lapses, maintenance lapses — all of this has cost us…. With this week’s critical funding bill we will begin to reverse that damage.” (“Spending Talks Nearly Done, $1.3T Bill Soon To Be Unveiled,” The Associated Press, 3/21/2018)   SEN. ROY BLUNT (R-MO): “…I think in the last few weeks since the CR was passed, we sort of lost sight of what the bill we'll vote on this week will do for national defense. Underfunding our defense capabilities, underfunding our training dollars, underfunding having equipment in the condition that you and I would want it to be in for the men and women that defend us, has caught up with us in the last couple of years. Way too many people injured, way too many lives lost simply because we haven't treated our defense like we should. This bill's the biggest year over year increase in defense in 15 years. $61 billion funding not only new training dollars, new missile defense, but also a pay increase for men and women in uniform. And that is the single biggest thing we'll be doing in the bill we vote on this week, is trying to restore again the fact that we never want Americans to be in a fair fight, we want them to have every advantage they can possibly have.” (Sen. Blunt, Press Conference, 3/20/2018)   REP. STEVE SCALISE (R-LA): “… [W]e're going to be voting on a bill to finally start restoring our nation's defense to the levels that it needs to be; to give our men and women in uniform the tools that they need -- not only to be prepared to defend our country, but to be able to train in a safe environment…. [I]t's an important bill that finally restores the cuts that have been made to our nation's defense, so that we can rebuild and maintain one of our basic constitutional responsibilities, that is to provide for a strong national defense.” (Rep. Scalise, Press Conference, 3/20/2018)   REP. CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS (R-WA): “This week, the House is … taking the final steps on our promise to rebuild our military, and give our troops a much-needed pay increase. We owe it to our servicemembers to make sure that they have the tools and the resources to safely train, restore readiness and keep all of us safe. And they go about it every day, here and all around the world.” (Rep. McMorris Rodgers, Press Conference, 3/20/2018)   REP. LIZ CHENEY (R-WY): “[F]or far too long, because of the policies of the Obama administration in particular, because of inconsistent funding from Congress, we've been in a situation where our military has been starved…. [W]e're now in a position where that can end. And that's why we must pass this omnibus.” (Rep. Cheney, Press Conference, 3/20/2018)   · REP. CHENEY: “[W]e can't continue to ask our men and women in uniform to put their lives on the line, to make the ultimate sacrifice, unfortunately, in some cases, without the very best resources and equipment. Our adversaries' capabilities have been increasing, and our own have been decreasing. Passing this omnibus is the way to begin to change that, and to turn it around.” (Rep. Cheney, Press Conference, 3/20/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000736 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000736   REP. DON BACON (R-NE): “I served nearly 30 years in the Air Force, 16 assignments, retired as a one-star. And I saw the military performance and capabilities decline, particularly over the last five, 10 years, when I served there…. We can give you statistic after statistic. Our military should be second to none. And when you have your four-stars saying that our readiness levels are the worst they've seen on paper since 1977, it demands action.” (Rep. Bacon, Press Conference, 3/20/2018)   ·   REP. BACON: “I believe in peace through strength. I believe in deterrence. And this bill that we're going to hopefully pass, and I think we will, will fix our military.” (Rep. Bacon, Press Conference, 3/20/2018) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   ,at . ublicar1 Com1nunicat· on Center 202•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2G6LksM   Safety Provisions ‘Will Be Effective And Save Lives’ Omnibus Legislation ‘Delivers For Students And Teachers’ By Including Fix NICS And STOP School Violence Act   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “The [omnibus] legislation also delivers for students and teachers across our nation, who deserve to learn and work without fear of violence. At the insistence of the Speaker and myself, this bill will include two important, bipartisan, commonsense measures to address real issues facing the nation: the Fix NICS bill and the STOP School Violence Act.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 3/22/2018)   Parkland Victim Families Letter: “We are the families of the victims killed in the tragedy in Parkland, FL on February 14, 2018. We strongly urge you to support the inclusion of the STOP School Violence Act and the Fix NICS ACT in the upcoming Omnibus spending bill to be debated and ultimately voted on in both chambers.” (Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 3/19/2018)   Fix NICS, ‘A Bipartisan Proposal To Boost Compliance With The National Instant Criminal Background Check System’   SEN. JOHN CORNYN (R-TX): “The calls from the American people to address gun violence in our schools and DOT-18-0010-A-000737 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000737 communities have been deafening, and I’m grateful we’ll soon get that chance… Fixing the background check system will help save lives and reduce the likelihood of what occurred in Parkland and Sutherland Springs from happening again.” (“After Mass Shootings, Congress Likely To Approve Cornyn's Background Check Bill In Budget Deal,” The Dallas Morning News, 3/21/2018)   The omnibus bill “includes legislation known as the Fix NICS Act that uses a combination of incentives and punishments to prod federal agencies and the military to upload records into the background-check system for purchasing guns. Republicans insisted on including the bipartisan bill in the … omnibus appropriations bill …” (The Atlantic, 3/22/2018)   · “The ‘Fix NICS Act’ authored by [Sen. John] Cornyn, the No. 2 Senate Republican, and Sen. Chris Murphy, a Connecticut Democrat, would penalize federal agencies that fail to report records and incentivize states to send criminal history records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. It has more than 75 co-sponsors in the Senate.” (“After Mass Shootings, Congress Likely To Approve Cornyn's Background Check Bill In Budget Deal,” The Dallas Morning News, 3/21/2018)   Parkland Victim Families Letter: “The Fix NICS Act is desperately needed to improve compliance with firearms purchasing background check systems which are already in place. These are systems that all US citizens rely on to keep firearms away from those that should not be allowed to purchase them.” (Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 3/19/2018)   Organizations supporting Fix NICS legislation include:   · Sandy Hook Promise · National Coalition Against Domestic Violence · Fraternal Order of Police · National Domestic Violence Hotline · National Sheriff’s Association   The STOP School Violence Act ‘Will Make Schools Safer’   SEN. ORRIN HATCH (R-UT): “First, the [STOP School Violence Act] will provide grants to be used for evidence-based training to prevent student violence against others and self, including training for local law enforcement officers, school personnel, and students…. Second, the bill will fund evidence-based technology and equipment to improve school security and prevent school violence…. Third, the bill will provide funding for the development and operation of evidence-based school threat assessment and crisis intervention teams … Fourth, the bill will authorize funding for continued coordination with local law enforcement. These four initiatives do not operate in isolation, but together are a comprehensive approach to improving school security and reducing student violence.  Training students and teachers to identify and report warning signs is critical to stopping acts of school violence before they happen.” (Sen. Hatch, Press Release, 3/06/2018)   Parkland Victim Families Letter: “This Act will make schools safer by funding the creation of and providing training for Threat Assessment Teams (TATs), teachers and students. It also includes security measures and provides for the creation of anonymous reporting systems. All of which will help make schools safer.” (Letter to Speaker Ryan, Rep. Pelosi, and Sens. McConnell and Schumer, 3/19/2018)   Organizations supporting the STOP School Violence Act include:   · American Mental Health Counselors Association DOT-18-0010-A-000738 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000738 · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · American Psychiatric Association American Psychoanalytic Association Clinical Social Work Association County Executives of America Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association Fraternal Order of Police Major County Sheriffs’ Association Mental Health America National Alliance for Public Charter Schools National Alliance on Mental Illness National Association for Children’s Behavioral Health National Association of Social Workers National Association of State Fire Marshals National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health Partner Alliance for Safer Schools Safe and Sound Schools Sandy Hook Promise School Social WORK Association of America Secure Schools Alliance The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health The National Council for Behavioral Health   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS · ,at u Iic 11. Communicat· on Center 2,02 22S•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2G47N9K   Omnibus Bill ‘A Victory For Families Caught In The Grip Of The Opioid Epidemic’   ‘It Is Time To Liberate Our Communities From This Scourge Of Drug Addiction’   Omnibus Bill Will Help ‘Combat This Growing Crisis’ PRESIDENT TRUMP: “It is time to liberate our communities from this scourge of drug addiction.” (President Trump, “How We Will Win The War On Opioids,” 3/1/2018) DOT-18-0010-A-000739 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000739   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “[The omnibus bill is] a victory for families caught in the grip of the opioid epidemic. This bill scales up research, treatment and prevention funding and provides for grants to first responders. It will confront the scourge of addiction head-on and help save lives. For rural communities, like many in my home state of Kentucky, this is a big deal.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 3/22/2018)   SPEAKER PAUL RYAN (R-WI): “The opioid epidemic continues to ravage our communities… By expanding access to treatment and recovery efforts that have proven successful, we can empower individuals to retake control of their lives. And by investing in increased law enforcement efforts, we can empower local communities to address the problem at its root and stop the spread of these deadly drugs. Congress has long prioritized fighting opioid abuse—and we will not rest until we see results worthy of those counting on us. Through this week’s legislation, we’ll continue to partner with the Trump administration to put an end to what very well may be the biggest public health emergency of our lifetime.” (Speaker Ryan, Press Release, 3/19/2018)   TRUMP ADMINISTRATION STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY: “The Consolidated Appropriations Act provides $4 billion in high priority investments to fund the President's Opioid Initiative and combat this growing crisis. These resources will expand access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. It also includes $330 million for Department of Justice grant programs that support drug courts, treatment, and law enforcement and community responses, $130 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response program, and $386 million for opioid-related programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In addition, the bill prioritizes funding at the Department of Justice for the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Organized Drug Enforcement Task Force for fighting drug addiction and the opioid crisis. … If H.R. 1625 were presented to the President in its current form, his advisors would recommend that he sign the bill into law.” (H.R.1625, Statement Of Administration Policy, 3/22/2018)   APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN SEN. THAD COCHRAN (R-MS): “Extensive negotiations and hard work went into producing this legislation, which… directs new funding to some of the most critical challenges facing our nation, including faltering infrastructure and the opioid crisis.” (Sen. Cochran, Press Release, 5/21/2018)   ·   SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: “The measure addresses the national opioid emergency declared by President Trump by allocating more than $4.65 billion throughout the government to work with states and localities to fight the opioid epidemic.  The funding, a $3.0 billion increase over FY2017, is directed toward continued opioid prevention, treatment, and law enforcement initiatives.” (Senate Appropriations Committee, Press Release, 3/21/2018) SEN. ROY BLUNT (R-MO): “The opioid epidemic is a devastating public health crisis that touches people of every age, from every background, in communities in Missouri and across the nation… The opioid epidemic is claiming 115 lives every day, forcing kids into foster care, straining law enforcement resources, and costing our economy more than $78 billion a year. That’s why we’ve made opioid treatment, prevention, and research a priority in the past two government funding bills, and are continuing that effort with $3.6 billion this year.” (Sen. Blunt, Press Release, 3/21/2018)   SEN. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO (R-WV): “As a leader on the Appropriations Committee, I am proud that I was able to secure critical funding to support numerous West Virginia priorities—including efforts to fight the opioid epidemic… Specifically, this legislation provides a historic increase in anti-drug and opioid resources, including much-needed resources for the HIDTA and Drug Free Communities programs. … Not only does this legislation provide significant resources for these priorities, but it also ensures that those resources will be used responsibly and effectively. … That means West Virginia communities hardest-hit by the opioid epidemic will receive a fairer share of funding—an amount that will total tens of millions.” (Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, Press Release, 3/21/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000740 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000740 ,at ublicar1 Communicat·ons 2,02•228• Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2HJEBpe   ‘Sustain Our Military’s Primacy’     ‘Our Backlog Of Deferred Readiness, Procurement, And Modernization Requirements Has Grown In The Last Decade And A Half And Can No Longer Be Ignored.’ SEC. MATTIS: ‘Congressional Action Will Ensure Our Military Can Defend Our Way Life, Preserve The Promise Of Prosperity, And Pass On The Freedoms You And I Enjoy To The Next Generation’ 2018 National Defense Strategy: “To address the scope and pace of our competitors’ and adversaries’ ambitions and capabilities, we must invest in modernization of key capabilities through sustained, predictable budgets. Our backlog of deferred readiness, procurement, and modernization requirements has grown in the last decade and a half and can no longer be ignored. We will make targeted, disciplined increases in personnel and platforms to meet key capability and capacity needs. The 2018 National Defense Strategy underpins our planned fiscal year 20192023 budgets, accelerating our modernization programs and devoting additional resources in a sustained effort to solidify our competitive advantage.” (Department of Defense, Press Release, 2/12/2018)   JAMES MATTIS, Secretary of Defense: “I cannot overstate the negative impact to our troops and families' morale from all this budget uncertainty. Today's Congressional action will ensure our military can defend our way life, preserve the promise of prosperity, and pass on the freedoms you and I enjoy to the next generation.” (Sec. Mattis, White House Press Briefing, 2/07/2018)   ·   SEC. MATTIS: “If we are to sustain our military's primacy, we need budget predictability. …no strategy can survive without the necessary stable, predictable funding. Failure to modernize our military risks leaving us with a force that could dominate the last war but be irrelevant to tomorrow's security.” (U.S. House Of Representatives, Armed Services Committee, Hearing, 2/6/2018) UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE COMPTROLLER DAVID NORQUIST: “We are appreciative of Congress raising the caps and ending the destructive effects of sequestration-level funding.” (Department of Defense News Briefing on the President's Fiscal Year 2019 Defense Budget, 2/12/2018)   ·     NORQUIST: “Many of you heard Secretary Mattis' comments about the damaging effect of sequestration…. With the bipartisan budget agreement, that hemorrhaging stops.” (Department of Defense News Briefing on the President's Fiscal Year 2019 Defense Budget, 2/12/2018) ‘Really Good Increases To Build Upon The Funding We Saw In ’17 To Get Readiness Up’ GEN. JAMES C. McCONVILLE, Vice Chief of Staff United States Army: “… you have a situation where you have … well-over half the combatant commander’s demands for forces come from the Army. So very high demand, and supply that just cannot meet that demand right now…. That’s why these – the budgets we’re seeing that we should DOT-18-0010-A-000741 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000741 see from the FY ’18, FY ’19 for Congress are so – are so welcome, because they are really good increases to build upon the funding we saw in ’17 to get readiness up in terms of end strength, in terms of training time, in terms of equipment and equipment readiness rates – all those things I need to do to build that readiness. Because, as soon as I build it, all these other things are consuming it and eating it back down.” (“Discussion with the Secretaries of the U.S. Military Departments,” CSIS, Washington, DC, 3/12/2018)   SEC. of the ARMY MARK ESPER: “We’re really appreciative of what Congress has done with regard to FY ’18 dollars, the increase is spectacular…” (“Discussion with the Secretaries of the U.S. Military Departments,” CSIS, Washington, DC, 3/12/2018)   ADMIRAL WILLIAM F. MORAN, U.S. Navy Vice Chief of Naval Operations: “Budget Control Act (BCA) funding caps over the past five years … challenged the ability of the Navy to adequately address the full range of needed investments while meeting near-term commitments…. During this time we prioritized funding for deployed naval forces first, and began accumulating risk to our surge forces, training forces, and our shore infrastructure. As a result, too many of our planes weren’t ready to fly, too many ships were not training at sea, our ship and aircraft maintenance production was severely delayed, and our shore infrastructure had degraded to unacceptable levels.” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018)   ·   ADMIRAL MORAN: “Unpredictable budgets not only hamstring the Navy’s ability to prepare and plan, they are a major disincentive to industrial base investments in ship repair and modernization capacity we need to grow readiness.  No business organization, public or private, can withstand the fits and starts of our budget environment.” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018) GEN. STEPHEN W. WILSON, Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force: “Our military advantages and readiness shrunk due to the longest continuous stretch of combat in our nation’s history, coupled with years of inconsistent and insufficient funding. At the same time, our strategic competitors, notably China and Russia, have closed gaps in capability and capacity. The result is an overstretched and under resourced United States Air Force.” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018)   ·   GEN. WILSON: “Readiness and lethality are derived from stable funding … We must get back to, and maintain, regular fiscal order … Prolonged budgetary stability is the most reliable way to ensure yesterday’s winning force does not become irrelevant tomorrow. To that end, we are deeply appreciative of recent efforts to begin the return of fiscal order …” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018) GEN. GLENN WALTERS, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps: “Along with your authorizations as outlined in the 2018 NDAA, we require your support through the required appropriations to adapt your Marine Corps to compete, deter and win against the threats we face together. CRs and the looming threat of sequestration continue to disrupt our planning and directly threaten our readiness. Predictable and sustained budgets remain the essential requirement for the Marine Corps to meet our obligation as the Nation’s ‘force in readiness.’” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018)   ·   GEN. WALTERS: “Your Marine Corps requires continued support from Congress with predictable budgets over a sustained period to fully mitigate the readiness challenges we face. Fiscal instability, resulting from persistent continuing resolutions (CRs) and looming and actual government shutdowns, produce the most significant risk to our readiness.” (U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, Hearing, 2/14/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   DOT-18-0010-A-000742 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000742 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, April 09, 2018 5:06:05 PM Hello everyone, The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #539, Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Boom nomination. Housekeeping items: today Vice President Pence conducted the swearing-in of Senator Cindy HydeSmith of Mississippi who has been appointed to succeed Senator Thad Cochran. Also this evening, there will be two committee chairmen elections – for Approps and Rules (this will happen during the 5:30 vote or shortly thereafter). Reminder: Before the recess, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations (these nominations will be processed this week in the following order): · · Claria Horn Boom to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. John F. Ring to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2022. · Patrick Pizzella to be Deputy Secretary of Labor. · Andrew Wheeler to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. · John W. Broomes to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. · Rebecca Grady Jennings to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Looking Ahead/potential items: Nominations, Resolutions of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act, Coast Guard Reauthorization. And please see Leader McConnell’s floor remarks below on noms and tax reform… The Last Time Americans Will Have To File Tax Returns Under the Old, Outdated System (Remarks below): ‘There’s just one more week until the deadline for Americans to file our 2017 tax returns. It’s not exactly a national holiday. But this year, there’s a silver lining. This April is the last time Americans will file our taxes under the old, outdated tax code that is on its way out thanks to historic tax reform.’   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor DOT-18-0010-A-000743 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000743 Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2H8BLxo                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2GLctll Senate To Consider More Qualified Nominees This Week ‘Qualified nominees stand ready. But Senate Democrats are using the procedural playbook to obstruct and delay… I’ll have more to say on these partisan tactics in the coming days. For now, let me make one thing clear -- the Senate’s work week will not end until all of these amply-qualified nominees are confirmed.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s nominees:   “This week, the Senate will turn to one of our most important constitutional responsibilities -- the personnel business. We have a number of nominees to consider in the next several days. “First is Claria Horn Boom, President Trump’s pick to serve as the federal district judge for both the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. Through her work in both the public and private sectors, Ms. Boom has distinguished herself as a problem-solver -- a trusted advisor to her clients and her community.   “Letters in support of her nomination share a theme: Ms. Boom has the skills and experiences to excel as a district judge. ‘High standards, ample preparation, and a fierce intellect.’   “‘Unfailingly thoughtful, gracious, and diligent.’ These are just some of the ways Ms. Boom is described by those she served and worked with in Kentucky.   “The Judiciary committee came to the same conclusion, advancing her nomination by voice vote. So later today, the full Senate will vote to advance this talented and noncontroversial nominee. And then I hope we will be able to quickly confirm her.   “Then, in the coming days, we will consider several more judges and important nominees for the Department of Labor, the EPA, and the National Labor Relations Board. These and many other important positions remain vacant, nearly a year and a half into the Trump administration.   “Qualified nominees stand ready. But Senate Democrats are using the procedural playbook to obstruct and delay. In many cases, for example, they’re insisting the Senate exhaust post-cloture DOT-18-0010-A-000744 DOT_Am.Oversight-000744 time even on unobjectionable district court nominees who have gone on to overwhelming confirmation votes -- like Walter Counts, who was confirmed 96-0, or Karen Gren Scholer, who was confirmed 95-0.   “I’ll have more to say on these partisan tactics in the coming days. For now, let me make one thing clear -- the Senate’s work week will not end until all of these amply-qualified nominees are confirmed.”   ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR fo r K.EN.TUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, April 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2HmL5v1                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2H8CZZd The Last Time Americans Will Have To File Tax Returns Under the Old, Outdated System ‘There’s just one more week until the deadline for Americans to file our 2017 tax returns. It’s not exactly a national holiday. But this year, there’s a silver lining. This April is the last time Americans will file our taxes under the old, outdated tax code that is on its way out thanks to historic tax reform.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “There’s just one more week until the deadline for Americans to file our 2017 tax returns. It’s not exactly a national holiday. But this year, there’s a silver lining. This April is the last time Americans will file our taxes under the old, outdated tax code that is on its way out thanks to historic tax reform. “A year from now, families will be filing under a simpler and fairer tax code that lets them keep more of what they’ve earned and send less to the IRS. They’ll benefit from a doubled standard deduction. From major expansions in key provisions like the child tax credit. And, of course, from significantly lower tax rates.   “All told, the average family of four earning the median income of around $70,000 could see a tax cut of over $2,000. But let’s remember -- the American people do not need to wait until next year to start seeing the fruits of once-in-a-generation tax reform. Job creators are already implementing plans to hire, expand, and invest in their American workers.   “Already, millions of workers have received word of a tax reform bonus, a permanent raise, or other new benefits -- such as paid family leave policies or expanded retirement assistance. That includes thousands of employees at Southwire, a wire manufacturer that employs hundreds of Kentuckians at its location in Hawesville. For hardworking men and women at Southwire, tax reform means DOT-18-0010-A-000745 DOT_Am.Oversight-000745 bonuses and expanded educational opportunities.   “So, the benefits of our new 21st-century tax code are no secret. As Americans put the finishing touches on their tax returns under the old, outdated system for the last time, there is good news to look forward to. And there’s good news that’s already here.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000746 DOT_Am.Oversight-000746 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, April 10, 2018 12:17:03 PM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #539, Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. At 12:10 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Boom nomination (vote just started). The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. At 2:15 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #728, John F. Ring, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2022. Also -- at a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of the nomination of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Education. Reminder: Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the following nominations (we are working through this list of nominations – to be processed this week in the following order): · · Claria Horn Boom to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. John F. Ring to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2022. · Patrick Pizzella to be Deputy Secretary of Labor. · Andrew Wheeler to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. · John W. Broomes to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. · Rebecca Grady Jennings to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Looking Ahead: Nominations, Resolutions of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act, Coast Guard reauthorization.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, April 9, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #539, Claria Horn Boom, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky. (Invoked, 96-2) Executive Session: PN1637 - James Reilly, of Colorado, to be Director of the United States Geological Survey. PN1653 - Theodore J. Garrish, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (International Affairs). DOT-18-0010-A-000747 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000747 PN1680 - James Edward Campos, of Nevada, to be Director of the Office of Minority Economic Impact, Department of Energy. UC Items: Cal. #304, H.R.3445 – AGOA Cal. #355, S.Res.85 – Robert Levinson Cal. #356, S.Res.432 – Baltic States H.R.3979 – Keep America’s Refugees Operational   Please read Leader McConnell’s floor remarks from this morning on processing nominations and tax reform (remarks below). Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, April 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2Hp4bR7                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2qn3gc5 McConnell: Let’s Consider and Confirm These Nominees Without Delay ‘This week, as I stated yesterday, the Senate will focus on the personnel business. Six wellqualified nominees are currently before the Senate. They’re awaiting the full consideration they clearly deserve. Their nominations have been vetted. Their expertise is well-known. Their positions sit empty, waiting to be filled. The American people are waiting for their president to have his full team, and for their federal government to be appropriately staffed.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s well-qualified nominees:   DOT-18-0010-A-000748 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000748 “This week, as I stated yesterday, the Senate will focus on the personnel business. Six wellqualified nominees are currently before the Senate. They’re awaiting the full consideration they clearly deserve. Their nominations have been vetted. Their expertise is well-known. Their positions sit empty, waiting to be filled. The American people are waiting for their president to have his full team, and for their federal government to be appropriately staffed. “Now, if last evening’s vote to advance Claria Horn Boom’s district court nomination were any indication, we’d be in for a productive week. Ninety-six of our colleagues voted in support. Ninetysix. With such broad bipartisan support, you might think that filing cloture should not have been necessary in the first place. With nominees as uncontroversial as these, you might think the Senate should roll quickly through them and move on to other business.   “But unfortunately, for more than a year now, our Democratic friends used the partisan playbook to delay and obstruct even the least-controversial nominees. So unless we can reach the kind of bipartisan agreement that was once the norm, and process noncontroversial nominees more promptly, we’re left with no choice but to proceed the hard way. And that’s just what we’ve done. Facing historic obstruction, Republicans have confirmed ambitious reformers to crucial posts where fresh ideas were long overdue.   “And we’ve confirmed top-notch legal minds to the federal bench, including a record number of circuit court judges for a president’s first year and the generational choice of Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was confirmed to the Supreme Court one year ago today.   “Now, I’ve already stated the Senate will remain in session as long as it takes to clear this slate of nominees. Following the confirmation of Ms. Boom, we’ll move to consideration of John Ring to serve on the National Labor Relations Board.  After Mr. Ring come nominees to the Department of Labor, the EPA, and two more nominees to fill district court vacancies. All vetted. All qualified. All sitting here in the Senate.   “In at least one case, several of my Democratic friends have already proactively announced support for the nominee. Let’s get back on track together. Let’s consider and confirm these nominees without delay.”   ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER · U.S.• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, April 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2GQJ49k                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2IItBcd Tax Reform Means Growth for Main Street ‘We cut taxes for middle-class families and small businesses. We repealed one burdensome, job-killing regulation after another. We’re grabbing every tool we can find to make life a little easier for the middle-class families who were neglected by the previous administration’s policies. One prime example is our colleague Senator Scott’s provision in last year’s historic tax reform. His legislation lets economically-distressed communities DOT-18-0010-A-000749 DOT_Am.Oversight-000749 across the country be designated as ‘opportunity zones,’ earning special tax treatment to make investment and job creation more attractive.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “Something exciting is starting to happen all across the country. In America’s small towns and suburbs, Main Street businesses are dusting off ‘Help Wanted’ signs. In our small cities, American manufacturers are expanding facilities and creating new products. In rural America, family farmers are investing in new equipment and looking forward to increased prosperity. “For years, all of these parts of our great nation were more or less forgotten. Millions and millions of Americans were left behind. Whether by accident or by design, the Obama administration’s economic policies brought some prosperity to America’s biggest and richest urban centers. But our small towns, our suburbs, our smaller cities, our rural areas and farming communities? Year after year, they saw next to no progress. This is the disparity that President Trump and this Republican Congress were elected to change.   “Our Democratic friends say they are proud of a record in which urban centers like New York and San Francisco thrived, but most other areas slipped behind. I wouldn’t be proud of that record. Republicans wouldn’t settle for that kind of outcome. That’s why, as soon as this president and this Congress took office, we began implementing an inclusive, pro-growth agenda to reignite prosperity in every corner of our nation.   “We cut taxes for middle-class families and small businesses. We repealed one burdensome, jobkilling regulation after another. We’re grabbing every tool we can find to make life a little easier for the middle-class families who were neglected by the previous administration’s policies.   “One prime example is our colleague Senator Scott’s provision in last year’s historic tax reform. His legislation lets economically-distressed communities across the country be designated as ‘opportunity zones,’ earning special tax treatment to make investment and job creation more attractive. In effect, this piece of tax reform will help struggling American communities set up big neon signs saying ‘We’re open for business.’ Just yesterday, in my home state of Kentucky, Governor Bevin announced the certification of 144 opportunity zones.   “My friends and colleagues on the state and local level are excited and optimistic again. This creative policy, along with the rest of tax reform, has the Kentuckians I serve looking forward to a brighter future. More states are following suit.   “And so, from the West End in Louisville and distressed areas in Eastern Kentucky to Stockton, California, and everywhere in between, this Congress will have helped deliver new opportunity and new hope to many of the most vulnerable communities in our country. All this progress – all because Republicans overcame lock-step partisan opposition and passed this historic tax reform law.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000750 DOT_Am.Oversight-000750 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, April 11, 2018 11:14:23 AM Good morning -  The Senate convened at 10:30 am today, and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #728, John F. Ring, of the District of Columbia, to be a member of the National Labor Relations Board.   At 12:20 pm, the Senate will vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #728, John F. Ring, of the District of Columbia, to be a member of the National Labor Relations Board, and cloture on Executive Calendar #605, John Patrick Pizzella, of Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of Labor.   Reminder: on Friday, March 23, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following noms (in addition to those who have been or will be processed) -  · Executive Calendar #605, John Patrick Pizzella, of Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of Labor. · Executive Calendar #666, Andrew Wheeler, of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. · Executive Calendar #540, John W. Broomes, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. · Executive Calendar #541, Rebecca Grady Jennings, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.   Remarks: Leader McConnell on the floor this morning – full remarks below on Speaker Ryan’s announcement:   Spoke in tribute to House Speaker Paul Ryan. o          “This morning Speaker Ryan announced to his colleagues that he'll be departing the House at the conclusion of the 115th Congress. Two and a half years ago Paul Ryan was drafted by his colleagues to lead the House through a new era. Like a true leader, Paul stepped up to the plate. He answered his colleagues' call with exactly the earnest, selfless and focused poach that has defined his entire career in Congress. The results have been beyond impressive capping off a remarkable 20-year career in Congress, Paul's speakership has yielded one significant accomplishment after another for his conference.”   Spoke on the pending nominations. o          “Now, on another matter yesterday the Senate confirmed the first of six nominees slated this week. Claria Horn Boom to serve the eastern and western districts of Kentucky. She was confirmed 96-1. Just one senator in opposition. This is the kind of uncontroversial nomination the senate could typically dispatch by voice vote. Oh, but not these days. Over and over again we've had to file cloture and exhaust floor time on amply qualified nominees who then soar through their confirmation votes by lopsided margins.”   Spoke on the majority’s legislative agenda. o          “According to one estimate, 73% of all the employment gains in the country between 2010 and 2016 went to metro areas with more than one million residents. Practically everywhere else Americans DOT-18-0010-A-000751 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000751 either treaded water or started sinking. This president and this Republican Congress were sent here to put this right and because the American people gave us a chance to do so, they now have leaders in Washington who focus on cutting taxes instead of raising them. Rolling back over regulation instead of piling on more suffocating rules, and looking out for the best interests of all workers and job creators, not just those in our biggest, wealthiest cities. The early results from our inclusive opportunity agenda are clear. After years of stagnation, we're beginning to see signs that rural America turned a corner in 2017.”   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6)     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KEN.TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, April 11, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2EGIERi                   YouTube: https://bit.ly/2GPEr3s McConnell: Speaker Ryan’s Optimism and Energy Never Waned ‘Two and a half years ago, Paul Ryan was drafted by his colleagues in the House to lead them through a new era. Like a true leader, Paul stepped up to the plate. He answered his colleagues’ call with exactly the earnest, selfless, and focused approach that has defined his entire career in Congress. The results have been beyond impressive… It has been a sincere pleasure and a real inspiration to work alongside this humble servant and happy warrior.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Speaker Paul Ryan’s announcement that he will not seek re-election: “This morning, Speaker Ryan announced to his colleagues that he’ll be departing the House at the conclusion of the 115th Congress. Two and a half years ago, Paul Ryan was drafted by his colleagues to lead the House through a new era. Like a true leader, Paul stepped up to the plate. He answered his colleagues’ call with exactly the earnest, selfless, and focused approach that has DOT-18-0010-A-000752 DOT_Am.Oversight-000752 defined his entire career in Congress. The results have been beyond impressive. “Capping off a remarkable twenty-year career in Congress, Paul’s speakership has yielded one signature accomplishment after another for his conference, his constituents in Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District, and the American people. True to his career-long reputation as a champion for pro-growth economics, Paul helped lead the way on last year’s once-in-a-generation rewrite of the nation’s tax code. Thanks in large part to his personal passion and expertise, tax reform became a reality, and our economy is charting a new course toward greater prosperity and opportunity. “On its own, this generational accomplishment would secure the Speaker’s legacy as a transformational conservative leader. But of course, it is far from the only fruit of his speakership. His leadership was vital to securing everything from the largest year-on-year increase in defense funding in fifteen years to a remaking of the way we treat and find cures for rare diseases.   “What’s more, Paul has paired that ambitious agenda with infectious good cheer and an unflagging commitment to serve all Americans. Amidst all the stresses and pressures of leadership, Paul’s optimism and energy never waned. It has been a sincere pleasure and a real inspiration to work alongside this humble servant and happy warrior.   “I’m glad we can count on his continued leadership through the rest of this year, because our work together is far from finished. I look forward to collaborating closely these next months to implement more of the inclusive, pro-growth, pro-opportunity agenda the American people are counting on us to keep advancing.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000753 DOT_Am.Oversight-000753 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, April 16, 2018 5:48:08 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 3:00 pm and resumed consideration of the House Message to accompany S.140, Tribal Labor Sovereignty.   A roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.140, Tribal Labor Sovereignty is happening now.   Other possible items this week:   · S.J. Res. 57, a joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the CFPB relating to the "Indirect Auto Lending and Compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act" (better known as the “Auto Lending CRA,” led by Sens. Moran and Toomey)   · S. 1129, Coast Guard Reauthorization   Looking  Ahead: Nominations   Please see Leader McConnell’s remarks below on several topics -  Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000754 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000754 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2HCJ2D9                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2H2fRwd Protecting Native American Sovereignty from Harmful Federal Regulation ‘This afternoon, the Senate will vote to advance legislation from Senator Moran that would bolster the proper sovereignty of American Indian tribes in the face of excessive federal regulation. From the passage of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935 all the way until 2004, the NLRB respected the sovereign status of tribal government employers.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding legislation that would protect American Indian tribes from harmful federal regulation:   “This afternoon, the Senate will vote to advance legislation from Senator Moran that would bolster the proper sovereignty of American Indian tribes in the face of excessive federal regulation. From the passage of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935 all the way until 2004, the NLRB respected the sovereign status of tribal government employers. “But because the law does not technically provide that exemption, the NLRB discarded that precedent in 2004 and has become entangled in local tribal decisions. By intervening in tribal affairs on a case-by-case basis, the NLRB has effectively been picking winners and losers among different businesses.   “The result has been regulatory confusion and a lessening of tribal governments’ authority to govern their own lands. This legislation would correct the 83-year-old oversight that led to this confusion. It would codify in law that federally-recognized tribal governments should be exempt from such regulation, just like other state and local governments.   “More than 160 tribes, tribal corporations, and tribal trade associations support Senator Moran’s legislation. I am proud to support it as well. And I urge every one of us to vote to advance the bill later this afternoon.”   ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000755 DOT_Am.Oversight-000755 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2H3Dxwd                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2qxhLef Tax Reform Means A Better Year Ahead For American Families ‘Tomorrow’s tax filing deadline is not exactly a national holiday. But millions of Americans use the end of tax season as a time to pause and take stock. In recent weeks, at kitchen tables in Kentucky and across the country, working families have been crunching the numbers. For too long, our country’s outdated and unfair tax code made life more difficult than it needed to be for middle-class families.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “Tomorrow’s tax filing deadline is not exactly a national holiday. But millions of Americans use the end of tax season as a time to pause and take stock. In recent weeks, at kitchen tables in Kentucky and across the country, working families have been crunching the numbers. For too long, our country’s outdated and unfair tax code made life more difficult than it needed to be for middle-class families. “Now Americans are rightly anticipating a better year ahead. And they aren’t having to wait long. President Trump is in Florida today to hold a roundtable discussion with small business owners. On Main Streets from Miami to Tallahassee, tax reform is empowering local employers to create more prosperity for their employees and communities.   “In Melbourne, the owner of Stellar Transport, a shuttle service that works closely with Florida’s elderly, is using tax savings to raise wages, expand paid vacation, and cover a 26 percent increase in healthcare costs for his 60 employees. In Jacksonville, Magellan Transport Logistics is planning to buy a new 47,000 square-foot facility and hire one hundred new employees as part of an ambitious plan to succeed under the new, pro-growth tax code.   “Of course, these are among just the first fruits of the U.S. economy under this historic new law. Millions of U.S. workers are receiving bonuses, raises, and special benefits. Not to mention lower utility rates and increased opportunities. And as employers adopt new withholding practices, more and more workers will see more of their own money going into their own pockets.   “Florida’s workers and entrepreneurs should be proud of Senator Rubio, who was instrumental in getting tax reform across the finish line. In particular, his efforts helped Republicans secure a significant increase in the child tax credit. It’s surprising that Florida’s senior senator didn’t want any part of all these tax cuts and new jobs. He took every opportunity to vote with every other Democrat and try to block these tax cuts from happening. Fortunately, Republicans overcame partisan opposition and made tax reform a reality.”   ###   AM CAN VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000756 DOT_Am.Oversight-000756       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S . SENATOR ft>r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2qBJKcO                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2ERqcW1 McConnell on Syria: It Was Time To Act ‘Over the weekend, America’s all-volunteer armed forces executed a challenging mission with precision and excellence. At the president’s order, the United States joined with our British and French allies in military action to respond to Bashar alAssad’s use of chemical weapons against the Syrian people. I support both the actions taken and the underlying objectives.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the U.S. military action in Syria that took place this past weekend:   “I want to begin this morning by commending the men and women who make up the world’s most capable military. “Over the weekend, America’s all-volunteer armed forces executed a challenging mission with precision and excellence. At the president’s order, the United States joined with our British and French allies in military action to respond to Bashar al-Assad’s use of chemical weapons against the Syrian people. I support both the actions taken and the underlying objectives. “The tactics the Assad regime has employed to consolidate gains and terrorize the people of Syria have stood in defiance of the clear U.S. position that the use of chemical weapons is unacceptable. It was time to act. “Americans have become used to flawless execution on the part of our uniformed military. Times like these compel us to pause and appreciate their excellence and heroism. We must remember that none of it could occur without extensive training, careful planning, robust investment, and the professionalism, dedication, and bravery of our service members.”   ###         DOT-18-0010-A-000757 DOT_Am.Oversight-000757 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2JODdmU Stenger to Serve as Sergeant at Arms ‘I appreciate Mike stepping up to this critical role. He is extremely well-qualified and will continue to serve the Senate and our nation well.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Monday announced the appointment of Michael C. Stenger as Senate Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. Stenger, a 35-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), has been the Chief of Staff for the U.S. Senate Sergeant as Arms (SAA) since January 2015. The Sergeant at Arms is the Senate’s chief law enforcement and protocol officer, and principal administrative manager for most support services in the United States Senate. Stenger succeeds Frank J. Larkin who has served as Sergeant at Arms since January 2015. “I appreciate Mike stepping up to this critical role,” McConnell said. “He is extremely well-qualified and will continue to serve the Senate and our nation well.”   Stenger began working for the SAA in 2011, serving as Assistant Sergeant at Arms for the Office of Protective Services and Continuity until his appointment as Deputy Sergeant at Arms in May 2014. Stenger received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Farleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey and attained the rank of Captain in the United States Marine Corps.   As Assistant Sergeant at Arms, Mr. Stenger was charged with overseeing security and continuity of operations policies and programs, and providing strategic and analytical assistance. Stenger was appointed in 2008 as Assistant Director for the USSS Office of Government and Public Affairs, where he administered USSS liaison activities with Congress, the Department of Homeland Security, other federal agencies, and members of the media and general public.   McConnell thanked outgoing Sergeant at Arms Frank Larkin for his service to the Senate community: “I can’t thank Frank enough for his work as Sergeant at Arms, his efforts to keep the Senate community safe, and the professional approach he’s taken to this critical role. I wish him well in his future endeavors.”   The largest in size of staff and budget in the Senate, the office of the Sergeant at Arms is also responsible for all Senate computers and technology support services, recording and photographic services, printing and graphics services and telecommunications services. The Sergeant at Arms also provides assistance to all Senate offices with their staffing, mailing, purchasing and financial needs.   ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000758 DOT_Am.Oversight-000758 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Thursday, April 19, 2018 11:54:06 AM Hello, The Senate convened at 10:00 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #609, James Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), post cloture (we are in the 30 hours post cloture on his nomination). At 1:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Bridenstine nomination. Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, April 19): Roll Call Votes: · Passage of S.J.Res.57, Auto Lending CRA. (Passed, 51-47) · Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.140, with a further amendment (Coast Guard). (Not Invoked, 56-42) · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #609, James Bridenstine, to be Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. (Invoked, 50-48) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #376, Carlos Muniz, to be General Counsel, Department of Education. (Confirmed, 55-43) UC Items: Cal.#361, S.Res.426 – International Women’s Day S.Res.463 – Young Children on the Senate Floor S.Res.474 – John Melcher S.Res.475 – 60th Anniversary NORAD S.Res.476 – 9-1-1 Education Month Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000759 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000759 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, April 23, 2018 12:32:59 PM Hello everyone,   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm today. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #624, Stuart Kyle Duncan, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Duncan nomination.   Later today, Senate Foreign Relations will process the nomination of Mike Pompeo to be Secretary of State. Please see information below on him from the Senate Republican Communications Center.   Looking Ahead: Nominations   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) t at ublicar1 Communicat· on Center 202•228•N EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2HfIqXt   Mike Pompeo, ‘A Highly Qualified Nominee’   Sen. Burr: ‘Somebody’s Going To Be Hard-Pressed To Show Me Anything That’s A Disqualifier Other Than Politics’ Sen. Corker: ‘We’re Much Better As A Nation Having Mike Pompeo As Secretary Of State’   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Here is a man who -- through mastery of the daily DOT-18-0010-A-000760 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000760 briefings he receives, counsel on our nation’s most sensitive intelligence activities, and proven leadership in returning our CIA to the aggressive gathering of foreign intelligence -- has inspired the confidence of not only the national clandestine service, but also the Commander-in-Chief. Hallmarks of Mike’s leadership are listening, trusting career staff, acting decisively, and treating everyone fairly…. [I]n confirming Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, the Senate can ensure the nation has a chief diplomat who enjoys the complete confidence of the president.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 4/19/2018)   SEN. BOB CORKER (R-TN), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman: “I view Mike Pompeo as a highly qualified nominee. I spent a lot of time with him privately on the phone. He did, I thought, an excellent job in his hearing…. He served his country. He’s been in the private sector…. He was a congressman. And now he has distinguished himself with his service as director of the C.I.A., by the way, in a position that I know many of my Democratic friends have lavished praise on him because of his transparency and honesty in dealing with them but also just the way that he has built an excellent culture there…. I hope that the members on the other side of the aisle that have not yet said how they are going to vote will think about the circumstances that we’re in today and feel like that they can support a highly qualified Secretary of State … I hope that people will think about this and realize that we’re much better as a nation having Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State than not having him as Secretary of State and will vote aye on the floor.” (Sen. Corker, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   · SEN. CORKER: “[M]y Democratic friends, who know that … the base, if you will, on the Left, will view this as a proxy vote in support of Trump, obviously are finding ways to not vote for him. This is very much against any kind of tradition that we’ve had here…. [A]nd there’s nothing in Pompeo’s past that, in any way, could possibly disqualify him from getting an up or down vote on the floor. And it should be overwhelming … I would just say to you and to everybody listening, and certainly my Democratic friends, are you kidding me? You don’t want someone like Mike Pompeo to go in with somebody like Secretary Mattis and ensure that the right kind of advice is given to our president … ?” (MSNBC’s “Andrea Mitchell Reports,” 4/19/2018)   SEN. RICHARD BURR (R-NC), Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman: “I think by all accounts, those of us who serve on the Intelligence Committee, those people within the Intelligence Community, but more importantly our partners around the world, in a very short period of time, have gained unbelievable respect for Mike Pompeo…. I’ve just described to you the background of Mike Pompeo. Somebody’s going to be hard-pressed to show me anything that’s a disqualifier other than politics.” (Sen. Burr, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   · SEN. BURR: “Let me remind my colleagues, we just confirmed him for his post. So he’s already been confirmed to serve in the administration in one of the most challenging jobs, the CIA Director. And for some reason people now find him that he’s not qualified to be the Secretary of State? What could it be other than politics that comes into play? I’m here to attest to my colleagues: Mike Pompeo is a good man.” (Sen. Burr, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   SEN. JOHN BARRASSO (R-WY): “Mike Pompeo has the intelligence, the integrity, and the experience to serve as America’s secretary of State. As a former member of Congress, he understands how policy decisions get made – and the key importance of congressional oversight. As head of the CIA, he understands the crucial role that the intelligence community plays in preserving America’s national security. As a soldier and West Point graduate, he understands the consequences of decisions that get made in Washington, D.C. And as a Harvard-trained lawyer, he understands and respects the rule of law. Mike knows the issues, he knows the people, and he is the right person for this job. He will be an excellent representative for our nation, and a seasoned veteran to implement President Trump’s foreign policy.” (Sen. Barrasso, Op-Ed, “Mike Pompeo is the right man for the State Department,” The Hill,  4/19/2018)   SEN. CORY GARDNER (R-CO): “We have somebody in Mike Pompeo with a solid background, an understanding DOT-18-0010-A-000761 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000761 of diplomacy and, clearly, the intelligence background through his time at the CIA, and now he would be denied this opportunity simply because of his political affiliation. This country deserves better. I urge my colleagues to stop this absurd obstruction and confirm Mike Pompeo, and let’s get to work achieving what could be lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.” (Sen. Gardner, Congressional Record, S. 2249, 4/18/2018)   SEN. MARCO RUBIO (R-FL): “I don’t think you have to agree with Mike Pompeo. You most certainly don’t have to feel that he’s the person you would have picked if you were president. But you need to recognize you’re not president. And none of us here are the president. The president deserves to have a team of people that he trusts and can work with who are qualified. I do not believe anyone can argue that Mike Pompeo is not qualified.” (Sen. Rubio, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   · SEN. RUBIO: “Hillary Clinton was nominated and confirmed in the Senate by a vote of 94 to 2. And I promise you that a significant number of the members on my side of the aisle may have respected Secretary Clinton but strongly disagreed with her and her views on a number of issues but nonetheless felt that the president deserved to have his nominee.” (Sen. Rubio, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   SEN. JAMES LANKFORD (R-OK): “Mike Pompeo is a friend…. [O]ne of the things I would want to come back to say is, meet him. You are going to find a fine leader who is dedicated to help our nation. Who has done it on the battlefield, who has done it as a representative, who has done it as the director of the CIA, and will do an incredible job helping us diplomatically world-wide in the State Department. I’m looking forward to supporting his nomination. Not because I’m a Republican and it’s a Republican nomination but because he is a quality individual that genuinely wants to help the country.” (Sen. Lankford, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   SEN. DAN SULLIVAN (R-AK): “Probably in terms of an individual in Washington, D.C. that has insights on what’s going on around the world in terms of our national security challenges, there’s probably no one who has more insights on this than [CIA Director] Mike Pompeo, right now. There is no doubt by any measure, by any standard, historical standard, when you look at our previous secretaries of state, Mike Pompeo is well qualified. He’s well qualified. But there is talk -- and I hope it’s only talk -- that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are going to en masse vote against him. Mr. President, this would be getting into some dangerous territory for the United States as a country. As I mentioned, the tradition in this body is to vote to support the president’s secretary of state, particularly if he or she is a well-qualified individual.” (Sen. Sullivan, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS     t ,at .-u 11 n Communica 202•228•N 1 • on Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2Hw6C74   DOT-18-0010-A-000762 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000762 ‘Are You Kidding Me?’ Overwhelming Bipartisan Support For Secretaries Of State Was A Long-Standing Senate Tradition   SEN. BOB CORKER (R-TN), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman: “[M]y Democratic friends, who know that … the base, if you will, on the Left, will view this as a proxy vote in support of Trump, obviously are finding ways to not vote for him. This is very much against any kind of tradition that we’ve had here…. [A]nd there’s nothing in Pompeo’s past that, in any way, could possibly disqualify him from getting an up or down vote on the floor. And it should be overwhelming … I would just say to you and to everybody listening, and certainly my Democratic friends, are you kidding me? You don’t want someone like Mike Pompeo to go in with somebody like Secretary Mattis and ensure that the right kind of advice is given to our president … ?” (MSNBC’s “Andrea Mitchell Reports,” 4/19/2018)   SEN. MARCO RUBIO (R-FL): “Hillary Clinton was nominated and confirmed in the Senate by a vote of 94 to 2. And I promise you that a significant number of the members on my side of the aisle may have respected Secretary Clinton but strongly disagreed with her and her views on a number of issues but nonetheless felt that the president deserved to have his nominee.” (Sen. Rubio, Floor Remarks, 4/19/2018)   ‘Who In America Doesn't Think A President, Democrat Or Republican, Deserves His Or Her Picks For Who Should Run The Agencies? Nobody.’   SEN. CHUCK SCHUMER (D-NY): “Who in America doesn't think a president, Democrat or Republican, deserves his or her picks for who should run the agencies? Nobody.” (Sen. Schumer, Press Conference, 11/21/2013)   SEN. BOB MENENDEZ (D-NJ): “I look forward to a very strong bipartisan vote [on Sen. John Kerry] that sends a very clear message to the world: This is America's representative. This is our Secretary of State. I believe he has earned that vote and that respect through a lifetime of work and the tremendous collegiality he has had among Members on both sides of the aisle, including those who may not agree with him on any given issue but have always respected the manner in which he has approached that issue.” (Sen. Menendez, Congressional Record, S. 351, 1/29/2013)   THEN-SEN. JOHN KERRY (D-MA): “[I]t is essential that we provide the president with the tools and the resources he needs to effect change. That starts by making sure he has the national security team he has chosen in place as soon as possible.” (Sen. Kerry, Congressional Record, S. 674, 1/21/2009)     Prior To Last Year Secretaries Of State Were Routinely Confirmed With More Than 90 Votes     Secretary of State Nominee John Kerry Hillary Clinton Condoleezza Rice Colin Powell Madeleine Albright Warren Christopher James Baker Confirmation Vote 94-3 94-2 85-13 Voice Vote 99-0 Voice Vote 99-0 Senate Democrats Once Said: ‘The President, Regardless Of What Party They Are From, Needs … To Have The Team They Want To Put In Place’   DOT-18-0010-A-000763 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000763 SEN. TOM CARPER (D-DE): “For folks who might be watching this from afar, this body used to operate very differently than it does today. The President would nominate people to serve in a cabinet or to serve as judges and there would be hearings. There would be debate. Sometimes people would disagree. But, certainly, for Cabinet appointments and for sub-Cabinet level appointments, for the most part, the President got the team he, or someday she, asked for.… The President, regardless of what party they are from, needs, for the most part, to have the team they want to put in place. They have been elected to lead. Let's give them a chance to lead.” (Sen. Carper, Congressional Record, S. 827, 2/26/2013)   SEN TIM KAINE (D-VA): “I think we owe deference to a president for choices to executive positions, and I think that that is a very important thing to grapple with. The American public choose someone to be president, they're giving that individual a mandate to govern, and that mandate includes the assembly of the team that the president feels is the appropriate team. …I approach any executive nomination with that in mind.” (U.S. Senate, Armed Services Committee, Hearing, 2/12/2013)   SEN. ANGUS KING (I-ME): “…I think our role is not to substitute our judgment for the president, not to say this is who we would have necessarily hired. But the deference goes to the president to build his team.” (U.S. Senate, Armed Services Committee, Hearing, 2/12/2013)   SEN. MICHAEL BENNET (D-CO): “I am worried about the willingness of other Americans to put their hand up and say ‘Let me serve’ for fear that they will get caught in the crazy politics of the Senate.” (Sen. Bennet, Congressional Record, S.1647, 3/19/2015)     ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000764 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000764 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, April 24, 2018 7:31:30 PM Hello everyone – The Senate was in session today and confirmed Executive Calendar #624, Stuart Kyle Duncan, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit - confirmed (50-47) – this is the 15th Circuit Court judge confirmed by Senate Republicans under President Trump. More info on this historic achievement below. The Senate will convene at 12:00 pm tomorrow, Wednesday, April 25th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. Please note, the Leader filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order today: 1. Cal. #788 - Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. 2. Cal. #619 - Richard Grenell, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Federal Republic of Germany. Also: at 10:30 am tomorrow, His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, will address a Joint Meeting of Congress from the Hall of the House of Representatives in the U.S. Capitol. C'est si bon! Today in the Senate (Tuesday, 4/24/18): Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal. #765 - Lt. Gen. Paul M. Nakasone to be General (USCYBERCOM/NSA) Wrap Up: H.R.2061 – North Korea Human Rights Act with a Rubio amendment S.Res.482 - Villanova Basketball Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000765 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000765 ,at ublicar1 Communicat·ons 2,02•228• Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2qWX0ba   15 Circuit Court Judges Confirmed   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “These are men and women who try to interpret laws as written or as the Constitution seems to specify.” (Bowling Green Daily News, 4/02/2018)   Circuit Court Judges Confirmed In 2018   FIFTEEN: Kyle Duncan of Louisiana confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-47 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit   · SEN. BILL CASSIDY (R-LA): “His breadth of experience makes him a great choice…. [Kyle Duncan] has extensive courtroom experience on the Tenth and Fifth Circuit Courts of Appeals, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, the Texas and Louisiana Supreme Courts, and he has twice argued in the U.S. Supreme Court. He has experience working in the public and private sectors and in academia…. He was the assistant solicitor general at the Texas attorney general's office and a professor at the University of Mississippi Law School. He is the appellate chief of the Louisiana Department of Justice. All of these are States included in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Again, this is the experience and background we should look for when selecting a judicial nominee…. His body of work also demonstrates his high respect for legal precedent. He understands that a judge is not an advocate for a particular case but, instead, an adjudicator upholding the law, applying the law to the facts. He is a man of high integrity, high character--something sorely needed in this world but especially to be demonstrable in the Federal judiciary.” (Sen. Cassidy, Congressional Record, S. 2337, 4/23/2018)   · SEN. JOHN KENNEDY (R-LA): “He’s argued over 30 cases in federal and state appellate courts…. He served in the office of Attorney General in the state of Louisiana as Appellate Chief. He’s represented my state, many high-profile cases … [T]hose who know Kyle and those who have participated in the vetting process know that he is articulate, he’s a careful thinker, he has a deep understanding of the importance of separation of powers. And for that reason he’s been supported by a bipartisan group of both current and former lawyers…. Mr. Duncan has developed an expertise in constitutional law…. If I didn’t think Kyle Duncan wouldn’t call the balls and the strikes based on the rule of law that we cherish in America, I wouldn't be standing here today. But he will.” (Sen. Kennedy, Floor Remarks, 4/24/2018)   FOURTEEN: Elizabeth L. Branch of Georgia confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 73 - 23 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit   · SEN. JOHNNY ISAKSON (R-GA): “I rise today with a great sense of pride and honor to commend to my fellow Senators today the name of Elizabeth ‘Lisa’ Branch, who has been nominated to be U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit for the United States of America by President Trump. … She’s a great lady, a great lawyer, and was named to the Court of Appeals in Georgia by Governor Nathan Deal of Georgia, the current governor DOT-18-0010-A-000766 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000766   · of the state. She will serve us in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals with honor and privilege in the United States of America.” (Sen. Isakson, Press Release, 2/26/2018) SEN. DAVID PERDUE (R-GA): “I’m proud to be here today to introduce an outstanding Georgian, Judge Lisa Branch, who has been nominated by President Trump to fill a vacancy on the Atlanta-based Eleventh Circuit. Judge Branch has enjoyed a distinguished legal career and has served with distinction on the bench. Judge Branch has served as a judge on the Court of Appeals of Georgia since 2012. She graduated from Emory University School of Law with distinction in 1994 and went on to serve as a law clerk to Judge J. Owen Forrester of the U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Georgia. Between 2004-2008, Judge Branch served as the Associate General Counsel for Rules and Legislation at the Department of Homeland Security and then as Counselor to the Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget. She then went on to become a partner in the commercial litigation department at Smith, Gambrell, & Russell in Atlanta before taking her seat on the Georgia Court of Appeals. I’m very proud to support Judge Branch’s nomination…” (Sen. Purdue, Press Release, 12/13/2017)   THIRTEEN: David Ryan Stras of Minnesota confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 56 - 42 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit   ·   SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY (R-IA): “Justice Stras is eminently qualified and exceptionally bright. He has received praise and support across the legal profession—and across the political spectrum. … I am convinced that Justice Stras will rule fairly and impartially, finding and applying the law as written—and not legislating from the bench. Justice Stras is a very accomplished, impressive nominee. He has a long judicial record of impartiality. I strongly support his nomination, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same.” (Sen. Grassley, Press Release, 1/29/2018) The 2017 Twelve   TWELVE: James C. Ho of Texas confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 53-43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit   ELEVEN: Don R. Willett of Texas confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-47 to be a Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit   ·   ·   SEN. JOHN CORNYN (R-TX): “Jim Ho and Justice Don Willett are two stars in the Texas legal firmament already. These nominees reflect the comprehensive process of both the bipartisan Texas Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee that Senator Cruz and I have established as well as the White House Counsel’s Office and the Department of Justice, and I commend the President on these excellent nominations.” (Sen. Cornyn, Press Release, 11/15/2017) SEN. TED CRUZ (R-TX): “Justice Don Willett and Jim Ho are nominees of deep intellect and principle… Both of them, with their remarkable academic backgrounds and professional careers, have demonstrated a commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. I am confident they will make extraordinary appellate judges, and look forward to their swift confirmation.” (Sens. Cornyn & Cruz, Press Release, 12/7/2017) TEN: Steven Grasz of Nebraska confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-48 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit   ·   · SEN. DEB FISCHER (R-NE): “Steve Grasz has extraordinary ethics, sterling credentials, and bipartisan support from across the state of Nebraska. Without a doubt, he is the right choice for this seat on the Eighth Circuit.” (Sen. Fischer, Press Release, 12/7/2017) SEN. BEN SASSE (R-NE): “Steve is a Nebraskan through and through. He’s a fifth-generation Nebraskan and like a lot of Nebraska kids, he grew up on a family farm – walking beans, raising sheep and pigs, branding DOT-18-0010-A-000767 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000767   cattle. That family farm in the Nebraska Panhandle taught hard work and honesty. The University of Nebraska taught him the law. … Steve stayed in Nebraska for law school, graduated at the top of his class, and was the Executive Editor of the Nebraska Law Review. Steve went to work for Nebraskans, serving as the Chief Deputy Attorney General for more than a decade.  He litigated multiple cases in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Nebraska Supreme Court. Whenever he was called on to argue on behalf of Nebraskans, Steve did so with integrity, humility, and decency. Steve bleeds Husker red but knows that a judge must clothe themselves in the black robes of impartiality.” (U.S. Senate, Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 11/1/2017) NINE: Gregory G. Katsas of Virginia confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 50-48 to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit   ·   SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY (R-IA), Judiciary Committee Chairman: “Greg Katsas … there’s no disputing that he’s very well qualified for this job. He has degrees from Princeton and Harvard, and he clerked for the Third Circuit, the D.C. Circuit, and the Supreme Court. He has years of experience in the public sector—where he led divisions at the Department of Justice—and in the private sector—where he was a partner at Jones Day. He currently serves as Deputy Counsel to the President in the White House Counsel’s Office. … [he] has served his country with distinction for many years.” (U.S. Senate, Judiciary Committee, Hearing, 11/9/2017) EIGHT: Stephanos Bibas of Pennsylvania confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 53 - 43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit   ·   SEN. PAT TOOMEY (R-PA): “Professor Bibas's outstanding credentials, wealth of experience, and understanding of the role of a judge in America's constitutional system make him well-qualified to serve as a judge. In addition to serving as a Professor of Law at the University of Pennsylvania and as the Director of the University's Supreme Court clinic, Professor Bibas clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, worked as a federal prosecutor, and argued six cases before the Supreme Court of the United States. Most importantly, Professor Bibas understands that the proper role of a judge is to apply the law as written and to treat everyone who comes before him equally, not to impose his policy preferences from the bench or choose winners or losers. I believe that Professor Bibas will make an outstanding addition to the Third Circuit and that his intellect, experience, and temperament will serve him well as a federal appellate judge.” (Sen. Toomey, Press Release, 11/3/2017) SEVEN: Allison H. Eid of Colorado confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 56 - 41 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit   · SEN. CORY GARDNER (R-CO): “It is an honor … and genuine pleasure to be here to introduce my good friend, Justice Allison Eid and to offer my strong support for her confirmation as a judge on the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. There's no doubt that Justice Eid is superbly qualified for the position… For the past decade, she has served as a justice on the Colorado Supreme Court and in 2008, Justice Eid was overwhelmingly retained by the people of Colorado. Prior to her appointment, Justice Eid represented the State of Colorado before the state and federal courts as the state’s solicitor general. She also served as a tenured member on the faculty at … the University of Colorado School of Law where she has taught courses in constitutional law, legislation and torts and published scholarly articles on the topics of federalism and tort law. In addition, Justice Eid has practiced commercial and appellate litigation at the Denver office of the law firm, Arnold & Porter. Justice Eid began her legal career as a law clerk to Judge Jerry Smith on the United States Circuit Court for the Fifth Circuit. She then served as a law clerk to the United States Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas…. What her resume makes clear is that whatever Justice Eid does, she does it at the highest and best levels.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 9/20/2017)   SIX: Joan Louise Larsen of Michigan confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 60 - 38 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit   SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY (R-IA): “Justice Larsen's nomination is supported by a broad coalition of lawyers, DOT-18-0010-A-000768 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000768 · judges, academic colleagues…. Justice Larsen began her legal career clerking for Justice Sentelle of the D.C. Circuit and Justice Scalia on the Supreme Court…. Justice Larsen has taught constitutional law and criminal law at the University of Michigan Law School since 1998, where she has earned the respect of faculty members and students alike. She won the L. Hart Wright Award for Excellence in Teaching early in her career…. Justice Larsen served as deputy assistant attorney general in the office of legal counsel, working to provide legal advice to the president and executive agencies on difficult issues of constitutional law and statutory interpretation.” (U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, 9/06/2017)   FIVE: Amy Coney Barrett of Indiana confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 55 - 43 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit,   ·   SEN. TODD YOUNG (R-IN): “I rise today to speak in support of a fellow Hoosier, Amy Coney Barrett, who has been nominated by President Trump to serve on the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Professor Barrett’s credentials are well known. She is a mother of seven children, a distinguished legal scholar at the University of Notre Dame Law School, where she herself graduated with high honors and served as editor of the Notre Dame Law Review. She clerked for Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court of the United States and Judge Silberman on the Circuit Court for the District of Columbia, and she is an expert on the Federal courts. … She brings the skill set and the temperament needed for the job. She will rule according to the law and according to controlling precedents, and she will be faithful to the Constitution. There is no question that Professor Barrett will make an outstanding appellate judge. … This is a historic opportunity, as Professor Barrett would be the first Hoosier woman to have a seat on the Seventh Circuit Court.” (Sen. Young, Congressional Record, S.6906, 10/31/2017) FOUR: Ralph R. Erickson of North Dakota confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 95 - 1 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit   ·   SEN. JOHN HOEVEN (R-ND): “Judge Erickson has served the people of North Dakota and the United States well on the U.S District Court and I support his nomination to serve on the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals… Judge Erickson has tremendous experience having served for 23 years in various judicial positions from his start as a Magistrate judge to his current position on the U.S. District Court. Throughout his career, he has upheld the rule of law and shown deep respect for the Constitution.” (Sen. Hoeven, Press Release, 6/7/2017) THREE: Kevin Christopher Newsom of Alabama confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 66 - 31 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit   ·   SEN. RICHARD SHELBY (R-AL): “As the former solicitor general of Alabama, Kevin has proved to be an exceptionally skilled attorney. He understands and respects the law, and I believe he will be an asset to our Nation’s judicial system as a Federal judge on the Eleventh Circuit. … I am confident that Kevin Newsom will serve honorably and apply the law with impartiality and fairness, which I believe is required of all judges. I believe that President Trump has made the right decision in selecting Kevin Newsom to sit on the Eleventh Circuit.” (Sen. Shelby, Congressional Record, S.4640, 8/01/2017) TWO: John Kenneth Bush of Kentucky confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 51 - 47 to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit   ·   SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “President Trump made an excellent choice in nominating Mr. Bush to serve as a Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit… an impressive nominee, with a strong legal ability and a thoughtful demeanor. …as a judge, he will be open-minded, fair, and committed to the rule of law.” (Sen. McConnell, Press Release, 6/14/2017) ONE: Amul R. Thapar of Kentucky confirmed by the Senate by Yea-Nay Vote 52 - 44 to be United States Circuit DOT-18-0010-A-000769 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000769 Judge for the Sixth Circuit   ·   SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Judge Thapar will make an outstanding addition to the U.S. Appeals Court for the Sixth Circuit. He has a reputation as a qualified judge with an impressive legal mind. He will fairly apply the law to all who enter his courtroom because, in Judge Thapar’s own words, ‘the most important attribute of a judge is to be open-minded and not to prejudge a case without reading the briefs, researching the law, and hearing from the parties.’ … Judge Thapar has the necessary credentials, integrity, and respect from his colleagues to join the Sixth Circuit.” (Sen. McConnell, Press Release, 5/25/2017) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS         DOT-18-0010-A-000770 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000770 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Friday, April 27, 2018 12:36:49 PM Hi Everyone –   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm on Monday, May 7th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   At 5:30 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Engelhardt nomination.   Please note – Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how they will be processed):   1. Cal. #673 - Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 2. Cal. #690 - Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 3. Cal. #729 - Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 4. Cal. #777 - John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. 5. Cal. #780 - Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 6. Cal. #781 - Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. At a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. FYI: The Senate will convene for pro forma session only with no business conducted on the following dates at the following times: Monday, April 30th at 2:30 pm & Thursday, May 3rd at 10:30 am   Yesterday in the Senate (Thursday, April 26, 2018): Roll Call Votes: · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. Invoked. (57-42) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. Confirmed. (57-42) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #619, Richard Grenell, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Federal Republic of Germany. Confirmed. (56-42)   Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal. #621 - Yleem D. S. Poblete, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Verification and DOT-18-0010-A-000771 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000771 Compliance). Cal. #789 - Thomas J. Hushek, of Wisconsin, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of South Sudan. Cal. #790 - Kirsten Dawn Madison, of Florida, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs). Cal. #774 - Kenneth Steven Barbic, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Agriculture. Cal. #768 - Timothy A. Garrison, of Missouri, to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri for the term of four years. Cal. #769 - Kenji M. Price, of Hawaii, to be United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii for the term of four years. Cal. #770 - John Cary Bittick, of Georgia, to be United States Marshal for the Middle District of Georgia for the term of four years. Cal. #771 - David L. Lyons, of Georgia, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Georgia for the term of four years. Cal. #772 - Rodney D. Ostermiller, of Montana, to be United States Marshal for the District of Montana for the term of four years. Cal. #784 - Nicola T. Hanna, of California, to be United States Attorney for the Central District of California for the term of four years. Cal. #785 - Steven L. Gladden, of North Carolina, to be United States Marshal for the Middle District of North Carolina for the term of four years. Cal. #786 - Brendan O. Heffner, of Illinois, to be United States Marshal for the Central District of Illinois for the term of four years. Cal. #787 - Theodor G. Short, of Maine, to be United States Marshal for the District of Maine for the term of four years. Cal. #821 - Jon Parrish Peede, of Mississippi, to be Chairperson of the National Endowment for the Humanities for a term of four years. Cal. #773 - Hannibal Ware, of the Virgin Islands, to be Inspector General, Small Business Administration. Cal. #775 - Joseph L. Falvey, Jr., of Michigan, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term of fifteen years. Cal. #776 - Paul R. Lawrence, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Cal. #710 - Rohit Chopra, of New York, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the unexpired term of seven years from September 26, 2012. Cal. #711 - Noah Joshua Phillips, of Maryland, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2016. Cal. #712 - Joseph Simons, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2017. Cal. #713 - Christine S. Wilson, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the unexpired term of seven years from September 26, 2011. Cal. #714 - Christine S. Wilson, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2018. (Reappointment) Cal. #825 - Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, of Maryland, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000772 DOT_Am.Oversight-000772 seven years from September 26, 2015. Cal. #757 - Andrea L. Thompson, of South Dakota, to be Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. MILITARY PROMOTIONS AIR FORCE Cal. #791 - Maj. Gen. Dorothy A. Hogg to be Lieutenant General NAVY Cal. #792 - Rear Adm. Richard P. Snyder to be Vice Admiral Cal. #793 - Vice Adm. John C. Aquilino to be Admiral Cal. #794 - Vice Adm. Charles A. Richard to be Vice Admiral Cal. #795 - Capt. Gregory N. Todd to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #796 - Capt. John S. Lemmon to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #797 – The following to be Rear Admiral:               Rear Adm. (lh) Ronald C. Copley               Rear Adm. (lh) Kathleen M. Creighton Cal. #798 – The following to be Rear Admiral:              Rear Adm. (lh) Brian K. Corey  Rear Adm. (lh) Lorin C. Selby  Rear Adm. (lh) Johnny R. Wolfe, Jr. Cal. #799 - Rear Adm. (lh) Darse E. Crandall to be Rear Admiral Cal. #800 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half): Capt. Kristen B. Fabry  Capt. Joseph D. Noble, Jr. Cal. #801 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half):               Capt. Heidi K. Berg               Capt. Michael A. Brookes Capt. William E. Chase, III Cal. #802 - Capt. John J. Adametz to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #803 - Capt. Thomas J. Anderson to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #804 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half): Capt. James A. Aiken  Capt. Richard J. Cheeseman, Jr. Capt. Craig A. Clapperton  Capt. Keith B. Davids  Capt. Joseph A. Diguardo, Jr.  Capt. Leonard C. Dollaga  Capt. Christopher S. Gray  Capt. John E. Gumbleton  Capt. James A. Kirk  Capt. Timothy J. Kott Capt. Fredrick R. Luchtman Capt. Brendan R. McLane  Capt. Scott W. Pappano  Capt. Ryan B. Scholl  Capt. Lance G. Scott  DOT-18-0010-A-000773 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000773 Capt. Philip E. Sobeck  Capt. John D. Spencer  Capt. Douglas C. Verissimo Capt. George M. Wikoff AIR FORCE Cal. #805 - Gen. Terrence J. O'Shaughnessy to be General Cal. #806 - Col. Michael T. Gerock to be Brigadier General ARMY Cal. #807 - Maj. Gen. Stephen G. Fogarty to be Lieutenant General Cal. #808 - Brig. Gen. Raymond S. Dingle to be Major General Cal. #809 - Maj. Gen. Francis M. Beaudette to be Lieutenant General Cal. #810 – The following to be Major General:               Brig. Gen. Eugene J. LeBoeuf  Brig. Gen. Stephen E. Strand               The following to be Brigadier General:               Col. Aida T. Borras  Col. Vincent E. Buggs  Col. Barry E. Edberg  Col. Cheryn L. Fasano Col. Stephen Iacovelli  Col. Isaac Johnson, Jr.  Col. James J. Kokaska, Jr.   Col. Joseph M. Lestorti  Col. Edward H. Merrigan, Jr.  Col. Michael D. Roache  Col. Beth A. Salisbury  Col. Charles S. Sentell, III  Col. Jamelle C. Shawley  Col. Robert E. Suter NAVY Cal. #811 - Adm. Philip S. Davidson to be Admiral Cal. #812 - Rear Adm. David M. Kriete to be Vice Admiral Cal. #813 - Rear Adm. (lh) Michelle C. Skubic to be Rear Admiral Cal. #814 - The following to be Rear Admiral: Rear Adm. (lh) Eugene H. Black, III  Rear Adm. (lh) William D. Byrne, Jr.  Rear Adm. (lh) Marc H. Dalton  Rear Adm. (lh) John V. Fuller  Rear Adm. (lh) Michael P. Holland  Rear Adm. (lh) Hugh W. Howard, III  Rear Adm. (lh) Jeffrey W. Hughes  Rear Adm. (lh) Thomas E. Ishee  Rear Adm. (lh) Roy I. Kitchener  Rear Adm. (lh) Stephen T. Koehler Rear Adm. (lh) Samuel J. Paparo, Jr.  AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000774 DOT_Am.Oversight-000774 Rear Adm. (lh) Jeffrey E. Trussler Rear Adm. (lh) William W. Wheeler, III  Rear Adm. (lh) Kenneth R. Whitesell Cal. #815 - Rear Adm. (lh) Brent W. Scott to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #816 - Capt. Darin K. Via to be Rear Admiral (lower half) MARINE CORPS Cal. #817 - Lt. Gen. Michael G. Dana to be Lieutenant General Cal. #818 - Lt. Gen. David H. Berger to be Lieutenant General Cal. #819 – the following to be Brigadier General: Col. Stephen E. Liszewski  Col. Lorna M. Mahlock  Col. David L. Odom  Col. Arthur J. Pasagian  Col. Sean M. Salene  Col. Kevin J. Stewart  Col. William H. Swan  Col. Calvert L. Worth, Jr. Cal. #820 - Maj. Gen. Charles G. Chiarotti to be Lieutenant General And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Foreign Service. Wrap Up: S.Res.440 – Second Chance Month S.Res.464 – Daughters and Sons to Work Day S.Res.489 – World Malaria Day S.Res.490 – Financial Literacy S.Res.491 – Independent Transportation S.Res.492 – Safe Digging S.Res.493 – Notre Dame Women’s Basketball S.Res.494 – Hoosiers Women’s Basketball S.Res.495 – Public Service S.Res.496 – Dia de los Ninos S.Res.497 – Cinco de Mayo S.Res.498 – Small Business Week S.Res.499 – National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention S.Res.500 – Legal Counsel DOT-18-0010-A-000775 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000775 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, May 07, 2018 4:59:59 PM Hello everyone – welcome back! The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. At 5:30 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Engelhardt nomination.   ***Please note – before the recess Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how they will be processed; at 5:30 pm today the pending cloture motions will ripen): 1. Cal. #673 - Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 2. Cal. #690 - Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 3. Cal. #729 - Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 4. Cal. #777 - John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. 5. Cal. #780 - Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 6. Cal. #781 - Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   Also -- at a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. Also/FYI -- This Wednesday at 9:30 am, the Senate Select Intelligence Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Gina Haspel to be CIA Director.  The hearing will be held in SH-216.   Please read a few excerpts from Leader McConnell on the floor this afternoon (full remarks below) -Senator McConnell: (3:02 p.m.) •           Spoke in tribute to Michael Beaver. o          “Michael Beaver was a talented attorney who served as the Senate’s assistant parliamentarian. That followed service as deputy legislative counsel for the State of California. He was 39 years old. He leaves behind his wife Gilda, his two beloved sons, Bradley and Connor, his parents and an extended family that mourns his loss.” •           Spoke on the pending judicial nominations. o          “Accordingly the six circuit court nominees we'll now consider have excellent reputations in the legal field and have demonstrated they understand the proper role of federal judges in our government. First up is Kurt D. Engelhardt of Louisiana, the president's choice to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Senate previously confirmed Kurt D. Engelhardt by a voice vote to the Eastern District of Louisiana. Since then he has strengthened his thoughtfulness. His legal peers describe him as, quote, very conscious and fair and independent minded. The American bar association agrees.” •           Spoke on Republican economic policies. · “16 months into this Trump administration, and the percentage of American workers who are DOT-18-0010-A-000776 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000776 unemployed, underemployed, or giving up finding a job is smaller than it ever was in any of the Obama years. In fact, it hasn't been this low since 2001. Let me say that again, less under employment, unemployment, and discouragement than in the past 8 years. And there are fewer receiving unemployment benefits since 1973. We all know these economic indicators can be noisy, but the big overall shift from the Obama era is impossible to deny.” Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR fo r K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, May 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2K3I7Mh                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2rqD5T0 Senate to Consider More Extremely Well-Qualified Circuit Court Nominees This Week ‘A thoughtful, independent, and expert judiciary is a cornerstone of our constitutional order. It’s been the case since the very beginning. Accordingly, the six circuit court nominees we’ll now consider have excellent reputations in the legal field, and have demonstrated they understand the proper role of federal judges in our government.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding circuit court nominees, including the president’s nominee for the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, Kurt Engelhardt:  “This week, the Senate will consider another slate of extremely well-qualified nominees for seats on the federal bench. A thoughtful, independent, and expert judiciary is a cornerstone of our constitutional order. It’s been the case since the very beginning. “Accordingly, the six circuit court nominees we’ll now consider have excellent reputations in the legal field, and have demonstrated they understand the proper role of federal judges in our government. First up is Kurt Engelhardt of Louisiana, the president’s choice to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.   “The Senate previously confirmed Judge Engelhardt, by voice vote, to the federal trial bench in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Since then, he’s only strengthened his reputation for fairness and DOT-18-0010-A-000777 DOT_Am.Oversight-000777 thoughtfulness. In the latest edition of the Almanac of the Federal Judiciary, his legal peers describe him as, quote, ‘very conscientious,’ and ‘fair and independent minded.’   “The American Bar Association agrees. It awarded Judge Engelhardt its highest possible rating of ‘unanimously well-qualified.’ I urge every one of my colleagues to join me in voting to advance Judge Engelhardt’s nomination later this afternoon.”   ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, May 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2wn9pLD                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2rpk3fS More Business, More Investment, More Job Openings, and Higher Pay ‘Just sixteen months into the Trump Administration and this Republican Congress, the percentage of American workers who are unemployed, underemployed, or have given up finding a job is already smaller than it ever was in the Obama years. In fact, it hasn’t been this low since 2001. Let me say that again. Less unemployment, underemployment, and discouragement today than at any point in the last 17 years.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Now on one final matter, in storefront windows across America, new signs are going up - signs that many communities haven’t seen in years. ‘Now Hiring.’ “Just sixteen months into the Trump Administration and this Republican Congress, the percentage of American workers who are unemployed, underemployed, or have given up finding a job is already smaller than it ever was in the Obama years. In fact, it hasn’t been this low since 2001. Let me say that again. Less unemployment, underemployment, and discouragement today than at any point in the last 17 years. “Or we can look at how many Americans are receiving unemployment benefits. The answer is: Fewer today than at any point since 1973. We all know these economic indicators can be noisy. But the big overall shift from the Obama era is impossible to deny.   “Republican policies have taken Washington’s foot off the brake of the U.S. economy. We’ve rolled back a host of job-killing regulations. We’ve passed historic tax reform for middle-class families and job creators. These Republican policies have helped to unleash a dynamic, growing economy that’s producing many more new jobs. It’s putting the stagnation of the last decade to shame. That means sidelined workers get the chance to check back into the game.   “It means renewal is coming to so many of the small towns, small cities, and rural areas that had to sit and watch as Democratic policies funneled nearly all the new wealth and new jobs into our DOT-18-0010-A-000778 DOT_Am.Oversight-000778 nation’s biggest and bluest urban areas. It means higher wages, as local businesses are forced to compete again for the best workers.   “I recently read about a man named Chandler Steffy. He owns a roofing company in Iowa. Three years ago, in the Obama economy, his laborers earned less than $15 per hour. Today is a different story. Now, the unemployment rate in Iowa is under three percent, and Mr. Steffy pays $25 per hour to attract the best talent.   “American small businesses doing well, and outbidding each other for American workers. It feels good, doesn’t it? After ten years of Democratic policies, this had practically become a foreign concept. Not anymore. It’s a new day. More business for job creators… which means more good jobs that need filling… which leads to higher pay for workers. This is happening all over the country.   “Rich Obermark owns a small contracting business in Paducah, Kentucky. They retrofit electrical systems, A/V equipment, and gas piping. He wrote me to explain, quote, ‘for our small company, the tax cuts will mean [we’ll] be able to afford more trucks and tools.’ Tax reform, he said, ‘will allow us to invest back into our company which will in turn allow us to hire more people.’   “More business, more investment, more job openings, and higher pay for workers as a consequence. After eight years of Democratic policies, this sure is a sight for sore eyes. And this is only the beginning. These are only the early returns from Republicans’ pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KEN.TU CKY u.s. SENATOR fo r 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, May 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2K41zsm                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2FSGM8k Senate Remembers Michael Beaver ‘The Senate’s prayers are with all of Michael’s family and friends at this immensely difficult hour.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor in memory of Assistant Senate Parliamentarian, Michael Beaver: “First, I’d like to pay respects to a member of the Senate family who tragically passed away last week. Michael Beaver was a talented attorney who served as the Senate’s Assistant Parliamentarian. That followed service as Deputy Legislative Counsel for the state of California. “Michael was just 39 years old. He leaves behind his wife Gilda, his two beloved sons Bradley and Connor, his parents, and an extended family that mourns his loss. They’re joined by Michael’s colleagues here on the Senate staff, in the Secretary’s Office and floor staff on both sides of the aisle, and throughout the institution. DOT-18-0010-A-000779 DOT_Am.Oversight-000779 “The Senate’s prayers are with all of Michael’s family and friends at this immensely difficult hour.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000780 DOT_Am.Oversight-000780 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, May 09, 2018 9:25:04 AM Hi everyone, The Senate will convene at 10:00 am today, Wednesday, May 9, 2018. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit, post-cloture.   At 12:00 pm today the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Engelhardt nomination. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #690, Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   *Please note –Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how they will be processed this week): 1. Cal. #673 - Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 2. Cal. #690 - Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 3. Cal. #729 - Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 4. Cal. #777 - John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. 5. Cal. #780 - Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 6. Cal. #781 - Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   Also -- at a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. Also/FYI -- at 9:30 am today, the Senate Select Intelligence Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Gina Haspel to be CIA Director.  The hearing will be held in SH-216. *FYI: There were no roll call votes and no wrap up items during yesterday’s session of the Senate. Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000781 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000781 Leader McConnell on the Senate Floor yesterday afternoon –   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2K3wsgh YouTube: https://youtu.be/bSnVb2qtEWk Two Different Philosophies, Two Different Outcomes for American Workers and Middle-Class Families ‘The headwinds that blew in the face of American entrepreneurs and small business owners for eight years have died down. Now, the wind is at their backs… For eight years, Democrats operated from the left-wing premise that businesses need to lose in order for workers to win…Fortunately, Republicans have taken a different approach -- one that doesn’t assume that Washington bureaucrats know best.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda:   “It seems that every day brings another piece of good news for middle-class workers and families -and, like clockwork, another desperate attempt by my Democratic colleagues to convince everyone that this growing tide of new prosperity is somehow a bad thing.   “In the last few weeks alone, the percentage of Americans who are unemployed, underemployed, or who’ve given up finding a job has dropped to a 17-year low. Recently, new jobless claims reached their lowest level since 1969. And the total number Americans receiving unemployment benefits is as small as it’s been since 1973.   DOT-18-0010-A-000782 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000782 “Let me put that another way. Notwithstanding 45 years of population growth, there are fewer total Americans receiving unemployment benefits under President Trump and this Republican Congress than at any point under Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, or Obama.   “Now, we all know economic indicators can be volatile. And Washington D.C. is far from the only force behind them. In fact, getting the federal government out of the way is often the solution.   “The headwinds that blew in the face of American entrepreneurs and small business owners for eight years have died down. Now, the wind is at their backs.   “In December 2017, after just one year of Republican policies, optimism among American manufacturers hit the highest level ever recorded. In large part, that’s because Washington had gotten out of their way. Back in 2013, more than 75 percent of manufacturers said an unfavorable business climate from taxes and regulations was a top concern. Now, fewer than 19 percent have that worry.   “This is a real-life experiment in two different governing philosophies. For eight years, Democrats operated from the left-wing premise that businesses need to lose in order for workers to win. So they raised taxes, passed mammoth new regulations like Dodd-Frank and Obamacare, and let runaway agencies like the EPA run roughshod over American businesses. That’s what got us such lackluster results, year after year.   “Fortunately, Republicans have taken a different approach -- one that doesn’t assume that Washington bureaucrats know best. We know that American workers can only thrive if thriving American businesses are creating jobs and raising wages. So we’ve worked to enact an inclusive opportunity agenda to bring greater prosperity to everyone. And that is exactly what’s beginning to happen.   “From Florida to Indiana, Fifth Third Bank is raising its minimum wage for employees. Kroger is planning to hire six hundred new associates across my home state of Kentucky. Nationwide data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the amount employers spend on salaries and benefits grew more in 2017 than in any calendar year under President Obama.   “Two different philosophies, and just 16 months in, two very different outcomes for American workers and middle-class families.”   ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000783 DOT_Am.Oversight-000783 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2KKYIp6 YouTube: https://youtu.be/q6SPBe4yxPc Senate Continues Work to Confirm President’s Well-Qualified Circuit Court Nominees ‘Following the confirmation of Judge Engelhardt, the Senate will proceed to consideration of Michael Brennan of Wisconsin to serve as United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding circuit court nominees, including the president’s nominee for the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, Michael Brennan:   “Yesterday, the Senate advanced the nomination of the first of this week’s judicial nominees, Judge Kurt Engelhardt. Those who join him on this latest slate for consideration are each well-qualified. Each has received thorough examination from the Judiciary Committee. And each stands ready to serve on the federal bench.   “Following the confirmation of Judge Engelhardt, the Senate will proceed to consideration of Michael Brennan of Wisconsin to serve as United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. Mr. Brennan’s nomination comes as only the latest distinction in a career marked by impressive legal accomplishments.   “In both public service and private practice, this graduate of Notre Dame and Northwestern Law School has developed a reputation for a keen legal mind and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. According to current and former peers on the Milwaukee County Circuit Court, Mr. Brennan has, quote, ‘the mind, heart and soul of a great jurist,’ and a ‘keen understanding of the legal issues in sophisticated and complex litigation.’ DOT-18-0010-A-000784 DOT_Am.Oversight-000784   “Like Judge Engelhardt, Mr. Brennan has my full support, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in voting to confirm another fine nominee this week.”   ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2IrhvYn McConnell Statement on Iran Deal ‘I share the objective and commitment made by the President that Iran should never be able to acquire or develop a nuclear weapon.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement on the Iran Deal:   “The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action represented a deeply flawed agreement which President Trump has determined is not in the national security interests of the United States.  Iran’s malign behavior across the broader Middle East—support to proxies such as Shia militias within Iraq, Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen, and militias inside of Syria, use of cyber-attacks, support for terrorism, and pursuit of an advanced ballistic missile program—must all be addressed in a wider regional effort.  “Our European partners now have an opportunity to come back to the table with Secretary Pompeo and negotiate the best terms to create either a better agreement, or a maximum pressure campaign against Iran.  I share the objective and commitment made by the President that Iran should never be able to acquire or develop a nuclear weapon.”   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000785 DOT_Am.Oversight-000785     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2HXvQMx YouTube: https://youtu.be/lOoFOv-7n8g Senate Honors United States Capitol Police Officers Fallen in the Line of Duty   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor recognizing the memorial service in honor of the United States Capitol Police officers who died in line of duty:   “An important tribute took place here in the Capitol this morning -- the fifth annual memorial service for the four United States Capitol Police officers who have died in the line of duty.   “Sergeant Christopher Eney, Officer Jacob Chestnut, Detective John Gibson, and Sergeant Clinton Holtz were remembered with a wreath-laying in the Capitol Visitors’ Center.   “This year’s ceremony marked the 20th anniversary of the 1998 Capitol shooting, when both Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson were killed.   “Next week is National Police Week, and I’ll have more to say about the heroism of the professionals who put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep others safe. Today, the Senate honors the memories of these four fallen heroes.”   DOT-18-0010-A-000786 DOT_Am.Oversight-000786 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, May 09, 2018 9:25:04 AM Hi everyone, The Senate will convene at 10:00 am today, Wednesday, May 9, 2018. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit, post-cloture.   At 12:00 pm today the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Engelhardt nomination. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #690, Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   *Please note –Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how they will be processed this week): 1. Cal. #673 - Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 2. Cal. #690 - Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 3. Cal. #729 - Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 4. Cal. #777 - John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. 5. Cal. #780 - Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 6. Cal. #781 - Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   Also -- at a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. Also/FYI -- at 9:30 am today, the Senate Select Intelligence Committee will hold a hearing on the nomination of Gina Haspel to be CIA Director.  The hearing will be held in SH-216. *FYI: There were no roll call votes and no wrap up items during yesterday’s session of the Senate. Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000788 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000788 Leader McConnell on the Senate Floor yesterday afternoon –   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2K3wsgh YouTube: https://youtu.be/bSnVb2qtEWk Two Different Philosophies, Two Different Outcomes for American Workers and Middle-Class Families ‘The headwinds that blew in the face of American entrepreneurs and small business owners for eight years have died down. Now, the wind is at their backs… For eight years, Democrats operated from the left-wing premise that businesses need to lose in order for workers to win…Fortunately, Republicans have taken a different approach -- one that doesn’t assume that Washington bureaucrats know best.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda:   “It seems that every day brings another piece of good news for middle-class workers and families -and, like clockwork, another desperate attempt by my Democratic colleagues to convince everyone that this growing tide of new prosperity is somehow a bad thing.   “In the last few weeks alone, the percentage of Americans who are unemployed, underemployed, or who’ve given up finding a job has dropped to a 17-year low. Recently, new jobless claims reached their lowest level since 1969. And the total number Americans receiving unemployment benefits is as small as it’s been since 1973.   DOT-18-0010-A-000789 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000789 “Let me put that another way. Notwithstanding 45 years of population growth, there are fewer total Americans receiving unemployment benefits under President Trump and this Republican Congress than at any point under Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, or Obama.   “Now, we all know economic indicators can be volatile. And Washington D.C. is far from the only force behind them. In fact, getting the federal government out of the way is often the solution.   “The headwinds that blew in the face of American entrepreneurs and small business owners for eight years have died down. Now, the wind is at their backs.   “In December 2017, after just one year of Republican policies, optimism among American manufacturers hit the highest level ever recorded. In large part, that’s because Washington had gotten out of their way. Back in 2013, more than 75 percent of manufacturers said an unfavorable business climate from taxes and regulations was a top concern. Now, fewer than 19 percent have that worry.   “This is a real-life experiment in two different governing philosophies. For eight years, Democrats operated from the left-wing premise that businesses need to lose in order for workers to win. So they raised taxes, passed mammoth new regulations like Dodd-Frank and Obamacare, and let runaway agencies like the EPA run roughshod over American businesses. That’s what got us such lackluster results, year after year.   “Fortunately, Republicans have taken a different approach -- one that doesn’t assume that Washington bureaucrats know best. We know that American workers can only thrive if thriving American businesses are creating jobs and raising wages. So we’ve worked to enact an inclusive opportunity agenda to bring greater prosperity to everyone. And that is exactly what’s beginning to happen.   “From Florida to Indiana, Fifth Third Bank is raising its minimum wage for employees. Kroger is planning to hire six hundred new associates across my home state of Kentucky. Nationwide data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the amount employers spend on salaries and benefits grew more in 2017 than in any calendar year under President Obama.   “Two different philosophies, and just 16 months in, two very different outcomes for American workers and middle-class families.”   ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000790 DOT_Am.Oversight-000790 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2KKYIp6 YouTube: https://youtu.be/q6SPBe4yxPc Senate Continues Work to Confirm President’s Well-Qualified Circuit Court Nominees ‘Following the confirmation of Judge Engelhardt, the Senate will proceed to consideration of Michael Brennan of Wisconsin to serve as United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding circuit court nominees, including the president’s nominee for the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, Michael Brennan:   “Yesterday, the Senate advanced the nomination of the first of this week’s judicial nominees, Judge Kurt Engelhardt. Those who join him on this latest slate for consideration are each well-qualified. Each has received thorough examination from the Judiciary Committee. And each stands ready to serve on the federal bench.   “Following the confirmation of Judge Engelhardt, the Senate will proceed to consideration of Michael Brennan of Wisconsin to serve as United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. Mr. Brennan’s nomination comes as only the latest distinction in a career marked by impressive legal accomplishments.   “In both public service and private practice, this graduate of Notre Dame and Northwestern Law School has developed a reputation for a keen legal mind and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. According to current and former peers on the Milwaukee County Circuit Court, Mr. Brennan has, quote, ‘the mind, heart and soul of a great jurist,’ and a ‘keen understanding of the legal issues in sophisticated and complex litigation.’ DOT-18-0010-A-000791 DOT_Am.Oversight-000791   “Like Judge Engelhardt, Mr. Brennan has my full support, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in voting to confirm another fine nominee this week.”   ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2IrhvYn McConnell Statement on Iran Deal ‘I share the objective and commitment made by the President that Iran should never be able to acquire or develop a nuclear weapon.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement on the Iran Deal:   “The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action represented a deeply flawed agreement which President Trump has determined is not in the national security interests of the United States.  Iran’s malign behavior across the broader Middle East—support to proxies such as Shia militias within Iraq, Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen, and militias inside of Syria, use of cyber-attacks, support for terrorism, and pursuit of an advanced ballistic missile program—must all be addressed in a wider regional effort.  “Our European partners now have an opportunity to come back to the table with Secretary Pompeo and negotiate the best terms to create either a better agreement, or a maximum pressure campaign against Iran.  I share the objective and commitment made by the President that Iran should never be able to acquire or develop a nuclear weapon.”   ### DOT-18-0010-A-000792 DOT_Am.Oversight-000792     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2HXvQMx YouTube: https://youtu.be/lOoFOv-7n8g Senate Honors United States Capitol Police Officers Fallen in the Line of Duty   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor recognizing the memorial service in honor of the United States Capitol Police officers who died in line of duty:   “An important tribute took place here in the Capitol this morning -- the fifth annual memorial service for the four United States Capitol Police officers who have died in the line of duty.   “Sergeant Christopher Eney, Officer Jacob Chestnut, Detective John Gibson, and Sergeant Clinton Holtz were remembered with a wreath-laying in the Capitol Visitors’ Center.   “This year’s ceremony marked the 20th anniversary of the 1998 Capitol shooting, when both Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson were killed.   “Next week is National Police Week, and I’ll have more to say about the heroism of the professionals who put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep others safe. Today, the Senate honors the memories of these four fallen heroes.”   DOT-18-0010-A-000793 DOT_Am.Oversight-000793 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, May 10, 2018 12:46:40 PM Hi Everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #690, Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit, post-cloture. At 12:00 pm, the Senate proceeded to two roll call votes on the following: 1.             Confirmation of the Brennan nomination (vote results: Confirmed, 49-46) 2.             Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit (vote starting now) Further, at 1:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S . SENATOR foll" KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 9, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2ryZ0qn McConnell on ‘The Daily Briefing’ ‘Whether it was the Supreme Court, Neil Gorsuch, or 12 circuit judges last year —we are now up to 17. Whether it's deregulation, whether it's a fabulous tax bill that has gotten the country growing again. We opened up [ANWR]. We got rid of the individual mandate. It’s been a dream period for conservatives thanks to the president's leadership and our backing him up with a Republican Congress.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) appeared on Fox News’ ‘The Daily Briefing’ with Dana Perino: DOT-18-0010-A-000795 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000795 On North Korea “We have watched administrations of both parties not be able to achieve what we have all hoped for in North Korea-- that is a peninsula without nuclear weapons. So, this is as close as we have ever come. I think everybody is a little bit cautious when dealing with the North Koreans for the obvious reasons. This is quite significant we have gotten this far and the president deserves all the credit for getting them in a different position.” On Iran Nuclear Deal “I think President Trump will make a better deal. The Iran nuclear deal was a terrible deal.  It was not submitted to the Senate for ratification under the Constitution as a treaty because the president [Obama] knew he couldn't get the votes. He simply made an executive branch agreement with the Iranians of which the next president could feel free to walk away from. It was a hopelessly—in my view— flawed agreement. “I think President Trump did the right thing.” “I think the appropriate response is likely to be the re-imposition of really tight economic sanctions, which is what brought the Iranians to the table in the Obama era. So I think the president knows how to apply these economic sanctions. They worked well enough the last time to get the Iranians to the table. It's just unfortunate we didn't make a better deal at the time.” On the Republican Agenda “I have been in Congress for a good while now and this has been the most effective period --the last year and a half-- right of center; that is, conservative positions, since I have been in the Senate. Whether it was the Supreme Court, Neil Gorsuch, or 12 circuit judges last year —we are now up to 17. Whether it's deregulation, whether it's a fabulous tax bill that has gotten the country growing again. We opened up [ANWR]. We got rid of the individual mandate. It’s been a dream period for conservatives thanks to the president's leadership and our backing him up with a Republican Congress.” Appropriations Bills “[It’s] incorrect that Senate Republicans didn't want to pass appropriation bills last year. Senate Democrats prevented that, which is possible in the Senate. We are hoping to have a more cooperative period this year. It seems to be a better relationship between the Senate and the House, between the Senate Democrats and the Republicans.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATORfor K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2G3tMgj                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2wt4SqR Haspel Uniquely Ready to Head CIA ‘Ms. Haspel’s testimony showcased the judgment and poise that have defined her 33-year career of selfless service with the agency. Her testimony confirmed what her gold-standard resume and DOT-18-0010-A-000796 DOT_Am.Oversight-000796 her bipartisan support from seasoned national security leaders already told us: Gina Haspel has the experience, the talent, and the unique skill-set to excel in this important job at this important moment.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Director of the CIA, Gina Haspel: “Let me begin this morning with gratitude to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Overnight, he completed a sensitive diplomatic mission and returned home from North Korea with three freed American prisoners. The families of these three men -- and the entire country – are so grateful. This episode offers just one more example of the complex, relentless foreign policy challenges that confront our nation. Clearly, America was fortunate that our new Secretary of State was prepared to execute his responsibilities from day one. Leadership and expertise matter. “Yesterday, our colleagues on the Intelligence Committee heard from another well-prepared leader -- Gina Haspel, President Trump’s selection to lead the Central Intelligence Agency. Ms. Haspel’s testimony showcased the judgment and poise that have defined her thirty-three year career of selfless service with the agency. Her testimony confirmed what her gold-standard resume and her bipartisan support from seasoned national security leaders already told us: Gina Haspel has the experience, the talent, and the unique skill-set to excel in this important job at this important moment. “Since 1985, she’s served the nation in clandestine operations around the globe and risen to the highest levels of agency leadership. True to the best traditions of intelligence professionals, numerous former Directors have lauded her qualifications -- notwithstanding whether their service was for Democrat or Republican administrations. Her nomination carries the full-throated endorsement of fifty-three of our nation’s most respected national security leaders. “Today more than ever, the value of Ms. Haspel’s insights and experiences cannot be understated. Her career has encompassed both the Cold War and the ongoing Global War on Terror. So in a moment when our national security demands excellence in each of these areas -- great-power competition and counterterrorism alike -- Ms. Haspel stands uniquely ready to assume the responsibilities of CIA director as perhaps its most qualified candidate in the agency’s history. As the Intelligence Committee continues its consideration, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this fine nominee. We will all sleep better at night knowing Gina Haspel is on the job.” ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KbeTuS                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2I5YECS More Judicial Nominees With Sterling Qualifications ‘[E]ach deserves to be confirmed by this body and take their place on the federal bench. Our friends across the aisle aren’t making it easy, but despite the historic obstruction, this Senate will continue to do what it takes to process and confirm the president’s fine nominees for these important posts.’ DOT-18-0010-A-000797 DOT_Am.Oversight-000797 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s circuit court nominees, including the president’s nominee for the Seventh Court of Appeals, Michael Brennan: “Today, the Senate continues our work to confirm President Trump’s well-qualified judicial nominees. Yesterday, we confirmed Kurt Engelhardt to the Fifth Circuit by a signficant bipartisan margin. “The nominee now before us, Michael Brennan, is similarly qualified. His nomination carries bipartisan support from the people who know him best, including the endorsement of more than thirty current and former peers in Wisconsin. In the words of one such colleague, Mr. Brennan possesses -- quote -- ‘the mind, heart and soul of a great jurist.’ “Not too surprising, then, that the American Bar Association has awarded Mr. Brennan its highest rating -- unanimously well-qualified. I look forward to voting to confirm Mr. Brennan later today. And later, we’ll be voting to advance two more circuit court nominees: Joel Carson and John Nalbandian. “Each possesses their own set of sterling qualifications. Each comes recommended widely by those who have worked closely with them. And each deserves to be confirmed by this body and take their place on the federal bench. Our friends across the aisle aren’t making it easy, but despite the historic obstruction, this Senate will continue to do what it takes to process and confirm the president’s fine nominees for these important posts.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S KENTUCKY - . SENATOR .for 1 - - - - For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2ryVjku                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2IvuurO America is Open for Business Again ‘Surveys show that since President Trump and this Republican Congress were elected, the percentage of small and independent employers feeling confident about expanding their businesses has nearly tripled. The amount that employers spend on wages, salaries, and benefits for American workers grew more in 2017 than in any calendar year of the Obama administration. And the number of Americans receiving unemployment benefits is the lowest it’s been since 1973.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Later today, President Trump is visiting the great state of Indiana. He’s joining Hoosiers to celebrate the new jobs and prosperity that our Republican agenda is delivering to communities in Indiana and all over the country. After years of Democratic policies that made life harder for job creators, the United States of America is officially open for business once again. “Surveys show that since President Trump and this Republican Congress were elected, the percentage of small and independent employers feeling confident about expanding their businesses has nearly tripled. The amount that employers spend on wages, salaries, and benefits for American workers grew more in 2017 than in any calendar year of the Obama administration. And the number of Americans receiving unemployment benefits is the lowest it’s been since 1973. “Republicans have focused like a laser on getting Washington D.C. out of the way. And more job DOT-18-0010-A-000798 DOT_Am.Oversight-000798 opportunities, higher pay, and greater prosperity are already reaching middle-class Americans. My colleague, Senator Young, has been sharing some of the great news that awaits the president in Indiana. “He’s heard from constituents like Donald, from Noblesville. Donald said, quote, ‘I don’t consider myself rich, but applying next year’s tax changes to this year’s income, I’ll pay over $1,000 less in taxes next year. Everyone benefits with the new tax cuts.’ “A Bloomington resident named Cathy said this about her husband’s tax reform bonus: ‘We have never had this happen. It was much appreciated.’ And First Farmers Bank and Trust is raising wages, writing employee bonus checks, and investing more in development for the communities it serves, with 34 branches across Indiana. “There are stories like these being written all over the country -- largely because Republicans rolled back job-killing regulations and cut taxes significantly for working families and small businesses. Oddly, our Democratic colleagues can’t bring themselves to admit this is a good thing. Even when the facts show that our growing economy is making life better for middle-class Americans, they try to shrug off the facts and fall back on the same old class warfare rhetoric. “Even when people like Donald and Cathy explain how tax reform is helping them, Democrats scoff at their household finances, saying multi-thousand-dollar tax cuts and bonuses are just -- quote -‘crumbs.’ Crumbs? Maybe in New York or San Francisco. But in Kentucky, where I come from, working families don’t see their tax cuts, bonuses, and pay raises as ‘crumbs.’ “And I have a hunch it’s the same in Indiana. So it’s curious that only one of Indiana’s senators voted to give Hoosiers these tax cuts and new job opportunities. Indiana’s senior senator voted in lock-step with Democratic leaders to block tax reform from ever taking effect. Instead of working with Republicans and the President to keep the new prosperity coming, he and his colleagues have chosen to obstruct and resist on nearly every subject. “Just the other day, the Democratic leader in the House declared she plans to campaign on repealing tax reform. Tax cuts versus tax hikes. It’s about as clear a contrast as could be. Fortunately for Hoosiers, and Kentuckians, and all the other communities that are finally growing again after years of atrophy -- Republicans will defend the American people’s tax cuts and new jobs.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S • SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY - . - - - For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KO3qlY McConnell Statement on Summit with North Korea ‘I congratulate President Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and the rest of the president’s team on this significant step. I share in the hopes of our entire nation that the June 12th meeting will further our longtime goal of denuclearizing the Korean peninsula.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding the planned historic summit meeting between the United States and North Korea scheduled for next month:  DOT-18-0010-A-000799 DOT_Am.Oversight-000799 “Today we learned the date and location for the historic summit meeting between the United States and North Korea.  “I congratulate President Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and the rest of the president’s team on this significant step. I share in the hopes of our entire nation that the June 12th meeting will further our longtime goal of denuclearizing the Korean peninsula.   “As Secretary Pompeo noted at his swearing-in ceremony, the United States is committed to the permanent, verifiable, irreversible dismantling of North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction program.  I share that goal, and if it proves unachievable through these talks, I support a continuation of the policy of maximum pressure on the regime.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000800 DOT_Am.Oversight-000800 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Friday, May 11, 2018 5:35:12 PM Hi everyone, The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm, Monday,  May 14. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #780, Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of the Scudder nomination. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #781, Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. Also, please note, on Tuesday, May 15th at 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. Yesterday in the Senate (Thursday, May 10): Roll Call Votes:   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #690, Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. Confirmed. (49-46) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. Invoked. (71-24) 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. Invoked. (52-43) Executive Session (cleared): Cal. #740 - Patrick Hovakimian, of California, to be a Member of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States for a term expiring September 30, 2020. Cal. #830 - Gregory Allyn Forest, of North Carolina, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of North Carolina for the term of four years. Cal. #831 - Bradley A. Maxwell, of Illinois, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Illinois for the term of four years. Wrap Up: S.Res.505 – Teacher Appreciation Week S.Res.506 – National Senior Fraud DOT-18-0010-A-000801 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000801 H.R.931 – Firefighter Cancer Registry Act of 2017 with an Alexander substitute   Please see Leader McConnell’s statement below on the president’s drug pricing initiative. Below that, please see information from Senate Approps on their hearing schedule for next week. Thanks and have a great weekend! Erica       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Friday, May 11, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2I72f3j McConnell on President Trump’s Drug Pricing Announcement   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement Friday regarding the president’s drug pricing initiative announcement: “I commend the Trump Administration for taking on this serious challenge facing millions of American families.  I look forward to reviewing the proposals and working with the president and his team to help patients and protect taxpayers.” ###   DOT-18-0010-A-000802 DOT_Am.Oversight-000802   FYI from Senate Approps:   United States Senate Committee on APPROPRIATIONS RICHARDSHELBY OF ALABAMA, CHAIRMAN CONTACT: Blair Taylor FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 11, 2018 MEDIA ADVISORY HEARING SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 14, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following is the hearing schedule for the Senate Committee on Appropriations for the week of May 14, 2018. TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Army DOT-18-0010-A-000803 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000803 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Mark T. Esper Secretary of the Army General Mark A. Milley Chief of Staff of the Army   LEGISLATIVE BRANCH SUBCOMMITTEE (Steve Daines, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Senate Sergeant at Arms and the U.S. Capitol Police 4:00 p.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Michael Stenger Sergeant at Arms United States Senate Mr. Matthew Verderosa Chief of Police AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000804 DOT_Am.Oversight-000804 United States Capitol Police WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Lisa Murkowski, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Environmental Protection Agency 9:30 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Scott Pruitt Administrator Environmental Protection Agency The Honorable Holly Greaves Chief Financial Officer Environmental Protection Agency     COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Jerry Moran, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Federal AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000805 DOT_Am.Oversight-000805 Bureau of Investigation 2:30 p.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: The Honorable Christopher A. Wray Director Federal Bureau of Investigation NOTE: Immediately following the open hearing, the subcommittee will reconvene in CLOSED SESSION in SVC-217 in the Capitol Visitor Center. This portion of the hearing is limited to Members and staff with TS/SCI clearance only. HOMELAND SECURITY SUBCOMMITTEE (Shelley Moore Capito, Chairman) Hearing to review the role of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in stopping the flow of opioids, methamphetamines, and other dangerous drugs 2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: Mr. Todd Owen Executive Assistant Commissioner Office of Field Operations Customs and Border Protection AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000806 DOT_Am.Oversight-000806 Mr. Derek Benner Acting Executive Associate Director Homeland Security Investigations Immigration and Customs Enforcement Mr. André L. Hentz Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Science and Technology Science and Technology Directorate U.S. Department of Homeland Security   TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Susan Collins, Chairman) Hearing to review railroad safety initiatives 3:30 p.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Ronald Batory Administrator Federal Railroad Administration Mr. Stephen Gardner Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Amtrak AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000807 DOT_Am.Oversight-000807 Ms. Patricia Quinn Executive Director Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority Mr. Art Leahy Chief Executive Officer Metrolink THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2018 DEFENSE SUBCOMMITTEE (Richard Shelby, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Department of the Air Force 10:00 a.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Heather Wilson Secretary of the Air Force General David L. Goldfein Chief of Staff of the Air Force AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000808 DOT_Am.Oversight-000808   LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES SUBCOMMITTEE (Roy Blunt, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the National Institutes of Health 10:00 a.m., Room 124, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witness: Dr. Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D. Director National Institutes of Health Accompanied by: Dr. Norman Sharpless, M.D. Director National Cancer Institute Dr. Walter Koroshetz, M.D. Director National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Dr. Anthony Fauci, M.D. Director National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000809 DOT_Am.Oversight-000809 Dr. Richard Hodes, M.D. Director National Institute on Aging Dr. Nora Volkow, M.D. Director National Institute on Drug Abuse   FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (James Lankford, Chairman) Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2019 funding request and budget justification for the Federal Communications and the Federal Trade Commission 10:00 a.m., Room 138, Dirksen Senate Office Building Witnesses: The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission The Honorable Joseph Simons Chairman Federal Trade Commission AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000810 DOT_Am.Oversight-000810 1 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, May 14, 2018 6:06:50 PM Good evening everyone -  The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #780, Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   At 5:30 pm today, the Senate began two roll call votes on the following (Fyi: the cloture petitions for both the Scudder and St. Eve nominations were withdrawn on May 10, therefore condensing the time to process these two judges)   1. Confirmation of the Scudder nomination (vote in process right now) 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #781, Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit   Also – tomorrow, Tuesday, May 15th, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes at 12:00 pm on:   1. Confirmation of Joel M. Carson III to the Tenth Circuit. 2. Confirmation of John Nalbandian to the Sixth Circuit.     Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000812 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000812 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, May 16, 2018 11:54:37 AM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 9:30 am today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education.   At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to S.J.Res.52, the Net Neutrality CRA (simple majority threshold).   Please note, following disposition of S.J.Res.52, the Net Neutrality CRA, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Zais nomination.   FYI: This morning, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence voted 10-5 favorably to advance Gina Haspel’s nomination to be CIA Director.   Vote:   10 YES: Blunt Burr Collins Cornyn Cotton Lankford Manchin Risch Rubio Warner   5 NO: Feinstein Harris Heinrich King Wyden   Yesterday in the Senate (May 15, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #729, Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. (Confirmed, 77-21) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #777, John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. (Confirmed, 53-45) UC Items: S.Res.443 - Greek Independence S.Res.509 - Joint Committee on Printing and the Library S.Res.510 - National Bladder Cancer Awareness Rule 14: S.2850 - WMAT Settlement Fund   Thanks, Erica   DOT-18-0010-A-000813 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000813 Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2rMiAQh                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2wIIeuY Protecting Consumers from Democrat Plans to Overregulate the Internet ‘Last year, under the leadership of Chairman Ajit Pai, the FCC sought to rectify this mistake and restore the rules that helped the Internet flourish, while still protecting consumers from abuses. The resolution Democrats are putting forward today would undo that progress. It would reimpose heavyhanded, Depression-era rules on the most vibrant, fast-growing sectors of our economy. It is wrong on the merits. And it’s also the wrong way to go about this process.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Net Neutrality and the resolution put forth by Democrats to overregulate the internet:  “Over the last twenty years, the internet has yielded progress that was the stuff of science fiction just a generation ago. In so many ways, it has spawned a new economy and fostered new connections -- across the country and the world. In large part, these successes owe to a bipartisan consensus that Washington D.C. should be largely ‘hands-off.’ But of course, like every exciting new frontier of the economy, the internet attracted attention from the crowd that prefers to regulate first and ask questions later. “In 2015, President Obama’s FCC set out to fix what wasn’t broken. It imposed regulations designed for Depression-era telephones on new technologies that fit in our pockets. So much for the light-touch approach that helped the early internet grow. Last year, under the leadership of Chairman Ajit Pai, the FCC sought to rectify this mistake and restore the rules that helped the Internet flourish, while still protecting consumers from abuses. “The resolution Democrats are putting forward today would undo that progress. It would reimpose heavy-handed, Depression-era rules on the most vibrant, fast-growing sectors of our economy. It is wrong on the merits. And it’s also the wrong way to go about this process. “The CRA is useful when it lets elected representatives reign in regulatory overreach by unelected bureaucrats. But this resolution doesn’t seek to reign in overregulation. It seeks to re-impose it. What’s worse, by using the CRA mechanism, the Democrats seek to make the 2015 rules permanent going forward. The CRA would handicap this FCC or a future FCC’s ability to revise the rules, even if revisions were widely seen as necessary. There is a better way to proceed. It’s called bipartisan legislation. “Senator Thune has reached out to the Democrats on the Committee to draft an internet “rules of DOT-18-0010-A-000814 DOT_Am.Oversight-000814 the road” for the 21st Century.  A set of rules that would safeguard consumers but still prevent regulators from stifling innovation at every turn. Already, multiple Democratic colleagues have drawn the same conclusions with regard to preemptive overcorrection by the FCC. The senior senator from Florida and the junior senator from Hawaii, for example, have both expressed a desire to collaborate on bipartisan legislation. “But Democrats have already made clear that the resolution today is about the elections in November - they know they won’t ultimately be successful, but they want to campaign on their desire to add new regulations to the internet. This resolution takes us in the wrong direction. We should reject it.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2rNd3c7                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Ikgulr McConnell: Haspel is the Right Woman at the Right Time ‘Her nomination has support from national security leaders and senators in both parties. There is no reason why her confirmation should be delayed -- and I look forward to advancing it expeditiously following the committee’s action.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Director of the CIA, Gina Haspel: “Yesterday, the Senate confirmed two more superbly-qualified circuit court nominees. Joel Carson and John Nalbandian are the 20th and 21st circuit judges we’ve confirmed this Congress. “This morning, our colleagues on the Intelligence Committee finished their consideration of Gina Haspel’s nomination to be CIA director and reported her nomination favorably with bipartisan support. “Senators heard about her thirty-plus years of CIA experience, spanning sensitive operations from the Cold War to the Global War on Terror. That background makes Ms. Haspel an ideal pick at this particular moment, when Secretary Mattis has explained that counterterrorism and a renewed great-power competition are two of the key challenges facing our nation. “No wonder James Clapper, President Obama’s Director of National Intelligence, said -- quote -- ‘I think the world of Gina; she is capable, smart, very experienced, well-respected by the Agency rank and file, and a great person.’ “Just yesterday, our current DNI, Dan Coats, wrote in USA Today that ‘she is a person of high integrity with valuable frontline and executive experience… who is willing to speak truth to power when required on behalf of our nation.’ “Gina Haspel is the right woman at the right time. Her nomination has support from national security leaders and senators in both parties. There is no reason why her confirmation should be delayed -- and I look forward to advancing it expeditiously following the committee’s action.” DOT-18-0010-A-000815 DOT_Am.Oversight-000815 ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2wRLofE                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2IKyJ32 Entrepreneurs and Employees Continue to Benefit from New Tax Code ‘Later today, I’ll be meeting with members of an industry with deep roots in my home state of Kentucky -- our bourbon and spirits distillers. Judging by recent headlines, we’ll have plenty of good news to discuss. After eight years of Democrats’ policies enriching big cities but leaving small businesses behind, Republican policies are helping workers and job creators thrive all over the country.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Later today, I’ll be meeting with members of an industry with deep roots in my home state of Kentucky -- our bourbon and spirits distillers. Judging by recent headlines, we’ll have plenty of good news to discuss. After eight years of Democrats’ policies enriching big cities but leaving small businesses behind, Republican policies are helping workers and job creators thrive all over the country. “From Louisville to Kansas City to Portland, our growing craft distilling industry is a perfect example. They’re enjoying a pro-growth provision in the historic tax reform Republicans passed last year, which lowered excise taxes on beer, wine, and spirits and modernized the regulatory policy affecting each. “Interestingly enough, the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act even began as a bipartisan effort, with fifty-six cosponsors here in the Senate, led by Senators Blunt, Wyden, and Portman. Of course, not a single Democrat showed up when it was time to vote for tax reform. But Republicans got it done anyway. And now the New York Times can publish stories about how the measure is making a big difference for small craft distillers. “As one such report puts it, distilling is a burgeoning source of jobs, tax revenue, and tourism dollars in every state. For example, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association reported that just last year, the bourbon industry accounted for 17,500 jobs and over a million visitors in my home state. That’s a big shift from the so-called Obama ‘recovery,’ when almost all the limited jobs and investment poured into the biggest cities. But it’s a new day. “Now, FEW Spirits in Illinois has hired more workers and is replacing its overseas glassmaker with an American one. J. Rieger & Company in Missouri has found extra room in the budget to expand its sales team and begin selling its products further across the country. In the Democratic Leader’s own backyard of Brooklyn, the New York Distilling Company recently cut the wholesale case price on its signature gin by more than fifty percent. According to one of its co-founders, Allen Katz, quote, ‘the reaction from our industry peers has been jaw-dropping.’ “And in Kentucky, which is home to more than fifty distilleries, there are plenty of examples to choose from. Thanks to the lowered excise tax, Casey Jones Distillery, a small operation in Hopkinsville, is growing its team, increasing production, and planning to enhance its event space. DOT-18-0010-A-000816 DOT_Am.Oversight-000816 “Copper and Kings in Louisville has been able to hire more workers, and is preparing to expand its warehouse and add a new bar for guests. The Copper and Kings team recently shared with me that tax reform is, quote, ‘one of the most important initiatives [the Senate] could pursue to help create jobs for small businesses in Kentucky.’ “My Democratic colleagues failed to block tax reform last year, and now they want to just keep arguing about it. They even propose to repeal it and roll back Americans’ tax cuts. But entrepreneurs across the country are loving our new 21st-century tax code. They’re using it to expand operations and create jobs. It’s hard to argue with results. Not that that’s stopped our Democratic friends from trying. And I’m sure they’ll continue to try. But Republicans will stay focused on taking steps like these, and raising a glass to America’s small businesses.” ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000817 DOT_Am.Oversight-000817 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, May 17, 2018 11:30:29 AM Hi everyone – The Senate convened at 9:30 am today. The Senate will vote shortly (circa 11:25 am) in relation to the motion to proceed to S.Con.Res.36, Paul Budget Resolution. Note: on Thursday, May 17, cloture was filed on Executive Calendar #847, Gina Haspel, of Kentucky, to be Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. ICYMI: Leader McConnell on the floor this morning -Spoke on the nomination of Gina Haspel to be C.I.A. Director o             “Throughout the process, she demonstrated candor, integrity, and a forthright approach to the committee's questions. She displayed the talent and expertise that make her uniquely qualified to face America's biggest national security challenges, whether in the area of counterterrorism or renewed international competition among great powers. Out of the spotlight, whether at Langley or deployed abroad, Miss Haspel has quietly earned the respect and admiration of those who matter most. That's the men and women of the C.I.A. and distinguished current and former intelligence community leaders. The safety and security of the American people depend on capable intelligence, leadership. Gina Haspel is the right woman at the right time. Senators on both sides of the aisle agree.” Spoke on the Republican economic agenda o             “For eight years Democrats pushed a one-size-fits-all agenda that heaped outsize benefits on the largest cities and left the rest of the country struggling to catch up. Now, main street businesses across America feel the wind is at their backs so they're expanding their operations, buying more equipment, and hiring new workers. For too long taxpayers grappled with an outdated federal tax code that seemed to keep more of their hard earned income every year. Now thanks to Republican tax reform, working families are seeing paychecks grow, special bonuses hit their bank accounts, and will send thousands of dollars less to the I.R.S. next year.” Spoke in tribute to Brendan Dunn!!! :) o             “Brendan has been my trusted advisor on issues including tax policy, bank and trade and pensions so I'm just glad his last few months in office could be so calm and laid back. All he had to do was play the leading role in crafting generational tax reform and help steer it across the finish line. Oh, and then came Dodd-Frank reform for good measure. So this Maryland native holds degrees from Holy Cross, Fordham, Georgetown, and Notre Dame but you wouldn't know that this unassuming leader and reliable source of comic relief holds a J.D. and P.h.D. in political philosophy unless you needed to.” Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, May 16): Roll Call Votes: Motion to proceed to S.J.Res.52, the Net Neutrality CRA. (Agreed to, 52-47) Passage of S.J.Res.52, the Net Neutrality CRA. (Passed, 52-47) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. (Confirmed, 50-48) Executive Session: Cal. #829 - Vice Adm. Charles W. Ray to be Admiral UC Items: Cal. #395, S.2349 - Improve Data on Sexual Violence Act H.R.3249 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant Program Authorization Act with a Cornyn substitute DOT-18-0010-A-000818 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000818 H.R.2772 - SEA Act with a Tillis substitute H.R.3562 – VA Residence Adaptations H.R.4009 - Smithsonian National Zoological Park Central Parking Facility Authorization Act H.Con.Res.112 – Emancipation Hall King Kamehameha I S.Res.512 – National Police Week S.Res.513 – National Foster Care Month S.Res.514 – National Charter School Week     Thanks, Erica Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2rTX10e                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2IOlVZj Senate to Confirm First Female Director of the CIA ‘She displayed the talent and expertise that make her uniquely qualified to face America’s biggest national security challenges – whether in the area of counterterrorism or renewed international competition amongst great powers. Out of the spotlight, whether at Langley and deployed abroad, Ms. Haspel has quietly earned the respect and admiration of those who matter most – the men and women of the CIA, and distinguished current and former intelligence community leaders.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Director of the CIA, Gina Haspel: “Yesterday, the Intelligence Committee took an important step toward confirming Gina Haspel to become the next director of the CIA. A bipartisan majority voted to report her nomination favorably DOT-18-0010-A-000819 DOT_Am.Oversight-000819 to the Senate. I look forward to promptly moving to a confirmation vote. The committee’s confidence is indicative of the strength of Ms. Haspel’s testimony and her thirty-plus year record of CIA service. Throughout the process, she demonstrated candor, integrity, and a forthright approach to the committee’s questions. “She displayed the talent and expertise that make her uniquely qualified to face America’s biggest national security challenges – whether in the area of counterterrorism or renewed international competition amongst great powers. Out of the spotlight, whether at Langley and deployed abroad, Ms. Haspel has quietly earned the respect and admiration of those who matter most – the men and women of the CIA, and distinguished current and former intelligence community leaders. “The safety and security of the American people depend on capable intelligence leadership. Gina Haspel is the right woman at the right time. Senators on both sides of the aisle agree. So I urge each of my colleagues to rise to the occasion and swiftly confirm our next CIA director.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2wP6OdB                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2KxvFER American Manufacturers Seeing Benefits from Republican Pro-Growth Agenda ‘According to new survey data from the National Association of Manufacturers, more than 93% of U.S. manufacturing firms have a positive outlook. Already, 77% of manufacturers are reporting hiring new workers, and 86% say they’re investing in plants and equipment. Many American communities revolve around these manufacturing facilities. Sadly, in the Obama years, they were among the most likely to be left behind by the so-called “recovery.” But now that is changing. Today, manufacturing wages are growing at their fastest pace in seventeen years.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans are seeing across the country thanks to the Republican pro-growth, pro-opportunity agenda: “With Republican policies shaking the regulatory rust off of the U.S. economy, American job creators, entrepreneurs, and working families have been thinking big again. For eight years, Democrats pushed a one-size-fits-all agenda that heaped outsized benefits on the largest cities and left the rest of the country struggling to catch up. Now, Main Street businesses across America feel the wind at their backs -- so they’re expanding their operations, buying more equipment, and hiring new workers. “For too long, taxpayers grappled with an outdated federal tax code that seemed to keep more of their hard-earned income every year. Now, thanks to Republican tax reform, working families are seeing paychecks grow, special bonuses hit their bank accounts, and will send thousands of dollars less to the IRS next year. And now that Congress and the president have put a stop to the last administration’s rampant, top-down federal rulemaking, U.S. manufacturing is churning back to life. “The new economic climate that’s taking hold across the country has producers feeling more confident about planting deeper roots in the United States -- new capital investment, new factories, and new American jobs. DOT-18-0010-A-000820 DOT_Am.Oversight-000820 “Novelis, Inc., a leading producer of rolled and recycled aluminum, broke ground just this week on a new factory in Guthrie, Kentucky. The company is choosing the Commonwealth to build the 400,000 square-foot facility and create at least 125 new jobs. And they’re not keeping any secrets about what’s helping them make this investment. Quote: ‘A favorable economic environment’ including ‘the significant positive impact of tax reform in the U.S. reinforces Novelis’ decision to expand at this time.’ “This is not just a Kentucky phenomenon. According to new survey data from the National Association of Manufacturers, more than 93% of U.S. manufacturing firms have a positive outlook. Already, 77% of manufacturers are reporting hiring new workers, and 86% say they’re investing in plants and equipment. “Many American communities revolve around these manufacturing facilities. Sadly, in the Obama years, they were among the most likely to be left behind by the so-called ‘recovery.’ But now that is changing. Today, manufacturing wages are growing at their fastest pace in seventeen years. These are just a few signs of our nation’s economic comeback under Republicans’ pro-growth, proopportunity agenda. “Remember, not one of our Democratic colleagues voted with us to set this train in motion. They voted against cutting red tape for American manufacturers. They voted against the tax reforms that are growing paychecks and helping create new jobs. They voted against the newly lowered utility rates that benefit both families and employers. My Democratic colleagues like to talk about supporting the middle class. These days, it’s looking more and more like that’s all it is: just talk. But while they occupy themselves with partisan politics, Republicans will just keep on clearing the tracks and letting the American economy roll on ahead.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000821 DOT_Am.Oversight-000821 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, May 17, 2018 6:40:33 PM Hi everyone, Sorry for all the emails today, but FYI on next week…   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm Monday, May 21. Following leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.   Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following today, in order: • Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. • The motion to concur in the House Amendment to S. 2372 (VA healthcare legislation) • Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. • Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. • Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador to Luxembourg. Also to note: the filing deadline for first-degree amendments to the House message accompanying S. 2372 will be 5:00 pm.   Thanks! Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2k6pw75  DOT-18-0010-A-000822 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000822 Senate to Pass VA MISSION Act Next Week ‘This bicameral, bipartisan bill contains significant reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs which will increase and strengthen the healthcare and community care options available to America’s veterans.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding the House-passed VA MISSION Act of 2018: “The Senate next week will take up and pass the VA MISSION Act, and send it to the president’s desk before Memorial Day. This bicameral, bipartisan bill contains significant reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs which will increase and strengthen the healthcare and community care options available to America’s veterans.” Background:  Following the overwhelming bipartisan passage of the VA MISSION Act in the House, the Majority Leader today filed cloture on the bill, ensuring timely Senate consideration of the legislation next week.  As the bill came on a message from the House, there is no need for a “motion to proceed” vote and only one cloture vote (if needed) is in order. ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000823 DOT_Am.Oversight-000823 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, May 21, 2018 5:38:25 PM Hello everyone, The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. A roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Baiocco nomination just started.   ICYMI: Last week Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following, in this order below – this will take up the balance of the week: • Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (a term of seven years from October 27, 2017) • The motion to concur in the House Amendment to S. 2372 (VA healthcare legislation) • Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (a term of five years) • Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (a term of six years) • Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador to Luxembourg.   Also: a time agreement was reached for consideration of Brian D. Montgomery to be Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, with up to four hours of debate equally divided. Following the use/yield back of time, the Senate will vote on confirmation of the Montgomery nomination.   Thanks! Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR fo r K.EN·TUCKY DOT-18-0010-A-000824 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000824 For Immediate Release, Monday, May 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2IyFfux                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2kbQ07n McConnell on the Santa Fe, TX Shooting ‘Our hearts go out to the families of those killed, to the wounded who continue to battle injuries, to the first responders who leapt into action, and to the Santa Fe community that rallies around them.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the tragic shooting that took place this past Friday in Santa Fe, TX: “The nation watched in horror Friday morning as a senseless act of violence changed a community forever. The Senate and all Americans stand in mourning, sorrow, and sympathy with the students, faculty, staff, and families of Santa Fe High School in Texas. No community should ever be subjected to such horror and heartbreak. “Our hearts go out to the families of those killed, to the wounded who continue to battle injuries, to the first responders who leapt into action, and to the Santa Fe community that rallies around them.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for K.EN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, May 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KJ6yPm                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2KIorxz Senate to Pass Major, Bipartisan Reform Bill For Our Nation’s Veterans This Week ‘What Sen. Isakson and his colleagues have put together is one of the most comprehensive reform packages for veterans’ healthcare since the VA was created in 1930. It builds on the substantial success of the Veterans Choice Act and harnesses provisions of fifteen different Senate-introduced bills. This bill streamlines support systems, expands access to care, and provides new tools for attracting and re-training top caregivers.’ DOT-18-0010-A-000825 DOT_Am.Oversight-000825 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the House-passed VA MISSION Act of 2018: “In the coming days, the Senate will take up landmark legislation on one of our top priorities: Providing more options and better care to America’s veterans. The VA MISSION Act is a major milestone in an ongoing effort by Chairman Isakson and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to ensure our nation fulfills its promises to our men and women in uniform -- including more than 300,000 veterans in my home state of Kentucky. “What Sen. Isakson and his colleagues have put together is one of the most comprehensive reform packages for veterans’ healthcare since the VA was created in 1930. It builds on the substantial success of the Veterans Choice Act and harnesses provisions of fifteen different Senate-introduced bills. This bill streamlines support systems, expands access to care, and provides new tools for attracting and re-training top caregivers. “The veteran who lives far from a VA facility but needs frequent follow-up care will now have easier access to local providers and walk-in clinics. The wounded warrior navigating difficult painmanagement routines will now be served by providers with clearer guidelines for opioid prescription. And the retired servicemember who relies on a family caregiver will rest assured of expanded eligibility and program benefits for veterans of all eras. “It’s hardly surprising this bill has such a broad, bipartisan coalition of support, including the endorsement of thirty-eight of the nation’s leading veterans advocacy organizations. I look forward enthusiastically to considering it in the coming days. I urge every one of my colleagues to support this worthy legislation and send it on to the president for his signature. It is not merely our duty, but our privilege, to improve and enhance the care available to those who have given so much.” ###     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR fo r K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Monday, May 21, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2GEmsbk                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2IGprBJ Republican Agenda: Getting Washington Out of the American People’s Way ‘Everyone is taking notice. Here’s a New York Times headline from a few months ago: ‘The Trump Effect: Business, Anticipating Less Regulation, Loosens Purse Strings.’ One Texas home builder told the reporters, quote, ‘It’s an overall sense that you’re not going to face any new regulatory fights.’ More investment, more prosperity, more job openings, and higher wages across the country. Good things happen when Republican policies get Washington out of the American people’s way.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Later today, we will consider the nomination of Dana Baiocco the president’s choice to join the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Ms. Baiocco’s resume speaks for itself. After receiving her J.D. cum laude from Duquesne University, she clerked in the Western District of Pennsylvania before launching an impressive career in private practice. For two decades, she has stood at the center of complicated cases and gained national recognition for her mastery of the legal questions DOT-18-0010-A-000826 DOT_Am.Oversight-000826 surrounding consumer safety. “This experience makes Ms. Baiocco an ideal candidate to help the CPSC protect consumers effectively and efficiently without imposing unnecessary barriers to free enterprise. Testifying before our colleagues on the Commerce Committee, she pledged to seek that balance with ‘transparency’ and ‘an open door policy,’ and to remain ‘guided by the rule of law.’ I look forward to advancing this qualified nominee when we vote later this afternoon, and urge all my colleagues to join me. “Now, on one final matter. Earlier today, President Trump signed into law a Congressional Review Act resolution that repealed a particularly egregious bit of overreach by President Obama’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Federal regulators found a loophole, skipped the standard periods for review and public comment, and issued unilateral guidance that made life needlessly complicated for the American auto industry and its customers. “Thanks to Senator Toomey’s tenacity, the GAO ruled that this intrusion did constitute rulemaking that ought to be subject to congressional review. So Congress got to have its say. Accountability won out in the end. And now, thanks to this resolution from Senator Moran, yet another onerous regulation is now headed to the wastebasket. Our record use of CRAs is just one of the tools Republicans are using to get Washington out of the way of American workers and job creators. “Republican tax reform is providing historic tax cuts for middle-class families and small businesses, and it repealed the individual mandate penalty at the heart of Obamacare. Tomorrow, the House will vote on the Senate-passed legislation championed by Senator Crapo, which will give community banks and credit unions relief from the crushing burden of complying with Dodd-Frank. “And of course, in the executive branch, the president’s team has turned the page on the last administration’s hostility to American business. The result is a palpable shift that is improving the entire economy. “Back in 2013, more than three-quarters of U.S. manufacturers said a hostile climate due to taxes and regulation was a major business obstacle. Today, sixteen months into the unified Republican government, fewer than twenty percent say that. And nearly ninety-five percent are optimistic about their future economic prospects. “Everyone is taking notice. Here’s a New York Times headline from a few months ago: ‘The Trump Effect: Business, Anticipating Less Regulation, Loosens Purse Strings.’ One Texas home builder told the reporters, quote, ‘It’s an overall sense that you’re not going to face any new regulatory fights.’ More investment, more prosperity, more job openings, and higher wages across the country. Good things happen when Republican policies get Washington out of the American people’s way.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000827 DOT_Am.Oversight-000827 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, May 22, 2018 9:44:59 AM Good morning -- The Senate will convene at 10:00 am. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), post-cloture.   At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of the Baiocco nomination (CPSC). 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2372, Veterans Choice.   Following this vote series, the Senate will recess until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   Later this week: • Jelena McWilliams to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) for a term of five years. • Jelena McWilliams to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) for a term of six years. • James Randolph Evans to be Ambassador of the United States to Luxembourg.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, May 21): Roll Call Vote: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. (Invoked, 49-45) UC Items: S.Res.517 – Older Americans Month               Also – please see information below from the Senate GOP comms center on how we have been successfully using the CRA process to roll back onerous regulations.     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) 11.at R u li a11. Communicat· on Center Contact: DOT-18-0010-A-000828 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000828 Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2IE4uf7   16 Obama Regulations Bite The Dust ‘Yet Another Onerous Regulation Is Now Headed To The Wastebasket’   The Congressional Review Act has been used 17 times to overturn rules and regulations. Sixteen of them have been enacted during the 115th Congress. (“Congressional Review Act FAQs,” U.S. Government Accountability Office Website, Accessed 5/21/2018)   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “Earlier today, President Trump signed into law a Congressional Review Act resolution that repealed a particularly egregious bit of overreach by President Obama’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.  Federal regulators found a loophole, skipped the standard periods for review and public comment, and issued unilateral guidance that made life needlessly complicated for the American auto industry and its customers…. [Y]et another onerous regulation is now headed to the wastebasket.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 5/21/2018)   SIXTEEN: Overturning A CFPB Car Loan Rule Imposed ‘In Contravention To The Law’ That Hurts ‘The Very Consumers The CFPB Is Supposed To Be Serving’   “U.S. President Donald Trump signed into a law a congressional resolution overhauling a rule issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) that aimed to bar discrimination in auto lending, the White House said on Monday.” (“Trump Signs Congressional Resolution Overturning Auto Lending Rule,” Reuters, 5/21/2018)   THE WALL STREET JOURNAL EDITORS: “This is an Obama Administration classic. Recall that Dodd-Frank expressly prohibited the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau from regulating auto dealers. That didn’t stop former CFPB chief Richard Cordray, who used the back door of auto-financing to regulate dealers…. In 2013 the CFPB issued ‘guidance’ requiring lenders and dealers to change their practices to account for ‘disparate impact’ … The ‘guidance’ ruse also let Mr. Cordray duck the rule-making process with its formal public-notice period. The bureau proceeded to use the rule to charge discrimination and coerce settlements from auto lenders…. In 2015 the CFPB extended this ‘guidance’ to nonbank auto-finance companies.” (Editorial, “Auto-Lending Lemon Repeal,” The Wall Street Journal, 4/12/2018)   SEN. PAT TOOMEY (R-PA): “[The CFPB] is an unaccountable, out-of-control agency that circumvented the proper rulemaking process in order to avoid public scrutiny about what they were trying to do. They imposed their will on an industry that the Dodd-Frank legislation explicitly forbid them from regulating. They developed a badly flawed methodology to allege discrimination on the part of lenders on the basis of race, despite the fact that the lenders didn't know the race of the borrowers. They picked a victim who couldn't fight back. They hit the victim with a $100 million fine without the CFPB knowing that any individual was actually unfairly treated …” (Sen. Toomey, Congressional Record, S. 2209, 4/17/2018)   · SEN. TOOMEY: “Who ultimately pays the price for this kind of behavior? The very consumers the CFPB is supposed to be serving. Under this very flawed rule of the CFPB, the goal was to effectively prevent auto dealers from being able to discount the interest rate on a loan, being unable to compete with a bank down the road that might be offering a lower rate, being unable to negotiate a term that might be helpful to a borrower.” (Sen. Toomey, Congressional Record, S. 2209, 4/17/2018)   SEN. JIM MORAN (R-KS): “[A]utomobile dealers are specifically excluded from the provisions of Dodd-Frank. So, in my view, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau had to work its magic to try to find a way to regulate DOT-18-0010-A-000829 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000829 the financing of automobiles that were arranged for by the automobile dealer in contravention to the law which says that automobile dealers are not covered by it.” (Sen. Moran, Congressional Record, S. 2203-4, 4/17/2018)   ONE: ‘Ending A Key Obama Administration Coal Mining Rule’ That Would Have Put ‘Between 112,757 And 280,809’ Total Jobs At Risk   “President Trump on Thursday signed legislation ending a key Obama administration coal mining rule.” (“Trump Signs Bill Undoing Obama Coal Mining Rule,” The Hill, 2/16/17)   “The Obama Administration … [issued] a punitive 11th-hour regulation on coal. Issued by the Interior Department’s Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM), the rule takes effect Jan. 19 as a classic example of the job-killing rules that Mr. Trump has vowed to overturn.” (Editorial, “Coal In Trump’s Stocking,” Wall Street Journal, 12/20/16)   ·   “…it’s a power grab aimed at giving federal regulators more authority to make coal too expensive for anyone to mine or use.” (Editorial, “Coal In Trump’s Stocking,” Wall Street Journal, 12/20/16) STUDY: “Total number of jobs at risk of loss, including mining and linked sector employment is between 112,757 and 280,809 (30 to 75 percent of current employment levels).” (“Economic Impacts Of The Office Of Surface Mining’s Proposed Stream Protection Rule (SPR),” Ramboll Environ, 2016)     TWO, THREE: ‘Taking A Hammer To A Pair Of Obama-Era Education Rules,’ Described As ‘Unusually Aggressive And Far-Reaching’ SEN. LAMAR ALEXANDER (R-TN): “The issue before us was whether the United States Congress writes the laws or whether the Department of Education writes the laws. Under Article I of our Constitution, the United States Congress writes the law, and in at least seven cases this Education Department regulation directly violated the Every Student Succeeds Act law passed just 15 months ago. And in at least 16 other cases, the regulation did something that the Congress did not authorize it to do.” (Sen. Alexander, Press Release, 3/09/2017)   “President Trump rolled back more Obama-era regulations Monday, signing … bills that reverse rules on education…” (“Trump Signs Four Bills To Roll Back Obama-Era Regulations,” USA Today, 3/27/2017)   ·   ·     “These bills, HJ Resolutions 57 and 58, nullify education rules outlined by the Obama administration near the end of 2016…” (“Trump Tries To Make Good On Promises To Roll Back Obama-Era Regulations,” CNN, 3/28/2017) “[S]ome lawmakers from both parties saw the regulations as unusually aggressive and far-reaching, and said they could subvert [the Every Student Succeeds Act’s] intent of re-establishing local control over education and decreasing the emphasis on testing.” (“Obama Education Rules Are Swept Aside by Congress,” The New York Times, 3/09/2017) FOUR: Repealed The Obama Administration’s Blacklisting Rule, Which Would Have Created ‘A Host Of Unintended Negative Consequences For Stakeholders In The Federal Contracting Marketplace, Such As Taxpayers, Federal Contractors, Their Employees And The Federal Acquisition Workforce’ ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS: “The Obama administration’s ‘blacklisting’ rule—no matter how well-intentioned—creates a host of unintended negative consequences for stakeholders in the federal contracting marketplace, such as taxpayers, federal contractors, their employees and the federal acquisition workforce.” (Associated Builders And Contractors, Inc., Letter To U.S. Senators, 2/2/17)   “President Trump repealed the so-called ‘blacklisting rule’ Monday…” (“Trump Repeals 'Blacklisting Rule,'” The Hill, 3/27/2017) DOT-18-0010-A-000830 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000830   “The Senate voted Monday to repeal another last-minute regulation President Obama imposed before leaving office in January, one that would have required companies to report labor law violations or allegations while bidding for federal contracts.” (“Senate Repeals Another Obama 'Moonlight' Reg,” Washington Examiner, 3/6/17)   · “The rule institutes new reporting provisions, requiring contractors who bid on federal contracts in excess of $500,000 to report alleged as well as actual labor violations from the last three years. Reported violations of any of the 14 federal labor statutes may be used to block a company’s bid.” (“Congress Puts Dept. Of Labor's Blacklisting Rule In Crosshairs,” Competitive Enterprise Institute, 2/1/17)   FIVE: Congress Passes Bill To ‘Scale Back Federal Control On Lands Managed By The Bureau Of Land Management’   SEN. LISA MURKOWSKI (R-AK): “The Obama administration’s Planning 2.0 rule makes sweeping changes to how BLM develops resource management plans, shifts decision-making authority away from the impacted states to Washington, DC, and disregards BLM’s multiple-use mission. If left intact, it will harm grazing, timber, energy and mineral development, and recreation on our public lands…. By rescinding this rule, we can return power and decision-making authority to those who actually live near BLM lands in western states.” (Sen. Murkowski, Press Release, 1/30/2017)   “With the stroke of his pen, [President] Trump will … scale back federal control on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management… Critics of the rule -- known at ‘Planning 2.0’ -- said the rules would minimize local input in land management and stymie public comment, while giving the federal government more authority on what to do with the space.” (‘Trump Tries To Make Good On Promises To Roll Back Obama-Era Regulations,” CNN, 3/28/2017)   “The US Senate has overturned an Obama Administration rule that put power of land management on Capitol Hill, and took it out of the hands of local powers. The BLM Planning 2.0 Rule implemented sweeping changes to how the BLM resource management plans.” (“BLM Planning 2.0 Rule Overturned,” KGWN-TV Cheyenne, 3/07/2017)   SIX: Congress ‘Reverses A Rule Intended To Help Google And Amazon’ At The Expense Of Consumers   SEN. JEFF FLAKE (R-AZ): “The FCC’s midnight regulation has the potential to limit consumer choice, stifle innovation, and jeopardize data security by destabilizing the internet ecosystem. Passing my resolution is the first step toward restoring a consumer-friendly approach to internet privacy regulation that empowers consumers to make informed choices on if and how their data can be shared. It will not change or lessen existing consumer privacy protections.” (Sen. Flake, Press Release, 3/23/2017)   “President Trump signed legislation Monday night … rolling back a landmark policy from the Obama era and enabling Internet providers to compete with Google and Facebook in the online ad market.” (“Trump Has Signed Repeal Of FCC's Internet Privacy Rule,” LA Times, 4/4/2017)   “The Phony Internet Privacy Panic: The GOP reverses a rule intended to help Google and Amazon, not you.” (Editorial, “The Phony Internet Privacy Panic,” The Wall Street Journal, 3/21/2017)   ·     “The FCC … promulgated a rule that, curiously, did not apply to companies like Google or Amazon, whose business model includes monetizing massive data collection—what panda videos you watch or which gardening tools you buy. The rule was designed to give an edge to Twitter and friends in online advertising, a field already dominated by Silicon Valley.” (Editorial, “The Phony Internet Privacy Panic,” The Wall Street Journal, 3/21/2017) SEVEN: ‘Bill Nixing Obama-Era Guns Rule’ Which ‘Unnecessarily And Unreasonably Deprives Individuals With Disabilities Of A Constitutional Right’ Passes DOT-18-0010-A-000831 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000831 “Trump signs bill nixing Obama-era guns rule: … Who opposed the rule? Interestingly, the rule had opponents across a wide spectrum. Both the National Rifle Association and the American Civil Liberties Union spoke out against it.” (“Trump Signs Bill Nixing Obama-Era Guns Rule,” CNN, 2/28/17)   “Critics argue the rule stripped Second Amendment rights from people who are not dangerously mentally ill, such as those with eating or sleeping disorders or disabilities that prevent them from managing their own finances.” (“Senate Nixes Obama-Era Gun Rule,” The Hill, 2/15/17)   NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY: “Because of the importance of the constitutional right at stake and the very real stigma that this rule legitimizes, NCD recommends that Congress consider utilizing the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal this rule.” (National Council On Disability, Letter To Majority Leader McConnell & Speaker Ryan, 1/24/17)     EIGHT: Republican Congress ‘Sends SEC Disclosure Rule To The Dust Bin’ That Could Have Cost American Businesses Up To $590 Million Annually SEN. MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “We all want to increase transparency, but we should not raise costs on American businesses only to benefit their international competition. Let’s send the SEC back to the drawing board to promote transparency without the high costs or negative impacts on American businesses.” (Sen. McConnell, Press Release, 2/2/17)   “…Donald Trump signed legislation Tuesday that repealed a Dodd-Frank Act energy regulation under the Congressional Review Act (CRA).” (“Trump Signs Repeal Of Obama Era Energy Regulation,” The Daily Caller, 2/14/17)   “Senate sends SEC disclosure rule to the dust bin: The Senate Friday gave its thumbs up to a resolution to nullify a SEC rule…” (“Senate Sends SEC Disclosure Rule To The Dust Bin,” Politico, 2/3/17)   SEC On The Cost Of The Rule: “Quantitative Estimates of Compliance Costs … Annual ongoing compliance costs… Total costs: Lower bound - $94,528,370; Average: $267,061,300; Upper bound: $590,699,900.” (Security And Exchange Commission, “17 CFR Parts 240 and 249b,” Pg.192)     NINE: Repealing An Obama-Era Rule To ‘Allow Companies To Focus On Employee Safety Instead Of Paperwork’ SEN. BILL CASSIDY (R-LA): “The Obama administration routinely used executive authority to disregard judicial oversite. This Joint Resolution will ensure that our government faithfully follows the letter and spirit of the law.” (Sen. Cassidy, Press Release, 3/22/2017)   ·   SEN. CASSIDY (R-LA): “This regulatory scheme represents a backwards approach to workplace safety and it is a blatant overreach by the federal government.” (Sen. Cassidy, Press Release, 3/22/2017) “The Senate recently voted to nullify an Obama-era OSHA safety regulation – the so-called ‘Volks rule’ – which extends the time period for OSHA to cite employers for failing to report workplace injuries and illnesses….Republicans criticized the rule, claiming the Obama administration overstepped its boundaries and that repealing the law will allow companies to focus on employee safety instead of paperwork.” (“Senate Nixes Volks Rule, An Obama-Era Workplace Safety Rule,” The National Law Review, 3/28/2017)     TEN: Congress ‘Repeals Alaskan Bear Hunting Regs’ – ‘Upheld States’ Rights, Protected Alaska’s Hunting And Fishing Traditions, And Put A Swift End To The Fish And Wildlife Service’s Wanton Effort’ To Infringe Alaskan Rights SEN. LISA MURKOWSKI (R-AK): “I was pleased to get a call from President Trump yesterday after he signed the disapproval resolution to overturn the rule restricting Alaska's ability to manage wildlife on federal refuge lands… DOT-18-0010-A-000832 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000832 By signing it, the president has upheld states’ rights, protected Alaska’s hunting and fishing traditions, and put a swift end to the Fish and Wildlife Service’s wanton effort to take greater control of nearly 77 million acres of our state.” (Sen. Murkowski, Press Release, 4/4/2017)   “Trump repeals Alaskan bear hunting regs: The Obama-era rule from the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) prohibited certain hunting tactics that target ‘predator’ animals likes bears and wolves while they are inside Alaska’s national preserves. … Trump overturned the rule Monday, handing control of the hunting regulations over to Alaska state officials who have shown an eagerness to control predator populations as a way to protect other animals such as deer.” (“Trump Repeals Alaskan Bear Hunting Regs,” The Hill, 4/3/2017)   ·     “…when [Alaska] state officials wanted to extend ‘predator control’ to federal wildlife refuges, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said no. And after years of saying no, the agency late last year adopted a rule to make the denial permanent. Alaska's elected officials called that an outrage and an infringement on state rights. … Congress explicitly gave Alaska authority to manage wildlife in the Alaska Statehood Act and two more laws, U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, an Alaska Republican, said after voting to revoke the rule.” (“Trump Revokes Alaska Refuge Rule,” AP, 4/4/2017) ELEVEN: Labor Department Regulation ‘Undermined The Ability Of States To Conduct Drug Testing,’ Another Example Of Executive Overreach By The Obama Administration’ SEN. TED CRUZ (R-TX): “Under the previous administration, the Department of Labor undermined the ability of states to conduct drug testing in their programs as permitted by Congress… This rule was yet another example of executive overreach by the Obama administration, and I commend President Trump for signing this resolution into law.” (“Trump Signs Cruz-Brady Bill To Expand Drug Testing Of Unemployment Benefit Applicants,” Dallas News, 3/31/2017)   “President Donald Trump on Friday signed legislation backed by two Texas Republicans that will allow states to expand the pool of applicants for unemployment benefits who can be drug tested.” (“Trump Signs Cruz-Brady Bill To Expand Drug Testing Of Unemployment Benefit Applicants,” Dallas News, 3/31/2017)   ·     “Lawmakers in the GOP-controlled Congress have complained that under President Barack Obama, the government placed too many limits on states for deciding which unemployment applicants can be drug-tested. The Labor Department's regulation meant that states could only test applicants for unemployment benefits who do jobs that require drug testing. The resolution passed by the House and approved by the Senate 51-48 on Tuesday would cancel those limits.” (“Trump Is Expected To Sign Off On Expanding Drug Tests For The Unemployed,” Fortune, 3/14/2017) TWELVE & THIRTEEN: Protecting The Retirement Nest Eggs Of Hard-Working Americans SEN. ORRIN HATCH (R-UT): “These regulations encourage state and municipal governments to impose conflicting and burdensome mandates on private-sector businesses and to bar private workers’ access to their retirement accounts. … Places like New York City shouldn’t just get a pass on investing potentially billions of dollars in private worker retirement assets without regard to federal rules requiring prudent investment practices— rules designed to protect retirement nest eggs of hard-working Americans.” (Sen. Hatch, Press Release, 3/29/2017)   “The Senate has moved to kill Obama-era retirement rules governing so-called auto-IRAs for states and cities… The resolutions introduced by Sen. Hatch, S.J. Res. 32 and S.J. Res. 33, seek to overturn the state and city rules, respectively.” (“Senate Moves To Kill DOL's State, City Auto-IRA Rules,” Investment News, 3/6/2017)   · “The Senate nixed an Obama-era regulation Wednesday that made it easier for states to create retirement plans for some workers. Senators voted 50-49 on the House-passed resolution, rolling back a rule meant to encourage states to create retirement plans for private-sector workers who do not have access to an employer-based retirement plan. … The Obama-era rule, implemented in October 2016, would exempt the state-created plans from the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, or ERISA, a law that outlines rules for DOT-18-0010-A-000833 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000833     workplace savings.” (“Senate Nixes Obama-Era Retirement Rule,” The Hill, 5/3/2017) FOURTEEN: Overturned A Rule That ‘Forced States To Provide Family Planning Grants Under Title X To Planned Parenthood’ SEN. JONI ERNST (R-IA): “I’m grateful to have … ensure[d] that states are not forced to provide entities like Planned Parenthood - the nation’s single largest provider of abortions - with federal Title X dollars. States are closer to, and more familiar with, their health care providers and patients, and therefore, should be able to make their own decisions about the best eligible Title X providers – whether those are hospitals, community health centers, or other types of providers.” (Sen. Ernst, Press Release, 4/13/2017)   “President Donald Trump signed a resolution Thursday that overturns former President Barack Obama’s rule that forced states to provide family planning grants under Title X to Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers.” (“Trump Signs Resolution Overturning Obama Planned Parenthood State Funding Mandate,” Breitbart, 4/13/2017)     FIFTEEN: Overturning A Rule That Could Have Meant Higher Credit Card Rates And ‘A Bonanza For Trial Lawyers’ SEN. MIKE CRAPO (R-ID), Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman: “[T]he entire purpose of this rule is to promote class action litigation and to stop arbitration resolution when there is a dispute…. The CFPB failed to demonstrate that consumers will fare better in light of its arbitration rule. In fact, they may be worse off.” (Sen. Crapo, Congressional Record, S. 6740-6742, 10/24/2017)   · SEN. CRAPO: “This is a rule to benefit the plaintiffs’ bar.” (“Congress Votes to Overturn CFPB Arbitration Rule,” The Wall Street Journal, 10/24/2017)   THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: “[A]ccording to a new Treasury analysis of the CFPB’s 2015 study, the rule would hurt consumers and the economy. Consider: Only 13% of class actions that the CFPB studied resulted in a recovery for members. In the average case, plaintiffs received $32 while attorneys hauled in more than $1 million. The average arbitration award was $5,389. Businesses typically also covered all arbitration costs for consumers.  One reason the typical payout in class actions was so meager is that payments to members wasn’t automatic in 60% of settlements. Members usually had to file claims to obtain awards, and only in about 4% of cases did they do so. The primary beneficiaries of the rule are attorneys who reeled in 31% of consumer payouts.” (Editorial, “Richard Cordray’s Bad Numbers,” The Wall Street Journal, 10/22/2017)   · “The consumer bureau’s own data showed that the rule would transfer $330 million from businesses to plaintiff attorneys over the next five years. Businesses would also have to spend more than $500 million on defending lawsuits and $1.7 billion on settlements.” (Editorial, “Richard Cordray’s Bad Numbers,” The Wall Street Journal, 10/22/2017)     ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000834 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000834 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, May 23, 2018 10:52:41 AM image001.png Hi everyone,   The Senate will convene at 11:00 am today (to allow time for the NDAA markup in committee). Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #593, Brian D. Montgomery, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.   At 3:15 pm, the Senate will proceed to up to 5 roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of the Montgomery nomination. 2. Motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to S.2372, Veterans Choice (if a point of order is raised). 3. Motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2372, Veterans Choice. 4. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (term of five years).* 5. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (term of six years).* *there was consent to have the 30 hours run concurrently on FDIC (so one 30-hours for both chairperson slot, as well as member slot)   Yesterday in the Senate (5/22/18): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #608, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. (Confirmed, 50-45) Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2372, Veterans Choice. (Invoked, 91-4)   Executive Session: Cal. #840 - Cheryl A. Lydon, of South Carolina, to be United States Attorney for the District of South Carolina for the term of four years. Cal. #841 - Sonya K. Chavez, of New Mexico, to be United States Marshal for the District of New Mexico for the term of four years. Cal. #842 - Scott E. Kracl, of Nebraska, to be United States Marshal for the District of Nebraska for the term of four years. Cal. #843 - J. C. Raffety, of West Virginia, to be United States Marshal for the Northern District of West Virginia for the term of four years.   UC Items: S.Res.346 – Trauma-informed Care S.Res.519 – Legal Counsel   Please see the Leader’s remarks on several important issues below.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   For Immediate Release Date: May 23, 2018   CONTACT: David Popp (McConnell),  202-224-2979 Matt House (Schumer), Press@schumer.senate.gov Senate Leaders Commend Blunt-Klobuchar Proposal Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) DOT-18-0010-A-000835 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000835 made the following joint statement Wednesday on bipartisan legislation announced by U.S. Sens. Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) that would reform the process to pursue claims of sexual harassment or other workplace discrimination experienced on Capitol Hill:   “We want to commend Senators Blunt and Klobuchar, who have worked tirelessly and in a bipartisan way, to address this serious issue. With this agreement, both parties are coming together to update the laws governing how the Congress addresses workplace claims and protecting staff and others from harassment. We’re optimistic that after our members review the legislation, this bill will pass the Senate in short order.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U . S . SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2s4GiY8 Crapo Bill Heads to White House for Signature ‘Today’s House passage of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which the Senate passed earlier this year, represents a major victory for America’s local lenders and the communities they support.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding House passage of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act which was passed by the Senate earlier this year: “Today’s House passage of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which the Senate passed earlier this year, represents a major victory for America’s local lenders and the communities they support. “For nearly eight years, the Obama-era Dodd-Frank rules designed for Wall Street have made life needlessly difficult for lenders on Main Street. Small banks and credit unions have struggled to comply with one-size-fits-all regulations. And it has been the local businesses and family farms who rely on these institutions for access to credit who have paid the price. “Thanks to the leadership of Chairman Crapo and the Banking Committee, this legislation reflects a bipartisan, bicameral consensus that local lenders deserve targeted relief from the enormous regulatory burden imposed by Dodd-Frank. I congratulate Chairman Crapo and Chairman Hensarling on this major step. So many communities – in my home state of Kentucky and across America – will benefit from their hard work when the president signs this bill into law. ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U . S . SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2LlUWD9                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2s3Hdbc Economic Optimism Continues Across America ‘A record-high percentage of American manufacturers have said they have a positive economic outlook for their enterprises. Rural communities outpaced everywhere else in relative job creation last year. The total amount spent on employee compensation grew faster in 2017 than in any calendar year under President Obama. This is what happens when Republicans implement a progrowth, pro-opportunity agenda that gets Washington out of the way. Everyone shares in the prosperity.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from AMf-f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000836 DOT_Am.Oversight-000836 the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “This week, survey data showed that more Americans say it’s a good time to find a quality job than at any point in the last 17 years. Under President Obama, this number got as low as eight percent. It never broke 50 percent during his administration. But today, 67 percent of Americans say it’s a good time to find a quality job. Optimism has taken off for all groups since this president was elected and this Republican Congress was sworn in. “But the injection of new hope has been felt the most among working-class Americans. This is a major distinction between the economic policies that Democrats spent years putting in place and the new approach this Republican government has taken. For nearly a decade, Democrats followed the standard liberal playbook: Tax more, regulate more, and pile up more money and power in Washington D.C. They cracked down on American businesses, imposed one new regulation after another, and looked to the federal government to pick winners and losers. “It’s a familiar, old set of ideas. Here’s what it produces: An economy that works very well for a few, but leaves many more behind. The Obama era was just fine for our nation’s biggest coastal cities. Roughly three quarters of all the new jobs created from 2010 to 2016 poured into the country’s largest metro areas. But outside those places, taxes and regulations created an anti-business climate that hurt American manufacturing, American coal communities, and small and mediumsized businesses throughout the country. “So Republicans charted a new course. We understand that middle-class families know how to spend their own money better than the government. That American workers thrive when American job creators are expanding, hiring, and raising wages. So we passed once-in-a-generation tax relief for middle-class families and small businesses, and are working at every turn to roll back runaway regulations. The result is an economic comeback that’s reaching all kinds of communities, not just a favored few. “A record-high percentage of American manufacturers have said they have a positive economic outlook for their enterprises. Rural communities outpaced everywhere else in relative job creation last year. The total amount spent on employee compensation grew faster in 2017 than in any calendar year under President Obama. This is what happens when Republicans implement a progrowth, pro-opportunity agenda that gets Washington out of the way. Everyone shares in the prosperity.” ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U . S . SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2s5rsAB                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LgoLoB Senate to Consider Important Water Infrastructure Legislation ‘This morning, the Environment and Public Works Committee is concluding their work on America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. Chairman Barrasso has led an open, bipartisan process that’s generated a strong proposal. It builds on President Trump’s infrastructure approach, encouraging local control over local priorities and leveraging federal resources to ensure that each dollar spent goes to major water infrastructure improvements.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018: “This morning, the Environment and Public Works Committee is concluding their work on America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. Chairman Barrasso has led an open, bipartisan process that’s generated a strong proposal. “It builds on President Trump’s infrastructure approach, encouraging local control over local priorities and leveraging federal resources to ensure that each dollar spent goes to major water infrastructure improvements. It cuts red tape and empowers the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to break through bureaucratic backlogs. And thanks to Senator Boozman, it enhances the effectiveness of federal investments in our nation’s failing drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. “My state of Kentucky contains more than 1,900 miles of navigable inland waterways. Our water resources support more than 13,000 jobs in the maritime industry. Paducah, Kentucky serves as the heart of America’s inland waterways system, and Western Kentucky is also home to major civil works projects like Olmsted Locks and Dam and Kentucky Lock. “So this bipartisan legislation is good news for communities throughout the Commonwealth. One provision, the Freedom to Fish Act, will help safeguard an important part of Kentucky’s cultural heritage. Generations of Kentuckians have fished the Cumberland River and the tailwaters of the Barkley and Wolf Creek Dams. “I remember my dad and his friend taking me to fish there at a young age. They were experienced fishermen. The last thing they needed was advice from federal bureaucrats on where to cast their lines. But in 2012, in a typical display of Obama administration overreach, the Army Corps threatened to restrict access to these cherished waters. I didn’t know anyone in Kentucky who AMf-f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000837 DOT_Am.Oversight-000837 thought it was a good idea. The farmers didn’t. The anglers didn’t. The area businesses relying on fishing tourism didn’t. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife certainly didn’t. “So I worked with community leaders like my friend Lyon County Judge Executive Wade White and my colleagues in the Kentucky and Tennessee Congressional delegations to put a stop to this government interference. We introduced legislation to prevent the Army Corps from robbing our fishers and anglers of this beloved pastime and damaging this key component of the local economy. “The measure passed with overwhelming support and was signed into law. It’s been successful. But its provisions are set to expire soon. That’s why I worked with Chairman Barrasso, Ranking Member Carper, and the committee to secure a new five-year extension of the Freedom to Fish Act in this year’s water infrastructure bill. It’s just another achievement among the many victories this bill will deliver for communities across the country. “I’m grateful to the supporters of this legislation -- such as the National League of Cities and the National Rural Water Association – and the bipartisan coalition of Senators that’s worked to craft it. I look forward to the committee’s vote today, and to supporting this bill once it reaches the Senate floor.” ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U . S . SENATOR fo r KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2x2Tv9j                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2wZvTTi Keeping Our Promise to Our Nation’s Veterans ‘The bipartisan reform legislation before us builds on the earlier progress of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014, and reaffirms a clear message: Delays at the VA cannot stand between veterans and the medical care they need. The shortcomings of a federal bureaucracy do not “free” our nation from its promises to our all-volunteer armed forces. Veterans deserve prompt, thorough care – period.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the House-passed VA MISSION Act of 2018: “Today, the Senate will begin considering the VA MISSION Act. It marks a major step forward for the VA system and the millions of heroes who rely on it for services. The bipartisan reform legislation before us builds on the earlier progress of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014, and reaffirms a clear message: Delays at the VA cannot stand between veterans and the medical care they need. The shortcomings of a federal bureaucracy do not ‘free’ our nation from its promises to our all-volunteer armed forces. Veterans deserve prompt, thorough care -- period. “In the few short years since the creation of VA Choice, the program has seen important success. More than two million veterans have taken the opportunity to see private providers when the VA system couldn’t meet their needs. In Kentucky, it helped more than twenty-three thousand veterans in 2017 alone. Thanks to the leadership of Chairman Isakson, this new legislation builds on this significant success, continues it, and improves it in ways that will help veterans even more. “The VA Mission Act will clear the path for veterans to receive greater healthcare choices. It will eliminate the wait-time and distance requirements that keep veterans out of the driver’s seat, and empower them, in consultation with their respective physicians, to take charge of their own care. It will help prioritize and speed improvements to existing VA facilities. It will direct $5.2 billion to fund the Veterans Choice program. And it will establish more streamlined delivery of care through the Veterans Community Care program. “The bill before us passed the House by an overwhelming bipartisan margin. It carries the support of the president and 38 veterans advocacy organizations. And it’s based on a simple idea: Promises made to those who sacrifice for our freedoms must be promises kept. Let’s make good on those promises this week.” ###     AMf-f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000838 DOT_Am.Oversight-000838 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, May 24, 2018 11:04:28 AM Hello everyone The Senate convened at 9:30 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, post-cloture.              At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of five years. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years. 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador of the United States to Luxembourg.   Further at 1:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #618, James Randolph Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador of the United States to Luxembourg. Yesterday in the Senate (May 23): Roll Call Votes: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #593, Brian D. Montgomery, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. (Confirmed, 74-23) 2. Motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2372, Veterans Choice. (Agreed to, 92-5) 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #670, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of five years. (Invoked, 72-25) 4. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #672, Jelena McWilliams, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years. (Invoked, 73-23) UC Items: Cal. #46, S.916 – Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications with a Cassidy Substitute and Title Amendment Cal. #289, S.1333 - Tribal HUD-VASH Act Cal. #409, S.2178 – Inspector General Recommendation Transparency H.Con.Res.121 – Enrollment Correction S.Res.521 – Santa Fe   Please see the Leader’s remarks below on several important topics – passage of the VA MISSION Act, confirming Jelena McWilliams to the FDIC and Brian Montgomery to HUD, and bringing relief to small banks and consumers via Dodd-Frank reform. DOT-18-0010-A-000839 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000839 Thanks, Erica MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, May 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2J40Muj                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2xaNhVb Landmark Veterans Health Bill Will Soon Become Law ‘It will bring more options and greater flexibility to veterans who’ve spent years driving long distances to the nearest VA care facility, only to face long lines and waiting lists when they got there. It will bring more peace of mind for veterans of all eras, and their families, who’ve faced uncertainty and limitations as their needs for care have evolved. This legislation continues, expands, and improves the successful Veterans’ Choice Program that has already helped millions of veterans nationwide, including more than 23,000 Kentuckians last year alone.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Congressional passage of the VA MISSION Act of 2018: “We’re in the midst of quite a productive week here in the Senate. Yesterday, this body did its part in fulfilling an important promise to our nation’s veterans. We passed the VA MISSION Act by a wide, bipartisan margin. Having already passed the House, this truly landmark bill will now head to the White House where the president will soon sign it into law. “It will bring more options and greater flexibility to veterans who’ve spent years driving long distances to the nearest VA care facility, only to face long lines and waiting lists when they got there. It will bring more peace of mind for veterans of all eras, and their families, who’ve faced uncertainty and limitations as their needs for care have evolved. This legislation continues, expands, and improves the successful Veterans’ Choice Program that has already helped millions of veterans nationwide, including more than 23,000 Kentuckians last year alone. “Thanks to the stalwart leadership of Chairman Isakson and the Veterans Affairs Committee, the hard-and-fast time and distance thresholds that kept too many veterans out of the Choice Program will soon be gone. The providers we trust to provide top-notch care for our heroes will have clearer guidelines for prescribing opioids and more tools to attract and retain experienced professionals. “I’ve heard from Kentucky veterans exactly what this bill will mean for them. One wrote, quote, ‘Kentucky disabled veterans greatly appreciate that Congress is finally taking action to correct deficiencies in the Caregiver Program.’ Another explained that the legislation, quote, ‘strikes the right balance to make sure we strengthen the VA system and provide veterans with the best care possible.’ “I congratulate my friend Chairman Isakson once more on this achievement. I am proud the Senate stepped up to the plate and showed America’s veterans that, on our watch, a promise made is a promise kept.” ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000840 DOT_Am.Oversight-000840 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 23, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KPi4J0                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2scVFhh Senate to Confirm FDIC Chairman, FHA Commissioner ‘Later today, we’ll vote on two more qualified nominees for important positions in the Trump Administration. First comes Brian Montgomery, the president’s nominee to serve as assistant secretary of Housing and Urban Development and head the Federal Housing Administration… After Mr. Montgomery, we’ll vote to advance the nomination of Jelena McWilliams, who the president has chosen to chair the FDIC Board of Directors.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding more of the president’s well-qualified nominees, including the nominee for assistant secretary of Housing and Urban Development and head the Federal Housing Administration, Brian Montgomery, and the nominee to chair the FDIC Board of Directors, Jelena McWilliams: “Later today, we’ll vote on two more qualified nominees for important positions in the Trump Administration. First comes Brian Montgomery, the president’s nominee to serve as assistant secretary of Housing and Urban Development and head the Federal Housing Administration. “His formidable background includes previous service as federal housing commissioner from 2005 to 2009 and as the acting Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. It’s no wonder that our colleagues on the Banking Committee reported his nomination favorably with a bipartisan voice vote. I’m glad we can vote to confirm him today without any further delay. “After Mr. Montgomery, we’ll vote to advance the nomination of Jelena McWilliams, who the president has chosen to chair the FDIC Board of Directors. Ms. McWilliams’s resume spans government and the private sector. As a lawyer, policy expert, and executive, she has studied financial regulation from all angles. She understands the FDIC’s role in safeguarding Americans’ holdings, overseeing the banking sector, and reforming inefficient policies that create obstacles for families and job creators. “Ms. McWilliams is especially attentive to the difficulties facing smaller community banks. In her testimony before the Banking Committee, she explained how government regulations inflict outsized compliance costs that can be too much for Main Street lenders to bear. She was also examined by our colleagues on the Banking Committee, and was also reported out by a bipartisan voice vote. I encourage all my colleagues to join me in voting to advance her nomination later today.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000841 DOT_Am.Oversight-000841 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, May 23, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2x8xnug                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2s32AtV Congress Passes Bill to Bring Relief to Consumers, Community Banks, Credit Unions ‘[Y]esterday marked a big step forward for local lenders across the nation who have been crushed by the regulatory burden of Dodd-Frank. Yesterday afternoon, our colleagues in the House passed the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which the Senate had passed earlier this year. Now it will head to President Trump’s desk for his signature.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Congressional passage of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act: “Speaking of community banks, yesterday marked a big step forward for local lenders across the nation who have been crushed by the regulatory burden of Dodd-Frank. Yesterday afternoon, our colleagues in the House passed the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, which the Senate had passed earlier this year. Now it will head to President Trump’s desk for his signature. “This is the culmination of extensive, bipartisan work -- led by Senator Crapo and his colleagues on the Banking Committee -- to give smaller community lenders relief from Obama-era overregulation. I frequently discuss how our Democratic colleagues’ top-down policy agenda worked well for a select few urban areas but left much of the rest of the nation behind. This issue is a perfect illustration of that. “Our Democratic colleagues produced a hastily-written rulebook for Wall Street and then forced it on the rest of America, including community banks and credit unions in my state of Kentucky and across the nation. These local institutions are vital economic contributors. Their unique ability to build personal relationships and local connections are why community banks handle a majority of all U.S. small-business loans, and almost 80 percent of agricultural loans. “That’s why research suggests that the closure of a single physical bank in a low-income neighborhood can reduce lending to nearby businesses by almost 40 percent. Community banks and the communities that depend on them needed relief from Dodd-Frank. They needed sensible reform that streamlined that inefficient, imprecise, one-size-fits-all regulatory approach. And thanks to Chairman Crapo, our Banking Committee colleagues, Chairman Hensarling, and our colleagues in the House, that is exactly what this Congress and this president are poised to deliver. “This legislation is a major bipartisan achievement. I’m pleased we are adding it to last year’s historic tax reform, our record use of the Congressional Review Act to roll back over-regulation, and all the other policy accomplishments that are helping reignite American prosperity.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000842 DOT_Am.Oversight-000842 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, June 04, 2018 5:01:57 PM Good afternoon, The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today (Fyi: this is the beginning of a four-week work period, before the 4th of July recess) and proceeded to Executive Session to resume the consideration of Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Wier nomination. Please note, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order at the end of the last session week (the order we will process these judges this week): 1. Cal. #542 - Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. 2. Cal. #587 - Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. 3. Cal. #625 - Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama. Looking Ahead: Nominations, NDAA, Water Infrastructure, and Appropriations. Thanks, Erica PS. I am working on updating this list. If you received this email and would like to be taken off this list please send me a note and I will remove you. This list is the “Senate Update” email blast list – I try to send one update per day in session (occasionally there are multiple emails a day with real-time updates -- like during a vote-a-rama, etc.). Otherwise we try to avoid spamming you. Thanks!   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000843 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000843 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, June 4, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2JgTdxe                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LnFFRj Senate to Consider Three More High-Quality Judicial Nominees ‘The Senate will begin this week by voting on three more of the president’s well-qualified nominees for the federal judiciary. First on the slate is Magistrate Judge Robert Wier, selected by President Trump to serve as a district judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky… Following Judge Wier, we’ll consider Fernando Rodriguez for the Southern District of Texas and Annemarie Axon for the Northern District of Alabama.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s well-qualified judicial nominees:   “The Senate will begin this week by voting on three more of the president’s well-qualified nominees for the federal judiciary. First on the slate is Magistrate Judge Robert Wier, selected by President Trump to serve as a district judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Judge Wier’s sterling credentials and the support he enjoys from the legal community suggest he’ll excel on the federal bench. He graduated at the top of his class at the University of Kentucky College of Law, followed by a successful career in private practice. In 2006, he became a magistrate judge. In 2014, his colleagues unanimously re-appointed him to a second term. Judge Wier has the intellect, skill, and experience to take on this role. I will proudly vote to advance his nomination today. “Following Judge Wier, we’ll consider Fernando Rodriguez for the Southern District of Texas and Annemarie Axon for the Northern District of Alabama. In each case, the Senate’s work will be upholding one of our most central constitutional responsibilities -- to consider and confirm highquality candidates.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER · U.S.• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, June 4, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2Jy849U                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2J9qu1E DOT-18-0010-A-000844 DOT_Am.Oversight-000844 More Than One Million Jobs Created Since the Passage of Republican Tax Reform ‘These aren’t just economic statistics. They are American men and women who have new chances to support their families and build their lives that they simply did not have under the policies of the previous administration. I’m glad we fought, won -- and will continue to win -- major accomplishments for the middle-class families we represent.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Last week brought another set of encouraging headlines about our growing economy. In the month of May, the U.S. economy generated 223,000 new jobs. Unemployment has fallen to 3.8 percent, its lowest level since April of 2000. And the proportion of American adults who are employed is as high as it’s been at any point since the financial crisis. “Now, we know these economic indicators can sometimes be noisy. But consider them alongside all the other signs we’ve seen over the last year. Since President Trump was elected alongside a Republican Congress, the number of Americans who say they’re optimistic about finding a good job has jumped by 25 percentage points. And small business owners report in record numbers that they’re optimistic about prospects of hiring new employees. “The bottom line is clear: Under the policies of this unified Republican government, American workers, families, and business owners are achieving economic growth that is unmatched in recent memory. It’s driven by a 21st-century tax code that lets Americans keep more of their own money and encourages job creators to invest in our nation’s workers. “It’s made possible by historic regulatory reform, which has leveled the playing field for American consumers and small businesses. From farmers and ranchers to community bankers, the burdens of an out-of-control regulatory state are being lifted. So after a decade of stagnation, Republican policies have gotten Washington out of the way, and freed American workers and job creators to do what what they do best -- build a dynamic economy that is the envy of the world. “But as impressive as some of these statistics may be, I think it’s important to keep in mind that these stories are -- at the end of the day -- human stories. More than one million new jobs have been created just since we passed tax reform last December. That’s not an abstract number. “That is one million opportunities: for young workers who are just starting out and need to begin climbing the first rungs of the economic ladder; for young fathers and mothers, who can now leave a position where their pay has stayed flat for a new opening in their industry; or for mid-career professionals who were sidelined by a tough economy, and can now suit up and check back into the game. “These aren’t just economic statistics. They are American men and women who have new chances to support their families and build their lives that they simply did not have under the policies of the previous administration. I’m glad we fought, won -- and will continue to win -- major accomplishments for the middle-class families we represent.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000845 DOT_Am.Oversight-000845 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Tuesday, June 05, 2018 11:09:55 AM Hello The Senate convened at 10:00 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky, post-cloture. The Senate will recess from 12:30-2:15pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.                                       At 11:00 am, the Senate proceeded to two roll call votes on the following: 1.         Confirmation of the Wier nomination (voting now) 2.         Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #587, Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. Looking Ahead: Nominations, NDAA, Water Infrastructure, and Appropriations. Monday's Session: Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. (Invoked, 90-1) UC Items: There were no UC items.   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, June 5, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2J8OyS2                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2HmQ3q6 DOT-18-0010-A-000846 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000846 This Slate of Judicial Nominees Should Be Promptly Confirmed ‘President Trump continues to send us impressive judicial nominees with sterling qualifications. I urge all my colleagues to join me in voting to promptly confirm this slate.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s well-qualified judicial nominees:   “Yesterday, the Senate advanced the nomination of Robert Wier to serve on the Eastern District Court of Kentucky by a vote of 90-1. This was a needless delay, but I look forward to confirming this well-qualified nominee later this morning. “Next, the Senate will turn to Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., the president’s selection to be a U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. Mr. Rodriguez is a graduate of Yale and the University of Texas. He’s earned recognition for his tireless efforts to combat human trafficking. His peers praise his work ethic and knack for tackling complicated issues. “President Trump continues to send us impressive judicial nominees with sterling qualifications. I urge all my colleagues to join me in voting to promptly confirm this slate.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000847 DOT_Am.Oversight-000847 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, June 06, 2018 11:14:01 AM Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #625, Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama, post-cloture.   At 11:00 am, the Senate proceeded to a roll call vote on the confirmation of the Axon nomination (voting now).   We are looking to proceed to NDAA today.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, NDAA, Water Infrastructure, Farm Bill, and Appropriations.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, June 6, 2018): Roll Call Votes: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #542, Robert Earl Wier, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky. (Confirmed, 95-0) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #587, Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. (Invoked, 94-1) 3. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #587, Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas. (Confirmed, 96-0) 4. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #625, Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama. (Invoked, 84-11)   UC Items: H.Con.Res.113 – Soapbox Derby S.Res.532 – Hemp History S.Res.533 – U.S.S. Manchester S.Res.534 – Travel and Tourism Cal.431, H.R.4743 – Office of Credit Risk Management H.R.2333 – Small Business Investment Opportunity   And a word below from Stew on the August Recess.   And below that, please see important stats from the Senate GOP Comms Center on historic obstruction from Senate democrats of President Trump’s nominations. NOTE: “Senate democrats have already forced 100 cloture votes on President Trump’s nominees in his first two years vs. 24 combined cloture votes for the previous 6 presidents..     To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  August The Majority Leader announced today that the August recess has been canceled. He went on to say that “Senators should expect to remain in session in August to pass legislation, including appropriations bills, and to make DOT-18-0010-A-000848 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000848 additional progress on the President’s nominees.” Senate Democrats have already slowed the Senate by forcing cloture votes on 100 nominees (the 100th was earlier today), compared with only 24 for the first two years of the last six presidents—combined. Due to this historic obstruction, the Senate will remain in session in August. In addition to work on nominations, here is a partial list of substantive items on the Senate’s to-do list. National Defense Authorization Act · Appropriations · Water infrastructure · Farm bill · Opioid bills · FAA · Flood insurance · Coast Guard · And many others. The list is not all-inclusive, but should give you a flavor of the significant workload that the Senate will work through, continuing the streak of accomplishments (here are some of the items already passed in this Congress). So be sure and thank our Democrat friends for any changes you’ll have to make to your August plans. These guys won’t have to worry about it, though. STEW @StewSays   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) t , at . ublica11. Communicat· on Center 2,02 228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2sJLUqQ   Dem Obstruction Hits Century Mark Senate Democrats Have Already Forced 100 Cloture Votes On President Trump’s Nominees In His First Two Years Vs. 24 Combined For The Previous 6 Presidents In DOT-18-0010-A-000849 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000849     Theirs Number of cloture votes taken in the Senate on executive and judicial nominations in the first two years of a president’s term: 100 100 15 CLOTUBE:VOTES ON EXECUTIVE & ,JUDICIAL NOMINE 'ES 50 25 - 8 0 0 0 Carter Reagan H.W. Bush 0 Clinton 4 W. Bush 12 Oba:ma   Notes: Includes judicial nominees and failed cloture votes. Excludes cloture motions waived or vitiated.   Trump s of June 5, 2018 1. Trump: Through June 5, 2018. Includes 2 cloture votes on the nomination of Justice Gorsuch and cloture votes on Jelena McWilliams to be both an FDIC board member and its chair. 2. Clinton: Includes a cloture vote on 5 nominees at once (all of whom were subsequently confirmed by voice vote) and 2 failed cloture votes on the nomination of Sam Brown. (“Cloture Motions,” U.S. Senate Website, Accessed 6/05/2018)       ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   DOT-18-0010-A-000850 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000850 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Thursday, June 07, 2018 11:42:01 AM Hi everyone – The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and proceeded to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #603, Kenneth L. Marcus, of Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Department of Education, with the time until 12:30 pm equally divided between the two Leaders or their designees. At 12:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the confirmation of the Marcus nomination. The Senate will then resume consideration of the John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Under regular order the Motion to Proceed to NDAA will occur tomorrow. We will keep you posted on vote timing. Looking Ahead:  Nominations, NDAA, Water Infrastructure, Farm Bill, and Appropriations. Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, June 6): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #625, Annemarie Carney Axon, of Alabama, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama. (Confirmed, 83-11) UC Items: Cal. #61, H.R.88 - Shiloh National Military Park with a Murkowski amendment Cal. #415, S.1692 – National Emergency Medical Services Commemorative Work Act Cal. #432, H.R.1900 – National Veterans Memorial and Museum Cal. #433, S.2857 – National Nordic Museum Cal. #434, H.R.1397 – GW Parkway Transfer Cal. #172, H.R.1719 – John Muir S.Res.536 – Legal Counsel Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares DOT-18-0010-A-000851 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000851 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATOR.for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2HqgGKQ                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2sLdfZS Greater Readiness, Enhanced Capabilities, More Support for Military Families ‘This week, we’ve already discussed the array of global challenges that face our nation at this critical moment. This NDAA will help equip our troops with the latest training and the best technology to confront those challenges and keep us safe.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the Department of Education, Kenneth Marcus, and the John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Today, the Senate will consider the nomination of Kenneth Marcus to serve as the Department of Education’s Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. His resume includes degrees from Williams College and California Berkley School of Law, and his career has spanned private practice and public service, with considerable experience in government. I look forward to voting to confirm Mr. Marcus later today. “Then, the Senate will resume consideration of the John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act. It’s the result of serious bipartisan work over the past several months. Our colleagues on the Armed Services Committee have engaged in candid discussions with our nation’s top military leaders. “They’ve heard about the pressing needs of the men and women who serve in harm’s way: Greater readiness. Enhanced weapons capabilities in the air and on the seas. Simpler processes for acquisition. More support for military families. This week, we’ve already discussed the array of global challenges that face our nation at this critical moment. This NDAA will help equip our troops with the latest training and the best technology to confront those challenges and keep us safe. “It’s also important to reflect on all that this legislation will do for our warfighters and their families here at home. It will increase base pay for servicemembers by 2.6 percent -- the largest annual raise in nearly a decade. It authorizes new resources for family housing construction, improved care for servicemembers’ children with severe disabilities, and programs to better manage opioid prescriptions in the military health system. And it will authorize continued operations at military posts across our nation that build up our nation’s security and form the backbone of local communities. “The servicemembers who serve at Kentucky’s Army installations and in the Kentucky Air and Army DOT-18-0010-A-000852 DOT_Am.Oversight-000852 National Guard are critical to our overall National Defense Strategy. I’m proud to represent them in here the Senate. Fort Campbell is home to the 101st Airborne Division and a number of special operations units. In recent years, many of these servicemembers have seen a near-constant cycle of deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. This NDAA ensures they are not forgotten. “Fort Knox hosts the Army’s Human Resources Command and Recruiting Command, where the NDAA will help modernize officer personnel management. And this year’s legislation paves the way for new construction projects at both these facilities. In Madison County, the Blue Grass Army Depot is responsible for storing and demilitarizing conventional and legacy chemical weapons. It’s a top-of-the-line facility, integral to our national security. Passing this NDAA will help ensure it can continue safe and effective operations. “It’s my privilege to represent the men and women of the Kentucky Air and Army National Guard, including the 123rd Airlift Wing. This legislation will reaffirm our commitment to these citizen soldiers and airmen, who’re always ready to respond to emergencies at home or threats from abroad. Kentucky is proud of our men and women in uniform. When I vote for this defense bill, I will cast my vote for them.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, June 7, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2JnWRFD                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2JABJzf Getting the Federal Government Out of the American People’s Way ‘We’ve used the Congressional Review Act a record sixteen times to root out invasive rules that tripped up small businesses. We’ve uprooted key pieces of Obamacare and Dodd-Frank that had burdened the middle class. And we delivered a long-overdue, comprehensive overhaul of America’s tax code. It’s helping rejuvenate the economy and letting American families keep more of what they earn.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Sixteen months ago, President Trump and Republican majorities arrived in Washington with clear instructions from the American people -- get the federal government out of our way. A decade of Democratic control meant that taxes were too high, regulations were too burdensome, and America was too difficult a place to start a small business or hire more workers. “Republicans heard our marching orders loud and clear. We’ve used the Congressional Review Act a record sixteen times to root out invasive rules that tripped up small businesses. We’ve uprooted key pieces of Obamacare and Dodd-Frank that had burdened the middle class. And we delivered a long-overdue, comprehensive overhaul of America’s tax code. It’s helping rejuvenate the economy and letting American families keep more of what they earn. “Today, under this Republican government, the U.S. economy is healthier than it’s been in a long time. The lowest unemployment in eighteen years. More open positions than workers seeking jobs -- for the first time since the Labor Department started collecting these data. Record levels of optimism among small businesses and manufacturers. More Americans are saying now is a good time to find a quality job than at any point in the past 17 years. DOT-18-0010-A-000853 DOT_Am.Oversight-000853 “In the Obama years, prosperity was slower in coming. Opportunities were comparatively few. And what limited growth did occur flowed disproportionately into America’s very biggest urban centers. Now, our economy is starting to work better for all kinds of communities. “I recently heard a few inspiring stories from my friend Senator Portman. In Zanesville, Ohio, the owners of GKM Auto Parts had spent much of the last decade watching health insurance premiums soar. By 2016, they could no longer support coverage for their employees. But as Senator Portman recently explained, one of the first things the company was able to do following the passage of historic tax reform last year was restore that coverage. He also shared that builders and manufacturers across his state, from Wolf Metals in Columbus to Advanced Industrial Roofing in Massillon, are increasing pay and benefits, investing in equipment, and creating jobs as a direct result of tax reform and this pro-growth economic climate. “We’re hearing stories like these from every corner of America. American workers and job creators are turning the page on the last decade and writing brand-new success stories. And Republican policies are helping make it happen.” ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000854 DOT_Am.Oversight-000854 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, June 11, 2018 9:18:43 AM Good morning, The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm today, Monday, June 11th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.5515, NDAA. At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to H.R.5515, NDAA. This week will be spent processing NDAA. Last week in the Senate / Thursday, June 7, 2018: Roll Call Votes: · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #603, Kenneth L. Marcus, of Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Department of Education. Confirmed. (50-46) · Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.5515, NDAA. Invoked. (92-4) Wrap Up: Cal. #429, S.2377 – Walter H. Rice Courthouse Cal. #430, S.2734 – George P. Kazen Courthouse S.Res.537 – Yale Men’s Lacrosse S.Res.538 – Wesleyan Men’s Lacrosse   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000855 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000855 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, June 18, 2018 5:12:04 PM Good afternoon,   The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and resumed consideration of H.R.5515, NDAA, post-cloture.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following:   1. Motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended. (if a point of order is raised by Senator Sanders or his designee) 2. Passage of H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended 3. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed (MTP) to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water, Mil Con VA, and Leg Branch) *ICYMI: Leader filed cloture on the MTP to the Minibus on Thursday (6/14).   Also this week: there may be procedural action to proceed to H.R. 3, the Rescissions bill.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Rescissions, Farm Bill, Water Infrastructure.   Last week in the Senate (Thursday, June 14):   Roll Call Votes: 1. Motion to invoke cloture on Toomey amendment #2700 (REINS on CFIUS), in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. Not invoked. (35-62) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as modified, to H.R.5515, NDAA. Invoked. (83-14) 3. Adoption of Reed amendment #2885 (re: McCain fellowship), in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. Adopted. (97-0) 4. Adoption of Boozman amendment #2276 (re: US troops in Poland), in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. Adopted (by voice vote) 5. Adoption of Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as modified, as amended to H.R.5515, NDAA. Adopted. (by voice vote) 6. Motion to invoke cloture on H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended. Invoked. (81-15)   Wrap Up: S.2652 – Stephen Michael Gleason Congressional Gold Medal S.Res.503 – San Antonio Tricentennial S.Res.547 – Juneteenth Independence Day   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares DOT-18-0010-A-000856 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000856 Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/           (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000857 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000857 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Wednesday, June 20, 2018 11:39:53 AM Hello -  The Senate is in session and convened at 9:30 am today and resumed consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations.   The Senate just voted on 2 roll call votes in relation to the following amendments in relation to H.R.5895:   1. Crapo #2943, as modified (increase funds for nuclear demonstration program)  - Adopted, 87-9 2. Baldwin #2985 (set aside funds for cooperative agreements to accelerate the domestic production of Molybdenum-99) Adopted, 95-2   The Senate will move to H.R. 3, the Rescissions bill today -  At approximately 12:30 pm the Senate will proceed to up to 2 roll call votes on the following in relation to H.R.3, Rescissions Package: 1. Motion to discharge (this is a motion to discharge the bill from the Appropriations committee; subject to no more than one hour of debate; at a simple majority threshold) 2. Motion to Proceed (if the motion to discharge is agreed to; at a simple majority)   *if the Motion to Proceed is agreed to, up to ten hours of debate equally divided between the majority and minority (or their designees) will follow, and then a vote-a-rama.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Rescissions, Farm Bill, and Water Infrastructure.   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, 6/19):   Roll Call Votes: · Adoption of Gardner amendment #2914 (Sense of the Senate re: the need for funding for innovative scientific research) in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 93-3) · Adoption of Carper amendment #2920 (Army Sec to submit a report on status of returning to non-Fed. project sponsors excess non-Fed. Funds) in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 96-0)   UC Items: Cal. #426, S.2269 – Global Food Security Reauthorization   Please see the Leader’s remarks below on the Minibus Appropriations bill and funding the troops.   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell DOT-18-0010-A-000858 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000858 - ---S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2K9iL3d                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2K5cK4a Appropriations Bill Includes Important Funding for Military, Veterans ‘As I discussed on the floor yesterday, returning to a regular order appropriations process is at the forefront of the Senate’s agenda. Thanks to the bipartisan work of the Appropriations Committee, led by Chairman Shelby, Ranking Member Leahy, and the subcommittee chairmen, it’s becoming a reality… The committee’s package would deliver mission-critical maintenance and improvements that are needed on installations both at home and abroad. It would support active-duty personnel as well as National Guard and Reserve units. It would allocate significant resources for projects that reinforce key alliances and extend our influence around the world.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the bipartisan appropriations legislation before the Senate: “As I discussed on the floor yesterday, returning to a regular order appropriations process is at the forefront of the Senate’s agenda. Thanks to the bipartisan work of the Appropriations Committee, led by Chairman Shelby, Ranking Member Leahy, and the subcommittee chairmen, it’s becoming a reality. “Their efforts have already produced thoughtful legislation for the full Senate to consider, beginning this week with the combined measures for the Legislative Branch, for Energy and Water, and for Military Construction and the VA. It’s those last components that I’d like to discuss this morning.   “2018 has already brought significant legislative progress for America’s men and women in uniform. Earlier this year, Congress and the president did away with arbitrary funding limits that had eroded our forces’ comparative advantage. We delivered the largest year-on-year increase in funding for our troops in fifteen years.   “Now, with the military construction and VA funding bill before us this week, the Senate can keep the ball moving. The committee’s package would deliver mission-critical maintenance and improvements that are needed on installations both at home and abroad. It would support activeduty personnel as well as National Guard and Reserve units. It would allocate significant resources for projects that reinforce key alliances and extend our influence around the world.   “In my state of Kentucky, it would mean major improvements to training facilities at both Fort Knox, home of the Army Cadet, Human Resources, and Recruiting Commands, and at Fort Campbell, where the 101st Airborne Division and Special Operations forces prepare for evolving missions. DOT-18-0010-A-000859 DOT_Am.Oversight-000859   “But while underpinning the ongoing missions of our active forces, the legislation before us would also take critical steps to meet the individual needs of America’s warfighters and their families at home. It would allocate over $1.5 billion to operate and maintain military family housing facilities.  It would provide for vital safety updates at overseas American military schools, part of a system that serves more than 66,000 children. Hundreds of millions in additional funding would go to build and improve the network of military medical facilities, which provide care to nearly ten million servicemembers and military families.   “Finally, within the military construction legislation is important funding to support our veterans. In addition to funding the maintenance and upkeep of VA health facilities, it goes further in allocating targeted resources to address the system’s shortcomings. Especially when we talk about access to prompt, quality care, the status quo is simply not good enough for America’s veterans. For the more than 300,000 Kentucky veterans, and for the millions of veterans nationwide, we can and must do better.   “That’s why the bill includes billions of dollars to improve claims processing and cut down on backlogs. And funding for treatment, mental health services, and preventing opioid misuse. There are plenty of good reasons to support this appropriations package. But one of the most compelling is the support it will deliver to our all-volunteer military and those who have served our country in uniform. Let’s keep this legislation moving this week.   “Speaking of government spending, we’ll soon have an opportunity to save some of the money taxpayers entrust to us. Thanks to the hard work of members including Senator Lee and Chairman Enzi, we’ll soon turn to a House-passed bill that acts on the president’s request to rescind nearly $15 billion in previously-appropriated money that has gone unspent. “This modest belt-tightening would in no way infringe on the bipartisan spending deal that Senators on both sides agreed to earlier this year. This savings package is 100% unrelated to that agreement. Totally separate. It simply pulls back a small amount of unspent funds from a variety of government accounts.   “If we, the people’s elected representatives, want to speak seriously about stewarding taxpayer money, surely we can vote to recapture these unspent funds that are not even currently in use. The president’s modest rescissions request is entirely reasonable. It should be uncontroversial. I look forward to voting for it myself, and I urge my fellow members to do the same.”   ###     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000860 DOT_Am.Oversight-000860 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, June 21, 2018 12:26:55 PM Hello -The Senate convened at 9:45 am today and resumed consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water, Mil Con VA, Leg Branch). Leader McConnell filed cloture last night on the Minibus, but this may be vitiated as the processing of amendments continues. Please note his remarks on this last night -  “I filed cloture but we anticipate that will not be necessary, and we hope to vitiate the cloture motion tomorrow. Because we anticipate being able to process additional amendments throughout the day and wrap up the bill sometime tomorrow afternoon. But there will be an opportunity during the day to continue to process amendments and we should be able to finish the bill this week without resorting to cloture.”   At 1:00 pm today there will be a filing deadline for all first degree amendments in relation to the following: • • Shelby substitute amendment #2910 H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations   ICYMI: Leader McConnell on the floor this morning:   • Spoke on the minibus appropriations bill. 0 “Many of us wanted us to return to regular order and appropriations for quite some time. It didn't happen overnight. We owe thanks to Chairman Shelby and Ranking Member Leahy for the transparent, bipartisan process that produced this bill. And thanks to the leadership of our colleagues at the subcommittee level, more bills will be on their way to the floor for prompt consideration. This will cross three important items off the Senate's appropriations to-do list. Funding for energy and water, military construction and for the V.A. and for the legislative branch.”   • Spoke on tax reform. 0 “It's a national trend. Just yesterday the National Association of Manufacturers released data showing that optimism among American manufacturers is above 95%, the highest level ever -- ever recorded. Small business owners agree. Industry surveys show that more of them are looking to hire than at any time since the year 2000. No wonder the job market is already better than it has been in years. Unemployment at an 18-year low, more than two-thirds of Americans saying it's a good time to follow a quality job, the highest in 17 years.”   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Farm Bill, and Water Infrastructure.   DOT-18-0010-A-000861 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000861 Yesterday in the Senate (Wednesday, June 20): Roll Call Votes: 1. Adoption of Crapo amendment #2943, as modified, in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 87-9) 2. Adoption of Baldwin amendment #2985 in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 95-2) 3. Motion to discharge H.R.3, Rescissions. (Not agreed to, 48-50) 4. Adoption of Young #2926 in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 96-0) 5. Adoption of Tester #2971 in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 96-0) UC Items: S.Res.553 – American Eagle Day S.Res.554 – PTS Awareness S.Res.555 – Freedom of Muslims Act H.R.770 – American Innovation $1 Coin Act with a Murphy Amendment Rule 14 – added to the Senate calendar: S.3093 – Keep Families Together and Enforce the Law Act (Tillis) S.3100 – Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area (Cantwell) Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000862 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000862 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, June 21, 2018 6:42:03 PM Good evening,   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm on Monday, June 25th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water, Mil Con VA, Leg Branch). Please see a list below of amendments that have been adopted to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (the Managers Package).   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following:   1. Passage of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations, as amended. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, Farm Bill.   *Please note, this evening Leader McConnell filed cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Farm Bill, and Water Infrastructure.   Today in the Senate (Thursday, June 21):   Roll Call Votes: · Adoption of Bennet/Gardner amendment #2983 In relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. Adopted. (96-0) · Motion to table Lee amendment #3021, as modified, in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. Agreed to. (62-34)   Executive Session: PN 1641 - Jean Carol Hovland, of South Dakota, to be Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, Department of Health and Human Services.   Wrap Up: S.1091 – Supporting Grandchildren Raising Grandchildren S.Res.551 – National GI Bill Commemoration Week   Thanks, Erica   ________________________________________ Please also note, the following amendments (the Managers Package) have been adopted to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations:   1. Shelby substitute 2910 (In the nature of a substitute) 2. Alexander 2911 (To make a technical correction) DOT-18-0010-A-000863 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000863 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. AMERICAN Alexander 2915 (To make a technical correction) Hatch 2986 (Clarify coal to carbon fiber research and development expenditures) Heller 3048 (Reauthorize the Colorado River System pilot projects) Rubio 2999 (Prohibit use of funds for certain releases or discharges of water from Lake Okeechobee) Thune 2978 as modified by Perdue 3054 (Provide funding for water infrastructure projects; Ensure the use of certain funds for projects relating to deep-draft navigation) Murkowski 3059 (Include certain provisions re: FERC hydroelectric projects) Heinrich 2980 (Clarify certain cost-sharing reqs. applicable to awards from Energy Technology Commercialization Fund) Warner 2996 (Funds made available for Energy OIG shall be used to fully meet certain data transparency reqs) Hatch 3042 (Include a provision relating to transfers from the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund) Tester 2961 (Extend the authorization of the Fort Peck Rural Water System) Sanders 2963 (Set aside funds for the Regional Test Centers for Solar Technologies of the Department of Energy) Brown 2997 (Support the development/deployment of high-efficiency linear generator power plant technology) Whitehouse 2939 (Req. a report on Corps of Engineers activities relating to inland and coastal projects) Kennedy 3068 (To express the sense of the Senate that certain Corps of Engineers projects should receive consideration for additional funding) Hyde-Smith 2953 (Provide adequate funds for the Surplus Books Program of the Library of Congress) Coons 3053 (Funds to reduce or eliminate the use of plastic straws in facilities under the Architect of the Capitol) Boozman 3051 (Appropriate funds for the Veterans History Project) Lee 3057 (Req. that funds available for CBO be used to improve the transparency of scoring and availability) Heller 3056 (To protect programs for homeless veterans) Heller 2949 (Req. VA Sec. to submit a report on the program of support services for caregivers of veterans of the VA) Klobuchar 2960 (Direct VA Sec. to establish a center of excellence in prevention/diagnosis/mitigation etc. re: burn pits) Boozman 2924 (Req. VA Sec to submit a plan to avoid clinical mistakes by VA employees that result in adverse events) Boozman 2925 (Make a technical correction to title III of division C.) Tester 2934 (Req. VA Sec. to develop a means to track and monitor information on debts of persons in the US) Cassidy 3013 (Req. VA Sec. to publish the quality rating of each nursing home of the VA) Cortez-Masto 3050 (VA IG investigate all VA nursing homes with a 1 star rating) Kennedy 2992 (Prohibit use of funds made available under this Act in a manner that would increase wait times) Hassan (for Shaheen) 2955 (Prevent use of funds to modernize or realign VA facilities in states w/o a full-service medical facility) Nelson 3032 (Limit conversion of funds for the VA prog. to improve retention of housing by formerly homeless vets) Rubio 3066 (Sense of Congress re: Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan) pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000864 DOT_Am.Oversight-000864 33. Whitehouse 2957 (Req. Energy Sec. to conduct a study on the potential for natural gas demand response across sectors) 34. Wyden 3038 (Req. report on cell site simulators detected near DOD facilities) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000865 DOT_Am.Oversight-000865 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, June 25, 2018 11:13:21 AM Hi everyone,   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm today. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water, Mil Con VA, Leg Branch). *ICYMI last week, please see a list below of amendments that have been adopted to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (the Managers Package).   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following:   1. Passage of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations, as amended. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, Farm Bill.   *On Thursday, Leader McConnell filed cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2, the Farm Bill.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Farm Bill, and Water Infrastructure.   Thanks, Erica   ________________________________________ Please also note, the following amendments (the Managers Package) have been adopted to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations:   1. Shelby substitute 2910 (In the nature of a substitute) 2. Alexander 2911 (To make a technical correction) 3. Alexander 2915 (To make a technical correction) 4. Hatch 2986 (Clarify coal to carbon fiber research and development expenditures) 5. Heller 3048 (Reauthorize the Colorado River System pilot projects) 6. Rubio 2999 (Prohibit use of funds for certain releases or discharges of water from Lake Okeechobee) 7. Thune 2978 as modified by Perdue 3054 (Provide funding for water infrastructure projects; Ensure the use of certain funds for projects relating to deep-draft navigation) 8. Murkowski 3059 (Include certain provisions re: FERC hydroelectric projects) 9. Heinrich 2980 (Clarify certain cost-sharing reqs. applicable to awards from Energy Technology Commercialization Fund) 10. Warner 2996 (Funds made available for Energy OIG shall be used to fully meet certain data transparency reqs) 11. Hatch 3042 (Include a provision relating to transfers from the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund) 12. Tester 2961 (Extend the authorization of the Fort Peck Rural Water System) 13. Sanders 2963 (Set aside funds for the Regional Test Centers for Solar Technologies of the Department of Energy) 14. Brown 2997 (Support the development/deployment of high-efficiency linear generator power DOT-18-0010-A-000866 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000866   plant technology) 15. Whitehouse 2939 (Req. a report on Corps of Engineers activities relating to inland and coastal projects) 16. Kennedy 3068 (To express the sense of the Senate that certain Corps of Engineers projects should receive consideration for additional funding) 17. Hyde-Smith 2953 (Provide adequate funds for the Surplus Books Program of the Library of Congress) 18. Coons 3053 (Funds to reduce or eliminate the use of plastic straws in facilities under the Architect of the Capitol) 19. Boozman 3051 (Appropriate funds for the Veterans History Project) 20. Lee 3057 (Req. that funds available for CBO be used to improve the transparency of scoring and availability) 21. Heller 3056 (To protect programs for homeless veterans) 22. Heller 2949 (Req. VA Sec. to submit a report on the program of support services for caregivers of veterans of the VA) 23. Klobuchar 2960 (Direct VA Sec. to establish a center of excellence in prevention/diagnosis/mitigation etc. re: burn pits) 24. Boozman 2924 (Req. VA Sec to submit a plan to avoid clinical mistakes by VA employees that result in adverse events) 25. Boozman 2925 (Make a technical correction to title III of division C.) 26. Tester 2934 (Req. VA Sec. to develop a means to track and monitor information on debts of persons in the US) 27. Cassidy 3013 (Req. VA Sec. to publish the quality rating of each nursing home of the VA) 28. Cortez-Masto 3050 (VA IG investigate all VA nursing homes with a 1 star rating) 29. Kennedy 2992 (Prohibit use of funds made available under this Act in a manner that would increase wait times) 30. Hassan (for Shaheen) 2955 (Prevent use of funds to modernize or realign VA facilities in states w/o a full-service medical facility) 31. Nelson 3032 (Limit conversion of funds for the VA prog. to improve retention of housing by formerly homeless vets) 32. Rubio 3066 (Sense of Congress re: Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan) 33. Whitehouse 2957 (Req. Energy Sec. to conduct a study on the potential for natural gas demand response across sectors) 34. Wyden 3038 (Req. report on cell site simulators detected near DOD facilities) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000867 DOT_Am.Oversight-000867 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, July 10, 2018 1:47:53 PM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #836, Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit with all time during adjournment, Leader remarks, morning business and recess counting postcloture. The Senate recessed from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. At 2:15 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #836, Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States   Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit (FYI: this will be President Trump’s 22nd Circuit Court judge confirmed by the Senate). 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. At 5:00 pm today the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes on the following in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA:   1. Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.5515, NDAA 2. Cornyn motion to instruct conferees (re: CFIUS) 3. Reed motion to instruct conferees (re: NATO) FYI/Reminder: The Senate plans to act on motions to go to conference on NDAA, Minibus Appropriations and the Farm Bill during this work period. Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, July 10): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #836, Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. (Invoked, 72-25) UC Items: There were no UC items.   Please see Leader McConnell’s remarks below on Judge Kavanaugh . Note: “Judge Kavanaugh possesses an impressive resume, an outstanding legal mind, and an exemplary judicial temperament. He has served twelve years on the nation’s most consequential circuit court. During that tenure, he’s proven to be one of the most thorough and thoughtful jurists in America. And importantly, that record demonstrates an understanding of a judge’s proper role in our constitutional Republic.”   Thanks, DOT-18-0010-A-000868 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000868 Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR ITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KOBSRr                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2N6vwth Judge Kavanaugh: One of the Preeminent Legal Minds of His Generation ‘Judge Kavanaugh possesses an impressive resume, an outstanding legal mind, and an exemplary judicial temperament. He has served twelve years on the nation’s most consequential circuit court. During that tenure, he’s proven to be one of the most thorough and thoughtful jurists in America. And importantly, that record demonstrates an understanding of a judge’s proper role in our constitutional Republic.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: “President Trump has made a superb selection to serve as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: Judge Brett Kavanaugh of the D.C. Circuit. “Judge Kavanaugh possesses an impressive resume, an outstanding legal mind, and an exemplary judicial temperament. He has served twelve years on the nation’s most consequential circuit court. During that tenure, he’s proven to be one of the most thorough and thoughtful jurists in America. And importantly, that record demonstrates an understanding of a judge’s proper role in our constitutional Republic.   “Judge Kavanaugh understands that, in the United States of America, judges are not unelected super-legislators whom we select for their personal views or policy preferences. A judge’s duty is to interpret the plain meaning of our laws and our Constitution according to how they are written. Judges need to be unbiased. They need to treat all parties fairly. They need to approach every case with open ears and an open mind. Judges’ decisions must turn on the facts of each case, and be based on the texts that it is their job to interpret. By all accounts, Judge Kavanaugh is precisely that sort of judge. DOT-18-0010-A-000869 DOT_Am.Oversight-000869   “His resume, to put it simply, is top-notch. A bachelor’s degree from Yale, with honors. A law degree, also from Yale, where he was a member of the law review. A lecturing position at Harvard Law School, to which he was appointed, by the way, by then-Dean, and now Justice, Elena Kagan. After graduating, he quickly built a reputation as a star law clerk -- including on the Supreme Court, for Justice Kennedy… As an energetic and talented public servant… And as one of the preeminent legal minds of his generation.   “In 2006, the Senate confirmed him to the D.C. Circuit. He’s compiled an extensive record on the federal bench. He’s published more than 300 opinions, and earned considerable praise for his clear writing and reasoning. So Madame President, Judge Kavanaugh has built a long and distinguished record. It paints a clear picture of how he would conduct himself as a member of the nation’s highest court. It reflects a firm understanding that judges must interpret laws as they are written. We do not choose them to make policy, pick favorites, or craft novel legislation from the bench.   “Now, some of our colleagues -- and others on the left -- seem to see the role of judges very differently. President Obama summed up this alternate view well as a presidential candidate. He explained that he sought to appoint judges who harbored particular empathy for certain parties in certain cases. Well, that’s great if you happen to be the party in the case whom the judge likes. It’s not so great if you’re the other guy. It doesn’t align with our nation’s historical understanding of the rule of law -- or the role that federal courts play in our democracy.   “So I’d respectfully submit that, then and now, some of our Democratic colleagues seem a little confused. They seem to be confusing the nature of a political office with the nature of a judicial office. This would explain why some of our colleagues sound eager to try and turn judicial confirmations into something like political elections...To grill Judge Kavanaugh on policy outcomes - like voters rightly grill us, when we run for our seats here in the Senate.   “Some Democratic senators have telegraphed they’ll heed the demands of far-left special interest groups and try to force Judge Kavanaugh to commit under oath to the decisions he might make on particular issues in hypothetical cases. Forget that the cases don’t exist yet. Forget the total absence of any facts, legal arguments, or research. Forget how inappropriate and undesirable it would be for a judge to predetermine a ruling before either side’s lawyers uttered a word. That’s simply not how this process has ever worked, or ever could work.   “I’m not the one saying this. Here’s what a prior Supreme Court nominee said on this subject: ’A judge sworn to decide impartially can offer no forecasts, no hints… For that would show not only disregard for the specifics of the particular case… It would display disdain for the entire judicial process.’ End quote. Those are the words of another then-D.C. Circuit Court judge -- and current Supreme Court Justice -- Ruth Bader Ginsburg, during her Supreme Court confirmation hearing in 1993. Senators will do well to remember that standard. We’ll do well to remember that we are evaluating a judge, not debating a candidate for political office.   “Even more regrettably, a number of our Democratic colleagues could not even wait until the president’s announcement last night before launching attacks on the president’s nominee. This was, in some cases, quite literally a ‘fill in the blank’ opposition. They wrote statements of opposition, only to fill in the name later. Sadly, this is not a new approach for the far-left special interest groups. Last year, Justice Gorsuch met with partisan opposition before the ink was even dry on his nomination.   “Well, I’m sorry to say that Judge Kavanaugh seems to have already broken that record -- because Senate Democrats were on the record opposing him before he’d even been named, before the ink was even dry on Justice Kennedy’s resignation. This is a tell-tale sign that some of our colleagues are throwing thoughtful, independent judgment out the window and are outsourcing their thinking on this matter to far-left special interest groups.   “As I discussed on the floor yesterday, we know exactly what this partisan playbook looks like. It’s AMERI AN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000870 DOT_Am.Oversight-000870 been hauled out for most everyone a Republican president has nominated to the Supreme Court for the past forty years and counting. It’s like clockwork. So I fully anticipate that we’ll hear all kinds of fantastical stories about the pain and suffering that this perfectly-qualified, widely-respected judge will somehow unleash on America if we confirm him to the Court. That kind of cheap political fear-mongering insults the intelligence of the American people.   “Because Americans understand the difference between a political office and a judicial office.  They understand the difference between the policymakers who throw pitches and the judges who call balls and strikes. And so I look forward to the Senate’s fair consideration of this most impressive nomination. I look forward to meeting with Judge Kavanaugh later this morning…To hearing his testimony in committee…And to voting on his nomination here on the Senate floor.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000871 DOT_Am.Oversight-000871 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, July 11, 2018 10:52:18 AM Good morning – The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General (Criminal Division at DOJ), post-cloture. (Please note, all time during adjournment, Leader remarks, and morning business will count post-cloture on the Benczkowski nomination) At 12:00 pm today, the Senate will proceed to legislative session and the chair will lay before the Senate the House message accompanying H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill. The majority leader or his designee will then offer a compound motion to go to conference with respect to H.R. 5895, the minibus appropriations bill, and the Senate will immediately vote on the compound motion. At noon the Senate will proceed to up to 3 roll call votes in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations:   1. Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.5895 2. Cassidy motion to instruct conferees (flood insurance) 3. Corker motion to instruct conferees (trade) Further, at 2:00 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General (Criminal Division at DOJ) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #686, Paul C. Ney, Jr., of Tennessee, to be General   Counsel of the Department of Defense. FYI/Reminder: The Senate plans to act on motions to go to conference on NDAA, Minibus Appropriations, and the Farm Bill during this work period. ICYMI: Leader McConnell on the floor this morning -Spoke on the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: 0 “Yesterday I had an opportunity to meet with Judge Brett Kavanaugh as we begin preparations for his confirmation process to the Supreme Court. It's really impossible not to come away impressed. Judge Kavanaugh is the real deal. He has an all-star legal resume, topflight academic credentials. His extensive judicial record is defined by fairness, thoroughness and analytical precision. I was already confident the president had made an outstanding choice. Now I'm even more confident that my colleagues here and Americans around the country won't have to take my word for it. Just look at one of Judge Kavanaugh's former professors at Yale Law School.”   Spoke on the nomination of Brian Benczkowski to be an Assistant Attorney General: 0 “His resume includes distinguished service in five different leadership positions at the Department of Justice under three attorneys general. His nomination has won praise from a number of former Justice Department officials who served under presidents of both parties. Their letter describes this nominee as a tireless worker, a fine leader and colleague, honest, and a straight shooter. I look DOT-18-0010-A-000872 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000872 forward to voting to confirm him later today and to continue to confirm more of the president's team.”   Spoke on Republican economic policy: 0 “Economists tell us this is an important sign of a healthy job market because it indicates workers are moving upward, seeking better pay or superior benefits at a different employer. That number just hit its highest level in more than 17 years. More jobs, more opportunities, more Americans coming off the sidelines and getting back into the workforce, more Americans moving up the ladder to bigger and better things and opening up their current positions for other job seekers at the same time.”   Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, July 10): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #836, Mark Jeremy Bennett, of Hawaii, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. (Confirmed, 72-27) Motion to invoke cloture on the Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. (Invoked, 51-48) Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.5515, NDAA. (Agreed to, 91-8) Cornyn motion to instruct conferees in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. (Agreed to, 97-2) Reed motion to instruct conferees in relation to H.R.5515, NDAA. (Agreed to, 97-2) UC Items: S.Con.Res.41 – Australia Thanks, Erica Please see pictures below from Leader McConnell’s meeting with Judge Kavanaugh yesterday.   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000873 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000873 MITCH McCONNELL SENA T E MAJORl iTY LEADER U.S. SENATOR fo r KENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 10, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Leader McConnell Meets with Judge Kavanaugh “I think the president made an outstanding nomination. We look forward to the confirmation process,” McConnell said. Click HERE for the Leader’s remarks regarding Judge Kavanaugh from this morning on the Senate floor. ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000874 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000874 ,at ublicar1 Communicat·ons 2,02•228• Center EWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2mc3IYY   Judge Brett Kavanaugh: ‘A Fair-Minded Jurist Who Believes In The Rule Of Law’ Legal Scholars & Experts Laud Judge Kavanaugh As ‘A Terrific Judge’ With ‘An Impeccable Résumé’ Who Is ‘Enormously Skilled’   Yale Law Professors: ‘Several Of Judge Kavanaugh’s Most Important Ideas And Arguments … Have Found Their Way Into Supreme Court Opinions,’ ‘I Love Teaching His Opinions Because They Are Smart, Thoughtful, And Clear’   KATE STITH, Former Acting Dean of Yale Law School: “[Judge Kavanaugh] is a terrific judge…. In my federal criminal law class, I love teaching his opinions because they are smart, thoughtful, and clear. He’s also been a wonderful mentor and teacher to our students—not just to those who clerk for him, but those who meet with him during one of his many visits to Yale Law School.” (“Brett Kavanaugh ’90 Nominated to U.S. Supreme Court,” YLS Today, Yale Law School Website, 7/09/2018)   HEATHER K. GERKEN, Dean of Yale Law School: “I have known Brett Kavanaugh for many years…. I can personally attest that, in addition to his government and judicial service, Judge Kavanaugh has been a longtime friend to many of us in the Yale Law School community. Ever since I joined the faculty, I have admired him for serving as a teacher and mentor to our students and for hiring a diverse set of clerks, in all respects, during his time on the court.” (“Brett Kavanaugh ’90 Nominated to U.S. Supreme Court,” YLS Today, Yale Law School Website, 7/09/2018)   ABBE R. GLUCK, Yale Law Professor and former special counsel to Gov. Jon Corzine (D-NJ): “Brett Kavanaugh is a true intellectual--a leading thinker and writer on the subjects of statutory interpretation and federal courts; an incomparable mentor--someone who picks law clerks of all backgrounds and viewpoints; and a fair-minded jurist who believes in the rule of law.  He is humble, collegial and cares deeply about the federal courts.” (“Brett Kavanaugh ’90 Nominated to U.S. Supreme Court,” YLS Today, Yale Law School Website, 7/09/2018)   AKHIL REED AMAR, Yale Law School Professor: “The nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to be the next Supreme Court justice is President Trump’s finest hour, his classiest move.” (Akhil Reed Amar, Op-Ed, “A Liberal’s Case for Brett Kavanaugh,” 7/09/2018)   · AMAR: “Good appellate judges faithfully follow the Supreme Court; great ones influence and help steer it. Several of Judge Kavanaugh’s most important ideas and arguments — such as his powerful defense of presidential authority to oversee federal bureaucrats and his skepticism about newfangled attacks on the DOT-18-0010-A-000875 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000875 property rights of criminal defendants — have found their way into Supreme Court opinions.” (Akhil Reed Amar,   ·   Op-Ed, “A Liberal’s Case for Brett Kavanaugh,” 7/09/2018) AMAR: “Most judges are not scholars or even serious readers of scholarship. Judge Kavanaugh, by contrast, has taught courses at leading law schools and published notable law review articles. More important, he is an avid consumer of legal scholarship. He reads and learns. And he reads scholars from across the political spectrum.” (Akhil Reed Amar, Op-Ed, “A Liberal’s Case for Brett Kavanaugh,” 7/09/2018) Legal Experts: Judge Kavanaugh Is ‘An Outstanding Lawyer And Judge,’ And ‘There Are No Objective Or Qualification-Based Reasons To Oppose Him’   DAVID LAT, Above The Law: “The selection of Judge Kavanaugh — a deeply respected, long-serving judge of the D.C. Circuit, the second most important court in the country after the Supreme Court — makes perfect sense…. Judge Kavanaugh has an impeccable résumé: Yale College, Yale Law School, a SCOTUS clerkship, government service (the Justice Department and White House), Biglaw practice (partnership at Kirkland & Ellis), and more than a dozen years of distinguished service on the D.C. Circuit. There are no objective or qualification-based reasons to oppose him. Judge Kavanaugh is not just brilliant but also extremely likable, and he will perform superbly at his hearings (even better than Justice Gorsuch, I predict).” (David Lat, “Meet President Trump’s Supreme Court Nominee: Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh!,” Above The Law Blog, 7/09/2018)   JACK GOLDSMITH, Harvard Law Professor And Hoover Institute Senior Fellow: “Brett Kavanaugh is immensely qualified for the Supreme Court: an outstanding lawyer and judge; a great teacher and serious scholar of the law; and a generous, honorable, kind person.” (Jack Goldsmith, @jacklgoldsmith, Twitter, 7/09/2018)   TOM GOLDSTEIN, SCOTUSBlog Publisher and Lecturer at Harvard Law School: “[W]hat I think the president did is he picked someone who is a really well-known person, has a lot of very strong credentials, a lot of experience …” (MSNBC, 7/09/2018)   JONATHAN H. ADLER, Case Western Reserve University Law Professor: “Judge Kavanaugh is widely respected on the Supreme Court. Many of his clerks go on to clerk at One First Street. More importantly, his opinions attract notice from the justices. Several of his dissents have been vindicated by subsequent Supreme Court decisions…. Judge Kavanaugh takes separation of powers seriously … Like his former boss, Justice Kennedy, Judge Kavanaugh has a broad understanding of the freedom of speech protected by the First Amendment …” (Jonathan H. Adler, “Justice Kavanaugh, The Volokh Conspiracy Blog, 7/09/2018)   NINA TOTENBERG, NPR: “You saw a very graceful, gracious nominee…. [I]f he’s confirmed, one assumes that he will be an enormously influential member of the Court, and very quickly…. He is, as I said, an enormously skilled … jurist, who, as far as I can tell, gets along with his colleagues very well … And that is the picture of somebody who is, potentially, a very influential member of the United States Supreme Court.” (MSNBC, 7/09/2018)   EUGENE VOLOKH, UCLA Law Professor and Volokh Conspiracy Blog Founder: “I just wanted to briefly praise Brett Kavanaugh, whom I know from clerking, and whose work I've followed since he has been on the D.C. Circuit. He's extremely smart and thoughtful, an excellent writer, and, if confirmed, is likely to be an intellectual leader on the Court.” (Eugene Volokh, “Kavanaugh Nomination,” The Volokh Conspiracy Blog, 7/10/2018)   ILYA SHAPIRO, CATO Institute: “One of the most scholarly members of the judiciary, Kavanaugh’s more than 300 opinions are read widely and influence courts across the country — including the one that he now hopes to join. There are few if any more respected lower-court judges.” (Ilya Shapiro, Op-Ed, “Trump Makes A Shrewd Political Move With Supreme Court Pick,” New York Post, 7/10/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000876 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000876 Judge Kavanaugh’s Former Clerks Say ‘He Masters Every Detail And Rereads Every Precedent’ And ‘Listens Carefully To The Views Of His Colleagues And Clerks,’ ‘Especially’ ‘When They Differ From His Own’   34 OF JUDGE KAVANAUGH’S CLERKS: “Each of us has had the privilege of clerking for Judge Brett Kavanaugh on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. We have gone different ways since then; among us are prosecutors, professors, state and federal public officials, and attorneys at private law firms, corporations, and non-profits. Our views on politics, on many of the important legal issues faced by the Supreme Court, and on judicial philosophy, are diverse. Our ranks include Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. But we are united in this: our admiration and fondness for Judge Kavanaugh run deep.” (34 Clerks for Judge Cavanaugh, Letter to Sens. Grassley and Feinstein, 7/09/2018)   ·   ·   “Judge Kavanaugh’s qualifications to join the Supreme Court are beyond question….  It is in his role as a judge on the D.C. Circuit that we know Judge Kavanaugh best. During his time on the D.C. Circuit, Judge Kavanaugh has come to work every day dedicated to engaging in the hard work of judging. We never once saw him take a shortcut, treat a case as unimportant, or search for an easy answer. Instead, in each case, large or small, he masters every detail and rereads every precedent. He listens carefully to the views of his colleagues and clerks, even – indeed, especially – when they differ from his own. He drafts opinions painstakingly, writing and rewriting until he is satisfied each opinion is clear and well-reasoned, and can be understood not only by lawyers but by the parties and the public.” (34 Clerks for Judge Cavanaugh, Letter to Sens. Grassley and Feinstein, 7/09/2018) “[T]his letter is signed by every single one of Judge Kavanaugh’s clerks not prohibited by their current or pending employment from signing …” (34 Clerks for Judge Cavanaugh, Letter to Sens. Grassley and Feinstein, 7/09/2018) ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000877 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000877 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, July 11, 2018 6:55:22 PM image002.png image005.png FYI: at 1:30 pm tomorrow, Thursday, July 12, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #686, Paul C. Ney, Jr., of Tennessee, to be General Counsel of the Department of Defense.     Today’s votes:   1. Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water/Mil Con VA/Leg Branch) -- Agreed to (by voice vote)   2. Cassidy motion to instruct conferees with respect to the House message accompanying the minibus appropriations bill (H.R. 5895) (re: Flood Insurance extension to Jan 2019) -- Agreed to, 95-4   3. Corker motion to instruct conferees with respect to the House message accompanying the minibus appropriations bill (H.R. 5895) (re: Trade) -- Agreed to, 88-11   4. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #639, Brian Allen Benczkowski, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General (Criminal Division at DOJ) -- Confirmed, 51-48   5. Cloture on Executive Calendar #686, Paul C. Ney, of Tennessee, to be Counsel of the Department of Defense -- Invoked, 74-25   Thanks. Also – please see Leader McConnell’s remarks from earlier today on Judge Kavanaugh and the economy. Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000878 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000878 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 11, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2zE6kbN                 Video Download: https://bit.ly/2LcGgG0 VIDEO: ‘We’ve Got a Great Nominee Here’ Leader McConnell on Judge Kavanaugh: ‘Brilliance, talent, temperament, an outstanding legal mind – all the things that the American people would like to have in a judge.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following video regarding the president’s nominee to be Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, Judge Brett Kavanaugh:   “Brilliance, talent, temperament, an outstanding legal mind – all the things that the American people would like to have in a judge. We’ve got a great nominee here, Judge Brett Kavanaugh. We’ve got an individual with extraordinary credentials. He’s one of the premiere legal talents in the country. President Trump has made a superb selection to serve as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.” ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 11, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp DOT-18-0010-A-000879 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000879                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2JaRysp                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2ubYOzm In Judge Kavanaugh, the President Made an Outstanding Choice ‘Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet with Judge Brett Kavanaugh as we begin preparations for his confirmation process to the Supreme Court. It’s impossible not to come away impressed. Judge Kavanaugh is the real deal. He has the all-star legal resume. The top-flight academic credentials. His extensive judicial record is defined by fairness, thoughtfulness, thoroughness, and analytical precision. I was already confident the president had made an outstanding choice. Now I’m even more confident.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: “Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet with Judge Brett Kavanaugh as we begin preparations for his confirmation process to the Supreme Court. It’s impossible not to come away impressed. Judge Kavanaugh is the real deal. He has the all-star legal resume. The top-flight academic credentials. His extensive judicial record is defined by fairness, thoughtfulness, thoroughness, and analytical precision. I was already confident the president had made an outstanding choice. Now I’m even more confident. “But my colleagues here and Americans around the country will not have to take my word for it. Just look to one of Judge Kavanaugh’s former professors at Yale Law School. Here’s what Professor Akhil Amar wrote in the New York Times: ‘It is hard to name anyone with judicial credentials as strong as Judge Kavanaugh.’ Current faculty at Yale Law describe him as ‘a true intellectual,’ ‘a leading thinker,’ and ‘a wonderful mentor and teacher to our students.’   “Even at Harvard, his alma mater’s archrival, a scholar agrees that Judge Kavanaugh is, quote, ‘a generous, honorable, kind person.’ Or ask the legal professionals who have clerked for him on the D.C. Circuit. They’re in a better position than most to speak to his writing as a jurist.   “In a letter to our colleagues on the Judiciary Committee, thirty-four of them share that Judge Kavanaugh, quote: ‘drafts opinions painstakingly, writing and rewriting until he is satisfied each opinion is clear and well-reasoned, and can be understood not only by lawyers but by the parties and the public.’ As the confirmation process gets underway, I have a distinct feeling this isn’t the only testimony of this sort that we’ll be hearing.   “Judge Kavanaugh seems to impress everyone with whom he crosses paths -- at least those who haven’t blindly announced, in a fit of partisanship, their opposition to this nomination before he was even named. I’m glad that President Trump has made such a strong selection. And I look forward to when our colleagues at the Judiciary Committee will take up his nomination.   “Now, speaking of the personnel business, we are continuing this week to process President Trump’s qualified nominees for other important positions in the judicial and executive branches. Yesterday, we confirmed the 22nd circuit judge since January 2017. Now, we’re considering Brian Benczkowski, the president’s choice to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division at the Department of Justice. His resume includes distinguished service in five different leadership positions at the Department of Justice under three Attorneys General. “His nomination has won praise from a number of former Justice Department officials who served under presidents of both parties. Their letter describes this nominee as ‘a tireless worker… a fine leader and colleague… honest and a straight shooter.’ I look forward to voting to confirm him later today, and to continuing to confirm more of the president’s team.” ###   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000880 DOT_Am.Oversight-000880     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S- . SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 - - For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 11, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KQZZPa                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2mb5xFG More Good News for America’s Workers, Middle-Class Families ‘More jobs. More opportunities. More Americans coming off the sidelines and getting back into the workforce. More Americans moving up the ladder to bigger and better things -- and opening up their current positions for other job-seekers at the same time. Helping to produce conditions like these is what Republicans have had in mind as we’ve chipped away at the regulatory rust that kept American job creators from doing what they do best.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Last week, the Labor Department released its monthly jobs report. And as has become a pattern, it contained good news about the state of job opportunities nationwide. In June alone, our economy created 213,000 new jobs, with contributions from nearly every sector. That continues a prolonged streak of strong jobs performance. Month after month, quarter after quarter. The pro-growth, projobs policies of this united Republican government -- from historic tax relief to sweeping regulatory reform -- are helping unleash this wave of new opportunity and new prosperity for America’s workers and middle-class families. “More than 600,000 Americans entered the workforce last month alone. Another sign that the Obama-era stagnation continues to lose its grip on communities. The rate of hiring reached its highest level in more than a decade. Here’s another promising sign: The rate at which Americans are quitting their jobs voluntarily. Economists tell us this is an important sign of a healthy job market because it indicates workers are moving upwards, seeking better pay or superior benefits at a different employer. “That number just hit its highest level in more than 17 years. More jobs. More opportunities. More Americans coming off the sidelines and getting back into the workforce. More Americans moving up the ladder to bigger and better things -- and opening up their current positions for other job-seekers at the same time. Helping to produce conditions like these is what Republicans have had in mind as we’ve chipped away at the regulatory rust that kept American job creators from doing what they do best. “They’re what we had in mind when we used the Congressional Review Act a record sixteen times to relieve the bureaucratic bloat that had forced job creators and entrepreneurs to cut back or close up shop. They’re what we had in mind when we overhauled our tax code so it better rewards workers and more strongly encourages job creators to deepen their roots in American soil. Republicans are proud of this thriving job market -- and we’re proud that our policies are playing a part in making it happen.” ### DOT-18-0010-A-000881 DOT_Am.Oversight-000881 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Monday, July 16, 2018 12:34:42 PM Good afternoon –   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm today.   Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #936, Scott Stump, of Colorado, to be Assistant Secretary for Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Department of Education, with the time until 5:30 pm equally divided between the two Leaders or their designees.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Stump nomination.   *Please note, last week the Leader filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how we will process these noms this week):   1. Cal. #595 - Randal Quarles, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of fourteen years from February 1, 2018. 2. Cal. #892 - Andrew S. Oldham, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 3. Cal. #903 - Ryan Wesley Bounds, of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000883 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000883 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, July 17, 2018 11:57:47 AM Hello everyone – The Senate convened at 10:00 am and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #601, James G. Blew, of California, to be an Assistant Secretary of Education (for Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, Department of Education).   At 11:45 am, the Senate will vote on:   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #601, James G. Blew, of California, to be an Assistant Secretary of Education (voting now) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #595, Randal Quarles, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of fourteen years from February 1, 2018.   *Please note, the Senate will recess following the 11:45 am vote series until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   Reminder: on Thursday, July 12, Leader McConnell filed cloture on:   Executive Calendar #595, Randall Quarles, of Colorado, to be a member of the Board of • ----Governors of the Federal Reserve. Executive Calendar #892, Andrew S. Oldham, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the ·-----Fifth Circuit. Executive Calendar #903, Ryan Wesley Bounds, of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Judge for • -----the Ninth Circuit.   Please see several statements below from Leader McConnell highlighting 1) last night’s IRS announcement and free speech victory, and 2) how the GOP’s pro-growth agenda is boosting the economy – specifically manufacturers.   A few excerpts:   Spoke on new IRS reporting rules: “It's particularly welcomed news to those of us who intently are focused on defending the First Amendment, for those of us who over the years have raised concerns over the last administration’s activist regulators punishing free speech and free association. It's a straightforward, commonsense policy decision. The Internal Revenue Service is cutting back on the amount of nonpublic information it collects and stockpiles about Americans who donate to nonprofit causes. The IRS will no longer pointlessly demand private contribution lists from whole categories of tax-exempt organizations.”   Spoke on Republican economic policy: 0 DOT-18-0010-A-000884 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000884 0   Thanks, Erica “There are plenty of ways to measure how American workers, job creators, and entrepreneurs are writing a new chapter. After nearly a decade of stagnating pay and vanishing opportunities, recent months have brought remarkable milestones. Optimism among American small businesses has reached its highest level since President Reagan's first term. 67% of Americans believe now is a good time to find a quality job in the U.S., the highest percentage in 17 years of Gallup polling.”   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER u.s. SENATOR fo r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2mq61ry                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Li4hOT IRS Announcement A Victory For Free Speech ‘It’s particularly welcome news to those of us who are intently focused on defending the First Amendment, for those of us who raised concerns during the last administration about activist regulators punishing free speech and free association. And it’s a straightforward, commonsense policy decision. The Internal Revenue Service is cutting back on the amount of nonpublic information it collects and stockpiles about Americans who donate to nonprofit causes. The IRS will no longer pointlessly demand private contributor lists from whole categories of tax-exempt organizations.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the announcement from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that it will no longer require donor lists from certain nonprofit organizations: “Last night, the Internal Revenue Service made an important announcement. It’s particularly welcome news to those of us who are intently focused on defending the First Amendment, for those of us who raised concerns during the last administration about activist regulators punishing free speech and free association. And it’s a straightforward, commonsense policy decision. DOT-18-0010-A-000885 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000885 “The Internal Revenue Service is cutting back on the amount of nonpublic information it collects and stockpiles about Americans who donate to nonprofit causes. The IRS will no longer pointlessly demand private contributor lists from whole categories of tax-exempt organizations. I say ‘pointlessly,’ because the identity of non-profit donors serve no compelling purpose under sections 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) of our tax code. “Contributions to these organizations are not tax deductible, so the IRS does not need these data for accounting purposes. And these organizations are not required to release that information under the public inspection and availability requirements. Let me repeat that: The identity of donors to these organizations is not necessary for accounting, and is not required for public inspection by the Internal Revenue Code. “It raises the question: If the IRS isn’t permitted to do anything with this set of Americans’ private information, why collect it in the first place? Unfortunately, we know exactly what happens when the government stockpiles private data about the donations through which Americans participate in the public discourse. We know exactly why many on the left are keen for bureaucrats to have this confidential information. Where it leads, is Americans being bullied – bullied -- for exercising their First Amendment rights. “This bullying is enabled by bureaucrats and, in some cases, by elected officials. Sometimes government itself does the bullying. Case in point: The Obama administration’s IRS scandal. The agency slow-walked the applications of groups that appeared conservative, including some of my own constituents. Donors and groups faced unusually aggressive questioning. Unreasonable deadlines followed by unreasonable delays. This was federal authorities using the weaponry of government to punish Americans for supporting speech they didn’t like. “Other times, government simply enables the harassment. It fails to protect this private information from leaking to the army of angry left-wing activists who stand eager to harass and bully anyone who’s contributing to national conversations with political views that they disagree with. Back in 2014, the IRS had to settle a lawsuit on this issue. An IRS worker broke the law and leaked an unredacted copy of a group’s confidential tax forms, which wound up in the hands of a liberal organization on the opposite side of the issue. “Needless to say, private information about Americans’ political speech was quickly weaponized for political purposes. In one case, the CEO of a technology organization was hounded from his job by liberal activists for daring to see this subject differently than they did. Some state governments began demanding their own copies of the information the IRS was gathering. And there were similarly troubling results. “In 2012, California — which had promised nonprofits that donor lists would only be seen by the State’s Registry of Charitable Trusts — ‘accidentally’ published the donor lists of hundreds of nonprofits from across the political spectrum. And more states, like New York, have sought to copy California, allowing more activist regulators to access this information. “The pattern is unmistakable. This political movement wants to erase our age-old tradition that citizens should be able to keep their private views, and the causes they privately support, private. Back in the 1950s, it was the NAACP who took on the state of Alabama over precisely this issue. The state government tried to get their hands on the NAACP’s donor list. The issue went all the way to the Supreme Court, where the NAACP won a big victory for the First Amendment. “Here’s what Justice Harlan wrote in the opinion: ‘Inviolability of privacy in group association may in many circumstances be indispensable to preservation of freedom of association, particularly where a group espouses dissident beliefs.’ He said that forcing private organizations to disclose their donors was not so different from forcing people with certain views to wear armbands or other clothing, advertising their beliefs to the world. “In both cases, the government’s action would be inviting harassment and intimidation upon Americans – those whose beliefs were unusual or unpopular. Or, in today’s culture of intimidation, those whose beliefs the left disagrees with. The result is that more speakers stay silent. Fewer Americans choose to exercise their right of free association. “It’s bad enough to wield government power to chill political speech and invite harassment of citizens – based on what an angry mob might assume their opinions are, based on their private financial records. It’s even more egregious to pursue that nakedly political goal while calling it ‘good government.’ In this country, good government means protecting citizens’ First Amendment rights to participate in the competition of ideas – not trying to shut down that competition. We persuade; we don’t intimidate. “So I welcome this announcement, and applaud the leadership of Secretary Mnuchin and Acting IRS Commissioner David Kautter. I’m glad that this step will make the right of Americans to freely advocate for their strongly-held beliefs less vulnerable to the malice of some in government, and to the proven failures of bureaucracies. And I urge continued vigilance for all of us who cherish our First Amendment.” AMERI AN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000886 DOT_Am.Oversight-000886   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S.• SENATOR fo r KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, July 16, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2Jt23r2                   YouTube: https://bit.ly/2L3euj6 America’s Economy Continues to Surge Ahead ‘Our Democratic colleagues are still grasping for ways to put a negative spin on all this good news -- and the Republican policies that are helping it along. But all around the country, Americans are trying to get their attention -- so they can explain just how tax reform, regulatory reform, and the rest of our policy agenda is helping to improve their businesses and their lives.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Fueled by American workers and job creators, and assisted by the pro-growth policies of this Republican government, our economy continues to surge ahead. Last week, we examined the Department of Labor’s June jobs report, which indicated another month of remarkable growth. 213,000 new jobs. “On Friday, economists at the Florida Chamber of Commerce announced that the Sunshine State’s GDP has surpassed $1 trillion for the first time. Let me repeat that -- $1 trillion. If Florida were a sovereign nation, it would be the 17th largest national economy in the world. And in the past year, Floridians alone have created 182,000 new jobs. It’s hard to argue with the facts.   “But it’s even harder to argue with reports that come straight from hard-working Americans. Last month during his visit to Duluth, Minnesota, President Trump met with local workers and jobcreators to discuss tax reform and economic growth in their communities. And he heard them loud and clear: Republican policies are working. Adam Morse, a production truck driver for U.S. Steel Minntac, told President Trump that, quote, ‘the tax plan is working, and I’m seeing a difference in my paycheck.’   “Ray Klosowski, Commissioner of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority, says that the past year has brought significant steps forward for the Port, and the jobs it supports. They added a first-ever intermodal freight area, which has allowed Duluth to process containers from the West Coast and significantly expand shipping capabilities.   “There are millions of dollars in new contracts, and commitments to hire hundreds of new workers at the port. Mr. Klosowski summed it up, saying, quote: ‘The customers we’ve been used to -- our old tried-and-true customers -- have experienced expansion because of the new tax structure… they’re coming to us with more business than we’ve seen in the past.’ DOT-18-0010-A-000887 DOT_Am.Oversight-000887   “Our Democratic colleagues are still grasping for ways to put a negative spin on all this good news - and the Republican policies that are helping it along. But all around the country, Americans are trying to get their attention -- so they can explain just how tax reform, regulatory reform, and the rest of our policy agenda is helping to improve their businesses and their lives.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 17, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2mqbHlm                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LfWUYs Republican Pro-Growth Agenda Continues to Benefit American Manufacturers ‘Optimism among American small businesses has reached its highest level since President Reagan’s first term. ‘Sixty-seven percent of Americans believe that now is a good time to find a quality job in the U.S., the highest percentage in 17 years of Gallup polling. And just last month, a manufacturing industry measure reported growth in 17 out of 18 sectors, from textiles to precision technologies. It’s no surprise, then, that the National Association of Manufacturers found last month that a record-high 95.1% of American manufacturers have a positive view of their companies’ outlook.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “In what’s becoming an historic year for favorable economic news, there are plenty of ways to measure how American workers, job creators, and entrepreneurs are writing a new chapter. After nearly a decade of stagnating pay and vanishing opportunities, recent months have brought remarkable milestones. “Optimism among American small businesses has reached its highest level since President Reagan’s first term. Sixty-seven percent of Americans believe that now is a good time to find a quality job in the U.S., the highest percentage in 17 years of Gallup polling. And just last month, a manufacturing industry measure reported growth in 17 out of 18 sectors, from textiles to precision technologies.   “It’s no surprise, then, that the National Association of Manufacturers found last month that a record-high 95.1% of American manufacturers have a positive view of their companies’ outlook. What do these numbers mean to real workers, on the floors of American factories?   “Well, at Mack Molding, an injection molder and contract manufacturer with locations in Statesville, North Carolina and Arlington, Vermont, it means a $5.4 million-dollar investment in facilities, with preparations to hire 100 new workers. At Sabel Steel, based in Montgomery, Alabama, it means DOT-18-0010-A-000888 DOT_Am.Oversight-000888 large pay raises for most of the company’s 230 employees and new, more efficient equipment at facilities across the South. Both companies credit last year’s historic tax reform law with helping make their 2018 successes possible.   “Our Democratic colleagues can talk all they like about repealing middle-class families’ and job creators’ historic tax cuts and sending that money back to Washington instead. But this united Republican government is proud of the new prosperity they’re building. And we will not let the Democrats take away their tax cuts.”     ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000889 DOT_Am.Oversight-000889 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, July 18, 2018 3:08:17 PM Hello --     The Senate just voted to confirm Executive Calendar #892, Andrew S. Oldham, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit (50-49).   The Senate is voting now to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #903, Ryan Wesley Bounds, of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. We will then be post-cloture on the Bounds nomination.   ICYMI: Yesterday in the Senate (July 17, 2018):   Roll Call Votes: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #601, James Blew, of California, to be Assistant Secretary for Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development, Department of Education. Confirmed. (5049) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #595, Randal Quarles, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of fourteen years from February 1, 2018. Invoked. (66-33) 3. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #595, Randal Quarles, of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of fourteen years from February 1, 2018. Confirmed. (66-33) 4. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #892, Andrew S. Oldham, of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. Invoked. (50-49)   Wrap Up: H.R.6042 – E- Visit Verification   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000890 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000890 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2NWAkCx                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2zOKAd1 Senate to Confirm More of the President’s Impressive Nominees ‘This week, the Senate continues to confirm impressive nominees whom President Trump has asked to serve our country. We’ve confirmed two Assistant Secretaries for the Department of Education, Scott Stump and James Blew. We’ve confirmed a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, Randall Quarles. Now, we’ll turn to the judiciary and consider nominees for the Fifth Circuit and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeals.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s well-qualified judicial nominees:   “This week, the Senate continues to confirm impressive nominees whom President Trump has asked to serve our country. We’ve confirmed two Assistant Secretaries for the Department of Education, Scott Stump and James Blew. We’ve confirmed a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, Randall Quarles. Now, we’ll turn to the judiciary and consider nominees for the Fifth Circuit and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeals. “First is Andrew Oldham of Texas, the president’s choice for the Fifth Circuit. Mr. Oldham has impressed the legal community in his years of public service, most recently as general counsel to the Governor of Texas.   “Mr. Oldham has degrees from the University of Virginia, Cambridge, and Harvard Law. He clerked on both the D.C. Circuit Court and on the Supreme Court. He carries the highest possible rating from the American Bar Association -- ‘unanimously well-qualified.’ And he comes highly recommended by peers and colleagues from across the political spectrum.   “Judith Zaffirini is a Texas State Senator. She’s a Democrat. She wrote the Judiciary Committee to support Mr. Oldham’s nomination, quote, ‘confidently, enthusiastically, and without reservation.’ She and the nominee have worked together on a number of important subjects. Through them all, she explains, ‘Mr. Oldham reflected the ideal qualities of a judge...open-minded, fair...thoughtful and analytical.’   “Lisa Blatt is a skilled litigator who argues frequently before the Supreme Court. She’s also a Democrat. She wrote the committee, too. Her letter describes Mr. Oldham as ‘a great listener’ with ‘a brilliant legal mind, [and] a wonderful sense of humor and collegiality.’ Her conclusion? He would, I quote, ‘make a superb judge.’   “What about Mr. Oldham’s own words? If confirmed, he explained to our colleagues during his hearing, he’ll ‘uphold the rights of all litigants -- big or little -- equally, and apply the law to all fairly.’ He understands his responsibility clearly. I look forward to confirming this nominee and I urge each of my colleagues to join me.” DOT-18-0010-A-000891 DOT_Am.Oversight-000891   ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S.• SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2uwl3Ab                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2JygutX Workers, Middle-Class Families Benefiting from Healthy American Economy ‘Analysts also point to the business side of tax reform, which is letting more U.S. employers expand and hire. That means more jobs for American workers. Which means more income for American families. Which means more money in the cash registers of American small businesses. And the virtuous circle goes on. The American people, and most fair observers, are marveling at what our economy is delivering to workers and middle-class families.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda:   “It’s been a year and a half since these Republican majorities took their seats in Congress and a Republican president was sworn in. In 2016, the American people made it clear that it was time to try something new. They were tired of a so-called ‘recovery’ that focused overwhelmingly on big, wealthy metropolitan areas. “They had seen enough of tax hikes and top-down regulations that held their communities back. They turned to Republicans to deliver a pro-growth, pro-opportunity agenda. To create better conditions for working families, job creators, and entrepreneurs to rise together. Eighteen months later, the results couldn’t be clearer. “Today, more people say it’s a good time to find a job than at almost any point since the turn of the millennium. U.S. manufacturers are more confident than ever about the future of their businesses. Here’s a story from yesterday’s Financial Times: U.S. retail sales rise for fifth straight month in June. “This is a good sign for Americans across the board. It shows our economy is healthy. It shows that families feel they have enough breathing room to make purchases, which of course then benefits the companies and workers who produce what they’re buying. And, of course, it’s especially good for the nearly 42 million Americans whose jobs are supported by the retail industry. According to industry data, as many as 6 in 10 Americans work in retail at some point in their career. “So this continued prosperity is really significant. There’s little question that tax reform is to thank for a significant portion of this progress. For one thing, our middle-class tax cuts are directly boosting families’ discretionary income. As the Wall Street Journal reported this week, quote, ‘Many DOT-18-0010-A-000892 DOT_Am.Oversight-000892 households are experiencing less withholding from their paychecks thanks to the tax overhaul.’ “Analysts also point to the business side of tax reform, which is letting more U.S. employers expand and hire. That means more jobs for American workers. Which means more income for American families. Which means more money in the cash registers of American small businesses. And the virtuous circle goes on. The American people, and most fair observers, are marveling at what our economy is delivering to workers and middle-class families. “But I’m starting to think my Democratic colleagues may have forgotten what a successful economic agenda looks like. Because even in the face of headline after headline -- and testimony after testimony from the families and job creators we represent -- they try to brush off this impressive growth as nothing serious. And they advocate for repealing or undoing the Republican policies that are helping make it happen. Fortunately, Republicans know full well how to cut taxes, trim back regulations, and get Washington D.C. out of the American people’s way. It’s just what we’ve done. It’s just what we’ll continue to do.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000893 DOT_Am.Oversight-000893 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Sunday, July 22, 2018 6:33:16 PM Hi everyone -  The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm tomorrow, Monday, July 23rd. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session for the consideration of Executive Calendar #1000, Robert L. Wilkie, of North Carolina, to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the Wilkie nomination.   Please note, following the disposition of the Wilkie nomination, the Senate will resume legislative session and proceed to the consideration of the second Approps Minibus -- H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud.   Resources: The Senate Appropriations Committee has highlights of each bill available on its website here: Agriculture, Financial Services, Interior-Environment, and Transportation-HUD.   Thanks, Erica -     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000894 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000894 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, July 25, 2018 11:46:56 AM Hello everyone – The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud). At 2:30 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following amendments in relation to H.R.6147: 1. Moran #3433 (to allow existing service agreements for grain inspection to be maintained regardless of geographic location) 2. Udall #3414 (Sense of the Senate re: the importance of long distance passengers rail routes) There may be additional votes today.  We’ll keep you posted… Yesterday in the Senate (Tuesday, July 24): Roll Call Votes: · Adoption of Heller #3405 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 98-1) · Adoption of Durbin #3422 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 99-0) · Adoption of Schatz #3407 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 97-1) · Adoption of Kennedy #3430 in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Adopted, 87-11) Executive Session: Cal. #467 - Bruce Landsberg, of South Carolina, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board for a term expiring December 31, 2022. Cal. #858 - Jennifer L. Homendy, of Virginia, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board for a term expiring December 31, 2019. UC Items: Cal.344, S.2278 – State Offices of Rural Health S.Res.578 – 45th anniversary of the Drug Enforcement Administration S.Res.580 – National Trademark Exposition S.Res.589 – National Day of the American Cowboy S.Res.590 – Pioneer Day S.Res.591 – National Purple Heart Recognition Day MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 25, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp DOT-18-0010-A-000895 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000895                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2LOQUTx                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2NFZOTM Bipartisan Work Continues on Appropriations in Senate ‘The ways the bills before us would assist families and communities across Kentucky are practically countless. And the same is true for every state. That’s why every member understands the importance of appropriations. ‘Funding the federal government -- matching resources with urgent challenges -- is one of Congress’s most important responsibilities. I’m proud of the appropriations process that’s underway. And I’m especially proud of all the ways the resulting legislation will deliver for the American people.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Senate’s continued bipartisan work on appropriations: “I spoke yesterday about the bipartisan cooperation that’s made it possible for us to return to a regular appropriations process. Collaboration got the four measures we’re now considering through the subcommittee and full committee process, thanks to the efforts of Chairman Shelby and Senator Leahy, and subcommittee leaders -- Senators Murkowski, Collins, Hoeven, and Lankford. “Here on the floor, bipartisanship let us turn to this legislation by consent and kick off the amendment process with several votes yesterday. If we can keep it up, we’ll soon take four more big steps towards our goal: Funding the federal government the right way and avoiding another omnibus. Yesterday, I mentioned the legislation before us addresses two pressing national needs: Rebuilding America’s infrastructure and bolstering the fight against opioids. “But that’s far from the whole story. These measures cover about one eighth of total discretionary spending for next year. They fund a long list of key services that Americans depend on every day -everything from food safety inspections to child nutrition programs to the Forest Service and national parks. Communities in all 50 states are connected to this legislation. “Here are a few of the provisions that will be particular cause for celebration in my home state of Kentucky. $37 billion toward rural development, including support for rural businesses, and loans and grants to improve rural infrastructure for electricity, telephone, and broadband internet in communities in Kentucky and across the country. Another $1 billion in grants to help communities invest in highways, bridges, and other infrastructure projects -- with a guarantee that 30 percent of this funding would go to rural areas. “More funding for the Abandoned Mine Land pilot program that helps communities reclaim abandoned coal mines and put that land to better use. More funding and a sharper federal focus on controlling the invasive Asian carp that threaten local prosperity and water safety in Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley in western Kentucky. And more help for the Kentuckians who battle the scourge of opioids every day. This legislation funds the FDA’s efforts to intercept illegal drugs, the DEA’s program for high-intensity trafficking areas, and increased training for first responders. “It also contains a provision I secured directing the Department of Housing and Urban Development to encourage more access to transitional housing opportunities for individuals recovering from substance abuse disorder. I could go on. The ways the bills before us would assist families and communities across Kentucky are practically countless. And the same is true for every state. “That’s why every member understands the importance of appropriations. Funding the federal government -- matching resources with urgent challenges -- is one of Congress’s most important responsibilities. I’m proud of the appropriations process that’s underway. And I’m especially proud of all the ways the resulting legislation will deliver for the American people.” ###     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000896 DOT_Am.Oversight-000896 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, July 25, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2A70dgj                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2OfevhP Americans Are Seeing Results ‘This week, we’re discussing the difference between rhetoric and results when it comes to our economy. Yesterday, I described how my Democratic friends spent the Obama years talking about the importance of rebuilding American manufacturing. They talked about it. But it’s the actions of this united Republican government that have made it easier for manufacturers to expand and hire.’ It’s on our watch that optimism among U.S. manufacturers has hit the highest level one survey has ever recorded. Well, it turns out there are quite a few areas where this Republican government is helping to deliver victories that our Democratic friends spent eight years talking about.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “This week, we’re discussing the difference between rhetoric and results when it comes to our economy. Yesterday, I described how my Democratic friends spent the Obama years talking about the importance of rebuilding American manufacturing. They talked about it. But it’s the actions of this united Republican government that have made it easier for manufacturers to expand and hire. It’s on our watch that optimism among U.S. manufacturers has hit the highest level one survey has ever recorded. “Well, it turns out there are quite a few areas where this Republican government is helping to deliver victories that our Democratic friends spent eight years talking about. In his 2010 State of the Union, President Obama proclaimed that job growth would be the number one focus of the coming year. He said ‘the true engine of job creation in this country will always be America’s businesses,’ and that government’s role was to ‘create the conditions necessary for businesses to expand and hire more workers.’   “Recognizing American job creators as the true engines of prosperity? Giving them room to succeed? Sounds good to me. Sounded good to almost everyone. But once again, the policies didn’t match the rhetoric. Instead, the Obama administration twice set all-time records for the number of pages in the Federal Register. And those pages had consequences. By constantly moving the regulatory goalposts, government eroded the certainty businesses need to invest and hire.   “Washington D.C. restricted farmers’ and ranchers’ control over water on their own property. Bureaucrats overwhelmed small banks and credit unions with a rulebook designed for Wall Street. And an outdated federal tax code held back job creation and made America less competitive. On Democrats’ watch, Americans had to wait out an economic ‘recovery’ that was insufficient, slow, and left whole parts of the country behind.   “Remember the rhetoric. And then remember the facts. Republicans have always agreed that job creation must be a top priority. But we have a better idea about how to actually help make it happen. This Republican Congress has used the Congressional Review Act to slash seventeen burdensome regulations. That’s on top of the administration’s executive actions. We’ve passed, and the president has signed, major changes to Obamacare and Dodd-Frank. And we passed generational tax reform that puts more hard-earned money in the pockets of working families and DOT-18-0010-A-000897 DOT_Am.Oversight-000897 gives job creators more flexibility.   “So what’s happening on our watch?  Just a few days ago, the number of Americans newly filing for unemployment benefits hit its lowest level in more than 48 years. Here’s how CNN characterized the Labor Department’s most recent jobs report: ‘The U.S. economy keeps adding jobs at a blistering pace… The job market is so good, many people who had previously given up looking are starting again.’ And according to Gallup, the percentage of Americans saying now is a good time to find a quality job hit its highest level in seventeen years of records.   “Not just rhetoric. Results. Due to the hard work of American workers and job creators, with an assist from this Republican government. Unfortunately, this pro-growth agenda hasn’t gotten much support from across the aisle. Not a single Democrat -- not one -- voted for the tax reform that has helped turn rhetoric about jobs into actual jobs. Hardly any Democratic support for the regulatory housecleaning that’s given job creators more confidence to stay on American soil, grow their businesses, and add jobs. All of us agree with the rhetoric. But not everyone supported the policy agenda that’s helped deliver these results for the American people.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000898 DOT_Am.Oversight-000898 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:54:33 PM Hello everyone – The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud).   ICYMI: Last night Chairman Shelby offered the Senate substitute to H.R.6147.The bill managers are looking to set up amendment votes.   At 2:20 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes in relation to the following amendments in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations: 1. Heller #3405 ((increase amount available for Community Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) 2. Durbin #3422 (require the Inspector General to update an audit report concerning on-time performance of Amtrak)   More votes are possible today…   Yesterday in the Senate (July 23, 2018): Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #1000, Robert L. Wilkie, of North Carolina, to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs. (Confirmed, 86-9) UC Items: Cal. #405, H.R.589 - Energy Innovation with a Murkowski amendment Cal. #404, S.2503 - Energy Research and Innovation with a Murkowski amendment H.R.2353 – Perkins with an Alexander amendment   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/ (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000899 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000899 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2LlmlbV                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2OfPV0b Appropriations Legislation Includes Funding for Infrastructure, Fight Against Opioid Epidemic ‘The measures before us encompass Agriculture, Interior and the Environment, Transportation and Housing, and Financial Services and General Government. They would deliver real resources to help American communities face real challenges. Challenges like clearing the backlog of infrastructure needs that are holding back rural America, and fighting the opioid epidemic that threatens families and communities.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Senate’s continued bipartisan work on appropriations: “Yesterday, the Senate began considering our next set of appropriations measures for Fiscal Year 2019. Chairman Shelby and Ranking Member Leahy have led an exemplary bipartisan process through subcommittee and full committee work. Yesterday, that same bipartisan spirit was here on the floor, when we were able to proceed to these measures by consent. Let’s keep up that productive and cooperative spirit, so we can achieve the goal we all share: Completing a regular appropriations process and avoiding another omnibus. “The measures before us encompass Agriculture, Interior and the Environment, Transportation and Housing, and Financial Services and General Government. They would deliver real resources to help American communities face real challenges. Challenges like clearing the backlog of infrastructure needs that are holding back rural America, and fighting the opioid epidemic that threatens families and communities. “Among the many, many things this legislation would accomplish, it meets these two challenges head-on. It delivers nearly half a billion dollars in loans and grant funding for rural broadband. It supplies $400 million to accelerate the delivery of water and waste infrastructure projects across rural America. And it would deliver more assistance to all the areas of our country that are living under the long shadow of the opioid crisis. “Tens of millions to help the FDA crack down on the spread of illicit drugs, and to improve care in rural communities through distance learning and telemedicine. These are just a very few of the important provisions in these bills. I look forward to considering them this week. I hope we’ll have a robust amendment process. And then, with bipartisan cooperation, we can take these next steps together.” ###   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER u.s. SENATOR for KEN·TUCKY DOT-18-0010-A-000900 DOT_Am.Oversight-000900 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2uHI83d                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2LxX4dT American Manufacturing is Thriving ‘This united Republican government has put an end to one burdensome regulation after another. We’ve cut through red tape that held back small businesses, local lenders, and manufacturers… The results? Less than two years into the new administration, an all-time high 95.1% of U.S. manufacturers have a positive outlook. Now fewer than one in five say a hostile business climate due to things like taxes and regulations is a top obstacle. And more than two-thirds are planning to hire this year.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “Yesterday, the White House hosted a ‘Made in America’ showcase, featuring products manufactured in each state, including Stoneware & Company from my home state, which makes the famous Louisville Stoneware kitchen and dining sets. Well, talking about reviving American manufacturing is nothing new in this town. “In his 2013 State of the Union, President Obama insisted -- quote – ‘Our first priority is making America a magnet for new jobs and manufacturing.’ Every few years, it seemed, our Democratic friends over in the House would hold yet another press conference to talk about getting manufacturing moving. “So rhetoric was not in short supply during the Obama era. What was harder to come by were results. On President Obama’s watch, on net, our country lost more than 300,000 manufacturing jobs. Year after year, Democrats’ policies led to insufficient, sluggish, and uneven economic growth that left much of the country behind. Eight years of this so-called ‘recovery’ couldn’t even get us back to the same number of manufacturing jobs that we had when President Obama first took his oath of office. “There are a number of reasons why. But here’s one thing we heard loud and clear from U.S. manufacturers: High taxes, heavy regulations, and other Democrat policies put the wind squarely in their face. Back in 2013, more than 75% of U.S. manufacturers said a hostile climate due to taxes and regulation was a major business obstacle. What about the present? “This united Republican government has put an end to one burdensome regulation after another. We’ve cut through red tape that held back small businesses, local lenders, and manufacturers. We overhauled the tax code, leaving families with more to spend and invest and job creators with more flexibility to compete and win. “The results? Less than two years into the new administration, an all-time high 95.1% of U.S. manufacturers have a positive outlook. Now fewer than one in five say a hostile business climate due to things like taxes and regulations is a top obstacle. And more than two-thirds are planning to hire this year. “These aren’t just numbers. This is real life. At Jamison Door in Hagerstown, Maryland, tax reform made possible a 400% increase in plant size. In my home state of Kentucky, it’s estimated that more than 1,000 construction jobs will be needed to help build a new aluminum rolling mill for Braidy Industries. Over the next seven years, tax reform is expected to save the company $150 million, which will help support this investment and the 600 permanent new jobs the company estimates it’ll create in the Commonwealth. “Let’s sum it up. Republican policies have helped generate the very outcomes that Democrats claimed they wanted. American manufacturing is thriving on our watch. But now, Democrats aren’t cheering. In fact, they’ve tried to block most of the policies that have helped this happen. They voted against tax reform -- every Democrat in the House and the Senate. They’ve protested regulatory reform every step of the way. They want to go right back to their old ways -- repeal the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, raise taxes, and pile on more crushing regulations. “Well, we won’t let that happen. Because we agree that manufacturing growth is vital for American prosperity. And unlike our friends across the aisle, we have the ideas and the policies that help make that goal into reality.” ### AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000901 DOT_Am.Oversight-000901     MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for KEN1TUCKY For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2LlBHwQ                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2JQtmMa McConnell Honors US Capitol Police Officers Fallen in the Line of Duty ‘I’d like to begin this morning by remembering two heroes -- and the events that claimed their lives 20 years ago today, right here in the Capitol. On July 24, 1998, U.S. Capitol Police Officer Jacob Chestnut and Detective John Gibson made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of American democracy. By doing their duty, these heroes helped cut short an act of brutal violence that could have claimed many more lives.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor honoring U.S. Capitol Police Officer Jacob Chestnut and Detective John Gibson who died in line of duty twenty years ago today: “I’d like to begin this morning by remembering two heroes -- and the events that claimed their lives 20 years ago today, right here in the Capitol. On July 24, 1998, U.S. Capitol Police Officer Jacob Chestnut and Detective John Gibson made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of American democracy. By doing their duty, these heroes helped cut short an act of brutal violence that could have claimed many more lives. “That same week, Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson laid in honor in the Capitol Rotunda and an entire nation paid its respects. I imagine twenty years have not made this senseless violence any easier to bear for the families these men left behind. Nor for their brothers and sisters in the Capitol Police. “But as we remember their bravery, a triumphant example endures: Selfless service. Fearless heroism. Two men who embodied the values that keep this building, and our nation, standing safe and sound. Today, we honor Detective Gibson and Officer Chestnut. We renew our condolences to their families. We recognize the depth of our gratitude for them, and for everyone who puts on the uniform and steps into harm’s way every day.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000902 DOT_Am.Oversight-000902 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Monday, July 30, 2018 5:39:37 PM image002.png Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 3:00 pm today and proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Grant nomination.   Reminder -- last week Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following, setting up this week:   • Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit • Shelby Amendment #3399 to H.R. 6147, the minibus appropriations bill (substitute) • H.R. 6147, the minibus appropriations bill (underlying bill) • Motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 1182, the vehicle for the NFIP extension bill • Conference report to accompany H.R. 5515, the NDAA   Excerpts – Leader McConnell on the floor this afternoon: (3:03 p.m.) Full remarks below…   Spoke on the upcoming legislative schedule:   “Mr. President, we'll finish up a set of appropriations measures we've been considering for several days and take four more big steps toward our goal of completing a regular appropriations process and funding the government in a timely and orderly manner. We'll authorize vital resources for our nation's armed forces and we'll attend to several other priorities as well, including extension of flood insurance and sending the bipartisan farm bill to a conference with the House. But first later today the senate will vote to advance the nomination of Britt Grant, the president's selection to serve on the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.”   Spoke on Republican economic policy:   “But as I pointed out, it's a mistake to view this growth and the new prosperity for American families that it entails primarily as an achievement of government. It's American workers, American job creators, and American entrepreneurs who grew our economy faster than 4% this quarter. We have driven the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits to its lowest level in over 48 years and created 3.7 million jobs since the 2016 election. We repatriated more than $300 billion from overseas in the first quarter of this year alone, according to the Commerce department, bringing that money home to our country.”   ICYMI: here’s a note below from STEW on the week ahead.   At the bottom of this email, please see two statements from Leader McConnell, as well as a statement from Senator Grassley on the document request related to Judge Brett Kavanaugh. DOT-18-0010-A-000903 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000903   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) Just a quick refresher of what’s on tap this week in the Senate: The Majority Leader filed cloture motions last week on items to be completed this week (in the following order): The nomination of Britt Cagle Grant to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit • • The four-bill appropriations ‘minibus’ (one cloture on the substitute amendment; one on the underlying bill) Flood insurance extension • • National Defense Authorization Act conference report The Senate will complete work on all four items this week. The House has already passed the NDAA conference report and the flood insurance extension, so those will go to the President for signature after the Senate’s action this week. The appropriations bill will head to a conference with the House (we’ll then have two conference committees covering seven appropriations bills). The Senate is also expected to vote to go to conference on the Farm Bill this week. Other items are likely, so stay tuned. The cloture vote on the Grant nomination will be at 5:30 this afternoon. Judge Kavanaugh will be back on the Hill for more visits with Senators this week. And this is how I’d be at the Tour de France. STEW @StewSays   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY DOT-18-0010-A-000904 DOT_Am.Oversight-000904 For Immediate Release, Monday, July 30, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2NXuO1M YouTube: https://bit.ly/2M3XVzZ Senate to Consider Another Impressive Circuit Court Nominee ‘This Stanford Law graduate has served the people of Georgia for six years, most recently as a Justice on the state’s Supreme Court... The understanding of a judge’s role, and the temperament to execute it, is precisely the approach that our constitutional order requires of our judges. I look forward to voting to advance Justice Grant’s nomination later today and urge each of my colleagues to join me.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Senate’s consideration of Britt Cagle Grant, President Trump’s nominee to serve on the 11th Circuit Court: “The Senate has a lot to do this week. We’ll finish up the set of appropriations measures we’ve been considering for several days and take four more big steps towards our goal of completing a regular appropriations process and funding the government in a timely and orderly manner. We’ll authorize vital resources for our nation’s armed forces. And we’ll attend to several other priorities as well, including an extension of flood insurance and sending the bipartisan Farm Bill to a conference with the House. “But first, later today, the Senate will vote to advance the nomination of Britt Cagle Grant, the president’s selection to serve on the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. This Stanford Law graduate has served the people of Georgia for six years, most recently as a Justice on the state’s Supreme Court. All eight of her fellow justices had this to say about Justice Grant, in a letter to Chairman Grassley and Senator Feinstein: “‘She is highly intelligent, [with] a breadth and depth of legal experience...Her first focus is always to get the law right.’ They go on: ‘Justice Grant’s character and integrity is unquestioned. She has an excellent reputation in the legal community,’ and ‘a well-balanced judicial temperament.’ In sum, they write, ‘Justice Grant displays all the qualities of an excellent judge… Our loss would be the Eleventh Circuit’s gain.’ “Justice Grant’s colleagues on the Georgia Supreme Court include appointees of Republican governors and Democratic governors. They’ve seen her work up close. They’ve seen her legal expertise and her commitment to the rule of law. They’ve seen her conviction that -- in her own words -- ‘the role of judges is to interpret the law, rather than make it.’ “And her reputation reaches beyond state lines. In another letter to our colleagues on the Judiciary Committee, current and former state solicitors general from across the country testify to her ‘congeniality,’ ‘integrity and work ethic,’ and say that Justice Grant, quote: ‘has treated colleagues, opposing counsel, and the litigants appearing before her with respect.’ “The understanding of a judge’s role, and the temperament to execute it, is precisely the approach that our constitutional order requires of our judges. I look forward to voting to advance Justice Grant’s nomination later today and urge each of my colleagues to join me.” ###     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000905 DOT_Am.Oversight-000905 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, July 30, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: https://bit.ly/2LEeiak YouTube: https://bit.ly/2v15e52 America’s Economy is Thriving ‘On Friday, the Commerce Department reported some outstanding news. In the second quarter of 2018, the United States’ real gross domestic product grew by 4.1%... It’s American workers, American job creators, and American entrepreneurs who grew our economy faster than four percent this quarter. Who have driven the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits to its lowest level in over 48 years and created 3.7 million jobs since the 2016 election. Who repatriated more than $300 billion from overseas in the first quarter of this year alone, according to the Commerce Department, bringing that money home to the United States.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “On Friday, the Commerce Department reported some outstanding news. In the second quarter of 2018, the United States’ real gross domestic product grew by 4.1%. This number is just the latest point in a long series of evidence that shows the American economy is thriving. But as I’ve pointed out, it is a mistake to view this growth -- and the new prosperity for American families that it entails - primarily as an achievement of government. “It’s American workers, American job creators, and American entrepreneurs who grew our economy faster than four percent this quarter. Who have driven the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits to its lowest level in over 48 years and created 3.7 million jobs since the 2016 election. Who repatriated more than $300 billion from overseas in the first quarter of this year alone, according to the Commerce Department, bringing that money home to the United States. “This is what free enterprise can achieve when Washington D.C. stops raising taxes, micromanaging the economy through the sprawling regulatory state, and presuming that it’s better to funnel money and power to bureaucrats than to trust hardworking families and small business owners to live their own lives. “So it’s the American people who deserve the credit for the successes of their economy. Here’s what this united Republican government is doing: Cutting their taxes, rolling back the red tape, and mowing down one hurdle after another that has held this country back.” ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000906 DOT_Am.Oversight-000906   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, July 27, 2018   Grassley Seeks Documents for Supreme Court Nomination   WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today requested special access to documents related to Judge Brett Kavanaugh’s legal work in the White House, as the committee evaluates his nomination to the Supreme Court. In a letter to National Archives staff at the George W. Bush Presidential Library, Grassley sought all emails sent to or from Judge Kavanaugh during his time in the White House Counsel’s Office, all paper files maintained by Judge Kavanaugh in that position and all documents relating to his nomination to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. “For nearly two weeks, I’ve attempted to seek a good-faith agreement from the Ranking Member to jointly request documents relating to Judge Kavanaugh’s legal work in the White House. For nearly two weeks, I’ve found myself either waiting for a response to my proposals or faced with unprecedented and unreasonable counter-proposals. “Even when I suggested that we jointly request documents that both sides want while continuing to negotiate other categories, the Ranking Member declined. The Minority rejected out of hand multiple accommodations that I’d offered to assist in targeting material they believe is relevant. Instead, they demanded that we expand the request to require a search of every email from every one of the hundreds of White House staffers who served alongside Judge Kavanaugh for nearly six years, to find records that merely mention his name. “So today, on behalf of the committee, I submitted a request for documents related to Judge Kavanaugh’s time in the White House Counsel’s Office. I expect the production to be the largest ever in the Senate’s consideration of a Supreme Court nominee. In the meantime, I’m eager to review Judge Kavanaugh’s 307 judicial opinions, the hundreds of other opinions that he joined and the 6,168 pages he already provided to us, which are publicly available right now and will provide the greatest insight into his fitness for the high court. As I have said repeatedly, I am not going to put the American taxpayers on the hook for the Senate Democrats’ fishing expedition.” Text of Chairman Grassley’s letter to the archivists at the Bush Library follows: DOT-18-0010-A-000907 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000907 July 27, 2018   The Honorable Patrick X. Mordente, Brigadier General Director George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum 2943 SMU Boulevard Dallas, Texas 75205   Dear General Mordente:   Pursuant to 44 U.S.C. § 2205(2)(C), I ask that you provide Presidential records to the United States Senate Committee on the Judiciary in connection with the President’s nomination of Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States.  Consistent with the Presidential Records Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. § 2201(2), (3), this request is for access to Presidential records only, not personal records.   Kavanaugh served in the White House under President George W. Bush, first as Associate Counsel from 2001 to 2003 and later as Senior Associate Counsel in 2003. He served as Assistant to the President and Staff Secretary from 2003 to 2006. I request that you provide the following documents to the Committee on an expedited basis, consistent with the guidelines described in this letter:   (1) Emails sent to or received from Kavanaugh, including emails on which he was a carbon copy or blind carbon copy recipient, during the period Kavanaugh served as Associate Counsel and Senior Associate Counsel to the President, including any documents attached to such emails; (2) The textual records contained in Kavanaugh’s office files from the period during which he served as Associate Counsel and Senior Associate Counsel to the President; and (3) Documents relating to Kavanaugh’s nomination to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit       The Committee has previously made official requests of Presidential Libraries in connection with nominees who served in the White House.  I believe it appropriate to follow past Committee precedent concerning requests for records from Presidential Libraries in several respects.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000908 DOT_Am.Oversight-000908 Section 2205 of the Presidential Records Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. § 2205, provides this Committee access to Presidential records in response to an official Congressional Committee request, notwithstanding the limitations on public disclosure set forth in section 2204 of the PRA, 44 U.S.C. § 2204(a)(1)–(6).  Such access is, by statute, subject to “any rights, defenses, or privileges which the United States or any agency or person may invoke.”  44 U.S.C. § 2205(2).  While I hope that documents responsive to our request will not raise these concerns, I also recognize that responsive documents may be subject to statutory or other rights, defenses, or privileges.   Section 2205(2)(C) entitles the Committee to access any non-privileged Presidential record that is responsive to the Committee’s special-access request, notwithstanding the limitations on public access set forth in section 2204.  I recognize, however, that in the context of prior Supreme Court nominations, the Committee and the Archivist have agreed that some documents containing PRA-restricted material would be produced to the Committee on a “Committee Confidential” basis.  The Committee further agreed that such documents could be discussed only during a Closed Session of the Committee.  I also acknowledge that the Committee previously has agreed that the Archivist could withhold certain PRA-restricted material in its entirety.  In these respects, I intend to adhere to established custom and accept certain PRA-restricted material on a Committee Confidential basis and to permit the Archivist to withhold some PRA-restricted material in its entirety.    I ask that with each production, you similarly abide by established custom and (1) identify the total number of documents produced, (2) identify the number of documents containing PRArestricted material that the Committee agreed to treat as “Committee Confidential,” and (3) identify the number of documents being withheld entirely pursuant to assertions of constitutional privilege or pursuant to the Committee’s agreement not to receive certain PRArestricted material.  I further ask that you produce documents on a rolling basis as you identify documents responsive to our request.   I note that in connection with Justice Gorsuch’s nomination, the Bush Library attempted to withhold as little as possible and provided portions of documents, rather than withholding entire documents, where possible.  I hope you will adopt the same approach.  As the Committee has done in the past while considering Supreme Court nominations, I intend to respect the invocation of privilege by a co-equal branch of our government.  For the documents requested by this letter, I further intend to abide by the Committee practice of declining to receive materials reflecting classified national security information or personal privacy information.   Please begin the rolling production to the Committee of records responsive to this request no later than August 1, 2018, at 6:00 PM EDT.  Please complete the rolling production to the Committee of all remaining records responsive to this request no later than August 15, 2018 at 6:00 PM EDT.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000909 DOT_Am.Oversight-000909 I recognize that reviewing the archives and producing these documents is a significant task.  I thank you in advance for your cooperation and efforts.   Sincerely,   Chuck Grassley                                                                        Chairman                                                                                  cc:   Mr. Donald F. McGahn Counsel to the President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500   The Honorable David S. Ferriero Archivist of the United States National Archives and Records Administration 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20408   The Honorable Dianne Feinstein Ranking Member, Committee on the Judiciary United States Senate Washington, DC 20510   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000910 DOT_Am.Oversight-000910 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Tuesday, July 31, 2018 12:25:07 PM Hi everyone, The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit, post-cloture. At 12:15 pm (voting now) the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.1182, Flood Insurance (4 month extension of NFIP). Following that roll call vote, the Senate will recess until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings. At 2:15 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1.         Confirmation of the Grant nomination. 2.         Motion to invoke cloture on Shelby substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud). The bill managers are working to set up amendment votes by consent. We’ll keep you posted on votes. Yesterday in the Senate (7/30/18): Roll Call Votes: Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. (Invoked, 52-44) UC Items: S.Res.599 – National Lobster Day   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL S NATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 DOT-18-0010-A-000911 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000911 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 31, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2NXKfHa                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2M5Ob8p McConnell: I Will Continue to Stand With the Brave Men and Women of ICE ‘In fiscal year 2017, ICE recorded more than 105,000 arrests of aliens with known criminal convictions on their records. Nearly 4,600 convictions for robbery. More than 3,700 for sexual assault. And more than 1,500 for homicide. We’re talking about the men and women in law enforcement who confront all this in order to keep their fellow citizens safe. This is hardly a controversial mission. It’s essential. We are lucky these agents are willing to serve. The nation is better off for it.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding his visit to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Louisville Friday: “First, I want to take a few moments to discuss the brave men and women who serve in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. I had the privilege of visiting the ICE office in Louisville this past Friday and meeting with agents in person. This is a federal agency that was created following the attacks of September 11th, 2001. It’s responsible for several key aspects of homeland security: Enforcing our immigration laws, combating terrorism, and preventing people and goods from moving illegally throughout our country. “And its record on these vital missions is staggering. In fiscal year 2017, ICE recorded more than 105,000 arrests of aliens with known criminal convictions on their records. Nearly 4,600 convictions for robbery. More than 3,700 for sexual assault. And more than 1,500 for homicide. We’re talking about the men and women in law enforcement who confront all this in order to keep their fellow citizens safe. This is hardly a controversial mission. It’s essential. We are lucky these agents are willing to serve. The nation is better off for it.   “So I wanted to pay these agents a visit in Louisville and thank them firsthand for their work. Because recently, they’ve fallen into the crosshairs of some extremely vocal far-left special interest groups. Groups who explicitly say -- now get this -- that our nation would be better off with no borders and no immigration laws of any kind. These folks are slandering ICE agents. They’re calling the agency, quote ‘an unaccountable strike force executing a campaign of ethnic cleansing,’ and even, ‘a genuine threat to democracy.’   “That’s right. According to these far-left groups, the ‘threat to democracy’ is not the violent criminals who are illegally present in our country -- but rather the brave law enforcement officers who volunteer to take them on. Well, fringe political movements are nothing new. You can find a few Americans who will argue almost any side of any issue. What is new, what does get my attention, is when prominent, leading Democratic politicians -- including a number of our colleagues here in the Senate -- adopt some of these extremists’ views wholesale and let the far-left talking points form the basis for their own policy positions.   “The junior senator from New York said recently that, if Democrats regain the House and Senate, the first thing they should do is, quote, ‘Get rid of ICE.’ The senior senator from Massachusetts pointed to ‘replacing ICE’ as the first priority of a top-to-bottom rebuild of America’s immigration system. The mayor of New York City calls the agency, quote, ‘No longer acceptable.’ And a member of the United States House of Representatives likened it to -- get this: ‘The Gestapo of the United States.’   “I’m really not sure where to begin in responding to this foaming hysteria. It is one thing for a few protestors and socialist hecklers who want open borders and the elimination of all immigration laws to adopt a slogan as silly and ill-considered as ‘Abolish ICE.’ But it is something else entirely when United States Senators are so eager to please these left-wing extremists that they join that chorus - AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000912 DOT_Am.Oversight-000912 - join in denigrating the men and women of U.S. law enforcement.   “This is the moment we’re in. Leading Democrats taking cues from the open-borders socialist crowd and proposing to eliminate the very agency that enforces federal immigration laws within the interior of our nation. Talk about a political stunt. The American people want nothing to do with these dangerous antics.   “My neighbors and constituents in Kentucky certainly don’t. So my fellow Republicans and I will continue to proudly stand with ICE, stand with the rule of law, and stand with all the American families who would rather have fewer drugs and less crime in the communities where they’re raising their children.”   ###       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S .• SENATOR for KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 31, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2OtdP8u                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2Ao7Uyw Job Opportunities, Wage Growth, Small Business Expansions ‘We learned last week that second quarter real GDP growth exceeded 4%. That’s the best quarterly growth rate in four years and one of the strongest reports since the Great Recession. Earlier this month, we learned that new claims for unemployment insurance recently reached its lowest level since 1969. And the number of continuing claims, week to week, is lower than it’s been at any point since 1973.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans continue to see from the Republican pro-opportunity, pro-worker agenda: “We learned last week that second quarter real GDP growth exceeded 4%. That’s the best quarterly growth rate in four years and one of the strongest reports since the Great Recession. Earlier this month, we learned that new claims for unemployment insurance recently reached its lowest level since 1969. And the number of continuing claims, week to week, is lower than it’s been at any point since 1973. “Let me say that another way. Notwithstanding almost half a century of population growth, fewer Americans are applying for new unemployment benefits today than has ever been the case since just a few months after Apollo 11 landed on the moon. And the last time this few Americans were continuing to receive unemployment week to week, Richard Nixon was president. No wonder analysts are heaping praise on this economy. The Wall Street Journal noted last week that recent reports indicate, quote, ‘underlying strength that could tee up one of the best years in the current expansion.’   DOT-18-0010-A-000913 DOT_Am.Oversight-000913 “Back in March, my home state of Kentucky joined a list of 14 states that had reached the lowest unemployment rates in recorded history while this united Republican government has been in office. Never before on record had Kentucky’s unemployment rate dropped as low as 4%. Already in 2018, an estimated 14,000 Kentuckians have found jobs -- at businesses of all shapes and sizes.   “Glier’s Meats in Covington announced the company was planning to add new positions and invest in new equipment to meet growing demand. In the words of the company’s president: ‘We had a number of projects that were seen as something we could consider doing down the road. But because of tax reform, it’s possible to reinvest in the plant and in new equipment now.’ In Ashland, Braidy Industries expects to support 1,000 construction jobs as it constructs a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and then 600 permanent jobs. They broke ground in June.   “Not a single one of our colleagues across the aisle voted in support of the historic tax reform that’s helping make these developments possible. So for them, these data are telling an inconvenient truth. But the rest of America is not hiding from these numbers. We’re celebrating them -- and all the life-changing job opportunities, wage growth, and small business expansions that they represent.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000914 DOT_Am.Oversight-000914 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Wednesday, August 01, 2018 10:58:27 AM Good morning –   The Senate convened at 10:00 am and resumed consideration of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Thud/Ag).   At 11:00 am, the Senate will proceed to 5 roll call votes in relation to the following in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations:    1. Leahy #3464 – election security (60 vote threshold) 2. Lee #3522 – FDA standards of identity/labeling (60 vote threshold) 3. Baldwin #3524 – promotion of dairy products (60 vote threshold) 4. Cruz #3402  -- to prohibit funding for District of Columbia’s health insurance individual mandate 5. Passage of H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations, as amended   Still on deck: Conference report to accompany H.R. 5515, NDAA.   The Leader this morning -  Senator McConnell: (10:04 a.m.) • • • Spoke on the minibus appropriations bill. 0 “For more than a week, the Senate has carefully considered a set of four appropriations bills. Together they'll account for about one-eighth of the discretionary spending for the next fiscal year. They allocate funds for a variety of pressing needs in communities around the country, and they represent four more steps towards the goal this Senate has set to fund the government through regular appropriations and steer clear of another omnibus. A lot of attention has been paid to two huge priorities where this legislation will bring major progress.” Spoke on the NDAA. 0 “Representing the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I know just how significant an impact this legislation will have on some of our Nation's finest. At Fort Campbell, members of the 101st Airborne Division and a number of special operation divisions will benefit from the authorization of new investments in their training facilities. At Fort Knox, the Army's Human Resources Command and Recruiting Command will receive the support they need to modernize officer personnel management and the post will receive muchneeded certainty and authority for its energy savings program.” Spoke on Republican economic policy. 0 “That's the fastest employers have increased what they spend on employee pay and benefits in any 12-month period since the one that ended in September of 2008. Given what we know about the labor market, this is hardly surprising. From main street businesses to manufacturers, job creators are faced with heightened demand. That means DOT-18-0010-A-000915 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000915     Thanks, Erica more Americans can come off the sidelines and find a quality job and that means that businesses compete to hire and retain workers.”     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     Yesterday in the Senate (7/31/18): Roll Call Votes: 1. Motion to concur in the House amendment to accompany S.1182, Flood Insurance. (Agreed to, 86-12) 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #1006, Britt Cagle Grant, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. (Confirmed, 52-46) 3. Motion to invoke cloture on Shelby substitute amendment #3399 to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations. (Invoked, 94-4) 4. Compound motion to go to conference on H.R.2, Farm Bill. (Agreed to by voice vote)   Executive Session – noms cleared: ARMY Cal. #1017 - Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lyons to be General AIR FORCE Cal. #1018 - Maj. Gen. Brian T. Kelly to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1019 - Lt. Gen. Mark D. Kelly to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1020 - Col. Timothy J. Madden to be Brigadier General Cal. #1021 - Lt. Gen. Jeffrey L. Harrigian to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1022 - Maj. Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere to be Lieutenant General Cal. #1023 - Lt. Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach to be Lieutenant General ARMY Cal. #1024 - Lt. Gen. Stephen M. Twitty to be Lieutenant General MARINE CORPS Cal. #1025 - Lt. Gen. Gary L. Thomas to be General AIR FORCE Cal. #1026 - Col. Susan J. Pietrykowski to be Brigadier General Cal. #1027 - Maj. Gen. Jon T. Thomas to be Lieutenant General ARMY (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000916 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000916 Cal. #1028 – the following to be Brigadier General: Col. Gregory K. Anderson Col. Christine A. Beeler Col. Peter N. Benchoff Col. Mark S. Bennett Col. Gregory J. Brady Col. Michele H. Bredenkamp Col. Edmond M. Brown Col. Robert M. Collins Col. Kimberly M. Colloton Col. David S. Doyle Col. Thomas J. Edwards, Jr. Col. Marcus S. Evans Col. Brett T. Funck Col. James J. Gallivan Col. Brian W. Gibson Col. Amy E. Hannah Col. Jered P. Helwig Col. Donn H. Hill Col. Scott A. Jackson Col. John D. Kline Col. Gavin A. Lawrence Col. Kevin C. Leahy Col. Michelle M. Letcher Col. Charles J. Masaracchia Col. Michael C. McCurry, II Col. John V. Meyer, III Col. Duane R. Miller Col. Scott M. Naumann Col. Christopher R. Norrie Col. Allan M. Pepin Col. Andrew D. Preston Col. Mark C. Quander Col. John L. Rafferty, Jr. Col. Jeth B. Rey Col. Joseph A. Ryan Col. James M. Smith Col. Brett G. Sylvia Col. Joel B. Vowell Col. Todd R. Wasmund Cal. #1029 - Maj. Gen. James F. Pasquarette to be Lieutenant General And all nominations on the Secretary's Desk in the Air Force, Army and Navy. UC Items: H.R.5554 – Animal Drug User Fee Amendments of 2018 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000917 DOT_Am.Oversight-000917 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update and PDF of Minibus substitute amendment (attached) Tuesday, June 19, 2018 10:06:06 AM HR5895 Substitute Amendment.pdf Good morning,   The Senate will convene at 10:00 am today. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations (Energy and Water, Mil Con VA, and Leg Branch).   Last night the Minibus substitute amendment was laid down and made pending. It’s attached here.   Amendment votes are possible today. Stand by!   The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm to 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly conference meetings.   Also this week: there may be procedural action to proceed to H.R. 3, the Rescissions bill.   Looking Ahead: Nominations, Appropriations, Rescissions, Farm Bill, Water Infrastructure.   Yesterday in the Senate (Monday, June 18):   Roll Call Votes: 1. Motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended. (Agreed to, 8114) 2. Passage of H.R.5515, NDAA, as amended. (Passed, 85-10)           3. Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations. (Invoked, 92-3)   Wrap Up: S.Res.550 – Golden State Warriors   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000918 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000918 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update: CR passed, Tax Reform Committee Conferees, Circuit Court judges (cloture filed) Thursday, December 07, 2017 6:34:48 PM ICYMI: Floor activity just now:   · The 2-week CR just passed, 81-14. · The Chair appointed the following Republican conferees for tax: Sen. Hatch, Chairman of Finance Committee; Sen. Enzi, Chairman of Budget Committee; Sen. Murkowski, Chairman of Energy and Natural Resources Committee; Sen. Cornyn; Sen. Thune; Sen. Portman; Sen. Scott; Sen. Toomey · The Chair appointed the following Democrat conferees for tax: Sen. Wyden; Sen. Sanders; Sen. Murray; Sen. Cantwell; Sen. Stabenow; Sen. Menendez; Sen. Carper · Leader McConnell filed cloture on THREE Circuit Court nominees: o Exec. Cal. #533 Leonard Grasz to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit o Exec. Cal. #534 Don Willett to be a Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit o Exec. Cal. #535 James Ho to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit   Note: At 5:30 pm on Monday, December 11th, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #533, Leonard Grasz, of Nebraska, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit.     Have a good night! Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000919 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000919 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Update Thursday, February 15, 2018 2:28:01 PM At 2:30 pm the Senate will proceed to up to 4 roll call votes on the motion to invoke cloture on the following amendments in relation to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration: 1. Durbin for Coons amendment #1955 (Uniting and Securing America Act of 2018) 2. Toomey amendment #1948 (Sanctuary Cities; if cloture is not invoked on #1955) 3. Rounds amendment #1958 as modified (same as Rounds/King amendment #2010, the Immigration Security and Opportunity Act; if cloture is not invoked on #1948) 4. Grassley amendment #1959 (SECURE and SUCCEED Act; if cloture is not invoked on #1958)   *Leader McConnell filed cloture on these amendments (in this order) last night. Please see his floor remarks below on the Florida school shooting tragedy, the immigration debate, and how Middle Class Americans are seeing the benefits of tax reform.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   MITCH McCONNELL S NATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S. SENATORfor K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, February 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2F95IKl                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Evn0UL McConnell: Let’s Make Law, Not Political DOT-18-0010-A-000920 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000920 Points on Immigration, Border Security  ‘Remember: Democrats wanted this debate. They shut down the federal government for 300 million Americans -- unnecessarily -- to guarantee we could have this debate at this time. They have spent months insisting DACA is a top priority for them, and telling their constituents they’d do everything they could to resolve it. But when the rubber meets the road? They have yet to bring forward a single proposal that gives us a realistic chance to make law -- that is, pass the Senate, pass the House, and earn the president’s signature.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the immigration and border security debate:   “This entire week has been set aside, as I assured it would be, for votes on the DACA issue, border security, and other issues pertaining to the subject of immigration. At this point, we should be wrapping up a lively week of debate, amendments, and numerous votes. But that’s not what happened. Instead, we’re here on Thursday morning, and we have yet to vote on a single amendment.   “Remember: Democrats wanted this debate. They shut down the federal government for 300 million Americans -- unnecessarily -- to guarantee we could have this debate at this time. They have spent months insisting DACA is a top priority for them, and telling their constituents they’d do everything they could to resolve it. But when the rubber meets the road? They have yet to bring forward a single proposal that gives us a realistic chance to make law -- that is, pass the Senate, pass the House, and earn the president’s signature.   “All they’ve done is slow the process as much as possible. It turns out they did not want a fair, open, freewheeling amendment process after all. Yesterday evening, I filed cloture on all four pending amendments. At a minimum, under regular order, we can make sure they at least receive a cloture vote by Friday morning. But I hope the Democratic Leader will finally consent to hold votes on these amendments today.   “My Democratic friends say they want resolution for illegal immigrants who were brought to this country as children. The president has put forward a framework that would do just that. His reasonable proposal offers a more than generous resolution to 1.8 million such individuals. But the DACA issue is just a symptom of our broken immigration system. So the president has made clear, and I strongly agree, that any legislation must also treat the root causes and reform legal immigration. And it must also include commonsense steps to ensure the safety of the American people.   “Several senators, led by Senator Grassley, have crafted legislation that accommodates the major interests of all sides. It fulfills the stated goal of our Democratic colleagues and conforms to the president’s requirements. Their bill provides funding to secure our border. It reforms extended family chain migration and the visa lottery program.   “It fixes the loophole that forces us to release thousands of criminal aliens who are rejected by their own home countries. Enacts ‘Kate’s Law’ to put criminals who repeatedly and illegally cross our borders behind bars. Gets tougher on violent and dangerous criminals such as drug smugglers, human traffickers, repeat drunk drivers, gang members, and sex offenders. And, yes -- it offers a generous resolution to the DACA issue.   “The president has gone out more than halfway to meet Democrats and resolve this matter. If they are actually interested in finding a solution, it is time they take ‘yes’ for an answer. Because my Democratic friends were stalling for time, they’ve spent three full days making political points instead of making law. I hope today can be different.”   ###     AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000921 DOT_Am.Oversight-000921 MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER KENTUCKY u.s. SENATOR for 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, February 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2EuEvoj                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2C0z5Q5 Middle Class American Families Seeing Benefits From Tax Reform ‘We know the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is pro-worker and pro-business. But tax reform is also, at its core, pro-family. It doubles the standard deduction, meaning a young married couple effectively gets a new ‘zero percent tax bracket’ for the first $24,000 they earn. If that couple decides to purchase a home, their mortgage interest will be eligible for a deduction. Contrary to what many predicted, the historic tax cuts we delivered didn’t jeopardize that middle-class deduction. We preserved it.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:    “It’s only been fifty-five days since the president signed historic tax reform into law. Already, it’s led to bonuses, raises, and new benefits for millions of American workers. And the long-term signs are just as promising. Hundreds of companies have announced significant commitments to plant deeper roots in the American economy.   “We know the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is pro-worker and pro-business. But tax reform is also, at its core, pro-family. It doubles the standard deduction, meaning a young married couple effectively gets a new ‘zero percent tax bracket’ for the first $24,000 they earn. If that couple decides to purchase a home, their mortgage interest will be eligible for a deduction. Contrary to what many predicted, the historic tax cuts we delivered didn’t jeopardize that middle-class deduction. We preserved it.   “When that couple starts a family, they’ll benefit from the fact that we doubled the child tax credit, thanks to the fine work of Sen. Heller and others throughout the committee process. At its new level, that credit will save a two-child household four thousand dollars every year. Four thousand dollars to help them with back-to-school costs. Or to kick off a college fund. Or to help them afford summer camp tuition and a family vacation, instead of choosing one or the other.   “And thanks to the tireless work of my colleague from Nebraska, Senator Fischer, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act encourages more employers to provide paid family leave. That's good news for the millions of American families that will welcome a child this year. My Democratic colleagues like to speak about the importance of paid leave. But not a single one of them voted with us. Every Democrat in the House and the Senate voted against the bill that included Sen. Fischer’s paid family leave incentives.   “Every one of them voted against a bill that included the bigger standard deduction. And the doubling of the child tax credit. And lower income tax rates. Fortunately, we passed this historic achievement despite their efforts to stop it. And thanks to every Republican who voted for tax reform, both Walmart and Lowe’s have announced expansions of both maternity and paternity leave. CVS is creating an entirely new parental leave program.   “In Wisconsin, where only one of two senators voted for reform, American Family Insurance is expanding its family leave benefits. So is Broadridge Financial Solutions in New York -- despite both senators from New York voting against it. This is only the beginning.   “My Democratic colleagues said tax reform would bring about ‘Armageddon.’ They said nothing in DOT-18-0010-A-000922 DOT_Am.Oversight-000922 our bill would help American workers. But the proof is in the pudding. The evidence is piling up. And middle-class families all over the country are glad their Congress and their president made tax reform a reality.”   ###         MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S.• SENATOR .fo r KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, February 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2EKIkF1                    YouTube: http://bit.ly/2o1syMs McConnell on Parkland, Florida Tragedy ‘My colleagues from Florida will carry home the prayers of the whole Senate -- for victims and their families, for the community of Parkland, and for the first responders who bravely charge into harm’s way on behalf of others.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding yesterday’s horrific school shooting that took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The Senate will hold a moment of silence at noon today.   “I want to begin this morning by sharing the shock and sorrow that all of us in this body felt as we learned of yesterday’s shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. To say that such brutal, pointless violence is unconscionable is an understatement. Schools should be places where children can learn, and faculty and staff can work, without fear of violence.   “My colleagues from Florida will carry home the prayers of the whole Senate -- for victims and their families, for the community of Parkland, and for the first responders who bravely charge into harm’s way on behalf of others.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000923 DOT_Am.Oversight-000923 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate update Thursday, February 15, 2018 7:30:51 PM Good evening, The Senate wrapped up this week’s Immigration debate this afternoon (vote results below). After the votes today Leader McConnell delivered remarks on the overall process that unfolded this week, and what’s ahead. An excerpt here (full remarks below): “Everyone, the Democratic leader, the assistant Democratic leader, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, everyone agrees that I held up my end of the bargain. Back in December I stated that if a bill withstood a chance of becoming law or ready in January, I would bring it to the floor. No such proposal was produced. Then in January when Democrats shut down the government over this issue, I offered to dedicate this week, this week that we've been in, to an immigration debate and a fair amendment process. I just did that. But the same Democrats failed to produce a solution and instead spent the better part of the week objecting to any votes in the senate. I thought we may be able to resolve this.”   “If a solution is developed in the future that can pass both the House and the Senate and be signed into law by the President, it should be considered. But for that to happen, Democrats will need to take a second look at these core elements of necessary reform.”   The Leader also filed cloture on several nominations – we will process these noms in the order he filed cloture:   § Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 11th Circuit § Executive Calendar #153, Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget § Executive Calendar #437, A. Marvin Quattlebaum, of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina § Executive Calendar #438, Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas § Executive Calendar #439, Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia § Executive Calendar #536, Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana The Senate is in session Monday, February 26 at 3:00 pm. Following the Leader remarks, Senator Peters will be recognized to offer President Washington’s Farewell Address. Following the address, the Senate will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 11th Circuit.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Branch nomination.   DOT-18-0010-A-000924 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000924 Today in the Senate (Thursday, February 15, 2018): Roll Call Votes:   § Motion to invoke cloture on Durbin for Coons amendment #1955 in relation to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Not Invoked. (52-47) § Motion to invoke cloture on Toomey amendment #1948 in relation to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Not Invoked. (54-45) § Motion to invoke cloture on Rounds amendment #1958, as modified in relation to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Not Invoked. (54-45) § Motion to invoke cloture on Grassley amendment #1959 in relation to H.R.2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Not Invoked. (39-60) Executive Session (nominations that cleared tonight by consent): Cal. #617 - Joel Danies, of Maryland, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Gabonese Republic, and to serve concurrently as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe. Cal. #667 - Peter Hendrick Vrooman, of New York, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Rwanda. Cal. #590 - Norman Euell Arflack, of Kentucky, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Kentucky for the term of four years. Cal. #591 - Ted G. Kamatchus, of Iowa, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Iowa for the term of four years. Cal. #643 - Michael T. Baylous, of West Virginia, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of West Virginia for the term of four years. Cal. #644 - Daniel R. McKittrick, of Mississippi, to be United States Marshal for the Northern District of Mississippi for the term of four years. Cal. #682 - David G. Jolley, of Tennessee, to be United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Tennessee for the term of four years. Cal. #683 - Thomas M. Griffin, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States Marshal for the District of South Carolina for the term of four years.     Cal. #472 - Neil Jacobs, of North Carolina, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce. Cal. #661 - Holly W. Greaves, of the District of Columbia, to be Chief Financial Officer, Environmental Protection Agency. Cal. #465 - John C. Demers, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. Cal. #359 - John Marshall Mitnick, of Virginia, to be General Counsel, Department of Homeland Security. Cal. #645 - John Henderson, of South Dakota, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Air Force. Cal. #646 - Michael D. Griffin, of Alabama, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. Cal. #647 - William Roper, of Georgia, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Air Force. Cal. #648 - Phyllis L. Bayer, of Mississippi, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Cal. #662 - John H. Gibson II, of Texas, to be Chief Management Officer of the Department of Defense. Cal. #684 - Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Nuclear Security, Department of Energy. DOT-18-0010-A-000925 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000925 Cal. #685 - Kevin Fahey, of Massachusetts, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense. Cal. #687 - Thomas E. Ayres, of Pennsylvania, to be General Counsel of the Department of the Air Force. Cal. #663 - Melissa F. Burnison, of Kentucky, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs). Cal. #588 - Joseph D. Brown, of Texas, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas for the term of four years. Cal. #589 - Matthew D. Krueger, of Wisconsin, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin for the term of four years. Cal. #642 - John H. Durham, of Connecticut, to be United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut for the term of four years. Cal. #677 - John C. Anderson, of New Mexico, to be United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico for the term of four years. Cal. #678 - Brandon J. Fremin, of Louisiana, to be United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana for the term of four years. Cal. #679 - Joseph P. Kelly, of Nebraska, to be United States Attorney for the District of Nebraska for the term of four years. Cal. #680 - Scott W. Murray, of New Hampshire, to be United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire for the term of four years. Cal. #681 - David C. Weiss, of Delaware, to be United States Attorney for the District of Delaware for the term of four years. Wrap Up: S.Res.413 – Black History Month S.946 - Veterans Treatment Court Improvement Act with a Flake amendment H.R.1725, Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act H.R.3122, Veterans Care Financial Protection Act of 2017 H.R.4533 - Lexington VA Health Care System   *Please also note, the Senate will convene for pro forma session only, with no business conducted, on the following dates at the following times: Friday, February 16th at 12:00pm Tuesday, February 20th at 5:00pm Friday, February 23rd at 2:00pm   Also, please see a note below from Stew on this week’s process, and the Leader’s full floor remarks.   Thanks, Erica   PS. Happy President’s Day! DOT-18-0010-A-000926 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000926 A little presidential art to kick off the weekend! Self-portrait painting by President George W. Bush, Oil on canvas. (George W. Bush Presidential Center, The Art of Leadership: A President’s Diplomacy)       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) A note from Stew: To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE: Votes today I’ll say it again: Senate Democrats insisted on having an immigration debate this week. In fact, they shut down the government over this issue. They’ve known the debate would be this week for about a month now. But instead of debating and having an open amendment process, Democrats held up action all week —the Leader even had to file cloture to have votes on any amendments because Sen. Schumer objected to voting on any for the last three days. The Senate today held unsuccessful cloture votes on: · · Coons amendment Toomey amendment AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000927 DOT_Am.Oversight-000927 · · Rounds amendment Grassley amendment I know what you’re going to ask next: “Now what?” Well, as the Majority Leader said on the floor after the votes: “If a solution is developed in the future that can pass both the House and the Senate and be signed into law by the President, it should be considered. But for that to happen, Democrats will need to take a second look at these core elements of necessary reform.” Remember, the Majority Leader lived up to his word and scheduled the debate this week as he committed to doing. He went a step further and proceeded to a neutral bill instead of one of his choosing. He opened the floor to amendments. And he did not “fill the tree.” Despite all of that, Democrats stalled even the basic consideration of the bill and objected to voting on amendments all week. Senate Democrats shut down the government over DACA, yet despite having a month to prepare for this week’s debate, Senate Democrats didn’t come into the week with a proposal. Sen. Durbin, a prime proponent of the shutdown-for-DACA strategy, still hasn’t introduced the Durbin bill. The Majority Leader also filed cloture on the following nominations for votes after the recess: · · · · · · Elizabeth Branch to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit Russell Vought to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr. to be U.S. District Judge for the District of South Carolina Karen Scholer to be U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Texas Tilman Eugene Self III to be U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia Terry Doughty to be U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana. The Senate is in recess next week, which gives you time to meet these good boys and girls. STEW @StewSays MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S .• SENATOR for K.ENTUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, February 15, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2C0NH1L                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2CnH9Gs McConnell: I Remain Eager To Improve Our Immigration, Security Policy DOT-18-0010-A-000928 DOT_Am.Oversight-000928 ‘If a solution is developed in the future that can pass both the House and the Senate and be signed into law by the president, it should be considered. But for that to happen, Democrats will need to take a second look at these core elements of necessary reform.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor following today’s votes on immigration and border security: “I think it’s safe to say this has been a disappointing week. I kept my commitment and set aside the entire week for a broad, productive debate over DACA, border security, and other important immigration issues. Everyone -- my friend the Democratic Leader, the Assistant Democratic Leader, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus -- everyone agrees that I have held up my end of the bargain. “Back in December, I stated that if a bill that stood a chance of becoming law were ready in January, I would bring it to the floor. But no such proposal was produced. Then, in January, when Democrats shut down the government over this issue, I offered to dedicate this week to an immigration debate and a fair amendment process. And I did just that. “But these same Democrats failed to produce a solution, and instead spent the better part of the week objecting to any votes in the Senate. I thought we might be able to resolve this. I was hoping we could reach a bipartisan solution that could pass the Senate, pass the House, and earn President Trump’s signature. But once again, when the hour came to actually make law instead of just making political points, my friends across the aisle were either unable or unwilling to get something done. After all that talk, they hardly came to the table at all. “I supported the plan introduced by Chairman Grassley and several other co-sponsors. It fleshed out the president’s framework, pairing a more than generous solution for 1.8 million illegal immigrants with commonsense steps to reform legal immigration, secure the border, and help law enforcement keep Americans safe. “The president came, in my view, more than halfway to meet Democrats on this issue. In exchange for a pathway to citizenship -- not just legal status -- for nearly 2 million individuals, he sensibly wanted to reform pieces of our broken immigration system, secure our border, and make it harder for violent criminals and repeat offenders to prey on American citizens. “This is more than a fair bargain. I thought my friends across the aisle would jump at this opportunity to fulfill what they say is their top priority. But they just could not take ‘yes’ for an answer. They turned away from a golden opportunity to solve this issue. They decided they’d rather come away empty handed, with no resolution whatsoever for the 1.8 million individuals they say they are championing, than accept a reasonable compromise with the president. “Now, even though this week has been squandered, this does not have to be the end of our efforts to resolve these matters. I encourage members to put away the talking points and get serious about finding a solution that can actually become law. I remain eager to improve our immigration policy. “If a solution is developed in the future that can pass both the House and the Senate and be signed into law by the president, it should be considered. But for that to happen, Democrats will need to take a second look at these core elements of necessary reform.” ###   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000929 DOT_Am.Oversight-000929 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate voting now - 2 week CR to fund the government Thursday, December 07, 2017 5:44:02 PM FYI: The Senate is voting now on passage of H.J.Res.123, the 2 Week CR (CR runs through December 22).       MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Wednesday, December 7, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2ACr1Bn                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2zZIAdJ Senate Will Pass Short-Term Funding Bill Before End Of Week ‘The Senate must act before the end of the week to pass a clean short-term funding bill to maintain the critical operations of the federal government.  Our colleagues in the House will send us the non-controversial provision soon, and then we will have the opportunity to consider it. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass it.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding government funding legislation:    “The Senate must act before the end of the week to pass a clean short-term funding bill to maintain the critical operations of the federal government.  Our colleagues in the House will send us the noncontroversial provision soon, and then we will have the opportunity to consider it. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass it.   “This short-term continuing resolution will provide us with the time we need to complete discussions on a long-term solution. It will also provide certainty to states to continue funding the Children’s Health Insurance Program.   “Later today, Speaker Ryan, Leader Schumer, Leader Pelosi and I will meet with President Trump to continue discussing an agreement to fund the federal government. I look forward to working together with colleagues in a serious, bipartisan way to address a number of priorities for our nation in the coming weeks. I hope all members will join me.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000930 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000930 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate voting now - CR Monday, January 22, 2018 12:38:49 PM Hello everyone –   The Senate just started a roll call vote to reopen the government – the vote is on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CR/CHIP, with further amendment (includes: CR funding until February 8, 2018; 6 year CHIP; ACA tax delays).   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - ---(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR ft>r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, January 22, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2Dy1Ow2                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2BjlTRt Let’s Get Back To Work For The American People ‘[I]t it is abundantly clear that the Senate cannot make progress on any of these crucial matters until the government is re-opened. We need to move forward. The first step is ending this shutdown. It is evident that this government shutdown is doing nothing – absolutely nothing – to generate bipartisan progress on the issues the American people care about. Every day we spend arguing about keeping the lights on is another day we cannot spend negotiating DACA, or defense spending, or any of our other shared priorities. Let’s join together, put this filibuster behind us, and get back to work for the American people.”   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to end the government shutdown DOT-18-0010-A-000931 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000931 and get back to work:   “In two hours, every Senator can vote to end this government shutdown. At twelve o’clock, we will vote to end the Democratic Leader’s filibuster and advance instead a bipartisan bill that would put this mess behind us. The bill before us does three things that every Democrat and Republican should be able to support.   “First, it ends this shutdown and restores full funding for the federal government through February 8th. Second, it extends health insurance for nine million vulnerable children. And third, it will enable Congress to resume serious, bipartisan talks on the important issues facing our nation.   “I respect the passion that many of my friends in this chamber, Democrat and Republican alike, bring to the major issues before the Senate. Each of us brings our own views and personal perspectives to discussions of immigration policy, or healthcare reform, or the details of government spending. But we should not let political feuds or policy disagreements obscure the simple fact that every member of this body cares deeply about the challenges facing our country.   “All of us want to make life better for the American people. Bearing this in mind, I hope and intend that we can reach bipartisan solutions on issues such as military spending, immigration and border security, and disaster relief before this February 8th deadline. But yesterday evening, I restated my position that these negotiations can’t last forever.   “Should these issues not be resolved by the time the funding bill before us expires on February 8th, so long as the government remains open it – so long as it remains open – it would be my intention to take up legislation here in the Senate that would address DACA, border security, and related issues – as well as disaster relief, defense funding, health care, and other important matters.   “Let me be clear, this immigration debate will have a level playing field at the outset, and an amendment process that is fair to all sides. And it would be my strong preference for the Senate to consider a proposal that can be signed into law. A bipartisan, bicameral group is already negotiating, and I look forward to the completion of its work.   “But it is abundantly clear that the Senate cannot make progress on any of these crucial matters until the government is re-opened. We need to move forward. The first step is ending this shutdown. It is evident that this government shutdown is doing nothing – absolutely nothing – to generate bipartisan progress on the issues the American people care about. Every day we spend arguing about keeping the lights on is another day we cannot spend negotiating DACA, or defense spending, or any of our other shared priorities. Let’s join together, put this filibuster behind us, and get back to work for the American people.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000932 DOT_Am.Oversight-000932 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate Will Confirm Pompeo as Next Secretary of State Monday, April 23, 2018 6:32:14 PM   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for KENTUCKY 1 For Immediate Release, Monday, April 23, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2KaLstK Senate Will Confirm Pompeo as Next Secretary of State WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell made the following announcement Monday regarding the nomination of Mike Pompeo to serve as U.S. Secretary of State: “The Pompeo nomination has now been reported out of the Foreign Relations Committee, and there are sufficient votes in the Senate to ensure that he will be confirmed this week as our nation’s next Secretary of State.” The Leader’s floor remarks on the Pompeo nomination today are here. ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000933 DOT_Am.Oversight-000933 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Senate wrap up -- MTBs fyi Thursday, July 26, 2018 5:59:56 PM Hi everyone – ICYMI: wrap up tonight. I know many of you have been following MTBs – it cleared tonight. Please see a statement below from Senate Finance. Executive Session: Treaties Cal. #2 - The Treaty with the Federated States of Micronesia on the Delimitation of a Maritime Boundary Treaties Cal. #3 - The Treaty with the Republic of Kiribati on the Delimitation of Maritime Boundaries Treaties Cal. #4 - Extradition Treaty with the Republic of Serbia Treaties Cal. #5 - Extradition Treaty with the Republic of Kosovo   Wrap Up: Cal.#486, H.R.4528 – Marine Fish H.R.5729 – Transportation Worker ID Credential Accountability S.Res.595 – US Intelligence Professionals Day H.R.4318 – Miscellaneous Tariff Bill with a Hatch amendment   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 26, 2018   Hatch, Wyden Applaud Senate Passage of Tariff Bill CONTACT: Katie Niederee (Hatch) 202-224-4515 Keith Chu (Wyden) 202-224-4515 WASHINGTON – Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) today lauded Senate passage of H.R. 4318, the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) Act of 2017: “This legislation will help American companies compete across the globe and create economic benefits for consumers by reducing trade barriers for American manufacturers that need products that are difficult to obtain in the United States,” Hatch said. “It was crafted based on a robust process that considered the needs of importers and producers alike, and is the reflection of a bipartisan effort to increase competitiveness and growth. Let’s build on this positive momentum to continue creating opportunities for American companies and families.” “This bill gives U.S. manufacturers a chance to better compete both here in the United States and abroad, by giving them a break on inputs that are not available here,” Wyden said. “This is the result of a bipartisan effort and an inter-agency process to boost the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers around the world.” Background: In 2016, Congress overwhelmingly passed the bipartisan American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act of 2016 (AMCA) to establish an open and transparent process for consideration of the MTB. AMCA allowed American businesses to petition the International Trade Commission (ITC) for tariff relief. The ITC then conducted an analysis to determine whether each petition met the AMCA’s requirements, including that no domestic producers of like products objected to the tariff reduction or suspension at issue.  In August of last year, the ITC, with input from Department of Commerce and Customs and Border Protection, provided a final report to Congress that included recommendations concerning more than 2,500 petitions. The ITC recommended that more than 1,800 of the petitions be included in MTB legislation.  The Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee reviewed the ITC report and crafted this legislation to implement the ITC’s recommendations. In accordance with the AMCA, Congress may not include products that were not recommended by the ITC, and may only include non-controversial provisions.   Click here to view the ITC’s final report. Click here to view the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill Act of 2017 (H.R. 4318).  ###       DOT-18-0010-A-000934 DOT_Am.Oversight-000934 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Lee, Jane (McConnell) Start of minibus consideration Thursday, June 14, 2018 10:40:54 AM ICYMI - The Leader set up Senate consideration of the Energy and Water, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Leg Branch bill package for next week. MR. McCONNELL: I MOVE TO PROCEED TO CALENDAR NUMBER 449, H.R. 5895. THE CLERK: MOTION TO PROCEED TO CALENDAR NUMBER 449, H.R. 5896, AN ACT MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND SO FORTH AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. MR. McCONNELL: I SEND A CLOTURE MOTION TO THE DESK ON THE MOTION TO PROCEED. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: THE CLERK WILL REPORT. THE CLERK: CLOTURE MOTION: WE, THE UNDERSIGNED SENATORS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF RULE 22, DO HEREBY BRING TO A CLOSE DEBATE ON THE MOTION TO PROCEED TO CALENDAR NUMBER 449, H.R. 5895, AN ACT MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND SO FORTH AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES, SIGNED BY 17 SENATORS.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000935 DOT_Am.Oversight-000935 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Statement of Managers, summaries, etc. - Omni Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:24:55 PM Explanatory material and text linked below; below that Senate Approps summaries, and press release from House Approps and their one-pagers:   Thanks! Senate amendment to H.R. 1625 TARGET Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018] [PDF] [XML]   :: House Amendment to Senate [PDF] [XML] Amendment to H.R. 1625 (Rules Committee Print 115-66—Showing the text of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018)   :: Introduction [PDF] :: Division A [PDF] :: Division B [PDF] :: Division C [PDF] :: Division D [PDF] :: Division E [PDF] :: Division F [PDF] :: Division G [PDF] :: Division H [PDF] :: Division I [PDF] :: Division J [PDF]                       DOT-18-0010-A-000936 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000936 :: Division K [PDF] :: Division L [PDF] :: Division S [PDF]         Courtesy of Senate Appropriations, summaries of the approps bills: Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Defense Energy and Water Development Financial Services and General Government Homeland Security Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Legislative Branch Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies   NEWS House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen        Website address: http://appropriations.house.gov/ For Immediate Release: March 21, 2018 Contact: Jennifer Hing, (202) 226-7007   Government-Wide Funding Legislation Released Bill will provide robust increases for national defense, infrastructure investments, border security, school safety and mental health, and to fight DOT-18-0010-A-000937 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000937 the nation’s opioid epidemic WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Appropriations Committee today introduced legislation to provide all discretionary funding for the federal government for the 2018 fiscal year. The bill contains the full legislation and funding for all of the 12 annual Appropriations bills. It totals $1.3 trillion, including $78.1 billion in funding for the Global War on Terror (GWOT)/Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO). Total base funding, excluding OCO and emergencies, is $1.2 trillion. The legislation adheres to the recently enacted budget “caps” agreement, providing an additional $80 billion for national defense – the largest year-to-year increase in base funding for the Department of Defense in 15 years. It also provides increased funding for critical federal programs including efforts to fight the nation’s opioid epidemic, to secure our homeland, to promote school safety and mental health, and to make robust investments that will help rebuild America’s aging infrastructure and bolster economic growth.   Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen made the following statement on the legislation:   “This Omnibus Appropriations bill represents thousands of hours of work, consideration, and input by Members of Congress. These 12 bills were considered and amended in Committee and on the House floor in an open and inclusive process last year, and have been negotiated in good faith by Committee leaders, House and Senate Leadership on both sides of the aisle, and the White House.   “This bill makes historic investments in our military – including the largest year-to-year increase in funding in 15 years, since the beginning of the War on Terror. This legislation will continue efforts to reverse the damage and neglect done under the previous Administration that has caused the men and women of our Armed Forces to be less prepared to fight, and that have put our nation’s ability to counter future threats in peril.   “The package also contains increased funding to ensure our security here at home. It includes increases for new border infrastructure, additional agents, more detention beds, better surveillance technology, and other measures that will help close the security gaps that put our border and nation at risk.   “But we must also focus on crisis and challenges here at home. This legislation targets funding to fight the scourge of the opioid epidemic that is devastating families and communities across the country. It provides new funding for school safety and mental health services to help prevent the kind of tragedy and heartbreak that occurred in Parkland, Florida. And it makes major investments in infrastructure across the board – whether it is transportation, energy, water, or cyber – to help boost our economy and promote future growth.   “These investments are made responsibly, with an eye towards getting the most out of every dollar, and reflect the priorities of the American people. This legislation will bring real and lasting solutions to the many challenges facing our nation both at home and abroad.”   The bill includes critical funding for:   DOT-18-0010-A-000938 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000938 · National Defense – After years of neglect, this bill starts rebuilding America’s Armed Forces by making the largest investment in 15 years. It provides $654.6 billion in both base and Global War on Terror/Overseas Contingency Operations funding – the biggest year-toyear increase since the beginning of the War on Terror. It fully funds a 2.4% pay raise for the troops, fulfills the requests made by Secretary Mattis and military leaders, and gives warfighters the resources they need to fight, win, and return home safety. · · Securing Our Homeland – The bill includes $47.8 billion for the Department of Homeland Security, an increase of $5.4 billion over the last fiscal year. These dollars will bolster border infrastructure, add more “boots on the ground,” increase detention space, and improve surveillance technology. The legislation includes $1.571 billion for physical barriers and associated technology along the Southwest border. This amount provides for more than 90 miles of “border wall system,” going beyond the Administration’s budget request for a total of 74 miles in fiscal year 2018. I Rebuilding America’s Aging Infrastructure – Improving the nation’s infrastructure is critical to reliability, safety, and economic growth. The legislation includes more than $21 billion for infrastructure projects across the country, including transportation, energy, water, and cyber. · Combatting the Opioid Crisis – This legislation includes nearly $4 billion in resources to combat the opioid crisis that President Trump has declared as a national emergency. It will invest billions in treatment, prevention, and law enforcement efforts to stop the spread of these dangerous drugs and help families and communities get the assistance they need. · School Safety – To help protect children and to promote safe learning environments, the bill provides more than $2.3 billion in new funding to effective mental health, training, and school safety programs at the Departments of Justice, Education, and Health and Human Services.   Bill Highlights: For a bill-by-bill summaries, please visit:   Agriculture Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_agriculture_-_summary.pdf   Commerce/Justice/Science Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_commerce_justice_science__summary.pdf Department of Defense Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_defense_-_summary.pdf   Energy and Water Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_energy_and_water__summary.pdf   Financial Services Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_financial_services_DOT-18-0010-A-000939 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000939 _summary.pdf Homeland Security Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_homeland_security__summary.pdf Interior/Environment Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_interior_-_summary.pdf Labor/Health and Human Services/Education Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus__labor_health_and_human_services_-_summary.pdf Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_legislative_branch__summary.pdf Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Billhttps://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_milcon_va_-_summary.pdf State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_state_foreign_operations__summary.pdf Transportation/Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill – https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_THUD_-_summary.pdf   For the text of the legislation and the bill reports, please visit: http://docs.house.gov/floor/     #####       AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000940 DOT_Am.Oversight-000940 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Summary doc: BIPARTISAN BUDGET ACT Wednesday, February 07, 2018 4:57:19 PM Hi everyone   Please see a funding agreement summary document below.   Thanks, Erica   BIPARTISAN BUDGET ACT Investing in Defense, Veterans, Disaster Relief, Combatting Opioids, Infrastructure “We need Congress to lift the defense spending caps and support a two-year budget agreement for our military…. We expect the men and women of our military to be faithful in their service even when going in harm's way. We have a duty to remain faithful to them.” --Secretary of Defense James Mattis, 2/7/2018 A bipartisan, bicameral agreement was reached on a long-term budget agreement that, for the first time in years, will ensure that America’s armed forces have more of the resources they need to keep America safe.  The two-year budget agreement also makes critical investments in America’s veterans, disaster relief, infrastructure, and further combatting opioid abuse and drug addiction. · · · · · · · · · · AMf--f CAN This agreement will unwind the sequestration cuts that have hamstrung America’s armed forces and jeopardized our national security by funding the military at this year’s National Defense Authorization Act levels.  It breaks the spending “parity” demanded for years by Democrats by giving defense a larger funding increase than non-defense discretionary spending.  Compared to current law spending caps, the agreement increases defense discretionary funding by $80 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 and $85 billion in FY 2019 vs. an increase in nondefense domestic discretionary of $63 billion in FY 2018 and $68 billion in FY 2019.   This agreement provides for America’s veterans by helping break down the maintenance backlog at the Veterans Administration. It also provides almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations for disaster relief efforts for communities crippled by hurricanes in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Florida and Texas. This agreement includes $6 billion over two years to bolster the ongoing fight against opioid addiction and substance abuse by funding new grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement efforts in vulnerable communities across the country. The agreement includes a $20 billion new investment in America’s infrastructure -- a bipartisan priority shared by the President and lawmakers in both parties. The agreement lifts the debt limit through March 1, 2019.  It includes structural reforms to Medicare and cuts to Obamacare, and repeals the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) from Obamacare. It includes an extension of funding for Community Health Centers. This agreement includes an extension of tax relief provisions that are supported by Republicans and Democrats.  pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000941 DOT_Am.Oversight-000941 · It establishes two committees to address pension and budget/appropriations reform. Continuing Resolution & Disaster Supplemental: The agreement includes a Continuing Resolution (CR) that funds the government at current levels through March 23, 2018 in order for the Appropriations Committees to negotiate detailed appropriations and deliver full funding for the remainder of FY 2018, and begin the process for FY 2019. The legislation also contains $89.3 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations to help states, communities, businesses, and individuals respond and recover from recent hurricanes, wildfires and other disasters.  Within in this funding, $4.9 billion is provided to increase Medicaid caps for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands for two years, along with program requirements. For more detailed information, please contact the Senate Appropriations Committee. Tax & Health Care Policies: The agreement includes a one-year extension of critical tax provisions that help families, individuals and small businesses across the country.  These provisions expired at the end of 2016. It includes an additional four years of authorization for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The measure also includes a package of bipartisan Medicare provisions, known as Medicare extenders, and funding for community health centers. For more detailed information, please contact the Senate Finance Committee. ###       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-A-000942 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000942 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Hudak, Kelley Supporters List -- H.R. 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – conservative groups and business community Tuesday, December 19, 2017 11:07:15 PM Hi everyone -Please see the latest list below of outside support for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Thank you for helping us get tax reform through Congress this year! Please also take a moment to scan this list and let me know if I’m missing someone (I easily could have missed an email on this, and if I did I apologize – we are extremely grateful for your hard work getting tax reform across the finish line)! Also -- the list is still “open” for additions.   We are voting (soon) tonight – please stand by for an exact time. Best, Erica     Supporters of H.R. 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act– conservative groups and business community (Individual statements and/or groups that have expressed in-person support; updated 12/19/17) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29.   21st Century Fox 3M 45Committee 60 Plus A. O. Smith Corporation Aerospace Industries Association Aetna Air Liquide Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) Airlines for America Alaska Chamber ALEC Action Alliance for Competitive Taxation (ACT) Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers Allstate Insurance Altria American Action Network (AAN) American Airlines American Coatings Association American Commitment American Conservative Union Foundation (ACU) American Craft Spirits Association American Dental Association (ADA) American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) American Farm Bureau Federation American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) American Forest Foundation American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) American Gaming Association DOT-18-0010-A-000943 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000943 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81. 82. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. AMERICAN American Gas Association (AGA) American Hotels and Lodging Association (AH&LA) American International Automobile Dealers Association American Made Coalition American Petroleum Institute (API) American Supply Association American Trucking Associations (ATA) Americans for Limited Government (ALG) Americans for Prosperity (AFP) Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) Amgen Arizona Retailers Association Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Associated General Contractors Associated Industries of Missouri (AIM) Association of American Railroads Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) Association of Global Automakers Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) Asurion AT&T Baxter Healthcare Beer Institute Best Buy Boeing BP Brown-Forman Business Roundtable Caterpillar, Inc. Celgene Center for Freedom and Prosperity Center for Worker Freedom Charter Communications Christian Coalition of America Cincinnati Financial Corporation (The Cincinnati Insurance Companies) Cisco Systems, Inc. Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions Club for Growth Coalition for American Insurance Coalition of Franchisee Associations  Comcast Concerned Veterans for America ConocoPhillips Constellation Brands Construction Industry Roundtable (CIRT) Consumer Action for a Strong Economy (CASE) Consumer Mortgage Coalition (CMC) Consumer Technology Association Continental Resources Cost Recovery Advances the Nation’s Economy (CRANE) Coalition Council for the Citizens Against Government Waste Cox Enterprises Crossroads GPS CSX Transportation CTIA – Everything Wireless Delta Air Lines Digital Liberty Distilled Spirits Council Domestic Energy Producers Alliance (DEPA) Dow Chemical Company pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000944 DOT_Am.Oversight-000944 90. East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) 91. Eastman 92. Ecolab 93. Edison Electric Institute (EEI) 94. Electronic Transactions Association 95. Eli Lilly and Company 96. Entertainment Software Association (ESA) 97. Exelon Corporation 98. ExxonMobil 99. Faith and Freedom Coalition 100. Family Business Coalition 101. Family Research Council 102. FedEx 103. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles 104. Fidelity Investments 105. Financial Services Roundtable 106. Florida Retail Federation 107. Food Marketing Institute 108. Ford Motor Company 109. Franchise Business Services 110. Freedom Partners 111. FreedomWorks 112. General Dynamics 113. General Electric Company 114. General Motors 115. Generation Opportunity 116. Georgia Retail Association 117. Grassfire 118. Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) 119. HCCW CEO Economic Leadership Committee 120. HDR, Inc. 121. Here For America 122. Heritage Action for America 123. Hewlett Packard Enterprise 124. Hilton Hotels & Resorts 125. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin 126. Hispanic Leadership Fund 127. Home Depot 128. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) 129. Honeywell 130. Houchens Industries 131. Independent Bakers Association (IBA) 132. Independent Women’s Voice 133. Indiana Retail Council 134. Industrial Minerals Association – North America (IMA-NA) 135. Industrial Minerals Association North America (IMA-NA) 136. Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) 137. Institute for Liberty 138. Intel Corporation 139. International Bank of Commerce 140. International Council of Shopping Centers 141. International Franchise Association 142. International Paper 143. International Sign Association 144. IPC - Association Connecting Electronics Industries® 145. Job Creators Network 146. Johnson & Johnson 147. Kansas Chamber of Commerce 148. Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 149. Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000945 DOT_Am.Oversight-000945 150. 151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 156. 157. 158. 159. 160. 161. 162. 163. 164. 165. 166. 167. 168. 169. 170. 171. 172. 173. 174. 175. 176. 177. 178. 179. 180. 181. 182. 183. 184. 185. 186. 187. 188. 189. 190. 191. 192. 193. 194. 195. 196. 197. 198. 199. 200. 201. 202. 203. 204. 205. 206. 207. 208. 209. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT Knight-Swift Transportation Koch Industries Latino Coalition Leading Builders of America Lennox International Inc. Liberty Counsel Action Liberty Mutual Insurance Lockheed Martin Corporation Mars, Incorporated Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. Master Limited Partnership Association (MLPA) McKesson Corporation Merck Metlife Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Michigan Retailers Association Montana Retail Association Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) Nareit National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO) National Apartment Association National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) National Cotton Council National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) National Franchisee Association National Grocers Association National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) National Mining Association National Mining Association National Multifamily Housing Council National Pork Producers Council National Restaurant Association National Retail Federation (NRF) National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) National Tax Limitation Committee National Taxpayers Union (NTU) NCTA – The Internet & Television Association Nebraska Retail Federation Niskanen Center Norfolk Southern Corporation North American Meat Institute (NAMI) North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association North Dakota Propane Gas Association North Dakota Retail Association Ohio Council of Retail Merchants ON Semiconductor One Nation Oracle Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association Pfizer Pitney Bowes PQ Corporation Printing Industries of America Procter & Gamble Property Casualty Insurers Association of America Property Rights Alliance DOT-18-0010-A-000946 DOT_Am.Oversight-000946 210. 211. 212. 213. 214. 215. 216. 217. 218. 219. 220. 221. 222. 223. 224. 225. 226. 227. 228. 229. 230. 231. 232. 233. 234. 235. 236. 237. 238. 239. 240. 241. 242. 243. 244. 245. 246. 247. 248. 249. 250. 251. 252. 253. 254. 255. RATE Coalition Raytheon Company Retail Association of Nevada Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Reynolds American, Inc. Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity (RICFP) Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) Smithfield Foods Inc. Smiths Group Southern Company Southwest Airlines Target Taxpayers Protection Alliance Tea Party Nation Tea Party Patriots Citizens Fund TechNet Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry Tennessee Manufacturers Association Texas Association of Business Texas Instruments Texas Retailers Association The Kroger Company The LIBRE Initiative The Silicon Valley Organization Total System Services (TSYS) Toyota Travelers Companies, Inc. Truckload Carriers Association Tyson Foods U.S. Chamber of Commerce Union Pacific United Airlines United Parcel Service (UPS) United Technologies Corporation (UTC) USTelecom Varian Verizon VF Corporation Viacom Volvo Car Corporation Walmart Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Wireless Infrastructure Association Wisconsin CEO Economic & Workforce Leadership Coalition Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC)   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000947 DOT_Am.Oversight-000947 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Supporters of the Senate Tax Bill – conservative groups and business community (updated 12/1/17) Friday, December 01, 2017 2:09:09 PM Hello downtown friends –   Please see the list below of outside support for the tax bill in the Senate. This list is constantly being updated. I will send it out later today too w/ additional updates.   As you scan this list please let me know if I’m missing someone (I easily could have missed an email in the last 24 hours, and if I did I apologize – we are extremely grateful for your work in moving tax reform through Congress)!   Best, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)       Supporters of the Senate Tax Bill – conservative groups and business community (Individual statements and/or groups that have expressed in-person support; updated 12/1/17)   1. 21st Century Fox 2. 3M 3. 45Committee 4. 60 Plus 5. A. O. Smith Corporation 6. Aerospace Industries Association 7. Aetna 8. Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) 9. Airlines for America 10. Alaska Chamber 11. ALEC Action 12. Alliance for Competitive Taxation (ACT) 13. Allstate Insurance 14. Altria 15. American Action Network (AAN) 16. American Airlines DOT-18-0010-A-000948 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000948 17. American Commitment 18. American Conservative Union (ACU) 19. American Dental Association (ADA) 20. American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) 21. American Farm Bureau Federation 22. American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) 23. American Forest Foundation 24. American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) 25. American Gas Association (AGA) 26. American Hotels and Lodging Association (AH&LA) 27. American Made Coalition 28. American Petroleum Institute (API) 29. American Trucking Associations (ATA) 30. Americans for Limited Government (ALG) 31. Americans for Prosperity (AFP) 32. Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) 33. Amgen 34. Arizona Retailers Association 35. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) 36. Associated Industries of Missouri (AIM) 37. Association of American Railroads 38. Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) 39. Association of Global Automakers 40. Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) 41. AT&T 42. Baxter Healthcare 43. Beer Institute 44. Best Buy 45. Boeing 46. BP 47. Brown-Forman 48. Business Roundtable 49. Celgene 50. Center for Freedom and Prosperity 51. Center for Worker Freedom 52. Charter Communications 53. Christian Coalition of America 54. Cincinnati Financial Corporation (The Cincinnati Insurance Companies) 55. Cisco Systems, Inc. 56. Club for Growth AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000949 DOT_Am.Oversight-000949 57. Coalition for American Insurance 58. Coalition of franchisee associations  59. Comcast 60. Concerned Veterans for America 61. ConocoPhillips 62. Constellation Brands 63. Construction Industry Roundtable (CIRT) 64. Consumer Action for a Strong Economy (CASE) 65. Consumer Technology Association 66. Continental Resources 67. Cost Recovery Advances the Nation’s Economy (CRANE) Coalition 68. Council for the Citizens Against Government Waste 69. Cox Enterprises 70. Crossroads GPS 71. CSX Transportation 72. CTIA – Everything Wireless 73. Delta Air Lines 74. Digital Liberty 75. Domestic Energy Producers Alliance (DEPA) 76. Dow Chemical Company 77. East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) 78. Eastman 79. Edison Electric Institute (EEI) 80. Electronic Transactions Association 81. Eli Lilly and Company 82. Entertainment Software Association (ESA) 83. Exelon Corporation 84. ExxonMobil 85. Faith and Freedom Coalition 86. Family Business Coalition 87. FedEx 88. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles 89. Fidelity Investments 90. Financial Services Roundtable 91. Florida Retail Federation 92. Food Marketing Institute 93. Ford Motor Company 94. Franchise business services 95. Freedom Partners 96. FreedomWorks AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000950 DOT_Am.Oversight-000950 97. General Dynamics 98. General Electric Company 99. General Motors AMERICAN 100. Generation Opportunity 101. Georgia Retail Association 102. Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) 103. HCCW CEO Economic Leadership Committee 104. HDR, Inc. 105. Here For America 106. Heritage Action for America 107. Hewlett Packard Enterprise 108. Hilton Hotels & Resorts 109. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin 110. Hispanic Leadership Fund 111. Home Depot 112. Honeywell 113. Houchens Industries 114. Independent Bakers Association (IBA) 115. Independent Women’s Voice 116. Indiana Retail Council 117. Industrial Minerals Association – North America (IMA-NA) 118. Information Technology Industry Council 119. Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) 120. Institute for Liberty 121. Intel Corporation 122. International Bank of Commerce 123. International Franchise Association 124. International Paper 125. International Sign Association 126. Job Creators Network 127. Johnson & Johnson 128. Kansas Chamber of Commerce 129. Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 130. Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) 131. Knight-Swift Transportation 132. Koch Industries 133. Latino Coalition 134. Lennox International Inc. 135. Liberty Counsel Action 136. Liberty Mutual Insurance pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000951 DOT_Am.Oversight-000951 AMERICAN 137. Lockheed Martin Corporation 138. Mars, Incorporated 139. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. 140. McKesson Corporation 141. Merck 142. Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce 143. Michigan Retailers Association 144. Montana Retail Association 145. Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) 146. Nareit 147. National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO) 148. National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) 149. National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) 150. National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) 151. National Federation of Independent Business, Pennsylvania chapter (NFIB-PA) 152. National franchisee association 153. National Mining Association 154. National Restaurant Association 155. National Retail Federation (NRF) 156. National Tax Limitation Committee 157. National Taxpayers Union (NTU) 158. NCTA – The Internet & Television Association 159. Nebraska Retail Federation 160. Niskanen Center 161. Norfolk Southern Corporation 162. North American Meat Institute (NAMI) 163. North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association 164. North Dakota Propane Gas Association 165. North Dakota Retail Association 166. Ohio Council of Retail Merchants 167. ON Semiconductor 168. One Nation 169. Oracle 170. Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce 171. Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association 172. Pfizer 173. Pitney Bowes 174. Procter & Gamble 175. Property Rights Alliance 176. RATE Coalition pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000952 DOT_Am.Oversight-000952 177. Raytheon Company 178. Retail Association of Nevada 179. Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) 180. Reynolds American, Inc. 181. Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) 182. Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) 183. Smithfield Foods Inc. 184. Smiths Group 185. Southern Company 186. Southwest Airlines 187. Target 188. Taxpayers Protection Alliance 189. Tea Party Patriots Citizens Fund 190. TechNet 191. Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry 192. Tennessee Manufacturers Association 193. Texas Association of Business 194. Texas Instruments 195. Texas Retailers Association 196. The Kroger Company 197. The LIBRE Initiative 198. The Silicon Valley Organization 199. Total System Services (TSYS) 200. Toyota 201. Travelers Companies, Inc. 202. Truckload Carriers Association 203. Tyson Foods 204. U.S. Chamber of Commerce 205. United Airlines 206. United Parcel Service (UPS) 207. United Technologies Corporation (UTC) 208. Varian 209. Verizon 210. Viacom 211. Volvo Car Corporation 212. Walmart 213. Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) 214. Wisconsin CEO Economic & Workforce Leadership Coalition 215. Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC) *And 137 Economists support the Senate tax bill – please ask SFC or the Leader’s office for this letter AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000953 DOT_Am.Oversight-000953   11at R u 11an Communication Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS http://bit.ly/2jxZDfU   100+ Economists Laud Pro-Growth Tax Reform Estimate A Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Boost Of ‘Between 3 And 5 Percent’   ECONOMISTS: ‘Economic Growth Will Accelerate If The Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Passes, Leading To More Jobs, Higher Wages, And A Better Standard Of Living’   137 Economists: “‘Ask five economists,’ as the Edgar Fiedler adage goes, ‘and you'll get five different answers.’ Yet, when it comes to the tax reform package aimed at fixing our broken system, the undersigned have but one shared perspective: Economic growth will accelerate if the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passes, leading to more jobs, higher wages, and a better standard of living for the American people.” (Op-Ed, “An Open Letter To Congress Signed By 137 Economists Supporting GOP Tax Reform Bill,” CNBC, 11/29/2017)   ·     “The enactment of a comprehensive overhaul – complete with a lower corporate tax rate – will ignite our economy with levels of growth not seen in generations. A twenty percent statutory rate on a permanent basis would, per the Council of Economic Advisers, help produce a GDP boost ‘by between 3 and 5 percent.’ … We firmly believe that a competitive corporate rate is the key to an economic engine driven by greater investment, capital stock, business formation, and productivity – all of which will yield more jobs and higher wages.” (Op-Ed, “An Open Letter To Congress Signed By 137 Economists Supporting GOP Tax Reform Bill,” CNBC, 11/29/2017) DISTINGUISHED ECONOMISTS: ‘The House And Senate Finance Bills Would Achieve’ ‘ProGrowth Objective’ WALL STREET JOURNAL: “…a letter from some of the country’s most distinguished economists making the case that the House and Senate reforms will significantly raise U.S. growth potential.” (Editorial, “Tax Reform, Growth and the Deficit,” Wall Street Journal, 11/27/2017)   “Dear Mr. Secretary: The present debate over tax reforms proposed by President Trump’s administration and embodied in bills that have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate Finance Committee has raised the basic question of whether the bills are ‘pro-growth’: Would the proposals raise current and future economic activity and generate federal tax revenue that would reduce the ‘static cost’ of the reforms? This letter explains why we believe that the answer to these questions is ‘yes.’” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017)   · “Confirming a Pro-Growth Objective Is Important for the Path Forward… We agree with this objective, which is consistent with the traditional norms of public finance going back to Adam Smith. We believe that the reforms embodied in the House and Senate Finance bills would achieve this objective. The increased growth, in turn, would lead to greater taxable income and federal tax revenues, which would reduce the static DOT-18-0010-A-000954 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000954     cost of lost federal tax revenue from the reform.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017) Tax Reform ‘Will Increase Economic Activity,’ Increase Long Run GDP By 3 To 4% “…there is a substantial body of research suggesting that fundamental [corporate] tax reform of the type being proposed would have an important effect on long-run GDP. We view long-run effects of about 3% assuming five years of full expensing, and 4% assuming permanent full expensing, as reasonable estimates.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017)   ·   ·   ·   “According to one leading model using an alternative framework, the proposal would increase the U.S. capital stock by between 12% and 19%, which would raise the level of GDP in the long run by between 3% and 5%.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017) “Yet another model, this one used in the analysis of the ‘Growth and Investment Plan’ in the 2005 President’s Advisory Panel on Federal Tax Reform, found that a business cash-flow tax with expensing and a corporate tax rate of 30% would yield a 20.4% increase in the capital stock in the long run and a 4.8% increase in GDP in the long run.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017) “More conservative estimates from the OECD suggest that corporate tax changes alone would raise longrun GDP by 2%.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017) “Lowering Individual Tax Rates Also Offers Generally Positive Economic Effects.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017)   ·     · · · · · · · · · “The House and Senate bills also contemplate a number of individual tax provisions that can affect economic activity and incomes. In recognition of the fact that non-corporate business income is substantial in the United States, both bills would reduce taxation of non-corporate business income… these provisions would increase investment and GDP above the level associated with the corporate tax changes discussed above. Also on the individual side, both the House and Senate bills reduce marginal tax rates on labor income for most taxpayers, increasing the reward for work.” (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017) Letter Signed By Robert J. Barro, Paul M. Warburg Professor of Economics, Harvard University Michael J. Boskin, Tully M. Friedman Professor of Economics, Stanford University; Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President George H.W. Bush John Cogan, Leonard and Shirley Ely Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University; Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Ronald Reagan Douglas Holtz-Eakin, President, American Action Forum, former director of the Congressional Budget Office Glenn Hubbard, Dean and Russell L. Carson Professor of Finance and Economics (Graduate School of Business) and Professor of Economics (Arts and Sciences), Columbia University; Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President George W. Bush Lawrence B. Lindsey, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Lindsey Group; Director of the National Economic Council under President George W. Bush Harvey S. Rosen, John L. Weinberg Professor of Economics and Business Policy, Princeton University; Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President George W. Bush George P. Shultz, Thomas W. and Susan B. Ford Distinguished Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University; Secretary of State under President Ronald Reagan; Secretary of the Treasury under President Richard Nixon John. B. Taylor, Mary and Robert Raymond Professor of Economics, Stanford University; Undersecretary of the Treasury for International Affairs under President George W. Bush (9 Economists, Letter To Sec. Mnuchin, 11/25/2017)   DOT-18-0010-A-000955 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000955 ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000956 DOT_Am.Oversight-000956 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Supporters of the Senate Tax Bill – conservative groups and business community (updated 12/3/17) Sunday, December 03, 2017 8:44:27 PM Hi everyone -  Please see the latest list below of outside support for the tax bill in the Senate. Thank you for helping us get across the finish line Friday night!   As you scan this list please let me know if I’m missing someone (I easily could have missed an email on this, and if I did I apologize – we are extremely grateful for your work in moving tax reform through Congress this year)!   Best, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   Supporters of the Senate Tax Bill – conservative groups and business community (b) (6) (Individual statements and/or groups that have expressed in-person support; updated 12/3/17) 1.   21st Century Fox 2. 3M 3. 45Committee 4. 60 Plus 5. A. O. Smith Corporation 6. Aerospace Industries Association 7. Aetna 8. Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) 9. Airlines for America 10. Alaska Chamber 11. ALEC Action 12. Alliance for Competitive Taxation (ACT) 13. Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers 14. Allstate Insurance DOT-18-0010-A-000957 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000957 15. Altria 16. American Action Network (AAN) 17. American Airlines 18. American Commitment 19. American Conservative Union (ACU) 20. American Craft Spirits Association 21. American Dental Association (ADA) 22. American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) 23. American Farm Bureau Federation 24. American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) 25. American Forest Foundation 26. American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) 27. American Gaming Association 28. American Gas Association (AGA) 29. American Hotels and Lodging Association (AH&LA) 30. American Made Coalition 31. American Petroleum Institute (API) 32. American Trucking Associations (ATA) 33. Americans for Limited Government (ALG) 34. Americans for Prosperity (AFP) 35. Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) 36. Amgen 37. Arizona Retailers Association 38. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) 39. Associated Industries of Missouri (AIM) 40. Association of American Railroads 41. Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) 42. Association of Global Automakers 43. Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) 44. AT&T 45. Baxter Healthcare 46. Beer Institute 47. Best Buy 48. Boeing 49. BP 50. Brown-Forman AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000958 DOT_Am.Oversight-000958 51. Business Roundtable 52. Celgene 53. Center for Freedom and Prosperity 54. Center for Worker Freedom 55. Charter Communications 56. Christian Coalition of America 57. Cincinnati Financial Corporation (The Cincinnati Insurance Companies) 58. Cisco Systems, Inc. 59. Club for Growth 60. Coalition for American Insurance 61. Coalition of Franchisee Associations  62. Comcast 63. Concerned Veterans for America 64. ConocoPhillips 65. Constellation Brands 66. Construction Industry Roundtable (CIRT) 67. Consumer Action for a Strong Economy (CASE) 68. Consumer Mortgage Coalition (CMC) 69. Consumer Technology Association 70. Continental Resources 71. Cost Recovery Advances the Nation’s Economy (CRANE) Coalition 72. Council for the Citizens Against Government Waste 73. Cox Enterprises 74. Crossroads GPS 75. CSX Transportation 76. CTIA – Everything Wireless 77. Delta Air Lines 78. Digital Liberty 79. Distilled Spirits Council 80. Domestic Energy Producers Alliance (DEPA) 81. Dow Chemical Company 82. East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) 83. Eastman 84. Edison Electric Institute (EEI) 85. Electronic Transactions Association 86. Eli Lilly and Company AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000959 DOT_Am.Oversight-000959 87. Entertainment Software Association (ESA) 88. Exelon Corporation 89. ExxonMobil 90. Faith and Freedom Coalition 91. Family Business Coalition 92. FedEx 93. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles 94. Fidelity Investments 95. Financial Services Roundtable 96. Florida Retail Federation 97. Food Marketing Institute 98. Ford Motor Company 99. Franchise Business Services AMERICAN 100. Freedom Partners 101. FreedomWorks 102. General Dynamics 103. General Electric Company 104. General Motors 105. Generation Opportunity 106. Georgia Retail Association 107. Grassfire 108. Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) 109. HCCW CEO Economic Leadership Committee 110. HDR, Inc. 111. Here For America 112. Heritage Action for America 113. Hewlett Packard Enterprise 114. Hilton Hotels & Resorts 115. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin 116. Hispanic Leadership Fund 117. Home Depot 118. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) 119. Honeywell 120. Houchens Industries 121. Independent Bakers Association (IBA) 122. Independent Women’s Voice pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000960 DOT_Am.Oversight-000960 AMERICAN 123. Indiana Retail Council 124. Industrial Minerals Association – North America (IMA-NA) 125. Information Technology Industry Council 126. Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) 127. Institute for Liberty 128. Intel Corporation 129. International Bank of Commerce 130. International Franchise Association 131. International Paper 132. International Sign Association 133. Job Creators Network 134. Johnson & Johnson 135. Kansas Chamber of Commerce 136. Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 137. Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) 138. Knight-Swift Transportation 139. Koch Industries 140. Latino Coalition 141. Lennox International Inc. 142. Liberty Counsel Action 143. Liberty Mutual Insurance 144. Lockheed Martin Corporation 145. Mars, Incorporated 146. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. 147. McKesson Corporation 148. Merck 149. Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce 150. Michigan Retailers Association 151. Montana Retail Association 152. Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) 153. Nareit 154. National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO) 155. National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) 156. National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) 157. National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) 158. National Federation of Independent Business, Pennsylvania chapter (NFIB-PA) pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000961 DOT_Am.Oversight-000961 AMERICAN 159. National Franchisee Association 160. National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) 161. National Mining Association 162. National Pork Producers Council 163. National Restaurant Association 164. National Retail Federation (NRF) 165. National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) 166. National Tax Limitation Committee 167. National Taxpayers Union (NTU) 168. NCTA – The Internet & Television Association 169. Nebraska Retail Federation 170. Niskanen Center 171. Norfolk Southern Corporation 172. North American Meat Institute (NAMI) 173. North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association 174. North Dakota Propane Gas Association 175. North Dakota Retail Association 176. Ohio Council of Retail Merchants 177. ON Semiconductor 178. One Nation 179. Oracle 180. Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce 181. Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association 182. Pfizer 183. Pitney Bowes 184. Procter & Gamble 185. Property Casualty Insurers Association of America 186. Property Rights Alliance 187. RATE Coalition 188. Raytheon Company 189. Retail Association of Nevada 190. Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) 191. Reynolds American, Inc. 192. Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) 193. Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) 194. Smithfield Foods Inc. pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000962 DOT_Am.Oversight-000962 195. Smiths Group 196. Southern Company 197. Southwest Airlines 198. Target 199. Taxpayers Protection Alliance 200. Tea Party Patriots Citizens Fund 201. TechNet 202. Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry 203. Tennessee Manufacturers Association 204. Texas Association of Business 205. Texas Instruments 206. Texas Retailers Association 207. The Kroger Company 208. The LIBRE Initiative 209. The Silicon Valley Organization 210. Total System Services (TSYS) 211. Toyota 212. Travelers Companies, Inc. 213. Truckload Carriers Association 214. Tyson Foods 215. U.S. Chamber of Commerce 216. Union Pacific 217. United Airlines 218. United Parcel Service (UPS) 219. United Technologies Corporation (UTC) 220. USTelecom 221. Varian 222. Verizon 223. Viacom 224. Volvo Car Corporation 225. Walmart 226. Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) 227. Wireless Infrastructure Association 228. Wisconsin CEO Economic & Workforce Leadership Coalition 229. Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC)   *And 137 economists support the Senate tax bill – please ask SFC or the Leader’s office for this letter AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000963 DOT_Am.Oversight-000963 if you need it. From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Tax bill - update Thursday, November 30, 2017 9:20:05 PM Hi everyone,   For a quick update: the Senate has been debating the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.   We have had some procedural votes today (results below) on democrat attempts to send the bill back to committee. The purpose of these motions is to kill the tax reform process by sending the bill directly back to committee.   Leader McConnell just announced that the next roll call votes will occur tomorrow, Friday, December 1st, at approximately 11:00 am (Senate convenes at 10 am). Those votes will also be democrat attempts to send the bill back to committee (2 motions).   1. Nelson motion to commit 2. Baldwin motion to commit   When all time is used or yielded back the so-called vote-a-rama will begin. More details to follow…!   Reminder on amendments: the Senate Republican Policy Committee has a very helpful amendment tracker at https://www.rpc.senate.gov/tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-reconciliationtracker (note: links to the text/PDFs of the amendments only work inside the Senate; please contact the amendment’s sponsor for a PDF if you are outside the Senate.)   Vote results (and details from Senate RPC):   · Brown Motion to Commit the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) -- Not agreed to, 4852. (this motion aims to raise the corporate tax rate to pay for the creation of a tax credit regarding jobs in the U.S.)   · Casey Motion to Commit the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) -- Not agreed to, 4851. (disallow corporate rate reduction; the motion would send the bill back to the Finance Committee for the purposes of disallowing the bill’s corporate rate reduction for companies that do not increase aggregate worker wages “at least equal to increases in executive compensation…”) DOT-18-0010-A-000965 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000965     · King Motion to Commit the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) -- Not agreed to, 4852. (raise taxes in the bill; the motion would commit the bill to Finance with instructions to not increase deficits from the 2018-2027 period.) · Stabenow Motion to Commit the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) -- Not agreed to, 45-55. (raise corporate rate to 35%; The motion aims to raise the corporate tax rate back to 35 percent if real household wages do not increase by $4,000 by 2020)   Thanks, Erica   PS. Apologies if I have been slow responding to emails/calls today – will be in touch! An updated list of supporters of the Senate tax bill is coming soon too –thank you for your help!   Leader McConnell’s remarks on the Senate floor as we kicked off the tax debate today --   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER ' U.S.• SENATOR for KENTU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Thursday, November 30, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2irrP7V                 YouTube: http://bit.ly/2ArZDbW It’s Time For Tax Reform ‘This is our chance to deliver relief to hardworking American families and help the middle class get ahead. It’s our opportunity to overhaul our complex tax code and shift our economy into high gear. We can pass many of the ideas we’ve discussed and supported for years, and I urge all of my colleagues to work together to get this done.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the need for tax reform:   “From across my home state of Kentucky, I’ve heard the calls for tax reform. For too long, hardworking men and women have been held back by an economy that has failed to live up to its potential. They’re ready for us to get the economy going again. For example, the East Kentucky Power Cooperative, which serves more than 500,000 families and businesses in my state, recently wrote to my office in support of tax reform.   “The cooperative encouraged us ‘to put more disposable income into the hands of hard-working citizens and encourage investment and long-term economic growth.’ In addition, the Kentucky DOT-18-0010-A-000966 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000966 Chamber of Commerce, which represents thousands of businesses across the Commonwealth, recently wrote a letter encouraging us to consider relieving ‘the tax burden of small businesses by simplifying the code and reducing costs.’ It concluded the letter by asking for the Senate to ‘support federal tax reform to achieve the economic growth that has been Kentucky’s potential for so long.’   “And this morning, a group of small businessmen and women from Kentucky join Senators here on the Hill with Small Business Administrator Linda McMahon to discuss the urgent need for tax reform. I would like to thank Senator Blunt for hosting this event to hear from these job creators and to reiterate that they are at the forefront of our tax reform efforts. The people of Kentucky have struggled under our outdated and complex federal tax code. It’s time to overhaul it and deliver real relief to middle-class families and small businesses.   “For a number of years, our friends across the aisle – including the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee and the Democratic Leader – have vocally called for tax reform. They claimed that they supported efforts to close loopholes and help American businesses become more competitive here at home. They claimed that they supported policies to help prevent more jobs from moving overseas. The good news is, that’s exactly what our tax reform legislation does. So passing this bill to help keep jobs and investments in the United States should be something on which we can all agree.   “A group of economists from around the country recently penned a letter expressing the need for tax reform. After examining the proposals put forward, these economists agreed that the House and Senate plans have the ability to grow the economy and increase the income of American families. In particular, they wrote that tax reform can reduce the incentives for companies to move investments overseas. That means the bill we are considering would discourage corporations from moving jobs and investments abroad.   “For working families who have endured a decade of lost jobs and opportunities, this is welcome relief. So, why would our Democrat friends support this idea in theory, but then oppose legislation once they finally have the chance to put the plan into action? What changed? Not the ideas. Not the need for tax reform. The only change has been the president in the Oval Office.   “This is our once-in-a-generation opportunity to take more money out of Washington’s pocket and put more money into the pockets of hardworking families. We can’t let partisanship distract us from delivering real relief to the middle class. And we won’t.   “Under Chairman Hatch’s leadership, the Senate Finance Committee passed this legislation that is the product of years of hard work, dozens of hearings, and an open amendment process. I would like to once again thank Chairman Hatch for his efforts to get us to this pivotal point where we can consider a proposal to truly help our constituents.   “First and foremost, the tax-reform proposal before us today is good for families. To a middle-class family of four in Kentucky who earns the median income, a nearly $2,200 tax cut could make a real difference.    “Second, the plan is good for small businesses and job creators. It’s earned the support of the National Federation of Independent Business because it will help small businesses grow, invest, and hire right here in the United States. As I said before, it will also make it easier for other businesses to bring jobs and investments home.   “And third, this legislation helps low- and middle-income families by repealing Obamacare’s burdensome individual mandate tax. This is a good bill. And by overhauling our tax code, we can provide much-needed support to the men and women who sent us here.   “Yesterday, the Senate took a crucial step toward relief. Every Senator who voted to proceed to this important debate has already begun to answer those calling out for tax reform. Now, the Senate will work through an open amendment process here on the floor where members from both parties will have the opportunity to offer their ideas. And tonight, I expect that Senators will have the opportunity to vote on many of these amendments.                    “This is our chance to deliver relief to hardworking American families and help the middle class get ahead. It’s our opportunity to overhaul our complex tax code and shift our economy into high gear. We can pass many of the ideas we’ve discussed and supported for years, and I urge all of my colleagues to work together to get this done.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000967 DOT_Am.Oversight-000967 Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000968 DOT_Am.Oversight-000968 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Tranche I: upcoming votes Friday, December 01, 2017 10:14:30 PM Motion to waive the Budget Act (at 60) with respect to -  Sanders 1720 – Budget Point of Order, re: Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid   Brown 1854 -- Changes to child credit (side x side to Rubio)   Rubio 1850 -- Increase refundability of child credit and other purposes     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000969 DOT_Am.Oversight-000969 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Popp, Monica (Cornyn) Update on Tax vote tonight, Byrd provisions Tuesday, December 19, 2017 7:04:03 PM Hi everyone,   The Senate is voting tonight on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We are in the up to 10 hours of debate. Vote time tonight is TBD.   I’ve had some questions today about portions of provisions in the conference report that violate the Byrd Rule.   As Leader McConnell just made clear in an interview with Bret Baier on Fox News tonight --  there are a few items that were challenged by Senate Democrats. This is not unusual on a bill of this size (and has happened before on past reconciliation conference reports). This will not stop us from passing this bill. The House will have to take it up again tomorrow before it goes to the President.  But the bottom line remains the same: the House and Senate are passing tax reform and the President’s going to sign it.   Thanks, Erica               Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000970 DOT_Am.Oversight-000970 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Vote results - Immigration FYI Thursday, February 15, 2018 4:14:03 PM 1. Durbin for Coons amendment #1955 (Uniting and Securing America Act of 2018) -- Not invoked, 52-47 2. Toomey amendment #1948 (Sanctuary Cities; if cloture is not invoked on #1955) -- Not invoked, 54-45 3. Rounds amendment #1958 as modified (same as Rounds/King amendment #2010, the Immigration Security and Opportunity Act; if cloture is not invoked on #1948) -- Not invoked, 5445 4. Grassley amendment #1959 (SECURE and SUCCEED Act; if cloture is not invoked on #1958) - Not invoked, 39-60   DOT-18-0010-A-000971 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000971 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Vote stack now - 2 votes Wednesday, May 16, 2018 3:28:09 PM The Senate is voting right now on the following:   1. Passage of S.J.Res.52, Net Neutrality CRA. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education. DOT-18-0010-A-000972 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000972 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes -- 1:45 pm Thursday, July 19, 2018 12:40:19 PM ICYMI: At 1:45 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #903, Ryan Wesley Bounds, of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. 2. Adoption of S.Res.584 -  Schumer resolution (re: Questioning of US officials by Putin government)   Thanks, Erica         Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000973 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000973 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes -- 5:45 pm (FYI) Wednesday, July 25, 2018 5:51:15 PM At 5:45 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes in relation to the following amendments in relation to H.R.6147, Minibus Appropriations (Interior/FSGG/Ag/Thud):   1. Manchin #3553 (Make amount available for OTFI of the Treasury Dep. to investigate synthetic opioids from China) 2. Paul #3543 (Reduce the amounts appropriated to comply w/spending limits under the Budget Control Act of 2011)     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-A-000974 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000974 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes - noms Thursday, April 12, 2018 4:14:21 PM Hi everyone – The Senate is voting now on the following nominations (5 roll call votes):   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #666, Andrew Wheeler, of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (voting now, ending soon). 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #540, John W. Broomes, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. 3. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #540, John W. Broomes, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas. 4. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #541, Rebecca Grady Jennings, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. 5. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #541, Rebecca Grady Jennings, of Kentucky, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.   MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJOR I TY LEADER U.S . SENATOR for K.EN·TUCKY For Immediate Release, Thursday, April 12, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2HtFnYf                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2qpXXJv The American People Deserve To Have Key Officials In Place ‘I mentioned yesterday that our Democratic colleagues are setting records. Just 15 months in, they’ve chosen to force 84 cloture votes on President Trump’s executive and judicial nominees. Eighty-four. That’s more than three times as many nominee cloture votes as happened in the first two years of Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton combined. Many on nominees who were then confirmed nearly unanimously. I hope these stalling tactics end soon. Because the personnel business isn’t going anywhere.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the need to confirm more of the president’s well-qualified nominees and Senate Democrats’ historic obstruction:   “Yesterday, the Senate confirmed John Ring to the National Labor Relations Board. Now the NLRB is once again fully-staffed, and ready to call balls and strikes fairly for America’s workers. This morning, we confirmed Patrick Pizzella, the president’s highly-qualified nominee to fill the number two job at the Department of Labor. “Mr. Pizzella brought a sterling reputation and an impressive resume. It includes time at GSA, the Small Business Administration, the Department of Education, the Federal Housing Finance Board, DOT-18-0010-A-000975 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000975 and OPM. Even with 8 years as the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Administration and Management and four years as a Senate-confirmed member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority, this dedicated public servant saw his confirmation process play out in a manner that’s become all too familiar.   “Months of waiting on the Senate calendar. Months of obstruction by our Democratic colleagues. Months of needless vacancy in this critical agency position. After this morning’s vote, Mr. Pizzella can finally get to work.   “But the same story of obstruction applies to the next nomination on the slate as well. Andrew Wheeler is ready and waiting -- and waiting, and waiting -- to clock in as Deputy Administrator of the EPA. His qualifications are beyond question. He has won the support of the American Farm Bureau Federation and has won praise from both sides of the aisle.   “Mr. Wheeler’s former boss, our colleague Senator Inhofe, says, quote, ‘there is no one more qualified.’ Our former colleague Senator Lieberman has called Mr. Wheeler ‘fair and professional,’ and said ‘I hope his nomination will receive...fair consideration by the Senate.’   “Delaying key executive nominees does not come cost-free to the country. The Deputy Administrator is the EPA’s chief operating officer. He plays a major role in protecting Americans’ air and water while minimizing unnecessary obstacles for workers and job creators. The American people deserve to have him and other key officials in place.   “I mentioned yesterday that our Democratic colleagues are setting records. Just 15 months in, they’ve chosen to force 84 cloture votes on President Trump’s executive and judicial nominees. Eighty-four. That’s more than three times as many nominee cloture votes as happened in the first two years of Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton combined. Many on nominees who were then confirmed nearly unanimously. I hope these stalling tactics end soon. Because the personnel business isn’t going anywhere.   “Today, in fact, CIA Director Mike Pompeo is appearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for the first time as the president’s nominee for Secretary of State. He’s yet another qualified nominee who deserves fair and swift consideration -- for the country’s sake.   “For now, I meant what I said on Monday: We will remain in session as long as it takes to process this week’s slate of nominees. After Mr. Wheeler, we still have two judicial nominees, Rebecca Grady Jennings for the Western District of Kentucky and John Broomes for the District of Kansas. One way or another, the easy way or the hard way, this Senate will get the people’s business done.”   ###       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000976 DOT_Am.Oversight-000976 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes at 2:25 pm (fyi) Tuesday, July 17, 2018 2:23:28 PM ICYMI: at 2:25 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #595, Randal Quarles of Colorado, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of fourteen years from February 1, 2018. 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #892, Andrew S. Oldham of Texas, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   Also – please see two helpful docs below on SCOTUS.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) 11at ,-ubl1-an Communicat· on Center 2i02•228•NEWS Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2me7sZP   ‘Beaten Back’ By Fact Checkers Democrats’ ‘Hysterical,’ ‘Exaggerated’ Supreme Court Attacks   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “[T]he hysterical attacks haven’t gotten any less desperate, or any more sensible. No sooner are these silly attacks launched than they’re beaten back by the facts.” (Sen. McConnell, Remarks, 7/11/2018)   ‘Disingenuous,’ ‘Extreme Distortion,’ ‘Exaggerated,’ ‘No Evidence To Justify These Theories’   ONE: WASHINGTON POST’S FACT CHECKER: “[T]here’s no evidence to justify these theories…. Standing DOT-18-0010-A-000977 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000977 alone, the tweets from [Democrat Senate candidate Richard] Painter and [Center for American Progress President Neera] Tanden are incendiary and worthy of Four Pinocchios.” (“The Thinly Sourced Theories About Trump’s Loans And Justice Kennedy’s Son,” The Washington Post’s Fact Checker Blog, 7/12/2018)   TWO: WASHINGTON POST’S FACT CHECKER: “To say Kavanaugh is Trump’s ‘get-out-of-jail free card’ is an extreme distortion of what he’s written.” (“Does Brett Kavanaugh Think The President Is Immune From Criminal Charges?,” The Washington Post’s Fact Checker Blog, 7/11/2018)   THREE: Even POLITIFACT Says: “Democrats aren’t telling the full story about what Kavanaugh said.” (“Trump’s Supreme Court Pick Said Presidents Shouldn’t Be Investigated, Schumer Said,” Politifact, 7/10/2018)   · Michigan State University law professor calls Democrats’ claims “disingenuous.” (“Trump’s Supreme Court Pick Said Presidents Shouldn’t Be Investigated, Schumer Said,” Politifact, 7/10/2018)   FOUR: THE NEW YORK TIMES: “Democrats Overstate Kavanaugh’s Writings on the Affordable Care Act” (“Democrats Overstate Kavanaugh’s Writings on the Affordable Care Act,” The New York Times, 7/12/2018)   · Democrat attacks called “exaggerated.” (“Democrats Overstate Kavanaugh’s Writings on the Affordable Care Act,” The New York Times, 7/12/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS   t , at . u Ii an Communicat· ons Center Contact: Antonia Ferrier 202.228.NEWS https://bit.ly/2KRszjC   Democrats’ ‘Extreme Distortion’ Legal Experts And Fact Checkers Call Out Democrats For ‘Extreme’ And ‘Disingenuous’ Distortions Of Judge Kavanaugh’s Writings   SENATE MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONNELL (R-KY): “[T]he hysterical attacks haven’t gotten any less desperate, or any more sensible. No sooner are these silly attacks launched than they’re beaten back by the facts. One of the flavors of the week was this outlandish claim that -- in law review articles he wrote 10 and 20 years ago -- Judge Kavanaugh supposedly said that sitting presidents cannot be held accountable under the law. Some farleft special interests claimed he said that. So did some Congressional Democrats. Perfect conspiracy theory catnip for their far-left base. The only problem was, it isn’t true.” (Sen. McConnell, Floor Remarks, 7/11/2018)   DOT-18-0010-A-000978 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000978 Dems’ Claims Exposed As ‘Disingenuous’   WASHINGTON POST’S FACT CHECKER: “To say Kavanaugh is Trump’s ‘get-out-of-jail free card’ is an extreme distortion of what he’s written.” (“Does Brett Kavanaugh Think The President Is Immune From Criminal Charges?,” The Washington Post’s Fact Checker Blog, 7/11/2018)   Even POLITIFACT Says: “Democrats aren’t telling the full story about what Kavanaugh said.” (“Trump’s Supreme Court Pick Said Presidents Shouldn’t Be Investigated, Schumer Said,” Politifact, 7/10/2018)   · “Schumer is plucking one part of what Kavanaugh wrote in a 2009 Minnesota law review paper without recapping his comments in full. Kavanaugh wrote that civil suits and criminal investigations take away from a president’s focus on his or her work responsibilities. He didn’t call for the court to take away the power to investigate the president; he said that Congress could consider writing a law to exempt the president.” (“Trump’s Supreme Court Pick Said Presidents Shouldn’t Be Investigated, Schumer Said,” Politifact, 7/10/2018)   · “Law professors told us it was important to put Kavanaugh’s 2009 comments in context…. ‘Schumer is using that notion — that in general, it is bad policy to allow presidents to be pursued by prosecutors while in office — to imply that Kavanaugh thinks Trump shouldn’t be investigated, and to question how he would rule as a judge,’ said Michigan State University law professor Brian Kalt. ‘That is disingenuous, because Kavanaugh was calling for Congress to pass a statute granting immunity. They have passed no such statute, and it is not reasonable to suggest that Kavanaugh as a judge would ignore that fact.’” (“Trump’s Supreme Court Pick Said Presidents Shouldn’t Be Investigated, Schumer Said,” Politifact, 7/10/2018)   Democrats’ Misleading Assertions ‘Can Easily Be Refuted’   NOAH FELDMAN, Harvard Law Professor: “Some Democrats and advocacy groups are saying President Donald Trump picked Judge Brett Kavanaugh as his second nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court because of Kavanaugh’s view that a president shouldn’t be indicted while in office. It’s important that not become the narrative of the Democrats’ opposition, because it can easily be refuted.” (Noah Feldman, “Kavanaugh’s Papers Don’t Help Trump Avoid Indictment,” Bloomberg Opinion, 7/10/2018)   NOAH FELDMAN: “Properly understood, Kavanaugh’s expressed views actually support the opposite conclusion: that the president can be investigated and maybe even indicted unless Congress passes a law saying he can’t — which Congress has not done.” (Noah Feldman, “Kavanaugh’s Papers Don’t Help Trump Avoid Indictment,” Bloomberg Opinion, 7/10/2018)   · FELDMAN: “[F]rom a legal and constitutional perspective, Kavanaugh wasn’t saying that the courts should find that the president shouldn’t be investigated or indicted. To the contrary. He was saying that Congress should pass a law ensuring that result, because without it, the president was open to being investigated — and maybe even indicted. Pause to take that in. If a law by Congress is necessary to fix the problem, it follows that without such a law, it is perfectly permissible under the Constitution to investigate a sitting president, as Starr did.” (Noah Feldman, “Kavanaugh’s Papers Don’t Help Trump Avoid Indictment,” Bloomberg Opinion, 7/10/2018, Emphasis in original)   ASHA RANGAPPA, Yale’s Jackson Institute for Global Affairs Law Professor: “Kavanaugh’s law review article does not reach legal conclusions on issues regarding civil and criminal cases involving a president. Rather, he comes to the fairly simple — and somewhat obvious — factual conclusion that legal battles can be timeDOT-18-0010-A-000979 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000979 consuming and distracting for the chief executive. Kavanaugh recommends that Congress pass a law deferring such cases until the president’s term is complete.” (Asha Rangappa, Op-Ed, “No, The Trump-Russia Investigation Isn’t A Conflict Of Interest For Kavanaugh,” The Washington Post, 7/10/2018)   · RANGAPPA: “At most, he is implying that the Constitution does not, on its own, afford such protection — but his article remains agnostic on that question. (Of course, in 2009, the article wasn’t dealing with Trump’s case but was instead based in part on Kavanaugh’s experience working as an assistant to Kenneth Starr under the largely unbounded independent counsel statute, which expired in 1999.)” (Asha Rangappa, Op-Ed, “No, The Trump-Russia Investigation Isn’t A Conflict Of Interest For Kavanaugh,” The Washington Post, 7/10/2018)   ### SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER 202.228.NEWS DOT-18-0010-A-000980 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000980 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes at 5 pm -- Powell to the Fed/ cloture on Azar to HHS Tuesday, January 23, 2018 5:03:41 PM Hello   At 5:00 pm the Senate will proceed to 2 roll call votes on the following:   1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #594, Jerome H. Powell, of Maryland, to be Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of four years (cloture on Powell was invoked earlier today, 84-12). 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #597, Alex Michael Azar II, of Indiana, to be Secretary of Health and Human Services.   ICYMI: Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order yesterday – this is the order they will be processed on the floor:   1. Cal. #594 - Jerome H. Powell, of Maryland, to be Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for a term of four years. 2. Cal. #597 - Alex Michael Azar II, of Indiana, to be Secretary of Health and Human Services. 3. Cal. #620 - Samuel Dale Brownback, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom.   Yesterday in the Senate: Roll Call Votes: CR votes to fund the government -Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CR/CHIP, with further amendment. (Invoked, 81-18)   Motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.195, CR/CHIP, with further amendment. (Agreed to, 81-18)   UC Items: S.Con.Res.33 – Enrollment Correction   Please see the Leader’s floor remarks below on this week’s highly qualified slate of nominees.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - (b) (6) VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000981 DOT_Am.Oversight-000981 - ---- @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S . SENATOR ft>r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Tuesday, January 23, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: http://bit.ly/2E1koKI                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2n4X2Mm Senate To Consider Three More Well-Qualified Nominees ‘Today, the Senate is considering the nomination of Mr. Powell, who brings with him degrees from Princeton and Georgetown, and a record of high achievement in both the public and private sectors. Since his nomination to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in 2011, which received strong, bipartisan support, he has served as a steady voice and a thoughtful leader. I very much look forward to supporting his confirmation as Chairman.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Senate consideration of three more of the president’s nominees:   “We have a long list of legislative priorities to tackle in the coming weeks. But legislation is not the only bipartisan business that the Senate needs to handle. Yesterday afternoon, I filed cloture on three nominees to fill important positions in the administration: Alex Azar, to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services; Sam Brownback to serve as Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom; And Jerome Powell to serve as Chairman of the Federal Reserve.   “Today, the Senate is considering the nomination of Mr. Powell, who brings with him degrees from Princeton and Georgetown, and a record of high achievement in both the public and private sectors. Since his nomination to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in 2011, which received strong, bipartisan support, he has served as a steady voice and a thoughtful leader. I very much look forward to supporting his confirmation as Chairman.”   ###     DOT-18-0010-A-000982 DOT_Am.Oversight-000982 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes now // this afternoon (Pompeo - State; Grenell - Amb. to Germany) Thursday, April 26, 2018 12:23:16 PM FYI – the Senate is voting right now on cloture on Pompeo.   Votes today –   At 12:00 pm the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the following: 1. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Session and resume consideration of Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. 2. Confirmation of the Pompeo nomination. (If cloture is invoked)   At 1:45 pm the Senate will proceed to two further roll call votes on the following: 1. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #619, Richard Grenell, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Federal Republic of Germany. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #619, Richard Grenell, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Federal Republic of Germany. (If cloture is invoked)         Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000983 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000983 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Votes results (CR until March 23 + bipartisan spending caps deal attached). Friday, February 09, 2018 1:54:09 AM Vote Results:   Cloture on the motion to concur in the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment, with a further amendment, to H.R. 1892, the vehicle for the CR (CR + bipartisan spending caps deal attached) –  cloture invoked: 73-26.   Motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further McConnell amendment #1930 to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act (Passage) –  agreed to: 71-28. Thanks, Erica   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Friday, February 9, 2018 1:07 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Senate update - voting now (cloture on budget agreement)   - Hi everyone –   An update on where we are:   The Senate adjourned briefly tonight to begin a new legislative day, and then convened again at 12:01 am, February 9.   The Senate is voting now on a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment with a further amendment to H.R.1892, Further Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act (CR + bipartisan spending caps deal attached).   After that, members can speak for up to an hour each.   Then we will have a vote on the motion to waive the budget act, and then a vote on passage of the budget agreement.   Thanks, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader DOT-18-0010-A-000984 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000984 U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/       (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000985 DOT_Am.Oversight-000985 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting now -- H.R. 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Wednesday, December 20, 2017 12:20:29 AM Hello –   The Senate just started voting. There will be 2 roll call votes -  1) Senator Enzi’s global Motion to Waive the Budget Act with respect to the Conference Report to accompany H.R.1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (this is at 60) FYI: Background courtesy of Senate RPC: The Senate parliamentarian deemed portions of three provisions in the conference report violate the Byrd Rule against policy changes where the budgetary impact is “merely incidental.” This does not endanger H.R. 1. Byrd Rule points of order are “surgical,” meaning that if the point of order is not waived, the offending provision would be removed and the Senate would continue to consider the conference report as an amendment between houses (further amendments would not be in order). This requires the House to vote on the bill again before it is sent to the President for signature. The point of order (if not waived) would strike: § Section 11032’s allowance of 529 funds to be used for homeschool expenses. § Section 13701’s inclusion of the two words “tuition-paying” in the definition of what an “applicable educational institution” is. § The short title, “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.”   Senator Sanders made points of order against these three provisions. Chairman Enzi moved to waive the points of order. It takes 60 votes to waive.   2) Motion to Concur in H.R.1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Final Passage) Thank you!   Call everyone! We’re passing Tax Reform!!!   DOT-18-0010-A-000986 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000986     Have a good night, Erica   PS. We’ll be sending around the Tax Reform Supporters List a few more times this week – thanks for your help!         Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-A-000987 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000987 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting now - Minibus amendments Wednesday, June 20, 2018 4:44:58 PM Hi – the Senate is voting now on 2 amendments in relation to H.R.5895, Minibus Appropriations:   1. Young #2926 (require VA Sec. to conduct a study on the effectiveness of the Veterans Crisis Line) 2. Tester #2971 (prevent denial of access to records and documents by various inspectors general)       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000988 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000988 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting now // Haspel to CIA Thursday, May 17, 2018 3:04:27 PM Hello everyone – FYI: The Senate is voting now on the following two roll call votes:   1. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #847, Gina Haspel, of Kentucky, to be Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. 2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #847, Gina Haspel, of Kentucky, to be Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. (if cloture is invoked) DOT-18-0010-A-000989 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000989 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting now, fyi -- NDAA Wednesday, August 01, 2018 2:07:19 PM FYI/ICYMI: The Senate has turned to the Conference Report to accompany H.R.5515, NDAA 2019. The Senate is voting on adoption. MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER· U.S. SENATOR fe r KEN·TU CKY 1 For Immediate Release, Wednesday, August 1, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp                 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn                 Release: https://bit.ly/2NY85CG                 YouTube: https://bit.ly/2OyB8hn John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act to Become Law This Week ‘Once we pass the conference report this week, this important legislation will head to the president’s desk to become law. And we will have fulfilled one of this body’s most solemn responsibilities. This NDAA builds on the progress we made earlier this year in the bipartisan budget agreement, which provided for the largest year-on-year increase in funding for American armed forces in fifteen years. This legislation authorizes programs which will contribute to the combat readiness of America’s military to meet emerging and persistent global threats. It helps ensure our servicemembers and their families will receive the full support of a grateful nation.’   WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the John S. McCain 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Now, this appropriations package is not the only important business the Senate’s been working on this week. Yesterday, we passed an important extension of the flood insurance program and sent it to the White House for the president’s signature. We confirmed the 24th circuit court nominee already in this Congress. And we voted to proceed to conference with the House on the farm bill. “I understand this year marks the earliest since at least 1965 that both the House and the Senate have passed a farm bill. Here in the Senate, it passed with the widest margin of any recorded vote in the history of this legislation. So Chairman Roberts and Senator Stabenow deserve our congratulations and appreciation. I look forward to serving as a conferee and to finishing up the farm bill prior to its expiration.   “Before we adjourn this week, the Senate will also finalize the John S. McCain FY 2019 National Defense Authorization Act. Once we pass the conference report this week, this important legislation will head to the president’s desk to become law. And we will have fulfilled one of this body’s most solemn responsibilities.   “This NDAA builds on the progress we made earlier this year in the bipartisan budget agreement, which provided for the largest year-on-year increase in funding for American armed forces in fifteen years. This legislation authorizes programs which will contribute to the combat readiness of America’s military to meet emerging and persistent global threats. It helps ensure our DOT-18-0010-A-000990 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000990 servicemembers and their families will receive the full support of a grateful nation.   “When we pass the fiscal year 2019 Defense Appropriations Act which funds these programs, we’ll have gone yet further in meeting our commitments to the all-volunteer force. This NDAA has global and nationwide significance. But it also has tremendous local importance. Representing the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I know just how significant an impact this legislation will have on some of our nation’s finest.   “At Fort Campbell, members of the 101st Airborne Division and a number of special operations units will benefit from the authorization of new investments in their training facilities. At Fort Knox, the Army’s Human Resources Command and Recruiting Command will receive the support they need to modernize officer personnel management, and the post will receive much-needed certainty and authority for its energy savings program. At the Bluegrass Army Depot, critical work to support chemical weapon demilitarization will continue because this bill authorizes the resources necessary to conduct safe operations.   “And servicemembers will benefit from a well-deserved raise in military pay and expanded authority for military family housing and education. None of my colleagues need to look far to find examples of how the needs of our servicemembers will be met by the legislation before us. Our colleagues on the Armed Services Committee carefully developed it. It reflects more than 300 amendments.   “And it rightly bears the name of our colleague and friend, Senator McCain. I know he’s proud of all this legislation accomplishes for our men and women in uniform. I would like to thank the senior Senator from Oklahoma and the ranking member from Rhode Island for steering this bill through conference. I look forward to sending it to the president’s desk this week.”   ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-A-000991 DOT_Am.Oversight-000991 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting now: going to conference on tax + King and Stabenow MTIs Wednesday, December 06, 2017 3:22:58 PM King MTI.pdf Stabenow MTI.pdf Hi everyone,   We are voting now on going to conference with the House on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.   There will be 3 votes in this stack:   1) the compound motion to go to conference, 2) a King motion to instruct conferees (raise tax revenue in the bill), and 3) a Stabenow motion to instruct conferees (raise corporate rate to 35%)   The motions are attached.   FYI, courtesy Senate RPC: The substance of these motions is the same as the motions to commit made by senators King and Stabenow during the vote-a-rama. The Senate rejected the King motion 48-52, and rejected the Stabenow motion 45-55.     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-A-000992 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000992 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Voting soon -- MTP to the CR Thursday, January 18, 2018 8:48:40 PM FYI: the Senate will shortly proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to the House message to accompany H.R.195, CHIP/One Month CR.   Also, for those following FISA/Section 702 – the Motion to Concur in the House Amendment to S. 139, the vehicle for the FISA Amendments was agreed to today, 65-34. DOT-18-0010-A-000993 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-000993 OST FOIA Contact Information U.S. Department of Transportation FOIA Requester Service Center 202-366-4542; ost.foia@dot.gov Office of the Secretary of Transportation (OST) Kathy Ray, FOIA Officer 202-366-5546; kathy.ray@dot.gov 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, DC 20590 Fern Kaufman, FOIA Public Liaison 202-366-8067; fern.kaufman@dot.gov December 21, 2018 Austin Evers American Oversight 1030 15th Street NW, Suite B255 Washington, DC 20005 Foia@americanoversight.org FOIA DOT/OST 2018-0111; American Oversight v. U.S. Department of Transportation, No. 18-1272 (D.D.C.) Dear Mr. Evers: Enclosed with this letter is the U.S. Department of Transportation’s second and final production in the above-captioned matter. Certain information has been redacted from the enclosed documents pursuant to Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) Exemption 6, which protects against a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. 5 U.S.C. §552(b)(6); 49 C.F.R. § 7.23(c)(6). Please note that there are significant (b)(6) redactions in pages numbered DOT-Am.Oversight-000994 through 001131 because the redacted information relates to logistics for personal meetings or events. Additional redactions have been made pursuant to FOIA Exemption 5. 5 U.S.C. § 552(b)(5); 49 C.F.R. § 7.23(c)(5). Information withheld under Exemption 5 are predecisional, deliberative materials that, if released, would harm the agency’s deliberative process. Please note that we have not included the attachments associated with pages numbered DOTAm.Oversight-001781 through 001785, 001794, 001798, and 001799 because, as the cover emails suggest, those attachments are congressional records, not agency records subject to FOIA. The U.S. Department of Transportation has now produced all non-exempt materials subject to FOIA and responsive to American Oversight’s request. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Brad Humphreys at 202-305-0878. Sincerely, Digitally signed by KATHLEEN M KATHLEEN M RAY RAY Date: 2018.12.21 16:08:39 -05'00' Kathy Ray FOIA Officer Enclosures AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 2 From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date : Melissa Fwu Stefanie Muchow Vincent, Laura (McConnell) : Holly Lewis Dinner ' 6)(6) Saturda..y-, -Ja_n_u_a_ry- 28-,-2-0_1_7 _1_2 -:06 - :4_7_P_M _____ _ Hi, Stefanie, tl>)( 6) DOT-18-0010-B-000001 DOT_Am.Oversight-000994 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Lewis, Holly (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Here"s Feb 4 schedule as of now Monday, January 30, 2017 6:31:53 PM feb 4 17 as of 1.30.17.pdf Hi, Holly – (b) (6)     Thank you, Angie AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000002 DOT_Am.Oversight-000995 AM ERICAN RSI From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Lewis, Holly (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Schulte, Angie (McConnell) RE: This weekend Monday, January 30, 2017 9:52:55 AM Ok, tks.  From: Lewis, Holly (OST) [mailto:holly.lewis@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, January 30, 2017 9:43 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Subject: This weekend Hi Stef, (b) (6) Holly Holly Lewis Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) - Direct AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000004 DOT_Am.Oversight-000997 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Lewis, Holly (OST) RE: Tomorrow - any idea on MM schedule? Thursday, February 02, 2017 12:01:17 PM Blah From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 12:01 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Lewis, Holly (OST) Subject: RE: Tomorrow - any idea on MM schedule? @mcconnell.senate.gov] Not yet – sorry… From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 12:00 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Lewis, Holly (OST) Subject: Tomorrow - any idea on MM schedule? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000005 DOT_Am.Oversight-000998 From: To: Henry. Tina (OST) Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Subject : Gehring. Wendy (OST); Vincent. Laura (McConnell) Re: monday Friday, February 03, 2017 5 :34 :54 PM Date: tl>)(6) Sent from my iPhone On Feb 3 20 17 at 5:32 PM , Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) 5> <~b>< @mcconnell.senate.gov > wrote: )( 6) On Feb 3, 20 17, at 5:26 PM , Gehring , Wendy (OST) wrote: tl>ll6l Thanks! DOT-18-0010-B-000006 DOT_Am.Oversight-000999 From: To: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Henry, Tina (OST) RE: is ELC coming to the spouses lunch today? Tuesday, February 07, 2017 10:41:18 AM (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, February 07, 2017 10:30 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: is ELC coming to the spouses lunch today? @mcconnell.senate.gov] Secretary’s office is asking. Tks! Stef Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000007 DOT_Am.Oversight-001000 From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) To: Subject: Baum. Erika (OST) This is Ang ie Date: Atta chments: Tuesday, Feb ruary 07, 2017 4:18:Sl PM image002.png image003.png imageO0S.png image006.png Angie Schulte.vcf Angie Schulte United States Senator Mitch Mcconn... State Off1CeManager r (6J -- ~mcconnell.senate ,gov United States Senator Mitch Mcconn... 601 West Broadway, Room630 (b)(S ) Louisville,Kentucky40202 Hi, Erika, Nice meeting you on the phone, too . (b)(6J Please don't hesitate t o ema il or call if you need anyth ing else. Sincerely, Angie Angie Schult e St at e Off ice Manager United St at es Senat or Mit ch Mc Con nell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kent ucky 40202 tl>Jl6J You m Receivethe Senator'seNewsletter by signingup.l::fE8.E DOT-18-0010-B-000008 DOT_Am.Oversight-001001 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Baum, Erika (OST) RE: checking in Wednesday, February 08, 2017 2:16:19 PM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Thank you, Erika! Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell (b) (6) From: Baum, Erika (OST) [mailto:Erika.Baum@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 08, 2017 2:05 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: checking in Hi Angie – no further instructions yet. Thank you for checking! Erika (b) (6) From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, February 08, 2017 1:05 PM To: Baum, Erika (OST) Subject: checking in @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi, Erika, (b) (6) Please let me know as soon as possible. Thank you, Angie Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000009 DOT_Am.Oversight-001002 Receive the Senator’s eNewsletter by signing up HERE DOT-18-0010-B-000010 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-001003 From: To: Subject: Date: - Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, Tina (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: Dinner Tuesday, February 14, 2017 4:06:40 PM (b) (6) From: Henry, Tina (OST) Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 3:51 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Re: Dinner   (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone On Feb 14, 2017, at 3:38 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000011 DOT_Am.Oversight-001004 - From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Henry, Tina (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: (b) (6) Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:54:00 PM image001.png image002.png Thanks!  (b) (6) - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:52 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) - (b) (6) - @mcconnell.senate.gov] From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:48 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:45 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Thanks! @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:30 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: RE: (b) (6) AMf--f CAN - pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000012 DOT_Am.Oversight-001005 (b) (6) From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:22 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) - @mcconnell.senate.gov] From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:22 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Subject: RE: (b) (6)   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 3:18 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] Thanks! DOT-18-0010-B-000013 DOT_Am.Oversight-001006 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) "Elaine Chao"; Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) dinner tonight Wednesday, March 01, 2017 6:12:41 PM   DOT-18-0010-B-000014 DOT_Am.Oversight-001007 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Friday Wednesday, March 08, 2017 3:45:33 PM Stef/Laura, (b) (6) . Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000015 DOT_Am.Oversight-001008 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Baum, Erika (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Re: This evening"s Schedule Thursday, March 09, 2017 7:47:05 PM (b) (6) Tks! On Mar 9, 2017, at 6:41 PM, Baum, Erika (OST) wrote: Hi Laura and Stefanie: (b) (6) Thank  you. Erika Erika Baum Executive Assistant to the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) secretaryscheduler@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000016 DOT_Am.Oversight-001009 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Baum, Erika (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: This evening"s Schedule Thursday, March 09, 2017 6:45:00 PM Thank you! Erika Baum Executive Assistant to the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) secretaryscheduler@dot.gov From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 6:45 PM To: Baum, Erika (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: Re: This evening's Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (6) On Mar 9, 2017, at 6:41 PM, Baum, Erika (OST) wrote: Hi Laura and Stefanie: (b) (6) Thank  you. Erika Erika Baum Executive Assistant to the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000017 DOT_Am.Oversight-001010 011 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Fwu, Melissa (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: (b) (6) Tuesday, March 14, 2017 5:26:20 PM (b) (6) From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2017 2:58 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: (b) (6) Hi, Stef, (b) (6) Thanks! Best, Melissa Fwu Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000019 DOT_Am.Oversight-001012 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) ELC travel Wednesday, March 15, 2017 5:06:07 PM (b) (6) Stef Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000020 DOT_Am.Oversight-001013 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) Dinners (b) (6) Wednesday, March 22, 2017 6:05:41 PM Hi DeLynn, (b) (6) . Thanks! - ■ (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT ■ (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000021 DOT_Am.Oversight-001014 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: (McConnell) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Schulte, Angie (McConnell); Elaine Chao; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: Derby 2017 Wednesday, March 22, 2017 5:00:02 PM Senator McConnell (b) (6) On Mar 22, 2017, at 4:53 PM, Carmack, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) Thanks.  Terry, Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6) From: Senator McConnell (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 2:56 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Elaine Chao < >; Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Derby 2017 (b) (6) On Mar 22, 2017, at 2:49 PM, Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000022 DOT_Am.Oversight-001015 (b) (6) 1111   Thank you, Angie From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 1:35 PM To: 'Elaine Chao' <(b) (6) >; Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Derby 2017 (b) (6) From: Elaine Chao [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 1:29 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Derby 2017 ]   (b) (6)     On Mar 22, 2017, at 1:09 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: I’m back at my desk. Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000023 DOT_Am.Oversight-001016 Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000024 DOT_Am.Oversight-001017 To: Herny. DeLynn/OST} Muchow.Stefanie/McConne ll): Vincent Laura /McConnell} Subject : ' 6)(6) Date: Wednesday, March22, 2017 5:29 :00 PM From: f(b)(6) Tha nks so m uch -- Dely nn From: ~ooFurman [mailto~ urman "---~--Sent: Wednesclay, March 22, 2017 5:25 PM To: Gehring, w ,endy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) ~*~ ~d :~f_>_~ <___________ ] _ FYI : DOT-18-0010-B-000025 DOT_Am.Oversight-001018 AM ERICAN RSI mm b< mm I omo (5) 021 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Fwu, Melissa (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: (b) (6) Thursday, March 23, 2017 3:32:49 PM (b) (6) From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2017 12:56 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Vincent, Laura (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2017 12:36 PM To: Fwu, Melissa (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) • From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 7:19 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Hi, Stef, (b) (6) From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Sent: Monday, March 13, 2017 12:53 PM To: 'Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell)'; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Thanks! (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 13, 2017 12:42 PM To: Fwu, Melissa (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000029 DOT_Am.Oversight-001022 Subject: RE: (b) (6) - (b) (6) From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 13, 2017 12:32 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: (b) (6) Hi, Stef and Laura, (b) (6) Hope you’ve been doing well! Best, Melissa Fwu Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000030 DOT_Am.Oversight-001023 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: (b) (6) Friday, March 24, 2017 10:44:27 AM Perfect, you too! From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 24, 2017 10:43 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: (b) (6) - Thank you (b) (6) Have a great weekend. D From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 24, 2017 10:40 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) - (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 24, 2017 10:37 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Subject: - Hey Laura – (b) (6)    (b) (6) Just trying to coordinate. Thanks -- D DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000031 DOT_Am.Oversight-001024 (6) From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) April 4 Monday, March 27, 2017 1:13:57 PM (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000033 DOT_Am.Oversight-001026 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Derby Thursday Friday, March 31, 2017 2:57:28 PM Stef/Laura, (b) (6) FYI. Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000034 DOT_Am.Oversight-001027 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Re: Hey sorry to bother you Saturday, April 01, 2017 12:46:18 PM Yes, it should be with the clips.  On Apr 1, 2017, at 12:42 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: It went over with the clips I'm pretty sure. Laura can confirm.  On Apr 1, 2017, at 12:41 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: - Did Leader's schedule get dropped yesterday? (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000035 DOT_Am.Oversight-001028 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Call Wednesday, April 05, 2017 2:20:22 PM MM is looking to call the Secretary back, I called both of you but I don’t think you’re at your desks. Is there a another number to call? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000036 DOT_Am.Oversight-001029 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: (b) (6) Thursday, April 06, 2017 1:33:09 PM (b) (6) From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, April 06, 2017 1:21 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Plans for Tonight? (b) (6) Thank you -- D DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000037 DOT_Am.Oversight-001030 From: To: Subject: Date: (b) (6) Henry, DeLynn (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: (b) (6) Thursday, April 06, 2017 7:31:00 PM thank you J From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, April 06, 2017 7:25 PM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, April 06, 2017 4:06 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: (b) (6) Hi – (b) (6) Thanks so much, DeLynn DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000038 DOT_Am.Oversight-001031 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: (b) (6) Thursday, April 13, 2017 2:55:52 PM (b) (6) Just wanted to be sure you all got this. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000039 DOT_Am.Oversight-001032 From: To: Subject: Date: Elaine L. Chao McConnell Mitch Lovely senate spouses lunch with Melania Wednesday, April 26, 2017 2:54:19 PM (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000040 DOT_Am.Oversight-001033 From: To: Cc: Subject : Date: Muchow.Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring. Wendy (OST): Schulte. Angie (McConnell) Henry. Delynn (OST): Inman. Todd (OST) RE:lb)(6) Monday, May 08, 20 17 1:02 :29 PM Tks.tt>ll 5> Stef From: Gehring,Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent : Monday, May 08, 2017 1:01 PM To: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell);Schulte,Angie (McConnell) Cc: Henry, Del ynn (OST); Inman, Todd (~ --- Subject : RE: bH5> --------------- tl>)(6) From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell)[~ m..a.... Ht..,o .._ 1tb _H_5>____ @ ..... m ...c..,c ... o...,n .... ne ..l... Ls~e .... n.... at..,e..,.,g,..o..,y ] ....J... Sent : Monday, May 08, 2017 12:58 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Cc: Henry, Del ynn (OST); Inman, Todd 0 Subject : RE:lbH5> --------------- tl>Jl6) Tks. From: Gehring,Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy,gehrjng@dot,gov ] Sent : Monday, May 08, 2017 12:40 PM To: Schulte,Angie (McConnell) Cc: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell);Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, Del ynn (OST); Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: bH6J --------------- tl>Jl6) ---------- Fo1warded message----- ----From : < SecietaiyChao Date: May 7 2017 4 :12 PM Subject tbH6> 5 To: ' @mcconnell.senate.gov > '(b) (6) Cc: __________ >, <_________ J> >, lbll 6) > tl>Jl6) DOT-18-0010-B-000041 DOT_Am.Oversight-001034 AIVI ERICAN RSI From: To: Cc: Subject : Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Gehring, Wendy (OST) l:l>ll 6l Question about MM Schedule Friday, May 19, 2017 12 :13: 00 PM Hi Laura! Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation r (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000043 DOT_Am.Oversight-001036 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Inman, Todd (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Friday June 2 Tuesday, May 30, 2017 7:08:38 PM Laura, (b) (6) . Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000044 DOT_Am.Oversight-001037 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Inman, Todd (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: Friday June 2 Tuesday, May 30, 2017 9:06:49 PM (b) (6) Thanks, Laura  On May 30, 2017, at 7:08 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Laura, (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000045 DOT_Am.Oversight-001038 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Yum - Ethics question about Secretary Chao"s attendance at the Derby brunch Wednesday, May 31, 2017 10:26:53 AM Thanks much. Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 - (b) (6) -----Original Message----From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2017 10:09 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Yum - Ethics question about Secretary Chao's attendance at the Derby brunch Terry, We checked with our legal people before she attended and considering she is attending as a "Plus One" to a widely attended event, this is permissible.  J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) -----Original Message----From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2017 10:03 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Yum - Ethics question about Secretary Chao's attendance at the Derby brunch Please see question below.  Thanks.  Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 - (b) (6) -----Original Message----From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2017 9:56 AM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000046 DOT_Am.Oversight-001039 To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Yum - Ethics question about Secretary Chao's attendance at the Derby brunch Terry Yum! is aware that the Leader is allowed to accept a free invitation for the Derby brunch.  (They asked me again this year and I told them yes.)  Daniel's email below states the reason why. However, Yum! legal counsel has asked if this is allowed for Secretary Chao this year, given her new Cabinet post with President Trump. - (b) (6) - from Yum! is the person who needs the answer.  Her number is (b) (6) - Angie -----Original Message----From: Cameron, Daniel (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, May 04, 2016 8:07 PM To: Senator McConnell (McConnell) <(b) (6) Cc: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Re: Yum .  Please advise. @mcconnell.senate.gov> @mcconnell.senate.gov> The Leader is correct. If it's a widely attended event (25 folks or more) and he's there in his official capacity, then it's okay for the sponsor of the event to extend him a free invitation and he can eat a meal. - I hope this helps. Let me know if you need further clarification. (b) (6) . Sent from my iPhone > On May 4, 2016, at 7:47 PM, Senator McConnell (McConnell) <(b) (6) > > (b) (6) > > > >> On May 4, 2016, at 6:44 PM, Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) >> >> (b) (6) - @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: t. @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000047 DOT_Am.Oversight-001040 From: To: Subject: Date: Elaine L. Chao (McConnell) Re: I"m on plane in ATL - soon to take off Friday, June 02, 2017 2:59:32 PM Senator McConnell Transiting from Charleston Ship christening if American flag ship > On Jun 2, 2017, at 2:58 PM, Senator McConnell (McConnell) <(b) (6) > > (b) (6) > >> On Jun 2, 2017, at 2:51 PM, Elaine L. Chao <(b) (6) >> >>(b) (6) >> AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: > wrote: DOT-18-0010-B-000048 DOT_Am.Oversight-001041 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Per Secretary"s Request Thursday, June 08, 2017 10:12:10 AM You got it. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 10:11 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Per Secretary's Request (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:57 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Per Secretary's Request (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:45 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Re: Per Secretary's Request Great tks! (b) (6) On Jun 8, 2017, at 9:41 AM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Attached please find her schedule for today and tomorrow. Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000049 DOT_Am.Oversight-001042 AM ERICAN RSI AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000051 RSI AM ERICAN RSI AM ERICAN RSI From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: July 28-30 Wednesday, June 28, 2017 4:30:46 PM No problem! From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2017 4:22 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: July 28-30 @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, June 28, 2017 4:04 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: July 28-30 (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000054 DOT_Am.Oversight-001047 Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell) From: To: Basile. Gabrielle (OST) Gehring. Wendy (OST): Vincent. Laura (McConnell) Cc: Subj ect : RE:lb)(6J Friday, June 30, 2017 4:13 :26 PM Date : tl>Jl6) From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST)[mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, June 30, 2017 4:09 PM To: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring,Wendy OST Subject: > .--" ·- -------------- bJ<5 Hi Stefanie, E:1Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S . Department of Transportation r (6) E: Gao rielle.Basile@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000055 DOT_Am.Oversight-001048 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) (wendy.gehring@dot.gov) (b) (6) Sunday, July 02, 2017 4:13:00 PM Hi Laura, (b) (6) Please let me know if you have any questions! --(b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) - (b) (6) Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000056 DOT_Am.Oversight-001049 (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.g0V From: To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Subj ect : Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, Delynn (OST) RE: Dinner tomorrow 7/ 18 Monday, July 17, 2017 12 :52:00 PM Date : tl>ll6l Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo1tation tl>)(6) E: Ga6iie11e.Basile@dot.gov 5 From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell)[mailto:< b>< > Sent: Monday,July 17, 2017 12:07 PM _____ To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner tomorrow 7/18 @mcconnell.senate.gov] ..... tl>)(6) Stef Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'' Di.rector of Operations Senate Majority Leader, :Mitch l\kConnell From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) fmailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Monday,July 17, 2017 8:25 AM To: Vincent, Laura(McConnell ) Cc: Gehring,Wendy (OST); Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell);Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Dinner tomorrow 7/ 18 Hi Laura, Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo1tation tl>)(6) DOT-18-0010-B-000058 DOT_Am.Oversight-001051 (b) (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000059 DOT_Am.Oversight-001052 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: McConnell Statement on August Recess, Democrats’ Obstruction Tuesday, July 11, 2017 2:04:35 PM FYI. From: Majority Leader McConnell Press (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2017 1:36 PM Subject: McConnell Statement on August Recess, Democrats’ Obstruction MITCH McCONNELL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER U.S- .• SENATOR fo r K.EN.TUCKY - - - - For Immediate Release, Tuesday, July 11, 2017 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp 202-224-2979 Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn 202-224-8288 McConnell Statement on August Recess, Democrats’ Obstruction ‘In order to provide more time to complete action on important legislative items and process nominees that have been stalled by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle, the Senate will delay the start of the August recess until the third week of August.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following announcement Tuesday about the Senate’s August recess: “Once the Senate completes its work on health care reform, we will turn to other important issues including the National Defense Authorization Act and the backlog of critical nominations that have been mindlessly stalled by Democrats. “In order to provide more time to complete action on important legislative items and process nominees that have been stalled by a lack of cooperation from our friends across the aisle, the Senate will delay the start of the August recess until the third week of August.” ### DOT-18-0010-B-000060 DOT_Am.Oversight-001053 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao"s travel to Louisville Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:08:50 PM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Thanks for this info, Wendy. - Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:01 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) ; Condia, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville (b) (6) From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 1:04 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville (b) (6)   Please note that Andrew Condia, the Senator’s Louisville Field Rep, will be attending this event and can provide any pertinent details about it.  I’ve copied Andrew. (b) (6) Thanks, Wendy. - AMf--f CAN Angie pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000061 DOT_Am.Oversight-001054 From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) Subject: FW: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Angie, Secretary will have her security team through at least Friday afternoon. I think they will return on Friday afternoon/evening to DC (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) Thanks! From: Furman, Jon (OST) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:50 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Fwd: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Forwarding  Jon Furman  Special Assistant to the Secretary  Department of Transportation Begin forwarded message: From: "Schulte, Angie (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: July 10, 2017 at 12:15:28 EDT To: "Delynn Henry ((b) (6) )" <(b) (6) >, "Jon Furman (jon.furman@dot.gov)" Cc: "Condia, Andrew (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Hi, Delynn and Jon – Could you fill us in about Secretary Chao’s visit here this week, please?  I understand that she is addressing Greater Louisville, Inc. at a luncheon event on Friday.  (b) (6) Will her DOT security team accompany her? Any info you have would be much appreciated. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000062 DOT_Am.Oversight-001055 I have copied Andrew Condia, Senator McConnell’s Louisville Field Representative.  If there’s someone else we need to contact about this, please feel free to let us know. Thanks, Angie Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) Receive the Senator’s eNewsletter by signing up HERE DOT-18-0010-B-000063 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-001056 From: To: Cc: Gehring. Wendy (OST) Vincent laura (McConnell) Gehring Wendy (OST): Basile Gabrielle (Osn : Henry Oelynn (Osn : Inman Todd (OST) Subject : f(b)(6) Date: Atta chments : Thursday, July 13, 2017 12:36 :31 PM imageOOLpng l b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Off ice of the Secretary US Department of Transporta ti on E: wendy.gehring@dot .gov E_<6) DOT-18-0010-B-000064 DOT_Am.Oversight-001057 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: weekend schedule Sunday, July 16, 2017 8:40:50 PM (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone On Jul 16, 2017, at 4:09 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: (b) (6) . Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000065 DOT_Am.Oversight-001058 From: To: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Instructions on the boxes Monday, July 17, 2017 11:56:38 AM Thanks, DeLynn.  If we have any questions, I’ll let you know. - Angie From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 17, 2017 11:46 AM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Instructions on the boxes Hi Angie – thanks so much for your help. DeLynn AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000066 DOT_Am.Oversight-001059 From: To: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) RE: (b) (6) Monday, July 31, 2017 5:17:20 PM Hi, DeLynn and Jon – (b) (6)   I’ll be able to send you the more complete schedule tomorrow. From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 31, 2017 2:57 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Furman, Jon (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Hi Angie – (b) (6) y. (b) (6) Thank you -- DeLynn --------- From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 31, 2017 2:47 PM To: Furman, Jon (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi, Jon and DeLynn – (b) (6) Thanks, Angie AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000067 DOT_Am.Oversight-001060 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Final schedule for Saturday Wednesday, August 02, 2017 3:31:24 PM Aug 5 2017 FINAL.pdf (b) (6) Here you go!  AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000068 DOT_Am.Oversight-001061 IO _m.0ver5 g -II I- A DOT-18-0010-B-000070 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Here"s the schedule for August 5 Wednesday, August 02, 2017 5:16:05 PM AUG 5 2017 REALLY FINAL.pdf (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000071 DOT_Am.Oversight-001064 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Cabinet Weekend at Camp David Wednesday, August 02, 2017 10:01:03 AM Got it… tks! Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 02, 2017 10:00 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Cabinet Weekend at Camp David Stef, WH is considering a Cabinet event Sept 9-10 at Camp David to include spouses. Secretary asked that I make you aware. Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000074 DOT_Am.Oversight-001067 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: schedule Wednesday, August 02, 2017 2:16:02 PM Let me try to retrieve that (again) for you.  I’ve been waiting, too.  We all need that! Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 02, 2017 2:13 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: schedule (b) (6) Thanks! From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2017 5:27 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] Here it is as of now. - Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2017 5:22 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: schedule (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000075 DOT_Am.Oversight-001068 E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000076 DOT_Am.Oversight-001069 From: To : Subject: Date : Baine L Chao Mitch McConnell Fwd: Louise Mnuchin Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:56:55 PM ' 6)( 6) From: "Fruman , Jon (OST)" Dat e: August 23 , 20 17 at 6 :22 :45 PM AKDT 5 > To: "ElaineL. Chao" i br<> .----Subject : Re: Louise Mou e in https'llwww~goog)ecom/amp/s/wwwwashingtonpostcom/amphtml/news/wonk/wp/2017/08/22/the:: treasmy -secreta1ys-wife -just-apologized-for-a-highly -insensitive -instagram-post/ The text (I can also print it out for you) . Louise Linton , wife ofTreasmy Secretary Steven Mnuchin , apologized Tue sday for boasting about her wealth and then disparaging someone who criticized her during a nasty social -media exchange in an attempt to quell a raft of criticism about her insult -laced attack. "I apologize for my post on social media yesterday as well as my response ," she said, according to a publicist. " It was inappropriate and highly insensitive." Linton , an actress and producer , married Mnuchin two months ago in a lavish ceremony that was attended by Preside nt Tmmp and Vice Preside nt Pence. She often travels with Mnuchin on official business , which is not customary for the spouse of a Cabinet membe r, but Treasury Department officials have said the couple reimbmse the government for the cost of her seat. However , Linton drew attention Monday for posting a photograph of herself disembarking from a governme nt plane with Mnuchin . In the post , she noted the clothing she was wearing at the time , made by various fashion designers including He1mes, Tom Ford and Valentino . DOT-18-0010-B-000077 DOT_Am.Oversight-001070 This drew an online comment from someone with the Instagram identity “jennimiller29,” who wrote, “Glad we could pay for your little getaway.” Linton responded to this with a fiery attack. “Did you think this was a personal trip?!" Linton wrote on her Instagram page. She added: “Adorable! Do you think the US govt paid for our honeymoon or personal travel?! Lololol. Have you given more to the economy than me and my husband? Either as an individual earner in taxes OR in self sacrifice to your country? I’m pretty sure we paid more taxes toward our day ‘trip’ than you did. Pretty sure the amount we sacrifice per year is a lot more than you’d be willing to sacrifice if the choice was yours.” Linton added, “You’re adorably out of touch. … Thanks for the passive aggressive nasty comment. Your kids look very cute. Your life looks cute.” Linton and Mnuchin recently returned from their honeymoon. Because Mnuchin is a Cabinet member, he would have had an extensive government security detail with him during the trip. It could not be learned whether the couple reimbursed the government for that cost. Linton on Monday was accompanying Mnuchin on a trip to Louisville so the treasury chief could discuss ways to cut taxes for the middle class and so he could tour Fort Knox. Critics of Mnuchin’s tax plan have said it would benefit the wealthiest Americans much more than middle-income Americans. Treasury secretaries typically fly on commercial airlines when they travel domestically, but they can get a waiver from the White House that allows them to use a government plane. A Treasury Department spokesman said the White House signed off on the logistics of this trip to Kentucky. In the photo Linton posted on Instagram, she is seen exiting the plane, which is painted blue and white and has AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000078 DOT_Am.Oversight-001071 “United States of America” emblazoned on the side. Linton’s social media posts Monday ignited a raft of controversy and drew national media attention. The spouses of Cabinet members are often shielded from public scrutiny, but they also tend to keep a low profile. The spouses of recent treasury chiefs rarely traveled on official business with their husbands, and there is little precedent for a social-media fight such as this. Linton's Instagram episode came in the midst of a strange period for Mnuchin, who two days earlier sent a letter to his former Yale University classmates explaining why he would not resign from office. They had called on Mnuchin to step down because of comments Trump made following a female counterprotester's death in Charlottesville at the scene of a violent rally held by white supremacists and neo-Nazis. Trump's comments after the rally expressed some sympathy for some of the people marching with the white supremacists. In the statement Mnuchin issued, one week after the violence in Charlottesville, he said he condemns “the actions of those filled with hate and with the intent to harm others.” Mnuchin's statement stood out in part because other members of Trump's Cabinet issued statements condemning the white supremacists almost immediately. Mnuchin is playing a central role in the White House's effort to overhaul the tax code and raise the debt ceiling, and the recent distractions have the potential to overshadow his work in those areas. Jennimiller29, the Instagrammer who was on the receiving end of Linton’s social-media attack, had some choice words for the treasury secretary’s wife, saying in another post, “She says she’s a nice person. I doubt it.” Jon Furman  Special Assistant to the Secretary  AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000079 DOT_Am.Oversight-001072 Department of Transportation On Aug 23, 2017, at 18:19, Elaine L. Chao <(b) (6) > wrote: (b) (6) - AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000080 DOT_Am.Oversight-001073 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST) Elaine L. Chao; Furman, Jon (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Inman, Todd (OST) Re: FEDEX (b) (6) Saturday, August 05, 2017 9:15:55 PM Thanks.  I'll watch got it. Sent from my iPhone On Aug 5, 2017, at 8:29 AM, Tucker, Deva (OST) wrote: Acknowledged and will take care of it on Monday. (b) (6) On Aug 5, 2017, at 8:25 AM, Elaine L. Chao < (b) (6) > wrote:       On Aug 5, 2017, at 8:23 AM, Tucker, Deva (OST) wrote: Good Morning Angie,  Our address is 1200 New Jersey Ave SE Washington DC 20590 Secretary's Suite 9th floor (b) (6)  If you have any questions please call my cell a Thank you, Deva On Aug 5, 2017, at 8:15 AM, Elaine L. Chao (b) (6) < > wrote: Please give Angie a label or address to send FEDEX to dot Thanks AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000081 DOT_Am.Oversight-001074 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) RE: (b) (6) Tuesday, August 08, 2017 10:40:24 AM (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, August 08, 2017 10:13 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Tks! @mcconnell.senate.gov] - (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, August 08, 2017 9:52 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: (b) (6) Stef, (b) (6) - Hope you are having a great recess! Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000082 DOT_Am.Oversight-001075 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Dinners next Friday and Saturday Wednesday, August 09, 2017 1:44:05 PM (b) (6) Tks! From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 09, 2017 12:56 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Dinners next Friday and Saturday (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, August 07, 2017 10:02 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinners next Friday and Saturday @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 7:02 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Dinners next Friday and Saturday (b) (6) Have a great weekend – DeLynn DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000083 DOT_Am.Oversight-001076 Cc: Subj ect : Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) : Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Event Attendan ce info for S1 Date : Th ursday, August 10, 2017 11: 17:00 AM From: To: Hi all, Just wanted to bring this to your attention for the ve1y far fhture. Secretaiy Chao doe s plan to attend the American Enter rise Insti tute World F01um in Sea Island , GA on Mai·ch 8-1 l th . ' 6><5> ------- Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo1tation tl>)( 6) E: Gabri elle.Basile@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000084 DOT_Am.Oversight-001077 From: To: Subject : Date : Thursday, August 10, 2017 8:29 :41 PM tl>ll6l Sent from my iPhone On Aug 10, 2017 , at 7:00 PM, Herny, DeLynn (OST) wrote: tl>ll6l Thank you -- Delynn Del ynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Departmen t of Transportat ion 1200 New Jersey Ave ., S.E. Wash ington, D.C. 20590 tl>ll6l DOT-18-0010-B-000085 DOT_Am.Oversight-001078 From: To: \ffling Weodv CP5D RJchowSl:Ktnie (McC.onnet l) Cc: Subject Date: Attachments: ltIDJID Getting Wendy(QSD· &si1e Gabrie lle (QST);Henry Oelynn(OST} Monda y, August14, 2017 3:48:37 PH ~ Stef, lb)( 6)~------b)( 6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E:wendy gehring@dot.gov br(6) DOT-18-0010-B-000086 DOT_Am.Oversight-001079 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: (b) (6) Monday, August 14, 2017 3:51:58 PM image001.png Tks! On Aug 14, 2017, at 2:49 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Stef, (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000087 DOT_Am.Oversight-001080 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: (b) (6) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Friday, August 25, 2017 2:38:06 PM   Sent from my iPhone On Aug 25, 2017, at 2:37 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000088 DOT_Am.Oversight-001081 (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful… tks Wendy! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000089 DOT_Am.Oversight-001082 (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, (b) (6) - (b) (6) - (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000090 DOT_Am.Oversight-001083 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Saturday, August 26, 2017 1:30:37 PM Will do. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Saturday, August 26, 2017 12:31 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Re: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Tks. (b) (6) . Tks! Stef  On Aug 25, 2017, at 5:29 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:56 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] - Ok, sounds good. (b) (6) Tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:50 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:42 AM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000091 DOT_Am.Oversight-001084 To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) tks. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000092 DOT_Am.Oversight-001085 (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful… tks Wendy! (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000093 DOT_Am.Oversight-001086 In an effort to make it easier for you all to know what Secretary has coming up I am going to send you a weekly email with the key things for the next two weeks. To that end: (b) (6) (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000094 DOT_Am.Oversight-001087 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: (b) (6) Wednesday, August 30, 2017 1:28:16 PM Thanks! (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 1:26 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Muchow, Stefanie (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Great news! (b) (6) From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 1:24 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 1:23 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Muchow, Stefanie (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 12:48 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Sounds good, thanks for the update! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000095 DOT_Am.Oversight-001088 From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 12:47 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: (b) (6) (b) (6) VPOTUS trip does not return to DC until 8p on Thursday evening. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:31 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Re: (b) (6) Tks for the update! On Aug 29, 2017, at 6:30 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Secretary is now going to TX w VPOTUS on Thurs. Hoping to put her on the 8pm AA departure out of DCA or the 825pm SW out of BWI. Hoping to know tomorrow which. Will get back to you soonest. Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000096 DOT_Am.Oversight-001089 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: (b) (6) Wednesday, August 30, 2017 10:00:04 PM Got it. Thanks!  On Aug 30, 2017, at 9:59 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote:   (b) (6) Tks! On Aug 30, 2017, at 9:03 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: - (b) (6)   Also as FYI is is doing an in person interview (b) (6) with a candidate for DOT at 5p on Friday. Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000097 DOT_Am.Oversight-001090 "bl(6J From: Elaine L Chao (mairtolb) (6) Sent : Thursda y August 31 2"" 0--!c 17cc1"'2"40 = pM cc""- .. To : Geh ring Wenr:Jv(OST) Jb) (6) Cc: Vincent Laura (M cCon nell) < Subje "'-'(6:,·,_ ________________ @mcconnell.senate.gov> ,. tbf{6J On Aug 31 20 17 at 11 33 AM Gehring W endy (OST) <:weodv eehrine@dnt eov>wrote l b)(6) l b)(6) From: Elaine L Chao Se nt: Wednesday, August 30, 2017 11:21 PM To: Furman. Jon (05T} Cc: Gehring, Wendy(OST) ; Hen,y, Oelynn (OST) Subject, Re[@]ID._ _______________ _. Thanks . On Aug 30 20 17 at 11 12 PM Furman Jon(OST)< joof11crnao@dntgoy> wrote ' bl(6J tbf{6J Jon Furman Spec ial Assista nt to th e Secret ary Dep artmen t of Transportat ion 0nA ug30 20 17 at2 0 33 Elaine L Chao •.,'b,,,Jc=6 },._ ___ > wrote DOT-18-0010-B-000098 DOT_Am.Oversight-001091 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) (b) (6) Friday, September 01, 2017 12:57:13 PM (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000099 DOT_Am.Oversight-001092 From: To: Cc : Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) : Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subj ect : Secretary Schedule Date : Tuesday, Sept ember OS, 2017 3:28 :00 PM tl>)(6) -------- :tl>) -----------------------------1(6) ■ ■ Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transportation r (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000100 DOT_Am.Oversight-001093 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Gehring, Wendy (OST) September 24th Friday, September 15, 2017 6:22:06 PM (b) (6) Hi Laura, (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000101 DOT_Am.Oversight-001094 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Monday, September 25, 2017 9:13:20 AM (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, September 19, 2017 1:45 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Sorry for delay! (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000102 DOT_Am.Oversight-001095 (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:56 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] Ok, sounds good. (b) (6) Tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:50 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:42 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) tks. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000103 DOT_Am.Oversight-001096 (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000104 DOT_Am.Oversight-001097 (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful… tks Wendy! (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, In an effort to make it easier for you all to know what Secretary has coming up I am going to send you a weekly email with the key things for the next two weeks. To that end: (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000105 DOT_Am.Oversight-001098 E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000106 DOT_Am.Oversight-001099 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: Thursday Dinner Thursday, September 28, 2017 8:41:43 AM (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 27, 2017 3:34 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Thursday Dinner (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 27, 2017 1:53 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Thursday Dinner (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000107 DOT_Am.Oversight-001100 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) (b) (6) Sunday, October 01, 2017 10:47:00 AM Hi Guys – (b) (6) • Thanks! Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000108 DOT_Am.Oversight-001101 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) (b) (6) Sunday, October 01, 2017 11:25:00 AM Disregard my last email. (b) (6) - (b) (6) Thanks! Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000109 DOT_Am.Oversight-001102 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) (b) (6) Tuesday, October 03, 2017 8:56:00 AM (b) (6) Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000110 DOT_Am.Oversight-001103 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: (b) (6) Tuesday, October 03, 2017 9:41:00 AM (b) (6) - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 9:40 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) (b) (6) Thanks! - From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 9:12 AM To: 'Basile, Gabrielle (OST)' ; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) Tks! - From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 8:57 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: (b) (6) (b) (6) Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000111 DOT_Am.Oversight-001104 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Schulte, Angie (McConnell) RE: Hi, this is Angie Tuesday, October 03, 2017 3:57:00 PM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Hi Angie! It was so nice speaking with you as well. I will keep your phone number handy. My phone information is as follows should you ever need to reach me via phone: (b) (6) Thanks so much for clearing everything up! - From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 3:52 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: Hi, this is Angie @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi, Elle – In addition to my email address, please keep my mobile # handy – (b) (6) (b) (6) - Thanks – it was nice talking with you. - Angie Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000112 DOT_Am.Oversight-001105 Receive the Senator’s eNewsletter by signing up HERE DOT-18-0010-B-000113 VERSIGHT DOT_Am.Oversight-001106 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: tomorrow am Friday, October 06, 2017 8:12:51 PM Thank you! Wendy M. Gehring Office the Secretary US Department of Transportation From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 8:11 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: Re: tomorrow am - (b) (6) On Oct 6, 2017, at 7:58 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000114 DOT_Am.Oversight-001107 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) RE: Monday Oct 16 Tuesday, October 10, 2017 11:43:41 AM Glad I asked and thanks! From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 11:35 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Monday Oct 16 @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) Tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 10:58 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Monday Oct 16 (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 10:36 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: Monday Oct 16 Stef, (b) (6) Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000115 DOT_Am.Oversight-001108 (6) 16 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: this weekend Tuesday, October 10, 2017 6:04:53 PM (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 1:12 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: this weekend @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sounds good, tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 1:10 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: this weekend . (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 12:13 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: this weekend @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 12:09 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: this weekend (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 12:08 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: this weekend @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) Tks! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000117 DOT_Am.Oversight-001110 Stef 18 1 11 From: To: Subject: Date: Tucker Deva (OST) Muchow Stefanie (McConnell) FW: (b) (6) Thursday, October 12, 2017 12:46:00 PM (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000119 DOT_Am.Oversight-001112 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: American Thursday, October 12, 2017 12:10:00 PM (b) (6) From: Tucker, Deva (OST) [mailto:Deva.Tucker@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 12:09 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: American (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 11:59 AM To: Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: American @mcconnell.senate.gov] (b) (6) - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000120 DOT_Am.Oversight-001113 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: (b) (6) Thursday, October 26, 2017 1:25:57 PM Wonderful, thanks! - From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, October 26, 2017 1:24 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi, Wendy – (b) (6) - Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 26, 2017 11:55 AM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: (b) (6) Angie, - (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000121 DOT_Am.Oversight-001114 Creviston. Rachel (Secretary) Fro m: To : Subj ect : : Ward. Beverly (AOC) Fink. Andrew (OSTI Vincent. Laura (McConnell) RE: Deva Tucker & walkthrough on Monday morning of congressional tour path Dat e : Monday, November 06, 2017 11:35:05 AM Cc: Wonderful! From: Fink, Andrew (OST) [mailto:andrew .fink@dot.gov ] Sent: Monday, November 6, 2017 11:30 AM 5 To: Ward, Beverly (AOC) tt>n > > Cc:Vincent, Laura (McConne ll) <'!!>TC @mcconnell.senate .gov>; Creviston, Rachel (Secret ary) lbnsi > Subject: Re: Deva Tucker & walkt hroug h on Monday morn ing of congressional tour path Thank you eve1yo ne for all yom help ! It was great to be able to wa lkthrough th e route and talk with the tom guide. Andrew Fink Office of the Secreta1y U.S. Department of Tran spo1iat ion tl>)(6) On Nov 6, 2017 , at 9:39 AM, Ward, Beverly tl>)(6) > wrote: Thanks, Laura. We are happy to help any time. Beverly Ward Congressional Liaison United State s Capitol Capitol Visitor Center , Room SVC-101 Washington [! C 2Q5~ {b)( 6) WEB www visitthecapitolgov TWITTER @VisitTheCapitol 5 From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mai1to1tt>n > Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 9:37 AM To: Crevisto n, Rachel (Secretary) lbHsi.----------- ,@mccoooell senate gov] >; Ward, Beverly tbnsi >; Fink, Andrew (OST) Subject: RE: Deva Tucker & walkthrough on Monday morn ing of congressional tour pat h Thank you! Also, our office is picking up a whee l chair from the Office of Accessibility. We w ill have it ready to go for the tour and the group's arrival. DOT-18-0010-B-000122 DOT_Am.Oversight-001115 From: Creviston, Rachel (Secret ary) Sent: Mo nday, Novembe r 06, 2017 9 :13 AM To: Ward, Beverly (AOC) ll 5> >; Fink, And rew (OST) ; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: Deva Tucker & walkthroug h on Mo nday morn ing of congressional tour pat h Thank you so much for all your help, Beverly. Many t hanks! From: Ward, Beverly [~ ] Sent: Mo nday, Novembe r 6, 2017 9:09 AM To: Fink, And rew (OST) Cc: Creviston, Rachel (Secretary) <'< b>< si~---------- > Subject: Re: Deva Tucker & walkt hroug h on Mo nday morn ing of congressional tour pat h I guess you were sending this message at the time I was calling you to let you know we had th e assessment worked out. Let me know if you need anythin g else . Beverly Ward Congressional Liaison United States Capitol Capitol Visitor Center, Room SVC- 101 ri•~· :c 2Q5]~ WEB www visitthecapitolgov TWITTER @VisitTheCapitol On N ov 6, 2017, at 8:58 AM , Fink , Andrew (OST) wrote: Beverly, Hope all is well! If you cou ld give me a call w henever you get a chance just to t ouch base regard ing t he tour bHS> greatly appreciat e if I can walkthrough w ith the assigned t our guide t his morn ing. Thanks, Andrew Fink DOT-18-0010-B-000123 DOT_Am.Oversight-001116 Office of th e Secret ary U.S. Departme nt of Transporta t ion tl>ll6l H6> ] Sent: Sunday, November OS, 2017 6:26 PM To: Creviston, Rachel (Secretary) Cc: Fink, Andrew (OST) Subject: Re: Deva Tucker & walkthrough on Monday morning of congressional tour pat h From: Ward, Beverly [~ We are happy to schedule this . I will be in touch in the m orning. Also, You m ay know wheelch airs ar e available in the CVC if th e elde rly guest needs one. Beverly Ward Congressio nal Liaison United States Capitol Capitol Visitor Cente r, Roo m SVC - 101 ri•~· :c 2Q5]~ WEB www visitthecapitolgov TWIT TER @Visi tTh eCap itol On Nov 5 2017 at 6:22 PM Creviston, Rachel (Secretaiy) 1 > wrote: Date: 11/5/ 17 5:38 PM (GMT -05 :00),_ __ 6 To: "Ward, Beverly (AOC)" 16H > < >, andrewfink@dotgov Subject: Deva Tucker & walkthro ugh on Monday mornin g of congressio nal tour pat h DOT-18-0010-B-000124 DOT_Am.Oversight-001117 Sent from my Verizon , Samsllllg Galaxy sm.ru1phone Beverly, I really need your help . Secretaiy Chao an d Deva Tucker have a congressional tour tomon ow at 1:20 pm. Dep of transportation , Andrew Fink would like to do a walkthrough tomon ow morning before the tour to go over what path the tour will take. Do you know what redcoat is assigned to give the tour? Also_,can a redcoat be assi ed to th e walkthrou as well? lb><5> I have inc uded Andrew Fink on this email so please respond to both of us and hopefully he can answer any questions. I really dont know any other details anout this as I was j ust contacted. Many th anks ! DOT-18-0010-B-000125 DOT_Am.Oversight-001118 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Fink, Andrew (OST) RE: Monday Monday, November 06, 2017 9:25:17 AM (b) (6) From: Fink, Andrew (OST) [mailto:andrew.fink@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 9:05 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Monday Laura, Just spoke with Beverly Ward at the Capitol visitor center. I will be doing a walkthrough with the tour guide who was just assigned at 9:30AM. Beverly asked if I could have you have you put me on your cleared list as well as our other advance member Jeb Wilkinson. I will then meet the redcoat at the Senate dining room at 9:30am. Thanks for all the help! Andrew Fink Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 8:42 AM To: Fink, Andrew (OST) Subject: RE: Monday @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi Andrew, Unfortunately I don’t believe you will be able to move around freely before the Secretary arrives. We can get you cleared to come up to our office, but you won’t be able to run any routes by yourself and you will need to be escorted. Let me know when you expect to arrive and I’ll have your name cleared at the appointments desk. You should enter through the security shack to the right of the Senate steps. The red coat is scheduled to arrive at 1:20 pm which should be plenty of time to go over everything with them while the guests are at lunch. We’ve stressed to them the importance of this tour so hopefully they should be able to send us a veteran tour guide who will do a good job. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks, AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000126 DOT_Am.Oversight-001119 Laura From: Fink, Andrew (OST) [mailto:andrew.fink@dot.gov] Sent: Sunday, November 05, 2017 3:31 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Monday Laura, Thank for all your help on Friday afternoon. I will let you know when I arrive at the Capitol tomorrow morning and thanks for being willing to help out. The biggest thing is to be able to get the red coat tour guide assigned as early as possible before the tour so we can walkthrough it with them to make sure we are all on the same page. For entering the Capitol tomorrow morning what entrance should I go in and do you know if I need a specific credential so I can move around freely before the group arrives?  Thanks,  Andrew Fink Office of the Secretary  U.S. Department of Transportation  (b) (6) On Nov 3, 2017, at 6:30 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> Hi Andrew, Nice to meet you tonight. Let me know when you get to the Capitol on Monday and I’ll link you up with the appropriate folks. Thanks, Laura Laura H. Vincent Scheduler Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000127 DOT_Am.Oversight-001120 From: To: Subject: Date: Fink, Andrew (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Re: Wheelchair Monday, November 06, 2017 11:44:56 AM Great that works! If they want to just meet at that carriage entrance that's fine. I just want to make sure we have no hiccups with them coming in. May arrive at 12:15 so if they can just be there around that time! Thanks again for the help, Andrew Fink Office of the Secretary  U.S. Department of Transportation  (b) (6) On Nov 6, 2017, at 11:43 AM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hi Andrew, Stef is going to be in a meeting during their arrival so unfortunately I need to be at my desk and can’t be outside, but one of our front office staff will be outside to help ensure the arrival goes smoothly. Is there a preferred place on your end you’d like them to be? Thanks, Laura From: Fink, Andrew (OST) [mailto:andrew.fink@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 11:37 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Wheelchair Laura, Just wanted to make sure you heard that I picked up the wheelchair from your office. Thank you so much for grabbing that for us! Are you planning to be down at the entrance when Secretary Chao arrives at about 12:15?  Thanks, Andrew Fink Office of the Secretary  U.S. Department of Transportation  (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000128 DOT_Am.Oversight-001121 Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST}; Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW:lbH6) Monday, November 20, 2017 1:38:01 PM From: To : Cc: Subj ect : Date : F YI- lbJ(6) Thanks! Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secre ta1y of Transpo rtation 0: 202 .366.4304 C: lbH6) From:lb><5> Sent: Friday, Novembe r 17, 2017 11:30 AM To: Basile, Gabr ielle (OST) Subject:Update 5 lb>< > l6H6) lb)(6J ■ AM RCAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000129 DOT_Am.Oversight-001122 I oo?abogwbooao b< wm? I Amw Subj ect : Elaine L. Chao Mitch McConnell Fwd: Chao rebuffs Trump critics in Davos: 'Those who don't want to listen to him can leave' Date : Wednesday, January 24, 2018 7:07 :07 PM From: To: FYI lbJ(6J From: "Mcine rney, Marianne (OST)" Date: Januaiy 24, 2018 at 6:07:55 PM GMT + 1 To: "Elaine L. Chao" 1bnsi ___ >, "Genero, Laura (OST)" , "Fmman , Jon [OST)" , "BmT, Geoff (OST)" , "Rosen, Jeff (OST)" , "Kan, Derek (OST)" Subject: Chao rebuff s Trump critics in Davos: 'Tho se who don 't want to listen to him can leave' Chao rebuff s Trump critics in Davo s: 'Those who don 't want to listen to him can leave ' Politico By CRISTIANO LIMA 01/24/20 18 11:49 AM EST Transpo1iatio n Secretaiy Elaine Chao had a cleai· message Wednesday for critics of President Donald Trnm p during his trip to the World Economic Fonn n in Switzerland: If you don't want to heai· from him , you can leave. Speaking at a panel alongside other U.S . gove rnment officials during the World Economic Fornm in Davos, the secreta1y praised the pres ident for engaging with global leaders on economic policy by becomin g the first sitting pres ident in neai·ly two decades to attend the annu al gathering of the world's wea lthy elite. Sto1y Continued Below "Davos should feel ve1y flattered that he has chosen this as a fonnn ," Chao said durin g a session moderate d by the Wall Street Jomn al. "Those who don 't want to listen to him can leave." Pressed on whether the gathering - known to attract the so-called "globalis ts" derided by some factions of the Republican Pa1iy - aligned with the president 's pop ulist economic rhetoric, Chao defended the smruni t as a unique oppo rtuni ty for world leaders to gather an d exchange ideas . M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000131 DOT_Am.Oversight-001124 Earlier this month, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who is leading Trump’s economic delegation to Davos, disputed the notion that the forum is “a hangout for globalists” at a White House press briefing. The White House raised eyebrows by announcing Trump would become the first sitting U.S. president since Bill Clinton in 2000 to attend the event. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Trump railed against free-trade agreements supported by many global economic leaders, a message he has carried into the White House. Chao, speaking alongside House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen, also brushed aside claims that Trump entering the White House has diminished the U.S. standing as a global leader. “When we talk about America around the globe, it’s not as if America is going to withdraw,” she said. Chao added that "there are many people who feel that America has been the chump” and are seeking out the economic change promised by the president. The transportation secretary also addressed the importance of the U.S.’s diplomatic relationship with China. Borrowing the term “frenemy” to characterize the dynamic, Chao said while there were ample opportunities for the two countries to cooperate, they remained competitors in many other regards.  “There are issues that we can work with them on. There are issues that we need their help on. And we all know what those issues are,” she said. “And there will be other issues that we will be in competition. Chao added: “With this major player transforming itself, it is creating tensions, and we have to readjust as to how we interact with one another.” Trump is set to arrive in Davos Thursday morning local time. During the summit, he will meet with several political and economic leaders, including British Prime Minister Theresa May and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On Friday he will give an address to the forum. Ryan Heath contributed to this report from Davos. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000132 DOT_Am.Oversight-001125 From: To: Subject: Date: Elaine L. Chao Mitch McConnell Fwd: Member Memo and Bios - McCarthy, Meadows and Beyer Friday, January 26, 2018 1:34:02 AM Am returning on milair with Kevin McCarthy, Mark Meadows, Don Beyer, George Holding, Kathleen Rice, Susan Brooks.  Wheels down 3:30pm, stop in Shannon.  Should be home by hopefully 4:30pm.  I love you!  From: "Furman, Jon (OST)" Date: January 26, 2018 at 6:28:24 AM GMT+1 (b) (6) To: "Elaine L. Chao" < >, "McMaster, Sean (OST)" Cc: "Burr, Geoff (OST)" Subject: Re: Member Memo and Bios - McCarthy, Meadows and Beyer Finally got the full manifest. The other members on the flight are: Rep. George Holding (R-NC) Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-NY) Rep. Susan Brooks (R-IN) Jon Furman  Special Assistant to the Secretary  Department of Transportation On Jan 26, 2018, at 00:37, McMaster, Sean (OST) wrote: Secretary, Attached is the memo and bios for your travel with Majority Leader McCarthy, Rep. Meadows and Rep Beyer.  Sean McMaster Deputy Assistant Secretary - Congressional Affairs  U.S. Department of Transportation  (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000133 DOT_Am.Oversight-001126 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000134 DOT_Am.Oversight-001127 From: To: Subject : Henry. Tina (OST) Laura Vincent : Stefanie Muchow Fwd :"b)(6J Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 7:29 :54 AM FYI . Sent from my iPhone Begin forwa rded me ssage : < Fro m: Jon Fmm an 1bH SJ > Date : Febrna1y 14, 2017 at 10:08:59 PM EST To: "Gehring, W endy (OST)" , Tin a Herny "Inman Todd (OST)" Subj ect: ' bH 6> -------------------- br(6) ---------- F 01ward ed message ---------From : D elta Air Lin es Date : Tue, Feb 14, 20 17 at 10:07 PM Subject: Your Flight Receipt - ti>><5i.---------To :ens> J M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000135 DOT_Am.Oversight-001128 (6) DOT-18-0010-B-0001 pv I From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST) Furman, Jon (OST); Jenkins, Alexandra (McConnell) Re: Dome tour tomorrow Wednesday, August 08, 2018 11:55:03 AM Great - we’ll see them tomorrow at 10:45. I’ll have that tour moved to then. And Alex will take them up to the Dome after. Tks! > On Aug 8, 2018, at 11:53 AM, Tucker, Deva (OST) wrote: > > Thank you Stefanie. We are confirmed for tomorrow for the Dome Tour and the Capitol Tour. > > We will provide the names to clear shortly. > > -----Original Message----> From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] > Sent: Wednesday, August 08, 2018 9:48 AM > To: Tucker, Deva (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) > Cc: Jenkins, Alexandra (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> > Subject: Dome tour tomorrow > > Alex was able to secure a Dome Tour for tomorrow at noon. Please confirm ASAP with us if they’d like to do this time. > > We will need all 4 names to clear to come to our office by 11:45 am. > > Would they like their Capitol tour tomorrow morning so they only have to come to the Capitol once this week? We could do the hot around 10:45 and then Alex can meet you in our office at 11:45  they can go up in the Dome. > > We need confirmation NLT noon today that they want the Dome Tour for tomorrow. > > Tks, > Stef AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000138 DOT_Am.Oversight-001131 From: To: Subj ect: Date : Carmack. Terry (McConnell) Inman. Todd (OST) RE: "b)(6J Resume Thursday, Ja nuary 26, 2017 10:24:04 AM {b)(5J Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 tl>Jl6J From:Inman, Todd (OST)[mailto :t odd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2017 8:16 AM 6> To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) t6>< c---@mcconnell.senat e.gov> 5 Subject: FW: tbll > Resume Teny, lbl (5J, (bl (6J J. Todd In.Ulan Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Departm ent of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 From: J. Todd Inman [~ bH6> ___ Sent: Thursday, January26, 2017 5:14 AM ,-~----To: I nman, Toqd_(O Subject: Fwd: ~bJ<5> I Resume ---------- Fo1wa rded message---- -----I> From : Laura Haney 1r(bJ (6> _ Date: Wed, Jan 25 20 17 at 10:41 PM {b)(6J Subject: Fwd: ---. Resume To: "J. Todd Imnan" ui,ui > M pVERSIGHT ] DOT-18-0010-B-000139 DOT-Am.Oversight-001132 _____ _ Begin fo1wa rded message : __________________ __,__,__. ........ From: l bHS> Date: Januai 25 2017 at 10:36:46 PM EST To: E:: Subject: (bH 6> --------- Resume Lama, lbH6> lbH6> tl>)l6) DOT-18-0010-B-000140 DOT-Am.Oversight-001133 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Baum, Erika (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Fwd: The Hill: Senate Dem presses Trump’s Transportation pick on travel ban Monday, January 30, 2017 4:49:34 PM How to UNZIP.html ATT00001.htm SecureZIP Attachments.zip ATT00002.htm (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Britt, Michael (OST)" Date: January 30, 2017 at 4:36:41 PM EST To: "Baum, Erika (OST)" Cc: "McInerney, Marianne (OST)" Subject: The Hill: Senate Dem presses Trump’s Transportation pick on travel ban Please print below story and attached letter for the Secretary.    “Nelson, the top Democrat on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, sent a letter to Chao on Monday asking her whether she agrees with the order, which drastically restricts immigration and refugee resettlement.”   “He also wants to know whether the administration sought the advice of Chao, who is married to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and ran the Labor Department under former President George W. Bush, when crafting the policy.”   “Nelson wants to know whether Chao thinks airlines should be reimbursed for the disruptions and confusion at Customs processing due to the “lack of clear communication from the administration.”   Senate Dem presses Trump’s Transportation pick on travel ban http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/316903-senate-dem-presses-trumpstransportation-pick-on-travel-ban By Melanie Zanona - 01/30/17 01:41 PM EST 10   Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) is pressing Elaine Chao for her stance on President Trump’s recent executive order on immigration ahead of Tuesday’s floor vote on whether to confirm her as Transportation secretary. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000141 DOT-Am.Oversight-001134   Nelson, the top Democrat on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, sent a letter to Chao on Monday asking her whether she agrees with the order, which drastically restricts immigration and refugee resettlement.   He also wants to know whether the administration sought the advice of Chao, who is married to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and ran the Labor Department under former President George W. Bush, when crafting the policy.   “If not, do you think the U.S. Department of Transportation should be included in discussions of any further travel restrictions to minimize passenger and industry disruptions?” Nelson asked.   Trump issued the sweeping executive order on Friday, which bans immigrants from seven predominately Muslim countries for 90 days, halts refugee resettlements for four months and indefinitely suspends Syrian refugee resettlement.   The executive order sparked confusion, chaos and protests at airports over the weekend as some passengers were detained or denied entry into the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security also had to eventually clarify that legal permanent residents with green cards are exempt from the ban.   Nelson wants to know whether Chao thinks airlines should be reimbursed for the disruptions and confusion at Customs processing due to the “lack of clear communication from the administration.”   Chao, who is expected to be confirmed by the full Senate, was unanimously endorsed by the Transportation Committee and has wide support from both sides of the aisle.   Nelson is not expected to pull his support based on Chao’s answers to the letter, a spokesman said, though he is anticipating a response before Tuesday’s floor vote at noon.   A press release from his office also noted that “barring any setbacks, Chao’s nomination is slated to come before the full Senate on Tuesday.” AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000142 DOT-Am.Oversight-001135 J0►t"'iTIIU"1i. S()-UTHOMOll\ CtlNR~A~ Sil L '\ lK N FLOfllOA MAFUACAf\lJlNFLL W....Stf ~GlO/lf AMY~OQUWAR ~l~"l[SQ'TA HOY BLUNl i.,:ss()(;RI ffDC'AUl rFX~~ DL8fl5CH£R lttCJ'4AIID8lUMf~HA.. ONNf:CTICUT Bft AN SC:HATl llAWAII DA.NSUU IVAN ALASKA Ot..A.NHf:LlER NrvAOA JAMfS llrHOfE 01((.AHCJMA MK£ trr UTAH fOWAAO MAR(tY MASfu«.ChUSETIS CORY 800.t<[R i,.;rw IFR"',0 TOMUOALl. NlWMEXltO f';AflVP{TERS.MIOi.GAN NF0RA!i,KJ, !EARYMORA~, r.A~SAS AO"' JOt r~SON \', SCON'SIN IAMMt' BAIDWI~, Wl.SCO-'>l!i. N SHHlEV MOOAli-CAPITO.'/,'tSTVIRG.IN A ((JAY 6Afl0N[R 001.ORAOO TOOOYOI.JNC'-. !~,U1A-.,A TA.'AMl'OUCl(WORTH ILLNOIS. MAGGt: HASSA"1i,MW HA'MPl;:i.HIRE CA.T1-101"4fCORlU MAS TO "4EVADA Subject: Please call me   Hi Angie!   I hope you are well.  I have been trying to call the Louisville office and it keeps telling me the mailbox is full.  Would you mind please giving me a call at your convenience?  Cell is fine – (b) (6) .   Thanks so much!   Holly   Holly Lewis Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000145 DOT-Am.Oversight-001138 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Meeting Request. Thursday, February 02, 2017 2:00:00 PM Secretary Chao ltr 2-2-17 w encls.pdf ATT00001.htm Todd—Hope all is well.  Please see meeting request from Jim Adams.  You may know Jim, as he is married to KY State Senator Julie Adams.  The Secretary knows them both well.   I spoke to the Secretary this morning, as she suggested that I send requests such as this to someone named Melissa.  But I don’t have her email address.  So please advise.  Thanks much.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Jim Adams [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 1:14 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Meeting Request. ] @mcconnell.senate.gov> Thank you Terry. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000146 DOT-Am.Oversight-001139 Offshore MarineService Association America's Lifeline to Offshore Energy    Jim Adams Executive Director OCS Level Playing Field Initiative      February 2, 2017 Secretary Elaine Chao U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Chao: Congratulations on your confirmation. It is so gratifying to see that your hard work, expertise and strong leadership skills have placed you at the helm of the department that you love so well. I am confident there is no one better suited to fulfill the promise of improving every sector our nation’s multi-modal transportation system than you. It’s especially nice to see two of my favorite Kentuckians playing the “long game” with such success in our nation’s Capitol. I am writing to request a meeting for U.S. maritime industry leaders and myself to brief you on a proposed correction that Customs & Border Protection (CBP) recently announced. This correction represents the best news, in my lifetime, for the U.S. maritime industry. While I recognize this change originates in DHS, we want to meet with you to describe this proposal’s benefits to the U.S. maritime industry, U.S. shipyards and U.S. mariners, and to ensure that its momentum continues with the Trump Administration. Importantly, CBP consulted with MARAD and received its support prior to the announced correction. We have always looked to the Maritime Administration (MARAD) for its expertise and support, and we hope that you will find a discussion of CBP’s decision helpful in shaping your plans for MARAD, the U.S. Maritime Academy and the growth of U.S. jobs in the maritime sector. On January 18, 2017, CBP published in the Customs Bulletin its decision to align the agency’s Jones Act interpretations with the text of the statute itself. CBP’s actions will restore 3,200 American maritime jobs by closing unlawful loopholes that gave preference to foreign mariners and foreign shipyard workers benefiting from our domestic energy industry in U.S. Gulf of Mexico.     OFFSHORE MARINE SERVICE ASSOCIATION 935 Gravier Street, Suite 2040, New Orleans, LA 70112 Telephone (504) 528-9411 Fax (504) 528-9415   /\   f>lc,   pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000147 DOT-Am.Oversight-001140 Secretary Elaine Chao U.S. Department of Transportation Page 2 February 2, 2017     I have enclosed an American Maritime Partnership press release praising CBP’s announcement that includes statements of strong support from Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La), Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Ca), Chairman of the House Subcommittee and Maritime Transportation, U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La), and Rep. Garret Graves (R-La). I am grateful for your attention to this letter and it is my hope that your schedule will allow us to meet at your earliest opportunity. Best, Jim Adams Enclosures A pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000148 DOT-Am.Oversight-001141 News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Anna Stallmann – (202) 660-2567 AMERICAN MAR ITIME PARTNERSHIP Leaders in Government and Maritime Applaud the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) on Revocation Notice, Creating Over 3,200 American Jobs WASHINGTON (January 30, 2017) – The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) - the voice of the domestic maritime industry - today issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) revocation notice that will restore American jobs by correcting previous letters of interpretations of the Jones Act. "The men and women of the American maritime industry commend the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s efforts to rightfully restore over 3,200 American jobs to the American economy and close loopholes that gave preference to foreign workers and foreign shipbuilding,” said Tom Allegretti, Chairman of the American Maritime Partnership. “We applaud President Trump’s commitment to ‘buy American and hire American,’ and the correct and lawful interpretation of the Jones Act will ensure the preservation of American jobs and maintenance of the U.S. shipyard industrial base, both of which are critical to our economic security and national security.” AMP joins a growing list of government and industry leaders that understand the importance of restoring American jobs to the American economy and support the restoration of this lawful interpretation of the Jones Act, which governs the transportation of equipment and cargo between coastwise points. "This decision will get Louisiana mariners back to work by restoring the proper treatment of U.S.-built vessels crewed by U.S. citizens in the Gulf of Mexico," said U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La). "The offshore industry is a lifeblood to Louisiana. We need to close loopholes that benefit foreign workers at the detriment of Louisiana mariners. I look forward to working with President Trump on this issue, and I applaud the CBP for taking a positive step that will benefit the lives of many Louisiana families." AMf-f HCAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000149 DOT-Am.Oversight-001142 “The Jones Act is a pillar for America’s maritime industry that serves to put this nation’s workers and ingenuity ahead of foreign interests,” added Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. “This decision by CBP is in the spirit of recognizing and upholding the Jones Act. And by closing loopholes that existed to the detriment of American workers, CBP has taken an important step that underscores the extraordinary importance of the Jones Act and its role in strengthening our maritime industry. My hope is that this decision is the start of an even stronger transition in favor of the Jones Act across the entire federal government and I commend CBP for its leadership in taking this action.” “The Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA) applauds the Administration’s strong step to restore the congressional intent of the Jones Act. This Notice opens a domestic market to U.S. mariners on U.S.-built vessels, owned by U.S. companies,” said OMSA President Aaron Smith. “The offshore service industry is ready, willing, and capable of completing this work, having recently invested $2 billion in U.S. shipyards on vessels tailored to safely completing this work." “I applaud the corrective action taken last week by US Customs and Border Protection that supports the rule of law and reinforces the federal government's compliance with the Jones Act,” said Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La). “This corrective action is the right thing to do for Louisiana workers and will also benefit the American economy. In addition, unlike so many job-killing regulations and rules the Obama Administration issued on its way out the door, this agency ruling from Customs actually reverses some of the economic damage the Obama Administration allowed to take place on its watch. It will help to ensure the oil and natural gas industry in the Gulf, which is vital to local and national economic growth, will continue to have a robust supply of U.S. crews and vessels to strengthen America's energy security and help bring reliable energy to families across the nation.” “The corrective actions taken by the CBP return us to appropriate rule of law, help to eliminate unfair advantages of foreign workers and companies, and protect America’s national security interest. This is the right decision for Louisiana’s energy workforce and for America’s energy security," said Rep. Garret Graves (R- South Louisiana). "The Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA) applauds the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's efforts to close labor loopholes benefiting foreign shipbuilding and reestablishing more than 3,200 American jobs associated with the maritime sector," said Matthew Paxton, President of SCA. "This correction of past misinterpretations of the Jones Act will enable our shipyards to continue to supply, build, maintain and repair the essential vessels needed by the oil and gas industry." AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000150 DOT-Am.Oversight-001143 Members of the media interested in learning more can contact Anna Stallmann at (202) 660-2567. # # # American Maritime Partnership (AMP) is the voice of the U.S. domestic maritime industry, a pillar of our nation‘s economic, national, and homeland security. More than 40,000 American vessels built in American shipyards, crewed by American mariners, and owned by American companies, operate in our waters 24/7, and this commerce sustains nearly 500,000 American jobs, $29 billion in labor compensation, and more than $100 billion in annual economic output. For more information about AMP, please visit www.americanmaritimepartnership.com. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000151 DOT-Am.Oversight-001144 ·b■SA .· · ·• · ..· -~· .,,. SctA Offshore MarineService Association AMERICAN MARITIME PARTNERSHIP January 31, 2017 Via email: CBPPublicationsResponse@cbp.dhs.gov Mr. Glen E. Vereb Director Border Security and Trade Compliance Division Office of Trade, Regulations and Rulings U.S. Customs and Border Protection Re: Proposed Modification nnd Revocation of Ruling Letters Related to Customs Application of the Jones Act to the Transportntion of Cerhlin Merchandise nnd Equipment between Constwise Points; Request for expeditious implementation of the proposal Dear Director Vereb: The Offshore Service Marine Service Association (OMSA), the Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA), the American Maritime Officers (AMO), and American Maritime Partnership (AMP) respectfully request that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) implement the above-listed Notice issued on January 18, 2017 as soon as possible, i.e., closing the comment period at the statutory minimum of 30 days. If there is an extension of the comment period, it should be no longer than an additional 60 days, Put succinctly, any delay will hurt Americans but help foreign vessel owners, foreign shipbuilders and foreign vessel crews who will continue to operate in the United States in a manner that ls contrary to U.S. law. Tbe Notice advances the President's "Buy American, Hire American" agenda. As you know, on January 18, 2017, CBP took action to close illegal loopholes and properly enforce the Jones Act, to the benefit of American workers, U.S. citizen owned vessel companies, and U.S. shipbuilders. CBP's Notice revokes a number ofletter rulings that are inconsistent with the clear requirements of the Jones Act, which requires U.S. built and owned ships, crewed by U.S. citizens, for the transportation of merchandise from one U.S. point to anorhe1· U.S. point (i.e., a coastwise transportation). We urge you to implement this Notice and revoke the letter rulings that are contra1yto the statute. OMSA is the national trade association representing owners and operators ofU .S.-flag vessels engaged in servicing oil and gas infrastructure on the Outer Continental Shelf(OCS). Specifically, OMSA represents approximately200 companies and 12,000 employees engaged in these businesses. OMSA is joined in this letter by the following organizations: AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000152 DOT-Am.Oversight-001145 The Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA) members constitlltc the shipyard industrial base that builds, repairs, maintains and modernizes U.S. Navy ships and craft, U.S. Coast Guard vessels of al) sizes, as well as vessels for other U.S. government agencies. In addition, SCA members build, repair and service America's fleet of commercial vessels. The Council represents 41 companies that own and operate over 120 shipyards, with faciHties on all three U.S. coasts, the Great Lakes, the inland waterways system, Alaska and Hawaii. SCA also represents 97 partner members that provide goods and services to the shipyard industry. The American Maritime Officers (AMO) is the largest union of U.S. merchant marine officers. AMO officerswork aboard U.S.-flagged merchant and military sealift vessels. AMO officers work in a broad range of domestic and international trades aboard U.S.-flaggcd vessels in the deep-sea sector, including oil and product tankers, containerships, roll-on/roll-off ships, heavy-lift ships, trailerships, general cargo vessels and the only U.S.-owned fleet ofundersea cable installationand repair ships. The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) is the broadest, deepest coalition ever assembled to represent the domestic maritime indllstry. Its 450-plus members span the United States and its territories. AMP's diverse membership is its greatest strength and our broad coalition includes vessel owners and operators, shipboard and shorcside workers, shipbuilders and repair yards, equipment manufacturers and vendors, dredging and marine construction contractors, numerous maritime associations and national security organizations. letter rulings sought to be revoked by CBP are legal interpretationsgiven by CBP of the Jones Act, The e1TOneous which is among the trade laws administered by CBP and covered by 19 U.S.C, § 1625, which governs how CBP must revoke letter rulings. These interpretations have created loopholesthat allowedthe circumventionof the Jones Act and have for decades harmed U.S. mariners, U.S. vessel companies, and U.S. shlpbuilders. Their revocation will lead to increased employment and economic growth in the Gulf region and throughout the nation. The interpretations have frustrated U.S. policy articulated in the Jones Act itself as well as CBP's policy of informed compliance with the trade laws. Further it has impaired CBP's ability to enforce the Jones Act as written. I The Jones Act is, and always has been, a quintessentially "Buy American, Hire American" statute, grounded in a national defense policy of ensuring domestic shipbuilding and seafaring capacity and in a national commercial policy of ensuring a strong domestic maritime industry. As Congress explained in the preamble: "[i]t is the policy of the United States to encourage and aid the development and maintenance of a merchant marine. .. sufficientto carry the waterborne domestic commerce... of the United States." 1 OMSA's member companies have invested billions of dollars to provide vessels of sufficient capacity, capability, and expertise to handle all work covered by the letters CBP seeks to revoke. This letter is to urge that the proposed revocations be put into effect as soon as possible, given the ongoing harm suffered by U.S. mariners, U.S. shipyards and U.S. vessel companies as a result of the illegal letter rulings. The letter rulings were originally issued by CBP without any consideration of the economic harm they would cause to the domestic maritime community. They have resulted in decades of delayed shipbuilding in U.S. shipyards and lost employment of U.S. workers. The Notice is the first step necessary to . 46 U.S.C. § 50101. The JonesAct preamblemorefully states: --It is necessaryfor the nationaldefenseand the developmentof the domesticand foreigncommerce (a) Objective. of the UnitedStatesthat the UnitedStateshavea merchantmarine-(!) sufficientto carrythe waterbornedomesticcommerceand a substantialpart of the watcrbomeexport and importforeigncommerceof the UnitedStatesandto provideshippingserviceessentialfor maintaining the flowof the watcrbomedomesticand foreigncommerceat all times; (2) capableof servingas a navaland militaryauxiliary in timeof war or nationalemergency; (3) ownedand operatedas vesselsof the United Statesby citizensof the UnitedStates; (4) composedof the best-equipped, safest,andmostsuitabletypesof vessels constructedin the United Statesand mannedwitha trainedandefficientcitizenpersonnel; and (5) supplementedby efficientfacilitiesfor buildingandrepairingvessels. (b) Policy.••Jt is the policyof the UnitedStates to encourageand aid the developmentand maintenanceofa merchantmarinesatisfyingthe objectivesdescribedin subsection(a). 1 See AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000153 DOT-Am.Oversight-001146 reverse this harm to the U.S. economy and ensure that U.S. workers and the U.S. taxpaying companiesthat employ them perfmm domestic maritime operations as envisioned by the Jones Act. Notwithstanding that CBP can, and has, issued letter rulings upon a simple request of one party, without anyfurther consideration of the consequences of the interpretation it gives or public comments, Congress has mandated a unique process for CPB's revocation of a letter ruling. To revoke or modify a letter ruling, CBP is required by 19 U.S.C. §1625(c) to give notice in the CBP Bulletin of its intentionto revoke and to allow at least 30 days opportunity for comment by the public. CBP must publish a final decision 30 days after the close of the comment period. The statute further requires that the final ruling or decision "shall" become effective 60 days after the date of its publication. CBP is correct to utilize the § 1625 notice and comment process because that is the process Congress specifically requires CBP to follow for the revocation of such letter rulings. The Federal Circuit has been clear on this question: no other process is legally required or appropriate for the revocation of these letter rulings.2 Using any other method would needlessly cause delay and prolong the harm already sustained by the U.S. maritime community.3 CBP states in the Notice that the overall reasoning for revoking the letter rulings is to make them consistent with federal statutes regarding what constitutes the coastwise transportation of merchandise. Specifically, portions of letter rulings, dating back to 1976, are contrary to the Jones Act (46 U.S.C. § 55102), and subsequent statutory changes to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, and subsequent clarifications to the definition of "merchandise" for purposes of the Jones Act, namely, to include valueless materials (1988) and government prope1ty (I 992). Moreover, CBP intends by this notice to revoke or modify any treatment previously accorded by CBP to substantially identical transactions, i.e.,these letter rulings can no longer be relied upon by others. Parties should seek new letter rulings from CBP for any prospective transaction to detennine whether it is covered by the Jones Act. TheFederalCircuitstated: The governmentarguesthatthe interpretationof"substantiallyidenticaltransactions"in section1625(c)adoptedby the Courtof InternationalTradeconflictswith the Secretary'spowerto promulgatebindingregulations.Undersuch an interpretation,the governmentstates,the Secretarywill be forcedto follow"treatments"establishedby whatit terms"aberrantdecisions"of Customsofficers.We do not agree... Contraryto the government'sargument,the interpretationof"substantiallyidenticaltransactions"thatwe thinkis co1Tect doesnot limit the Secretary'sauthority to chnngen prior"treatment."It simplyrequiresthatthe Secretaryutilizenoticeand commentproceduresunder19 U.S.C. § 1625(c)beforndoingso. California Indus. Prods. v. UniledStales, 436 F. 3d 1341,1356(Fed.Cir.2006). Moreover,CBPregulationsspecifically statethat whilea rnlingletterrepresentsthe officialpositionofCBP, it is onlywithrespectto the particular transactionor issue described therein. Whilethat principlemaybe citedas authorityby otherCBPofficialsin the dispositionof transactionsinvolvingthe samecircumstances,they cannotdo so whentherehas beena merechangeof practicewhich affectsthat principle.Moreover,"no otherpersonshouldrely on the rulingletteror assumethat the principlesof thatruling will be appliedin connectionwith any transactionotherthanthe one describedin the letter,"and noticeis only requiredto thirdpat1iespurelyas a proceduralmatterpursuantto§ 1625(c). 3The SupremeCourt has made it clear that CBP letterrolingsare given little deference,and are not "agencystatements of generalapplicabilityand futureeffect"havingthe "forceand effectof law": It is difficult,in fact,to see in the agencypracticeitself any indicationthatCustomseverset out with a lawmaking pretensein mindwhenit undertookto makecliissi.licationslike these. Customsdoesnot generallyengagein noticcand-commentpracticewhenissuingthem,and theirtreatmentby the agencymakesit clearthat a letter's binding characteras a rulingstopsshortof thirdparties...Nor do the amendmentsto the statute[§I 625]madeeffectiveafter this case arosedisturbour conclusio11. The new lawrequiresCustomsto providenotice-and"comment procedures only whenmodifyingor revokinga priorclassificationrulingor modifyingthe treatmentaccordedto substantially identicaltransactions, 19U. S. C. § 1625(c)... The statutorychangesrevealno newcongressionalobjectiveof treatingclassificationdecisionsgenerallyas rulemakingwith forceof law,nor do theysuggestany intentto create a Chevron patchworkof classificationrulings,somewithforceof law,somewithout.. . . UnitedStates v. Mead, 533 U.S.218,234 (2001),internalcitationsomitted. 2 AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000154 DOT-Am.Oversight-001147 CBP's Notice revoking these letter rulings is absolutely critical to proper enforcement of the Jones Act. We urge you to implement the Notice as s0011as possible. We thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this request. Sincerely, Matt Paxton President Shipbuilders Conncil of America Aaron C. Smith President and CEO Offshore Marine Service Association Thomas k Allegretti Chairman American Maritime Pa1inership Paul Doell National President American Maritime Officers cc: ..J7'- The Honorable Dennis Kelly, Secretary Depa1imentofHomcland Security Mr. Reince Priebus, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff Ms. Kellyanne Conway, Executive Counsel to the President Mr. Steve Bannon, Assistant to the President Mr. Peter Navarro, Assistant to the President Mr. GaryCohn,Director, Natlonal Economic Council Mr. Stephen Miller, Senior Advisor to the President Mr. Rolf Lundberg, Deputy Director of the National Trade Council Mr. Mark Sandy, Acting 0MB Director Mr. Dominic Mancini, Acting OTRAAdministrator Mr. Stuart Levenbach, Policy Analyst, 0MB Ms. Christa Brzozowski, Deputy Assistant Secretary Trade and Transport Policy, OHS AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000155 DOT-Am.Oversight-001148 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Henry, Tina (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: American Chemisty Council Event Next Tuesday Thursday, February 02, 2017 10:11:27 AM How to UNZIP.html SecureZIP Attachments.zip (b) (6) Brian,   Unfortunately, ELC will not be in DC next Tuesday, 2/7, and cannot attend.  Moving forward, Wendy Ghering and I will be your contact here for ELC.  Holly is leaving…….   Thanks! Tina   (b) (6) From: Holly Lewis [mailto Sent: Wednesday, February 01, 2017 8:42 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: Fwd: American Chemisty Council Event Next Tuesday Sent from my iPad Begin forwarded message: (b) (6) From: "McGuire, Brian (McConnell)" < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: February 1, 2017 at 10:33:08 AM EST To: "Holly Lewis (secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)" , (b) (6) (b) (6) "Holly Lewis ( )" Subject: American Chemisty Council Event Hey HollyI know you're swamped, but just wanted to check in on the invite from the American Chemistry Council's for next Tuesday night at the Willard Hotel (attached). It's a board of directors meeting, and they'd like for Secretary Chao to be their guest speaker. They invited VP Pence but he can't swing it, which is why the invite is addressed to him. Since the timing is tight, they reached out to me to see if I could try to shake the invite loose. Even a definitive "no" would be fine, if the Secretary can't do this. Thank you-and congratulations again! Brian Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000156 DOT-Am.Oversight-001149 (6) mericane Chemistry ouncil B RYAN Z UMWALT VICE PRESIDENJ FCDERAL AffAIRS January 5, 2017 The Honorable Michael Pence The Vice Pres ident-elect of the United States Office of President-elect Donald Trump 1800 F Street NW Room Gl 17 Washington, DC 20270-0117 Dear Vice Pres ident-elec t Pence: Tam very pleased to invite you to be the keynote speaker at the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Board of Directors dinner on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 between 7:00 pm and 8:30 pm at The Willard Continental Hotel in Washington, DC. As you may be aware, the business of chemistry is a $797 billion enterprise that employs 810,000 people nationwide . A leader in production, the industry provides over 15% of the world's chemicals and directly touches more than 96% of all manufactured goods. ACC represents 156 leading companies in the business of chemistry - from large corporations such as Dow and ExxonMobil Chemical Company, to numerous smaller companies providing critical products and materials to every aspect of the U.S. economy. Ideally, you would discuss 2017 Administration priorities and any other topics you believe will be of interest to our members. We've reserved 20 to 30 minutes for you to speak, which includes time for questions and answers. Th e Counci l's Board of Directors includes 50 CEOs and other top executives from our membership. Peter Cella, President and CEO of Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP, leads the Board of Directors. Other member company staff, including Washington representa tives, will also attend. We expect approximately 80 persons in total. Please contact me at (bJ wh ich we'll bot h answe r. Tks! St ef Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'' Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, 1\1itch1\fcConnell From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto: wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thu rsday, February 02, 2017 3:47 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Leader McConnell W ill do. Below is my info ! We ndy M Gehring Office of th e Secret ary U.S. Departme nt of Tra nsporta t ion E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov From: Inma n, Todd (OST) Sent: Thu rsday, February 02, 2017 3:05 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Leader McConnell Wendy , Meet Stefan ie Muchow. tb><5> --.----~ --.--c:-- .--~-Leader McConnell. Please ma e sure anyt the Leader is run through her. tb><5> M pVERSIGHT ,- 1 She is al l things affect or involves ------------------- DOT-18-0010-B-000159 DOT-Am.Oversight-001152 tl>ll6l I 'll be glad to help in any way . J. Todd In.Ulan Direct or Of Operations Office of the Secre tary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W -9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 DOT-18-0010-B-000160 DOT-Am.Oversight-001153 From: To: Subject: Date: Fwu, Melissa {OSU Inma n, Todd {OSU: Carmack. Terry (McConnell} RE: Meeting Request. Thursd ay, February 02, 2017 7:30 :46 PM Todd sent me the attachmen t. Thanks all ! From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Sent: Thu rsday, February 02, 2017 6:16 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Subject: RE: Meeting Request. Terry, So nice t o make your acquain t ance via email. Feel free to email me requests at th is email. My email accoun t truncated the bottom half of this conversat ion, so I do not believe I received t he meeting request being passed forward . Wou ld you m ind resending? I wou ld be happy t o put it in front of our scheduling team . Best, Melissa Fwu Office of the Secretaiy U.S . Departm ent of Transpo1ia tion 1200 New Jersey Ave ., S.E. Washington, D .C. 20590 From: Inma n, Todd (OST) Sent: Thu rsday, February 02, 2017 2:21 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Cc: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: Meeting Request. No problem Teny . I'll personally send it to the appropr iate person . ElC was refen ing to Melissa Fwu , cc'd here . Melissa , Meet Ten y Ca1mack State Director for the Leader. r nsi I Obviously you can send any items like that to Melissafwn@dotgov If you need the generic schedulin g address for ju st general inquiries use secretaryschedn)er@dot gov Also, her public email address which is monitored by publi c affairs and exec sec . is eJainechao@dotgov DOT-18-0010-B-000161 DOT-Am.Oversight-001154 Hope that helps. From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 1:58 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Meeting Request. @mcconnell.senate.gov] Todd—Hope all is well.  Please see meeting request from Jim Adams.  You may know Jim, as he is married to KY State Senator Julie Adams.  The Secretary knows them both well.   I spoke to the Secretary this morning, as she suggested that I send requests such as this to someone named Melissa.  But I don’t have her email address.  So please advise.  Thanks much.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Jim Adams [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 1:14 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Meeting Request. ] @mcconnell.senate.gov> Thank you Terry. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000162 DOT-Am.Oversight-001155 From: O,r:a:i,xkIeo::v (MrOJoodO To: Inman Todd (Q5T) FW: For Secr_.,,ryBaine O\ao Friday,February00, 2017 2:55:26 PM SUbjed:: Date: Todd- ..lb_J_ )( 6) ------------- From: lb)(6) Sent : Friday, Feb ruary 03, 2017 2:33 PM To : Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <'(b)( 6)'___ @mcconne ll.senate .gov> Subje<:t: For Sec ret ary Elaine Chao The Honorable Elain e Chao Secretary of Transportation Dear Madam Secretary: 6l I would like to take a moment and introduce myself. My name isE < , and actually , I am reintroducing myself . I am a professional photographer, and I photographed you when you were the Secretary of Labor . At that time, on the weekends you would be returning to Louisville (or somewhere else in the region) and often had an event to attend in your role as Secretary . lb)<6> , one of the DOL photographers , assigned me to cover those events and send the photos back to the DOL, the same day. I really enjoyed that work and would like to return to it. I can only imagine that similar situations will present themselves in your new job as Secretary of the Department of Transportation . Please find attached some photos of you during your service under President Bush . Thank you so much for any consideration in this matter . Sincerely , Patrick L . Pfister ' 6)( 6) PLP_090 1.JPG M pVERSIGHT PLP_0930.JPG I I · PLP_0951.JPG I · f r.; DOT-18-0010-B-000163 DOT-Am.Oversight-001156 Youtl1Build PLP_0991.JPG PLP_ 1074.JPG PLP_ 1127.JPG PLP_l 164.JPG PLP_ 1093.JPG DOT-18-0010-B-000164 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001157 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Re: Paducah Chamber of Commerce scheduling request Friday, February 03, 2017 5:28:21 PM Wendy, Let them know ELC is on travel next week. Sorry to miss them. Thanks! - Sent from my iPhone > On Feb 3, 2017, at 5:03 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: > > Please see the below request from a Kentuckian to see ELC next week, the group is with the Paducah Chamber of Commerce. Do you want me to share anyone's email with them, or will someone reach out? Thanks! > > -----Original Message----> From: Steurer, Robert (McConnell) > Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 4:46 PM > To: Bill Bartleman <(b) (6) @paducah.com> > Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> > Subject: Re: Hi Robert > > Hi Bill. See you next week. Adding Laura Vincent who can assist on your request. Thanks. > >> On Feb 3, 2017, at 4:36 PM, Bill Bartleman <(b) (6) @paducah.com> wrote: >> >> I'll be in Washington next week with a small group of paducah officials. We are meeting wit the senator at 3:30 Wednesday. >> >> Also while there, I'd like to meet for a few minutes with Secretary Chao. Can you help me make contact with someone to see if that could happen? >> >> Hope yo get to see you while there. >> >> Thanks >> >> Bill Bartleman >> (b) (6) >> >> (b) (6) @paducah.com >> >> >> >> >> -- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT - DOT-18-0010-B-000165 DOT-Am.Oversight-001158 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Re: For Secretary Elaine Chao Saturday, February 04, 2017 9:55:21 PM Thanks.   Good info.   (b) (5)   Sent from my iPad On Feb 3, 2017, at 1:55 PM, Carmack, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Todd--(b) (5) Terry     Thanks.  Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: (b) (6) Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 2:33 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: For Secretary Elaine Chao @mcconnell.senate.gov>       The Honorable Elaine Chao Secretary of Transportation       Dear Madam Secretary: (b) (6) I would like to take a moment and introduce myself.  My name is and actually, I am reintroducing myself.  I am a professional photographer, and I photographed you when you were the Secretary of Labor.   At that time, on the weekends you would be returning to Louisville (or somewhere else in the region) and often had an event to attend in your role as (b) (6) Secretary.  , one of the DOL photographers, assigned me to cover those events and send the photos back to the DOL, the same day. I really enjoyed that work and would like to return to it.  I can only imagine that similar situations will present themselves in your new job as Secretary of the Department of Transportation.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000166 DOT-Am.Oversight-001159 Please find attached some photos of you dming yom service under President Bush . Thank you so mu ch for any consideration in this matter. Sincerely , tl>ll6l DOT-18-0010-B-000167 DOT-Am.Oversight-001160 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, Tina (OST) Friday March 10 Monday, February 06, 2017 7:22:07 PM I’ve got a tentative hold for dinner at Walter and Cathy Isaacson’s with Oscar Munoz, CEO of United Airlines. We’re looking at week day nights, hopefully that week as well.       Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000168 DOT-Am.Oversight-001161 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) McInerney, Marianne (OST) RE: random Q Tuesday, February 07, 2017 6:09:00 PM Marianne Mcinerney, office of public affairs run point on this.    From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, February 07, 2017 5:13 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: random Q @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Our press folks are getting contacted by pressing wanting to put questions into DoT.  Can you send me the best contact(s) to point folks too?   Tks!   Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000169 DOT-Am.Oversight-001162 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Emailing: S1 Staff Roster - 02-09-2017.xlsx, S1 Staff - FEB 3 2017 (2).pdf Friday, February 10, 2017 10:26:00 AM S1 Staff Roster - 02-09-2017.xlsx S1 Staff - FEB 3 2017 (2).pdf This may be helpful as well.     Your message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: S1 Staff Roster - 02-09-2017.xlsx S1 Staff - FEB 3 2017 (2).pdf Note: To protect against computer viruses, e-mail programs may prevent sending or receiving certain types of file attachments.  Check your e-mail security settings to determine how attachments are handled. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000170 DOT-Am.Oversight-001163 For Off icial Use Only Last Updated: Secretary's Public Line Lobby Receptionist Yellow = W80-302 Confe rence Room 2/9/2017 Blue = Staff Not on Board f(b) (6) (202) 366-1111 Deva Tucker Sandy Snyder LaKeya Judd Last First ICell Number E-mail address Title Office Location (b)( 6) Baum Erika Erika.Baum@dot.gov Bell Britt Kirk Mic hael kirk.bell@dot.gov Michael.Britt@dot.gov Chao Elaine secdot18@dot.gov W91-320 Chinn Elwel l Mon ica Daniel monica.chinn@dot.gov daniel.elwell@dot.gov W93-317 Fiorentino Fult on Marty.Fiorentino@dot.gov Finch.Fulton@dot.gov W90-308 W80-302 Furman M arty Finch Jon Fwu Gehr ing Genero Me lissa Wendy Laura jon.furman@dot.gov Melissa.Fwu@dot.gov W90-326 W9 1-31 1 Wendy.Gehring@dot.gov Laura.Genero@dot.gov W90-334 W90-340 Graham Doug las douglas.gra ham@dot.gov W93-319 Henry Tina Christopher Tina.Henry@dot.gov W90-307 W80-302 Hess Hit t ner Inman Iverson George Todd Kristine ChristoQher.Hess@dot.gov George.Hittner@dot.gov todd.inman@dot.gov W9 1-317 Chief of Staff I Kristine.lverson@dot.gov Ruth.Knouse@dot.gov I Director I of Operat ions W93-318 W90-314 W80-302 W90-321 W90-3 13 W93-32 4 Knouse Kopko Mccown Ruth M atthew Brigham Mcinerney Moo re marianne.mcinerney@dot.g ' a.moore@dot.gov W90-322 W93-488 Morgan Ma rianne Allison Owen owen.morgan@dot.gov W93-332 Mo rri s Moy Wi llis Edmund Willis.Morris@dot.gov W80-302 W9 1-303 Nelson Owens Keith James Plans Powers Barry Michae l Barry.Plans@dot.gov michael.Qowers@dot.gov W93-302 Pugliese Ant hony anthony.Qugliese@dot.gov W9 1-124 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT Matthew.KoQko@dot.gov brigha m.mccown@dot.gov Edmund.Moy@dot.gov Keith.Nelson@dot.gov J.Owens@dot.gov ·1 !Direct Dial Number b)( 6) W80-302 W80-302 I W95-320 W80-302 DOT-18-0010-B-000171 DOT-Am.Oversight-001164 For Off icial Use Only Last First E-mail address (Cell Number Title lb)(6J Ray Jim Sanborn Smeda M ark Elisabeth J.Ra:i@dot.gov mark.sanborn@dot.gov Elisabeth.Smeda@dot.gov Smith Somerv ille Loren Tamara loren.smith@dot.gov Tamara.Somervillera>dot.gov W80-302 W9O-32O Urban Wi lkinson Lor i James Lori.Urban@dot.gov James.Wilkinson@dot.gov W9O-33O Yonkovich Nick nick. ::lOnkovich@dot.gov W95- 115 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 1Direct Dial Number Office Location r )(6J W80-302 I DOT-18-0010-B-000172 DOT-Am.Oversight-001165 2017 LANDING TEAM Nancy Butler Karen Czarnecki Bo Denysyk Finch Fulton Brigham McCown (LEAD LANDING TEAM MEMBER) Dan Elwell Shirley Ybarra 3 February 2017 1 DOT-18-0010-B-000173 DOT-Am.Oversight-001166 S1 KEY PERSONNEL Erika L. Baum Kirk Bell Michael J Britt Monica K. Chinn Karen Czarnecki Thomas Martin Fiorentino Jonathan Furman Melissa Fwu Wendy Gehring 3 February 2017 2 DOT-18-0010-B-000174 DOT-Am.Oversight-001167 Laura Genero Douglas Graham Tina-Marie Henry Christopher D Hess George Hittner J. Todd Inman Ruth Knouse Matthew Kopko Holly Lewis 3 February 2017 3 DOT-18-0010-B-000175 DOT-Am.Oversight-001168 Marianne McInerney Myra Allison Moore Owen Morgan Willis A Morris Keith A Nelson James C Owens Barry Plans Michael Powers Anthony Pugliese 3 February 2017 4 DOT-18-0010-B-000176 DOT-Am.Oversight-001169 Jim Ray Mark Sanborn Loren Smith Tamara Somerville Lori Urban James B Wilkson JR Nick Yonkovich 3 February 2017 5 DOT-18-0010-B-000177 DOT-Am.Oversight-001170 From : To : Subject: Date: Muchow Stefanie {McCorwtell) InmanTodd(OS:0 RE: Contact infotmation Friday, Felxua,y 10, 20 17 10:26 :07 AM I won ' t share at all but it's hugely helpful to me. From: Inman, Todd {OST) [ mailto:todd. inman@dot .gov] Se nt: Friday, February 10, 2017 10:25 AM To: Muchow, Stefan ie {McConnell) Subject: RE: Contact information I wo uldn' t d istri but e free ly but t ho ught it might be of help . From: Muchow, Stefanie {McConnell) _ u[mu,;i~iu.lto ...."ilb :;;:, l .:; <6;:, J___ Se nt: Friday, February 10, 2017 10:21 AM l JLJ ] .... 1,@.,_m<> White House Liaison / Personnel 6 --------------ChristopherHess@dotgov; • LEAD : Kirk Bell; Kirk Bell@dotgov; tt>n> 6 • ASSIST : Willis Morris; Willis.Morris@dot.gov ; tb><> • ASSIST : Christopher Hess; 6 "bH > -------- Briefing Book 6 • LEAD : Wendy Gehrin g; Wendy.Gehring@dot.gov ; tt>n> -------- --------------- • ASSIST : Owen Morgan; OwenMorgan@dotgov; • ASSIST : Melissa Fwu ; Melissa.Fwu@dot.gov ' 6)( 6) 5 ; tb><> Direct S-1 Assistance 6 • LEAD : Erika Baum ; Erika Baum@dotgov; tb><> M t\ pVERSIGHT -------- DOT-18-0010-B-000179 DOT-Am.Oversight-001172 6 5 --------- • ASSIST : Melissa Fwu ; Melissa.Fwu@dot.gov ; ' ><> • ASSIST : Jon Furman; Jon Furman@dot gov; Executive Secretary ' 6)( 6) --------- • LEAD : Ruth Knou se; Ruth.Knouse@dot.gov ; "b)(6J -----6 ------------ • ASSIST : Monica Chin ; Monica Chin@dot gov ; tbH > Scheduling 6 ------------ • Wendy Gehring ; Wendy.Gehring@dot.gov ; r(bH > • H . Henry ; T"maenry T ma Office of Public Affairs - 6 @d J>t gov ; tb)( ) --------- 6 • LEAD : Mari anne Mcln em ey; Marianne.Mcinemey@dot.gov ; ll>H > . • ASSIST : Alli son Moor e; A.Moore@dot.gov ; Speechwriter --------~~ lbJ(6J -----• ASSIST : Doug Graham; Douglas.Graham@dot.gov ; -----Budget and Programs / CFO • LEAD : Laura Genero ; I ,aura Genero@dot gov ; tbJl6J 6 ----------------- • LEAD : Keith Nelson; Keith Nelson@dot gov ; tbH > 6 • ASSIST : Mike Powers; Michael.Powers@dot.gov ; ll>H > 6 ------ • ASSIST : Nick Y onkovich; Nick Yonkovich@dot gov ; "bH > Legal • LEAD : James Owens; J.Owens@dot.gov ; tbJl6J ------ • ASSIST : Matt Kopko ; Matthew Kopko@dot gov; . [(lj)l 6J -------------LJ • CONSULTANT : Jim Ray; DOT EMAIL PENDING ; ~~ • CONSULT ANT : Brigham Mcc own ; brigham mccown@dot gov; DOT-18-0010-B-000180 DOT-Am.Oversight-001173 tl>)( 6) J. Todd In.Ulan Direct or Of Operations Office of the Secre tary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W -9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 DOT-18-0010-B-000181 DOT-Am.Oversight-001174 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov @mcConnell.senate.gov; Gehring, Wendy (OST) AEI - Sea Island Tuesday, February 14, 2017 12:25:00 PM (b) (6) (b) (6) FYI – ELC is attending too.  Just starting to look at flights, etc. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000182 DOT-Am.Oversight-001175 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, Tina (OST) RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford"s Theater) Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:14:08 PM (b) (6)   From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:13 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   (b) (6)   From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:11 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Tks!     From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:09 PM To: Paul Tetreault Cc: George Hittner; Knouse, Ruth (OST); Jennifer Kiefer Thomas Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Hi – I just heard back on this.  We are being quite careful about putting the Secretary’s name on anything right now.  She is aware of it but just cannot do it this year.  Sorry! Tina   ------- From: Paul Tetreault [mailto:(b) (6) @fords.org] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:06 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Cc: George Hittner; Knouse, Ruth (OST); Jennifer Kiefer Thomas Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Dear Tina,   I just wanted to check in with you about the request for Secretary Chao to serve as an honorary co-chair of the Ford’s Theatre annual gala again this year.  The following individuals have confirmed their participation as co-chairs for the event in June:  Iris Weinshall, Abby Blunt, Janna Ryan, Paul Pelosi, Judy McCarthy and Kasey Crowley.  Obviously, Secretary Chao’s participation on this distinguished list would make it complete.   Please let me know, if you have any further questions.  I greatly appreciate your assistance.   Paul   **************************** Paul R. Tetreault AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000183 DOT-Am.Oversight-001176 Director Ford’s Theatre Where Lincoln’s Legacy Lives Mailing Address: 514 10th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Phone: (b) (6) Email: (b) (6) @fords.org www.fords.org     From: Paul Tetreault Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 8:54 AM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Cc: George Hittner; Knouse, Ruth (OST) Subject: Re: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Tina,     Thank you so very much.  Appreciate your attention.  Please let me know if you or the secretary have any further questions.   Paul R. Tetreault @fords.org Sent from my iPhone (b) (6) 111- On Feb 3, 2017, at 3:58 AM, Henry, Tina (OST) wrote: Fully aware of this event. We will discuss with counsel and then Sec Chao.  Sent from my iPhone > wrote: On Feb 2, 2017, at 10:06 PM, George Hittner <(b) (6) Many thanks for your note, Paul.  I have copied Tina Henry on this message  Tina is the Secretary's scheduler and will be able to put this request into the hopper.     Tina:   Please see below.   RegardsGeorge On Feb 2, 2017, at 6:08 PM, Paul Tetreault <(b) (6) @fords.org> wrote: 111- George,   I do have one small thing I would like to ask for your assistance on.  Ford’s Theatre would love to have Secretary Chao serve, once again, as co-chair of our annual gala in June of this year.    DOT-18-0010-B-000184 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001177   Secretary Chao has served as a co-chair of our annual gala since 2007 (as the spouse of the Republican leader in the Senate).  She did serve as a co-chair when she was the Labor Secretary in ’07 & ’08—so there is precedent for her serving in this (honorary) position.   We have been working with Senator McConnell’s office about annual event held at the Capitol—and they had inquired about the status of Secretary Chao as a co-chair.   Clearly we would love to have her as a Co-chair and she understands what that entails (or does not entail).   It would be greatly appreciated if you might be able to help me with this request.   Please advise if I need to direct this to another person.   Again, thank you for your assistance.   Paul   **************************** Paul R. Tetreault Director Ford’s Theatre Where Lincoln’s Legacy Lives Mailing Address: 514 10th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Phone: (b) (6) Email: (b) (6) @fords.org www.fords.org     -------- From: George J. Hittner [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2017 6:54 PM To: Paul Tetreault Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Thanks for your email, Paul.   I had the good fortune of working for Secretary Chao at the Department of Labor.  I took an 8 year hiatus from DC and I am now back helping on her transition to DOT.  Where this road will lead is anyone’s guess; but for now, I am pleased to be helping the team get her onboarded.   If there is ever anything I can do to assist, please do not hesitate to let me know.   My bestGeorge      AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000185 DOT-Am.Oversight-001178 -------------------George J. Hittner (b) (6)   From: Paul Tetreault [mailto (b) (6) @fords.org] Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2017 5:24 PM To: George J. Hittner <(b) (6) > Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   George,   Thank you for your attention on this.  Though we hate to see Secretary Chao resign, we completely understand.   Will you be working with her at Transportation, or are you just working on the transition?   Paul   **************************** Paul R. Tetreault Director Ford’s Theatre Where Lincoln’s Legacy Lives Mailing Address: 514 10th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Phone: (b) (6) Email: (b) (6) @fords.org www.fords.org     -------- From: George J. Hittner [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2017 6:21 PM To: Paul Tetreault Subject: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater)   Dear Mr. Tetreault:   On behalf of Secretary Elaine Chao, attached please find an electronic version of a letter that has been placed in the mail to you reflecting Secretary Chao’s resignation from the Ford’s Theater Board of Trustees, effective immediately.    If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience.   Sincerely, George J. Hittner   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000186 DOT-Am.Oversight-001179 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell) Inman. Todd (OST) RE: mentoring Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3 :24 :32 PM tl>)( 6) From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3:19 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : RE: mentoring Thank you! tbHS> ----------------- Also, for your close hold here 's an updated list of current organizational assignments . 5 From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailtoitb_>< _ >____ i.,,@=m.:.:.c=c=o:.:.:nn=e=ll.=se=n=a=te=.g,..,,o=v ] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3:12 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring For next week: !bl (6J From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov ] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 10:54AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : RE: mentoring tl>)( 6) Also, for your vis it next wee k get me your make / model/ color and tag number and I'l l arrange for up front par king . M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000187 DOT-Am.Oversight-001180 Thanks so much! 61 From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell)[~ .>_,_ <____ Sent: Wednesday,February 15, 2017 10:47 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: mentoring ro .... c...,c .... o.... oo ... e... ll.... ,s... e.... oa ..t... e._,g ....... oy] .....@ .. .... Perfect! I' ll circle up with you next week fo r directi ons fo r t he best place to come, but looking forwa rd to seeing t he new digs. tl>)( 6) From: I nman, Todd (OST) [roailto;todd,inman@dot.gov ] Sent: Wednesday,February 15, 2017 10:20 AM To: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: mentoring tl>)( 6) tl>)l 6) From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell)[.roailto.t b_>< _5>____ Sent: Wednesday,February 15, 2017 8:05 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: mentoring @ ..... ro ..... c..c... o.... n,....ne,..U .... s... e... oa ..t..,e...,,g......,oy ] ....1... tl>)( 6) Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'· Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, :Mitch l\kConnell M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000188 DOT-Am.Oversight-001181 From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Sent: Tuesday,February 14, 2017 3:54 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject: RE: mentoring tl>ll6l 5 From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell) [= ""=m ~a...,jlt ... o.._ 1tb_>< _ >____ ..la@=.u.m.,,.cc..,o .... o..... oe ...l.... Lse.......,n.,.at-e~,g_..ov ] Sent: Monday,February 13, 2017 6:52 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: mentoring tl>ll6l From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Sent: Monday,February 13, 2017 4:4 1 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject: RE: mentoring tl>ll6l 5 From: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell) ["m ."=a""='il=to ""itb _> >____ < _ _.j.,,_@;.:.:m=c=co=n.:.:.n=e= ll.=se=n=a=te""'.g""oa.,.v ] Sent: Monday,February 13, 2017 4:24 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: mentoring Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'' Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, 1\1itch1\fcConnell From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov ] Sent: Sunday,February 12, 2017 3:41 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject: RE: mentoring M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000189 DOT-Am.Oversight-001182 tl>ll6l From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 6:58 PM To: 'Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell)' Subject: RE: mentoring tl>ll6l From: Muchow,Stefanie(McConnell)[~m~a~ilt"="o .._ 1tb_>< _5>_____ Sent: Thursday, February02, 2017 6:56 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: mentoring j1""'@""m .... c,.,c.,.o:.uo .... oe ...l... Lse.......,n_at-e~,g,.,.o'"""v ] tl>ll6l From: Inman, Todd (OST) [maj!to;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Sent: Thursday, February02, 2017 6:49 PM To: Muchow,Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: mentoring tl>ll6l J. Todd In.Ulan Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 DOT-18-0010-B-000190 DOT-Am.Oversight-001183 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) John Cusey; McGuire, Brian (McConnell); Furman, Jon (OST) Bailey Longhofer; Laura Lalinde RE: Secretary Chao Wednesday, February 15, 2017 2:12:58 PM image001.png Fantastic. I’m also going to loop in the Secretary’s personal aide, he’s kind of doing the trip schedule.       - From: John Cusey [mailto:(b) (6) @AEI.org] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 1:17 PM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Bailey Longhofer; Laura Lalinde Subject: RE: Secretary Chao   Brian, that is wonderful news. We are thrilled she will join us.    Wendy, Bailey, cced on this email, will be the point person on the logistics.  I think we would want Secretary Chao on a panel on Sunday morning, and we are inviting Secretary DeVos to be on that same panel.  We look forward to working with you.   Sincerely,   Cusey A.El John Director of Government Relations ~ -- American Enterprise Institute   (b) (6)     From: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 12:43 PM To: John Cusey <(b) (6) @AEI.org>; Gehring, Wendy (OST) (wendy.gehring@dot.gov) Subject: Secretary Chao   John, meet Wendy, Wendy, meet John..   Wendy, John is our point person and all-around MVP for all things AEI.   John, Wendy works with Secretary Chao at DOT and just confirmed for me the Secretary’s intention of attending the Sea Island conference.   Hopefully we can uncross signals here and make sure everything’s a go on both sides now!   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000191 DOT-Am.Oversight-001184 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000192 DOT-Am.Oversight-001185 Muchow. stefanie (McConnell) Henry. Tina (OST}: Vincent. Laura (McConnell) Gehring. Wendy (OST) RE: Dinner 3/8/17 Wednesday, February 15, 2017 8:03:37 AM From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date: He has a dinner that night... sorry. From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto :tina.henry@dot.gov ] Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 3:50 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Fwd : Dinner 3/8/17 Please see below. IfMM is available.... Begin fo1wardedmessage: II 5 Dinner on Wednesday, March 8, will be at Cathy and my home, which is lbr< > ------- we wifl ctoit at 7pm, unless you prefer another time. We will expect the Senator unless you tell us othe1wise . That would make six. Let us know if all this works. f(b) (6) On Feb 13, 2017, at 6:04 PM, Isaacson, Walter 5 r!b> <> @aspeninstitute.org<~ @aspeninstitute.org>> wrote: I just heard from Wendy! Thanks. Walter From: Tina-Maria Herny [mailtof H6> Sent: Monday, Febrna1y 13, 201'/ 5:33 PM To: Isaacson, Walter ,Cc: Herny, Tina (OST); Gehring, Wen,dy (OST),..., ;_____ 6 5 H> Subject: Re: Dinner 3T8/ l 7 _ > I am calling now. On Mon, Feb 13, 2017 at 5:32 PM, Isaacson, Walter @aspeninstitute.org<~ enoyorT ma, Could you give me a call at your convenience? lbJ<5> Thanks, Walter 5 4!b> <> @aspeninstitute.org>> wrote: -----------DOT-18-0010-B-000193 DOT-Am.Oversight-001186 On Feb 10, 2017, at 2 :44 PM, Herny , Tina (OST) > wrote: Mr. Isaacson, Up to you regarding home or restaurant. If at a restaurant, we would recommend a private room. Not sure about the Leader yet - it will probably be a "play by ear" depending upon what is happening that evening on the Hill. I will let his folks know though. Also, we heard from Kitty Boone re Aspen IDEAS Festival in Aspen. Not sure what the schedule will be in June but wanted you to know I had heard from them. Regards, Tina Herny -----Original Message----From: Isaacson, Walter [~ @aspeninstin1te.org<~ Sent: Friday, Febmaiy 10, 2017 2:33 PM To: Tina-Maiia Herny ; Oscai·Munoz; Brett [HDQLD] Hait pc : Gehring, Wendy (OST); Elaine Chao; Herny , Tina (OST); ~b)( 6) l] !> Subject: Re: Dinner Great. I am copying Oscai·and Brett. We can do it Wednesday Mai·ch8. I will check with Cathy and see if we can do it at our house, or would the Secretaiy prefer a restaurant? Will the Senator be joining as well? All the best, Walter On Feb 10, 2017, at 12:05 PM, Tina-Ma1ia Hern tl>)( 6) >>> wrote: I believe Mai·ch8 is best. Sec Chao has something March 7 already. On Thu, Feb 9, 2017 at 10:41 PM, Isaacson, Walter 5 as eninstitute.or H i·---<5> @aspeninstitu~ lto 1 ~ ~~ wrote: Hi. Would Mai·ch7 or Mai·ch8 work for the dinner? I hope so! ~ !ll"-"-'-"""'-'-'""-€>· DOT-18-0010-B-000194 DOT-Am.Oversight-001187 If so, we can do it at my house or a restaurant. All the best, Walter Walter, Secreta1yChao asked that we reach out to you regarding the dinner you've so generously offered to host. She's wondering if there is a week day that might work better for both you and Cathy and if so, would it also be helpful to have the dinner in a private room in a restaurant? Please let us know what works best for you. Best Regards, Wendy Wendy M Gehling Office of the Secreta1y U.S. Department ofTranspo1tation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov > >> DOT-18-0010-B-000195 DOT-Am.Oversight-001188 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Furman, Jon (OST) Stefanie Muchow (b) (6) @mcconnell senate gov) Gehring Wendy (OST) Secretary Chao itinerary for AEI World Forum Wednesday, February 15, 2017 9:09:00 AM ELC AEI World Forum Itinerary.pdf image001.png image002.png image003.png Hi Stefanie,   I am passing along Secretary Chao’s flight information for the AEI World Forum. Please see below and attached for the itinerary.   Friday , March 10, 2017 (,,;ont 1rmat 1on Flight AMERICANAIRLINES 4526 DEPARTURE A IKKIVA L WASHINGTON/NA Tl,0 JACKSONVILLE,FL Status Class Duration Equipment Meal Serv ce Reserved Seats Frequent Flyer Notes Confirmed Coach Class - Y 02:11 (Non-stop) Embraer Emb 175 Jet None 9A (Window) (b) (6) DEP-TERMINAL C Sunday, March 12, 2017 LOD,, t irm at 1on Flight DELTA AIR LINES INC 3799 AKKIVA L DEPARTURE it'A,1A•1•1ALJ NEW YORK LGA, NY ,...A *DCA-JAX OPERATED BY REPUBLIC AIRLINES AS AMERICAN EAGLE ONEWORLD Status Class Duration Equipment Meal Serv ce Reserved Seats Frequent Flyer Notes Confirmed Coach Class - Y 02:11 (Non-stop) CR9 No Meal Service 11D (b) (6) ARR-TERMINAL D *SAV-LGA OPERATED BY ENDEAVOR AIR DBA DELTA CONNECTION     Best,   Jon Furman Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   DOT-18-0010-B-000196 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001189 Date : Feb 14 , 2017 T raveler ELAINE L CHAO DOT ATTN-E LAINE CHAO l b)(6) '(1> )16) ----THI S IS AN mN ERARY ONLY AND NOT A VA LID TICK ET OR RECEI PT --- Customer Number '(1> )16) Agent LC Friday, March 10 , 2017 Confirma ti on (bl16> Flight AMERICAN AIRLINES 4526 DEPARTURE WASHINGTON / NATL , DC 1:49 PM, Mar 10 , 2017 St atus Class ARRIVAL JACKSONVILLE , FL 4:00 PM, Mar 10 , 2017 Confirmed Coach Class - Y 02 : 11 ( Non-st op) Dura t ion Equipmen t Meal Service Reserved Seat s Frequent Flyer Embraer Emb 175 Jet None 9A (Window) '(1>)( 6) DEP-T ERMINA L C * DCA-JAX OPERATED BY REPUBLIC AI RLINES AS AMERICAN EAGLE ONEWORLD Not es Sunday, March 12, 2017 Confirma ti on (b) (6) Flight DEL TA AIR LINES INC 3799 ARRIVAL NEW YORK LGA, NY 3:09 PM, Mar 12 , 2017 DEPARTURE SAVANNAH , GA 12:58 PM , Mar 12 , 2017 St atus Class Dura t ion Equipmen t Meal Service Reserved Seat s Frequent Flyer Confirmed Coach Class - Y 02 : 11 ( Non-st op) CR9 No Meal Service 11D l b)l 6)'___ _ ARR-TERMINA L D * SAV-LGA OPERATED BY ENDEAVOR AIR DBA DELTA CONNECTION Not es Invoice / Ticket / Date ________ .. USO 276 .28 20.72 US 4.l0 ZP 10.l0XT 3 11.20 USO 386 .98 29.02 US 4.l0 ZP 10.l0XT 430 .20 Tota l Am o unt 7 41.40 6> Form of Payment : '(l>H AME GENERAL INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR BOOKIN G WITH CWTSATOTRAVEL PLEASE NOTE OUR PHONE NUMBERS FOR YOUR ACCOUNT CWTSATOTRAVEL PHONE RESERVATION 1 877 327 5 164 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000197 DOT-Am.Oversight-001190 HOURS OF BUSINESS ARE MON-FRI 7AM-10PM EASTERN FOR AN AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT CWTSATOTRAVEL AT 1-877-327-5164 ****IF INTERNATIONAL 800 NUMBER DOES NOT WORK PLEASE*** ******* CALL COLLECT TO 210-877-3219 RESERVED SEATS SUBJECT TO CANCEL 30 MIN PRIOR TO FLIGHT --------------------------------------------------FOR INFORMATION ON TSA SECURE FLIGHT PROGRAM VISIT WWW.TSA.GOV -------------------------------------------------FOR AIRPORT SECURITY INFORMATION SEE WWW.TSA.GOV . . UNUSED PAPER TICKETS MUST BE RETURNED TO CWTSATOTRAVEL CONTACT CWTSATOTRAVEL TO REFUND ELECTRONIC TICKETS FARES ARE NOT GUARANTEED UNTIL TICKETED . --------------------------------------------PLEASE VISIT WWW.CARLSONWAGONLIT.COM/AIRLINEBAGGAGEFEES FOR BAGGAGE FEE INFORMATION. CHECK OPERATING CARRIER FOR ALLOWANCE IF TRAVELING ON CODE SHARE FLIGHT. --------------------------------------------. CWTSATOTRAVEL CAN BOOK YOUR HOTEL ACCOMODATIONS. WE CAN ASSIST IN KEEPING COSTS WITHIN PER DIEM AT A FEMA APPROVED PROPERTY, GUARANTEE YOUR RESERVATION FOR LATE ARRIVAL, AND EVEN CHECK FOR A ROOM AT YOUR FAVORITE HOTEL AT LOW FEDROOM OR CWTSATOTRAVEL GOVERNMENT RATES. ALL YOUR RESERVATIONS INCLUDED ON ONE ITINERARY--AIR, CAR, AND HOTEL. . THANKS FROM YOUR CWTSATOTRAVEL TEAM!!! AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000198 DOT-Am.Oversight-001191 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Re: Request for meeting with Sec Elaine Chao Thursday, February 16, 2017 5:23:18 PM Always value your input.  FYI I think we have her speaking at that association per Gary Moore's request.   Also he asked me for a personal meeting this past week while he was in town but our schedule wouldn't allow  J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Feb 16, 2017, at 5:21 PM, Carmack, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Todd-Please see below from David Voegele, the CJE in Oldham county.  Gary Moore, who you probably know, is the CJE in Boone county.  Need any more info from me on this?  Happy to give my opinion if that is helpful.    Thanks.  Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6) -----Original Message----(b) (6) From: Voegele, David [mailto: @oldhamcountyky.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2017 4:21 PM (b) (6) To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for meeting with Sec Elaine Chao Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Voegele, David" (b) (6) (b) (6) < @oldhamcountyky.gov> ----- DOT-18-0010-B-000199 DOT-Am.Oversight-001192 Date: February 16, 2017 at 4:11:40 PM EST To: "Voegele, David" (b) (6) (b) (6) < @oldhamcountyky.gov> -----" L...-______J ----Subject: Request for meeting with Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao Terry, The National Association of Counties is meeting in Washington February 25 through March 1. Olhdam County the judge-executives of both Oldham and Boone Counties, Along with Magistrate Michael Logsdon of Olhdam county, are asking for and appointment with the Secretary of Transportation to discuss important issues in each of these counties Magistrate Logsdon is a member of the policy committee of the National Association of Counties. The important issues to be discussed include safety on the 14 mile stretch of I 71 in Oldham County, this stretch of interstate is very dangerous. We have been pushing for a long time to have this extended to a 6 Lanes. We would also like Offramp's for a new bridge over I 71 in Oldham County between exit 18 and exit 22. I 71 is only four lanes at this time from I 265 in Jefferson County to I 75 in Boone County. Because of the high level of truck activity, I 71 has been designated for fast track or freight way corridor status. There is a high number of accidents on The Oldham County portion of interstate 71, averaging one accident every 33 to 35 hours. Boone county would like to talk about the Brent Spence Bridge linking Northern Kentucky with Cincinnati, as well as a possible new Andrew change on I 75 near the Northern Kentucky airport where amazon has announced it is going to build a huge new facility. While a possible meeting may appear to have some degree of futility, the residents of both Boone and Oldham county would like to have us press these issues wherever and whenever possible. Any assistance you are able to provide in arranging a short meeting for us with the Secretary would be appreciated very much. Thank you. David Voegele (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone AMf-f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000200 DOT-Am.Oversight-001193 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Friday, February 17, 2017 5:42:18 PM Hey.  It’s the Offshore Marine Service Association.  Have a great weekend.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2017 10:59 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: What's the name of Julie Adams husbands trade group J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000201 DOT-Am.Oversight-001194 From: To: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: Governors Ball PLUS 1 Wednesday, February 22, 2017 11:25:00 AM Thanks! -----Original Message----From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2017 11:21 AM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: Governors Ball PLUS 1 He won't be able to attend, (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] . -----Original Message----From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina henry@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 1:51 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Governors Ball PLUS 1 - -----Original Message----From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 1:19 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Cc: Fiorentino, Marty (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: FW: Governors Ball PLUS 1 Can you do this? -----Original Message----] From: Gunn, Ashley L. EOP/WHO [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 1:04 PM To: (b) (6) @state.gov; (b) (6) @trerasury.gov; (b) (6) @treasury.gov; (b) (6) ; (b) (6) @usjoj.gov; Lusi, Rose EOP; Gehring, Wendy (OST); Venable, Joshua; (b) (6) @ed.gov; (b) (6) @ed.gov; (b) (6) @va.gov; (b) (6) @hq.dhs.gov; Doyle, Emma K. EOP/OMB; Pickitt, Kailey M. EOP/OMB; Director-Staff@UCIA.gov; Bradfield, Mary A.; (b) (6) @state.gov; Fiorentino, Marty (OST); Leggitt, Lance (HHS/IOS) Subject: Governors Ball PLUS 1 - - - All, The White House Social Secretary has indicated that the Sunday event has just been announced as a plus one. Please use the link below to respond and cc me as well. https://events.whitehouse.gov/form?rid=RRFH3PTRHJ. Thank you, Ashley Gunn Senior Director Cabinet Affairs - (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000202 DOT-Am.Oversight-001195 From: To: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) RE: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader Thursday, February 23, 2017 1:46:00 PM I have accepted for ELC.  Thanks, ladies!   - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 11:49 AM To: Henry, Tina (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader   I’ll decline for MM and let him know ELC’s people will be in touch regarding her attendance. Thanks!   From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 11:04 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Vincent, Laura (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader   I can handle if you like.  She does want to attend.   From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2017 11:02 AM To: Henry, Tina (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader @mcconnell.senate.gov]   We’re going to decline for the Leader.  Does she want to go?  We can tell them it’s a no for us but let Bret know he’ll hear from you re: ELC.   From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2017 8:35 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: Fwd: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader   ? Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "McInerney, Marianne (OST)" Date: February 22, 2017 at 5:52:19 AM EST To: "Gehring, Wendy (OST)" , "Henry, Tina (OST)" Subject: FW: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000203 DOT-Am.Oversight-001196   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    From: Baier, Bret [mailto:(b) (6) @FOXNEWS.COM] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 8:08 PM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST); Moore, Allison (OST) Cc: Ricalde, Katy Subject: Secetary Chao and Senate Majority Leader     Marianne,   I think in the transition this invite was lost along the way --  I am inviting Secretary Chao and Senate Majority Leader McConnell to attend the Gridiron Dinner in DC Saturday March 4th as my guests.   Secretary Chao and Senator McConnell would both be seated at the head table (ideally together)...  Attached is a letter that was sent –but, must have been lost.  (I actually went through the Senator’s office) I am hoping to confirm their attendance ASAP.   And from the letter.. in case you don’t know the Gridiron:   “the Gridiron Club is regarded, at least by its members, as Washington’s most prestigious journalistic organization. It’s composed of 65 Washington-based reporters and columnists from print and broadcast news organizations and has existed since 1885 for the purpose of sponsoring this dinner, featuring skits spoofing the political scene, including the press. A 501 ©(3) organization, its profits support a number of journalism programs and organizations.   If you can attend, you’ll be seated at the Head Table with fellow Cabinet members and other top officials.   House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi will represent the Democrats and Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa the Republicans, and Vice President Pence will be representing the Trump Administration. The skits take place between courses of the meal.”     Thanks for the urgent attention.   Any questions… call me or my assistant Katy Riclade… (b) (6)   (she is cc’d)   Sincerely,   Bret AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000204 DOT-Am.Oversight-001197     Bret Baier Chief Political Anchor, Fox News Channel Anchor & Executive Editor "Special Report with Bret Baier"   This message and its attachments may contain legally privileged or confidential information. It is intended solely for the named addressee. If you are not the addressee indicated in this message (or responsible for delivery of the message to the addressee), you may not copy or deliver this message or its attachments to anyone. Rather, you should permanently delete this message and its attachments and kindly notify the sender by reply e-mail. Any content of this message and its attachments that does not relate to the official business of Fox News or Fox Business must not be taken to have been sent or endorsed by either of them. No representation is made that this email or its attachments are without defect. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000205 DOT-Am.Oversight-001198 BRET BAIER Chief Political Anchor, Fox News Channel Washington, D.C. 20007 The Hon. Secretary Elaine Chao and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Department of Transportation and the US Senate Washington, DC 20001 February 10, 2017 Dear Madame Secretary and Leader McConnell: I am writing to invite you and Leader McConnell to be my guests at the 132nd anniversary Gridiron Club and Foundation Dinner on Saturday night, March 4. It’s always an interesting and enjoyable experience. As you may know, the Gridiron Club is regarded, at least by its members, as Washington’s most prestigious journalistic organization. It’s composed of 65 Washington-based reporters and columnists from print and broadcast news organizations and has existed since 1885 for the purpose of sponsoring this dinner, featuring skits spoofing the political scene, including the press. A 501 ©(3) organization, its profits support a number of journalism programs and organizations. If you can attend, you’ll both be seated at the Head Table with fellow Cabinet members and other top officials. House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi will represent the Democrats and Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa the Republicans, and Vice President Pence will be representing the Trump Administration. The skits take place between courses of the meal. The dinner takes place in the Grand Ballroom of Marriott’s Washington Renaissance Hotel, 999 Ninth Street NW, in downtown Washington. Dress is white tie for men, and long dresses for women. The dinner will begin promptly at 7 p.m., with cocktails starting at 5:30 p.m. By eliminating one course and promising to start on time, we have been able in recent years to end the dinner before 10:30 p.m. and expect to do so again this year. (b) (6) Please let me know if you have any questions. The best way is by phone at (b) (6) or by email at @foxnews.com -I hope very much you’ll be able to join us. Sincerely, Bret Baier Fox News Channel Chief Political Anchor Gridiron Executive Board Member A\11 f C,/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000206 DOT-Am.Oversight-001199 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: Secretary of the Senate Supper Tuesday Sunday, February 26, 2017 2:15:34 PM 6:30 in LBJ/Mansfield. It's a buffet with open seating. No real program. Usually they go around 6:30/45 and just stay till they're done eating.  On Feb 26, 2017, at 10:17 AM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Stef/Laura, Do you have any details on the Supper? I have next to none other than location. I’m sure she doesn’t need the detail…but we do in case the WH wants to pull her to do media, etc.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000207 DOT-Am.Oversight-001200 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Furman, Jon (OST) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Quick Question Re Sea Islan Monday, February 27, 2017 3:35:41 PM Yes – they’re confirmed.   From: Furman, Jon (OST) [mailto:jon.furman@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, February 27, 2017 3:35 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Quick Question Re Sea Islan   Hi Stefanie,   Quick question for you regarding the AEI World Forum. I just got off the phone with the AEI folks to confirm a room for Secretary Chao. She is confirmed. Is the Leader?   Thanks,   Jon Furman Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000208 DOT-Am.Oversight-001201 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: CARA Award Tuesday, February 28, 2017 12:39:12 PM CARAreception invite.png Attached is the invitation. We expect him to be there and to accept the award and speak around 6:40/6:45. I’ll let my contact know that she will be stopping by as well.   Thanks! Laura   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, February 28, 2017 12:09 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Vincent, Laura (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: CARA Award   Stef/Laura, Secretary is wondering if the Leader is receiving an award tomorrow night, if so what time so we can plan accordingly to ensure she is there. She’ll be coming from a drop by at the US Chamber.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000209 DOT-Am.Oversight-001202 io-(tf; =tf 1ST OF M ARCH , 20 17 FRO M 6,30 P M TO 8,30 P M honorin g SE N ATOR MITCH MCCONNELL SE N A T O R AMY KLOBUCHAR CO N GR ESS M A N JIM SENSENBRENNER CO N GR ESS M A N HAL ROGERS CO N G R ESS M A N DOT-18-0010-B-000210 DOT-Am.Oversight-001203 TIM RYAN for their work on the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) as well as lo ca l leaders working on add ictio n Tl-IE HYATT 400 REGENCY WASHINGTON NEW JERSEY AVE NW WASH IN GTON. DC 20001 CAP ITOL H I LL ~ From: To: Subject: Date: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Re: Ky invitation from DOT Secretary Chao Wednesday, March 01, 2017 9:11:23 AM Got it  Sent from my iPhone On Mar 1, 2017, at 9:06 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: He's not.  Honestly didn't expect him to attend. More for the house side  J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Mar 1, 2017, at 9:02 AM, McGuire, Brian (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Thanks Todd. I assume the Leader is attending this already, or should i channel this through Stef and Laura?  Sent from my iPhone On Feb 28, 2017, at 6:13 PM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote:   Good Evening    Now that we have settled in, Secretary Chao would like to invite the Kentucky Delegation Members to DOT HQ for an informal get together.  This would be a plus 1 event.   The Secretary has indicated if you have a Ky specific issue that we should flag for her attention to please continue to go through AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000211 DOT-Am.Oversight-001204 your normal channels but fee l free to contact me direct ly as well so we can mon itor or fo llow up as necessary. We wou ld like to propose Tuesday March 7t h or Thursday March 9th at 10 a.m. as options and will base the date on what best accommodates your schedule. I also know you or your team are gett ing some requests for meetings with Secretary Chao. Our typ ical schedu ling mailbox is secretaryscheduler@dot.gov and you are we lcome to share that information with your staff for distribution. If you have a specific request that you would like for us to consider please use the secretaryscheduler@dot.gov but fee l free to CC me on the request and I will make sure our staff tr ies to accommodate when poss ible. For your reference Wendy Gehring and Delynne Henry ( cc'd) will be our schedulers going forward. In the future please fee l free to contact me tl>ll6l . For your reference our ' ma in fine " for ffi e Secretary (this is for the public ) is 202 366-1111 J. Todd In.Ulan Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90 -321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 ) (Please direct scheduling requests to secret.azyscheduler@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000212 DOT-Am.Oversight-001205 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Henry, Tina (OST) @fco.gov.uk (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Inman, Todd (OST) Re: Private Dinner at the British Embassy - Tuesday, 7th March - The Honorable Elaine Chao and Senator Mitch McConnell Thursday, March 02, 2017 5:09:27 PM (b) (6) Miss Downes,  I have sent this info onto the scheduling and security team. I am no longer in the scheduling office but always happy to assist in any way.  Regards,  Tina Henry On Mar 2, 2017, at 4:55 PM, "(b) (6) @fco.gov.uk" <(b) (6) @fco.gov.uk> wrote: Dear Madam Secretary and Senator McConnell, I am re-confirming Sir Kim and Lady Darroch look forward to seeing you at a small private dinner at their Residence on Tuesday, 7th March, 2017 at 7pm.  Business Attire.   Address: The Ambassador's Residence 3100 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington DC 20008   The Security Guard by the main gates on Massachusetts Avenue will direct you to the front door of the Residence. Vehicles may park near the Residence in the Embassy compound.   Please bring photo ID with you.   Please could you let me know if you have any dietary restrictions, and may I have an afterhours telephone number, in case we need to contact you.   There will be one security walk through only, which will be on Monday 6th March at 11.30am.   Kind regards,         Amanda Downes   Miss Amanda Downes, MVO, MBE Social Secretary The British Embassy 3100 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington DC 20008   Tel: (b) (6) *********************************************************************************** Visit http://www.gov.uk/fco  for British foreign policy news and travel advice and http://blogs.fco.gov.uk to read our blogs. DOT-18-0010-B-000213 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001206   This email (with any attachments) is intended for the attention of the addressee(s) only. If you are not the intended recipient, please inform the sender straight away before deleting the message without copying, distributing or disclosing its contents to any other person or organisation. Unauthorised use, disclosure, storage or copying is not permitted. Any views or opinions expressed in this e-mail do not necessarily reflect the FCO's policy. The FCO keeps and uses information in line with the Data Protection Act 1998. Personal information may be released to other UK government departments and public authorities. All messages sent and received by members of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and its missions overseas may be automatically logged, monitored and/or recorded in accordance with the Telecommunications (Lawful Business Practice) (Interception of Communications) Regulations 2000. *********************************************************************************** AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000214 DOT-Am.Oversight-001207 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Hart Co. Judge request for Sec. Chao Friday, March 03, 2017 10:26:40 AM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Todd--Please see request below.  He is a friend.  Happy to provide more background on the phone.  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, March 02, 2017 9:29 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Hart Co. Judge request for Sec. Chao   County Judge/Executive Terry Martin of Hart County (loyal supporter) is going to be in DC March 17, 20 and 21 and would like to get a brief visit and photo with Sec. Chao.   Can we assist him in achieving this?   A meeting with MM is being worked on separately.   Please advise.   Terry’s contact info is below.   Terry Martin Hart County Judge Executive PO Box 490 Munfordville, KY 42765 (b) (6)       Tim Thomas Field Representative U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 241 East Main Street Bowling Green KY 42101 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000215 DOT-Am.Oversight-001208 DOT-1 8-001 0-B-000216 DOT-Am.Oversight-001209 From: To: Subject: Date: McClure, Donna (McConnell) Baum, Erika (OST); Moore, Donna (McConnell); Todd Inman RE: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao Friday, March 03, 2017 2:49:42 PM Thanks!   From: Baum, Erika (OST) [mailto:Erika.Baum@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 03, 2017 2:43 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Todd Inman To: Moore, Donna (McConnell) <(b) (6) Cc: McClure, Donna (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao   Hi Donna:   Thank you for passing this along. I will share this meeting request with our Scheduling Office – DeLynn Henry - and ask that she reach out to  Dan Mosley directly.   Thank you again.   Erika   Erika Baum Executive Assistant to the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 (b) (6)   secretaryscheduler@dot.gov   From: Moore, Donna (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 03, 2017 1:16 PM To: Baum, Erika (OST); Todd Inman Cc: McClure, Donna (McConnell) Subject: FW: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Erika and Todd, County Judge Executive Dan Mosley would like to meet with Secretary Chao.  Donna McClure asked me to forward the request to scheduler.  His contact information is below. Thanks!!!     Donna Butt-Moore AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000217 DOT-Am.Oversight-001210 Field Assistant 300 South Main Street Suite 310 London KY 40741 (b) (6) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov     From: McClure, Donna (McConnell) Sent: Friday, March 03, 2017 11:35 AM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Moore, Donna (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao Importance: High   Please send to Secretary Chao’s contact information sent to us by Angie.  Thanks!  Copy me please.   From: Dan Mosley [mailto(b) (6) @harlanonline.net] Sent: Friday, March 03, 2017 11:07 AM To: McClure, Donna (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao   Donna, I would like to request a meeting with Secretary Chao to discuss a transportation project that would be beneficial for an economic and safety perspective to the people of Southern and Southeastern Kentucky. I’m excited to hear about President Trump’s proposed infrastructure bill and think the project I would like to discuss would identify with his plan of growing the economy and putting the coal miners back to work. My Economic Development Director Larry Calhoun would accompany me in the meeting.   If some available dates could be proposed, that would be excellent. I will await your response!   Thanks, Dan   Dan Mosley Harlan County Judge/Executive (b) (6) - --- Fax (606)573-3522 @harlanonline.net   (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000218 DOT-Am.Oversight-001211 From: To: Tina-Maria Henry Stefanie Hagar Muchow: laura Vincent Cc: Subject: Henry. Delynn (Osn Fwd: Dinner 3/8/17 Sunday, March OS, 2017 5:47 :30 PM Date: FYI . Please let DeLynn and Wendy know. 0 u t of scheduling. Thanks ladies lbJ<> @aspeninstitute.org > Date: March 5, 2017 at 5:17:07 PM EST To: "Herny , Tina (OST)" Cc: Tina-Maria Herny 4 "Gehrin , Wendy (OST)" <5> _________ _ Subject: Re: Dinner 3/8/ 17 Reconfinnin dinner this Wednesda March 8 at 7 m [(ljJlS> Walter . tl>Jl6J My ce 111s All the best, Wa ter .-..--- On Feb 10, 20 17, at 11:44 PM , Herny , Tina (OST) wrote: Mr. Isaac son, Up to you regarding home or restamant. If at a restamant , we would recommend a private room . Not sme about the Leader yet - it will probably be a "play by ear" depending upon what is happenin g that evening on the Hill . I will let his folks know though. Also, we heard from ----bHSJ re Aspen IDEAS Festival in Aspen. DOT-18-0010-B-000219 DOT-Am.Oversight-001212  Not sure what the schedule will be in June but wanted you to know I had heard from them.   Regards, Tina Henry -----Original Message----(b) (6) From: Isaacson, Walter [mailto: @aspeninstitute.org] Sent: Friday, February 10, 2017 2:33 PM To: Tina-Maria Henry; Oscar Munoz; Brett [HDQLD] Hart Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Elaine Chao; Henry, Tina (OST); (b) (6) Subject: Re: Dinner  Great. I am copying Oscar and Brett. We can do it Wednesday March 8.  I will check with Cathy and see if we can do it at our house, or would the Secretary prefer a restaurant?   Will the Senator be joining as well?   All the best, Walter On Feb 10, 2017, at 12:05 PM, Tina-Maria Henry (b) (6) (b) (6) > wrote: I believe March 8 is best.  Sec Chao has something March 7 already.​ On Thu, Feb 9, 2017 at 10:41 PM, Isaacson, Walter (b) (6) (b) (6) < @aspeninstitute.org>  Hi. Would March 7 or March 8 work for the dinner? I hope so! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000220 DOT-Am.Oversight-001213  If so, we can do it at my house or a restaurant.  All the best, Walter Walter, Secretary Chao asked that we reach out to you regarding the dinner you've so generously offered to host. She's wondering if there is a week day that might work better for both you and Cathy and if so, would it also be helpful to have the dinner in a private room in a restaurant? Please let us know what works best for you. Best Regards, Wendy Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov > AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000221 DOT-Am.Oversight-001214 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) FW: Image File From MFP Tuesday, March 07, 2017 4:51:00 AM image2017-03-07-045012.pdf J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) -----Original Message----From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 4:50 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Image File From MFP Please See Attached AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000222 DOT-Am.Oversight-001215 MOTORCYCLIST ADVISORY COUNCIL CHARTER I. Comm ittee's Oflicia l Designation: Motorcyclist Advisory Counci l (MAC). 2. Authoritv: Section 1426, Motorcyc list Advisory Counc il, of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST) Act, Public Law I 14-94. This char ter establ ishes a new Motorcyc list Advisory Council in accordance with the provi s ions of the Federal Adv isory Comm ittee Act (FACA) , as amended, 5 U.S .C. App. 2. 3. Objec tives and Scope of Act iv ities: As specified in Sec tion 1426 of the FAST Act, the objec tives of th e Motorcycl ist Advisory Council are to coordinate with a nd advise the Federa l Highway Adm inistration (F l IWA) on infrastructure iss ues of concern to motorcyclists , incl u Subject: FW: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao Importance: High   Please send to Secretary Chao’s contact information sent to us by Angie.  Thanks!  Copy me please.   From: Dan Mosley [mailto (b) (6) @harlanonline.net] Sent: Friday, March 03, 2017 11:07 AM To: McClure, Donna (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Meeting with Sec. Chao   Donna, I would like to request a meeting with Secretary Chao to discuss a transportation project that would be beneficial for an economic and safety perspective to the people of Southern and Southeastern Kentucky. I’m excited to hear about President Trump’s proposed infrastructure bill and think the project I would like to discuss would identify with his plan of growing the economy and putting the coal miners back to work. My Economic Development Director Larry Calhoun would accompany me in the meeting.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000227 DOT-Am.Oversight-001220 If some available dates could be proposed, that would be excellent. I will await your response!   Thanks, Dan   Dan Mosley Harlan County Judge/Executive (b) (6) - --- Fax (606)573-3522 @harlanonline.net   (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000228 DOT-Am.Oversight-001221 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Secretary Chao Visit Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:41:04 PM Todd--Please see meeting request below.  A couple of the CJE’s are friends.  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 12:28 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Fw: Secretary Chao Visit   @mcconnell.senate.gov>   Here you go, in writing. Tim - - From: Vincent, Jason (Pennyrile ADD) <(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 11:13 AM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Cc: Farmer, Cheri (Pennyrile ADD) Subject: Secretary Chao Visit @ky.gov> Hi Tim,   Board members of the Pennyrile Area Development District will be in Washington for the annual NADO (National Association of Development Organizations) Policy Conference as well as to visit with our Congressional delegation and various Federal Officials.  We’ll be arriving in DC on  Sunday March 19th and departing on Wednesday March 22nd .  Currently, we have meetings scheduled on Monday at 2:30pm (McConnell) and Tuesday at 11:30am (Paul) and 3pm (Comer).  We would also meet with Secretary Choa if her schedule permits.  Below is a list of individuals in our group and topics they would like to discuss:   Pennyrile Area Development District (PADD) Board members participating in the trip represent both the public and private sectors.    Mr. Jason Vincent, PADD Executive Director Ms. Amy Frogue, PADD Associate Director for Community and Economic Development Judge Executive Hollis Alexander/Trigg County AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000229 DOT-Am.Oversight-001222 Judge Executive Ellen Dunning/Caldwell County Mr. Bart Frazer, Citizen Representative/Crittenden County Mayor David Jackson, City of Madisonville/Hopkins County Mr. John Mahre, PADD Transportation Committee Chair/Christian County Judge Executive Perry Newcom/Crittenden County Mr. Terry Stringer, PADD Board Member, Livingston County Judge Executive Wade White/Lyon County Mayor Jan Yonts, City of Greenville/Muhlenberg County   Topics for Discussion: During our visits we hope to discuss the completion of the I69 bridge at Henderson as well as the designation of I169 (southern leg of the Pennyrile Parkway) and any other transportation policy topics the Secretary may like to discuss.    Please let me know if you have any questions!   Jason   Jason A. Vincent Executive Director Pennyrile Area Development District 300 Hammond Drive Hopkinsville, KY 42240 (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000230 DOT-Am.Oversight-001223 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Steurer, Robert (McConnell); "Kerley, David" Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Greetings Tuesday, March 07, 2017 12:43:41 PM image001.png Thank you for inviting Senator McConnell to join ABC News for the White House Correspondents Dinner on April 29th. Unfortunately the Senator will not be in Washington that weekend so he will be unable to participate. I am copying DeLynn Henry regarding Secretary Chao’s attendance.   Many Thanks, Laura   Laura H. Vincent Scheduler Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol       From: Steurer, Robert (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 12:36 PM To: 'Kerley, David' <(b) (6) @abc.com> Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Greetings   Hi David, cc’ing Leader McConnell’s scheduler.   Thanks, Robert   - ------ From: Kerley, David [mailto:(b) (6) @abc.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 12:33 PM To: Steurer, Robert (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Greetings   I am trying to find out if the Senator and the Transportation Secretary would entertain an invitation to be ABC’s guests at the White House Correspondent’s Dinner. The Transportation Department seems to be still getting staffed up. Can you point me in the right direction, and whether a formal invitation should follow?       David Kerley Senior Transportation Correspondent 1717 DeSales St NW Washington, DC 20036 ' (b) (6) @David Kerley VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000231 DOT-Am.Oversight-001224 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Help Wednesday, March 08, 2017 5:42:02 PM So in cases like this, if ELC can’t do it, is it possible to host them at DOT, and get an assistant secretary or 2 to meet with them?  That way it is not taking up the Secretary’s time but they feel special.  Just a thought.    Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 5:25 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Help   I will revisit with her as we initially were going to decline.    J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 4:16 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Help @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Todd--Please see below.  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Spencer Coates [mailto (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @Houchensindustries.com] DOT-18-0010-B-000232 DOT-Am.Oversight-001225 Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 3:37 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: R Ode <(b) (6) @scottyscontracting.com> Subject: Help   I could use your help.  The group “Kentuckians for Better Transportation” (KBT) of which we are members is doing a Washington fly-in on May 17 and 18.  They arrive the afternoon of May 17; and their Executive Director, Juva Barber, has requested a meeting of the group (about 40 people) with ----- Secretary Chao at 3pm on the 17th.  They have not received a definitive “no” from the Transportation staff, but feedback indicates it may not be possible.  They are pretty booked on the 18th; but they probably could change something if necessary, since the highlight of the trip would be to meet with Elaine.  Let me know if you can help, or point me to the right person.  Thanks Terry.   Spencer A. Coates, President Houchens Industries, Inc. P.O. Box 90009 700 Church Avenue Bowling Green, Kentucky 42012-9009 (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000233 DOT-Am.Oversight-001226 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Dinner 3/8/17 Wednesday, March 08, 2017 5:52:57 PM No problem! -----Original Message----From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 5:43 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner 3/8/17 @mcconnell.senate.gov] Thanks for the info... he thought about it but won't be able to do it b/c of the distance b/t the dinners. Tks! Stef -----Original Message----From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 4:35 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner 3/8/17 (b) (6) -----Original Message----From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 4:31 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner 3/8/17 @mcconnell.senate.gov] What's the location?  Doubt he can make it but since it's Isaacson asking I better flag for him. -----Original Message----From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 4:30 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Fw: Dinner 3/8/17 FYSA Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000234 DOT-Am.Oversight-001227 -   Original Message   From: Isaacson, Walter <(b) (6) @aspeninstitute.org> Sent: Wednesday, March 8, 2017 4:23 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Re: Dinner 3/8/17 Wendy, I assume the Leader is still not coming. If he gets free and wants to come by later tonight for coffee or bourbon, or to sign a book and pick up the Secretary, we would be happy to have him. My best to you. Walter ‎   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000235 DOT-Am.Oversight-001228 From: To: Subj ect: Date : Carmack. Terry (McConnell) Inman. Todd (OST) FW: Secretary Chao Thursday, March 09, 2017 8:39:47 AM Todd-P lease see request below, w hich I believe is self-exp lanatory. Thanks. Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senato r Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 tl>ll6l From: Willis, Mark [mailto bH 5> @st ant ec.com] Sent: Wednesday, March 08, 2017 6:50 PM 5 To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) t6>< > @mcconnell.senat e.gov> Subject: Secretary Chao Terry. During the joint NKY/C incinna ti Chamber Legislative luncheon on February 23 rd I had the pleasure of speak ing with Leader McConne ll for a few minutes. We had a good d iscussion abou t President Trum ps proposed infrastructu re plan . In c losing our conversa tion. Leader McConne ll suggested that I meet wi th Secretary Chao . Would you be ab le to assist me in making an appointmen t to meet wi th her? I will be in DC April 24, 25 and 26 wi th ACEC-KY (American Counci l of Consult ing Engineers of Kentucky). If the Secretary is availab le on any of those dates I wou ld like inc lude our State President and Executive Director and l or 2 others to discuss transporta tion in Kentucky . Thanks much for your assistance ! Mark Mark Willis, Principal Principal Stantec 3052 Beaumont Centre Circle, Lexington KY 405 13- 1703 tl>ll6l ~ax: 859 ) 422-3700 5 tt>H > @stanteccom The co ntent o f th is ema il is the co nfiden tial property of Stantec and shou ld not be cop ied mod ified retrans mitted or used for an y purpo se except wi th Stantec 's written aut horizatio n . If you are not the intended rec ipie nt p lease d ele te a ll co pi es and no tify us im med iate ly. ~ Please consider the en vironment before printing this ema il. DOT-18-0010-B-000236 DOT-Am.Oversight-001229 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Britt, Michael (OST) FW: Senate Update Thursday, March 09, 2017 2:13:40 PM This is my updates list (and I usually add a McConnell press release even though this one doesn’t have it below).   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 10:32 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Senate Update   Good Morning,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am and resumed consideration of H.J.Res.57, the Teacher Accountability CRA. At 12:00 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on adoption of H.J.Res.57.   At 1:45 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #18, Seema Verma, to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (simple majority vote threshold; up to 30 hours post-cloture debate time; final confirmation vote likely Monday evening).   Looking Ahead:  Nominations, Resolutions of Disapproval (under the Congressional Review Act for rules finalized between June 13, 2016 and January 19, 2017), Obamacare Repeal and Replace, consideration of - SCOTUS nominee, Judge Neil Gorsuch (hearing week of March 20th).   Yesterday in the Senate (Wed, 3/8): Roll Call Votes: Adoption of H.J.Res.58, the Teacher Prep CRA. (Adopted, 59-40) UC Items: S.496 – Metropolitan Planning Organization Coordination S.J.Res.1 – Desert Storm Memorial S.Res.84 – International Women’s Day     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov   VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000237 DOT-Am.Oversight-001230 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: IMPORTANT! For Elaine Chao Thursday, March 09, 2017 11:41:45 AM Thank you.    Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 11:40 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: IMPORTANT! For Elaine Chao Handled. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 11:36 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: IMPORTANT! For Elaine Chao @mcconnell.senate.gov] Todd—Dace Stubbs asked me to forward to the Secretary.  ELC knows Dace well.  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Dace B. Stubbs [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 11:01 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT ] @mcconnell.senate.gov> DOT-18-0010-B-000238 DOT-Am.Oversight-001231 Subject: IMPORTANT ! For Elaine Chow Please acknow ledge rece ipt Hello Elaine , We are so excited about your new position at the Departm ent of Transpo1iation! That such a wo1ihy person as you is in this position backed by both houses of Congress and the Administration is a lifetime oppo1iunity that give King and I great hope for the future of our countiy . The task you face is fonnidable and I do not wish to detract you from any of your effo1is. However , there is an issue concerning our area of Florida and that I would like to draw to your attention. The issue is a proposal by the Fo1iress Investment group under the name "All Aboard Florida" to obtain DOT backing for a massive increase in railroad ti·anspo1iation on the East Coast of Florida. AAF plans to nm 32 high-speed trains per day through our commun ity, from n01th of Titusville to Miami . Most of the crossings are at grade level from Vero Beach south .. This presents an incredible problem for our beautiful area. Safety concerns, environmental degradation, noise pollution will be inflicted upon communit ies for no ju stifiable reason for a project that is probably financially unfeasible without favorable ti·eatment by the DOT. I have attached to this email several succinct and concise papers from the group opposing this project. I can only imagine the deman ds upon your time right now, but I hope you will take a few moments to familiarize yourself with this issue. I can provide any additional infonnatio n you Inight need . tl>ll6l Thank you so much. Dace Please note my new e-mail address Dace B . Stubbs tl>)(6) DOT-18-0010-B-000239 DOT-Am.Oversight-001232 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Suares, Erica (McConnell); Britt, Michael (OST) RE: Intros!! Thursday, March 09, 2017 4:23:31 PM Tks Erica!   So nice to “meet” you Mike!  Would love to be a resource on anything I can help with.  I am trying to get over to DoT at some point soon to meet folks so will try to link up with you if I’m able to do that sometime.    So you have it… my direct is (b) (6) and cell is (b) (6) .   Stef   Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2017 2:12 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); michael.britt@dot.gov Subject: Intros!!   Stef & Mike! Hello! I have been meaning to introduce you all! I think you’ve both heard of each other! Hopefully you all can connect at some point and trade stories/life tips.   Mike, Stef is Leader McConnell’s Director of Operations (b) (6) Stef – Mike is Sec. (b) (6) Chao’s Chief of Staff   It’s such a busy time but I’m you all will eventually connect – at the least to have each other’s phone #s and emails!   Best, Erica   PS. Mike do you want me to add this email to my Senate updates list? It’s usually a daily email of what’s happening w/votes in the Senate. I will send you one as an example.       Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000240 DOT-Am.Oversight-001233 S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000241 DOT-Am.Oversight-001234 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: March 29 Thursday, March 09, 2017 7:47:54 PM Sounds good. Tks! On Mar 9, 2017, at 7:45 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Wanted to let y’all know we are having a big event here on March 29, it is DOT’s 50th Anniversary/Secretary’s Open House/Secretary’s Homecoming to DOT. Event runs 34pm. We are doing photos prior not sure expectations around those.   We should have a pretty good line by line no later than Monday we can send over.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000242 DOT-Am.Oversight-001235 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Request for Secretary Chao to speak on May 22 in Lexington Thursday, March 16, 2017 10:22:32 AM (b) (6)   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   - From: Susan L. Simmons [mailto:(b) (6) @centralbank.com] Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 10:00 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Secretary Chao to speak on May 22 in Lexington   Thank you for forwarding our request to the proper individual to respond to Secretary Chao’s availability to speak for 20 minutes or so at our Bridging the Talent Gap event on May 22 at the Marriott Griffin Gate Hotel in Lexington.  Please find below a brief description of this statewide initiative and a tentative agenda for the event:   Bridging the Talent Gap Kentucky is a project the Kentucky SHRM, in conjunction with multiple business and economic development partners throughout the state, is conducting.  The 2017 Bridging the Talent Gap Survey will identify skills shortages in the state of Kentucky and potential ways to address them.  The data results of this survey will help Kentucky educational and training providers to better understand skills gaps, workforce and education needs.  The survey results will also help our partnerships with KCEWS, the State’s longitudinal data system and KCTCS to provide even more richness to the robust data sets.   Tentative Schedule of Events (All times are approximate) Monday, May 22, 2017 8 a.m. – Registration Opens 8 – 9:30 a.m. – Time with Vendors8 – 9:30 a.m. – Continental Breakfast Served 9:30 a.m. – Program Begins 9:40 a.m. – National Workforce/Talent Gap Issues (Elaine Chao invited) 10:10 a.m. – State Workforce/Talent Gap Issues (Governor invited) 10:30 a.m. – Survey Results 11:10 a.m. – Panel Discussion 11:50 a.m. – Q&A for attendees 12:10 p.m. – Final Comments 12:30 p.m. – Program DOT-18-0010-B-000243 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001236   We would be honored to have Secretary Chao discuss National Workforce and Talent Gap Issues at our event in which we will reveal the survey results.  This project has been strongly supported by Secretary Hal Heiner and Governor Matt Bevin.  They are both anxiously awaiting the results and then use them to determine the next steps our state can take to bridge our skills gaps.  My direct work line is (b) (6) and my cell is (b) (6) .  I look forward to hearing from you soon.  Thank you.     Susan Simmons, SPHR/SHRM-SCP l EVP –  Human Resources - --p. (b) (6) (b) (6) l f. 859-253-6022    @centralbank.com Central Bank & Trust Co. 300 West Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507   NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission is for the use of the named individual or entity to which it is directed and may contain information that is privileged or confidential. It is not to be transmitted to or received by anyone other than the named addressee (or a person authorized to deliver it to the named addressee). It is not to be copied or forwarded to any unauthorized persons. If you have received this electronic mail transmission in error, delete it from your system without copying or forwarding it, and notify the sender of the error by replying via email or by calling Central Bancshares at (800) 637-6884, so that our address record can be corrected. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000244 DOT-Am.Oversight-001237 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) RE: FASTLANE Grants Friday, March 17, 2017 3:29:57 PM Tonya,   Thank you for getting back to me.  I greatly appreciate the update and all of the work you all do at the Department. I am sure we both look forward to more information becoming available.   Thanks again,   Hunt   From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 3:22 PM To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: FASTLANE Grants   Hi Hunt – Yes, we are still on HOLD with FASTLANE.  The Secretary will hopefully make a decision soon.  #fingerscrossed   Sorry I don’t have more information to share.    Tonya   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:00 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: FASTLANE Grants @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Tonya,   I hope all has been well with you since we last spoke. I am checking in to see if there are any updates regarding FASTLANE grant awards. I remember you saying that the program was in a holding pattern for the time being until you all had a better idea of what future funding would look like, is this still the case? Any information would be great. Thanks again for your continued help.   Best,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll Legislative Correspondent U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000245 DOT-Am.Oversight-001238 Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000246 DOT-Am.Oversight-001239 From: To: Subject: Date: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Favor. Ky items Friday, March 17, 2017 1:30:51 PM I put all the stuff up front and there’s a mug that belongs to Allison!   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:16 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Favor. Ky items I'm sending a guy in the next 30 mins J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Mar 17, 2017, at 12:07 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: When is the time of pick up? Let me check to see what I can round up!!! On Mar 17, 2017, at 11:52 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Much appreciated. (b) (6) J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:51 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000247 DOT-Am.Oversight-001240 Sure, cc’ing Stephanie Penn, who can make sure he/she gets the right stuff.   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:50 AM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items Brian, I’ve gotten slammed here. Could I send one of our advance guys over to pick up a few things? Just a few items that say or look Kentucky that might show up on camera? J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 4:40 PM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Re: Favor. Ky items One week. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Mar 16, 2017, at 4:37 PM, McGuire, Brian (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000248 DOT-Am.Oversight-001241 You can swing by Russell and grab a couple items that aren’t in the foyer if you want. Not a ton here though. Just for a couple weeks, or how long do you think you need them?   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 1:38 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Subject: Favor. Ky items The secretary has some interviews next week and while we have some items ordered for the archives and the residence they are not here Any way possible I can borrow some ky swag from your offices to be returned. Just items to set around the office ? J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000249 DOT-Am.Oversight-001242 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) RE: Favor. Ky items Friday, March 17, 2017 12:49:00 PM Books, blankets, desk items.    J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:48 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Coal miner head? Books?   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:48 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items   I’ve got those.  I’m looking for office stuff that can set out on the desk or back credenza (in the background shot)   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:47 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Do you need flag pole and/or stand?   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000250 DOT-Am.Oversight-001243 Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:47 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items @mcconnell.senate.gov>   We have ky flags.     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:30 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Re: Favor. Ky items @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Do you have a flag pole and stand? We have extra KY flag  On Mar 17, 2017, at 12:16 PM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: I'm sending a guy in the next 30 mins  J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   On Mar 17, 2017, at 12:07 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: When is the time of pick up? Let me check to see what I can round up!!! On Mar 17, 2017, at 11:52 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: (b) (6) Much appreciated.    J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000251 DOT-Am.Oversight-001244 United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:51 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items   Sure, cc’ing Stephanie Penn, who can make sure he/she gets the right stuff.   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:50 AM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items   Brian,   I’ve gotten slammed here.  Could I send one of our advance guys over to pick up a few things?  Just a few items that say or look Kentucky that might show up on camera?       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 4:40 PM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Re: Favor. Ky items   One week.  AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000252 DOT-Am.Oversight-001245 J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   On Mar 16, 2017, at 4:37 PM, McGuire, Brian (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: You can swing by Russell and grab a couple items that aren’t in the foyer if you want. Not a ton here though. Just for a couple weeks, or how long do you think you need them?   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 1:38 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Subject: Favor. Ky items   The secretary has some interviews next week and while we have some items ordered for the archives and the residence they are not here    Any way possible I can borrow some ky swag from your offices to be returned.   Just items to set around the office ?   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000253 DOT-Am.Oversight-001246 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Motorcycle Advisory Committee (Note the application deadline has now been moved to April 15th) Sunday, March 19, 2017 8:26:00 AM https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/01/09/2017-00125/motorcyclist-advisorycouncil-to-the-federal-highway-administration J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000254 DOT-Am.Oversight-001247 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: PRESS RELEASE Tuesday, March 21, 2017 2:07:16 PM Press Release 3.21.17 PADD Delegation Meets with Secretary Elaine Chao.pdf FYI.  Thanks for doing this.    Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 1:44 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: PRESS RELEASE   All is well.   The Pennyrile group of judges and mayors (some spouses) did get in to see Sec. Chao.  They issued a press release and photo.  The photo will end up in many local weekly papers in western KY.   Thanks for making sure it happened.       Subject: PRESS RELEASE   PADD DELEGATION MEETS WITH SECRETARY ELAINE CHAO   Please open attachment to view full news release.     Cheri L. Farmer Executive Assistant Pennyrile Area Development District 300 Hammond Drive Hopkinsville, KY  42240 (b) (6) 270-886-3211 (fax) Website:  www.peadd.org   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000255 DOT-Am.Oversight-001248 For Immediate Release March 21, 2017 Press Release Pennyrile Area Development District 300 Hammond Drive Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Phone: (270) 886-9484 Fax: (270) 886-3211 www.peadd.org Contact: Cheri Farmer cheri.farmer@ky.gov (270) 886-9484 PADD Delegation Meets with Secretary Elaine Chao A delegation from Pennyrile Area Development District met with Secretary Elaine Chao at the U.S. Department of Transportation Headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Monday, March 20, 2017. Discussion with Secretary Chao and her staff included I-69, Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway Interstate Designation, US 641, Land Between the Lakes and Infrastructure planning. ~ - ~ -l;.~1,~r..,._f J' ·= !J: f J} ~ : a ' t ,., ,._ ,,,.,• ·. ... ,, }. • t '.'' j ~ \ , --- ~ .• ' , ,~ r T Pictured L to R (front row): Regan Frazer, Amy Frogue, Leigh Ann Jackson, Mayor David Jackson, Judge Hollis Alexander, Mayor Jan Yonts, Secretary Elaine Chao, Judge Ellen Dunning, Jason Vincent, Judge Wade White and John Mahre. Pictured L to R (back row): Bart Frazer, Judge Perry Newcom, Samuel Dunning and Terry Stringer ### The Pennyrile Area Development District is the statutory regional planning and development DOT-18-0010-B-000256 organization for west Kentucky's nine county Pennyrile region, which includes Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd and Trigg counties. VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001249 From: To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subj ect: Henry, Delynn (Osn FW: Reminding you to RSVP from Lally Weymouth Date : Wednesday, March 22, 2017 11:SS:39 AM ~An invitation for The Honorable Mitch McConnell and The Honorable Elaine Chao Not sure if this came to you or not. lbHS> Thanks! 5 From: Lally Graham Weymouth [ma ilto r!b>< > Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 2:07 PM To: Vincent , Laura (McConnell) .;·---- @washpost.com] @mcconnell.senate .gov> Subject: Reminding you to RSVP~ An inv itation for The Honorab le Mitch McConnell and The Honorab le Elaine Chao from Lally Weymouth Click here to RSVP If the link does not open correctly, just reply to this email DOT-18-0010-B-000257 DOT-Am.Oversight-001250 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) tried you back, no answer Wednesday, March 22, 2017 1:10:17 PM Secretary Chao I’m back at my desk.   Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000258 DOT-Am.Oversight-001251 From: To: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) McGuire, Brian (McConnell) 50th anniversary Monday, March 27, 2017 12:53:00 PM 50th Anniversary Event Details:   WHEN: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at 3pm WHERE: 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, DC, 20590 ARRIVAL TIME: 2: 45 – 3:00 pm   Order of Events: (Times are approximate)   3:00pm: Ceremony Begins 3:04pm: Presentation of the Colors   Pledge of Allegiance   National Anthem 3:12pm: The Honorable Elizabeth Dole Speaks 3:15pm: The Honorable Bill Shuster Speaks 3:19pm: The Honorable Terry McAuliffe Speaks 3:23pm: Michael Sacco Speaks 3:28pm: The Honorable John Thune Speaks (likely to be moved earlier) 3:36pm: The Honorable Mitch McConnell Speaks 3:42pm: The Honorable Elaine L. Chao Speaks 3:54pm: God Bless America 3:55pm: Ceremony Ends   Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000259 DOT-Am.Oversight-001252 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Fwu, Melissa (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Inman, Todd (OST) FW: run of show Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6:20:01 PM 50th Anniv - Draft Run of Show888 .docx     From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6:16 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: run of show   These times are approximate but close to accurate   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6:02 PM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Subject: run of show   Not sure what to tell her…   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 5:44 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Is the run of show you sent me still current or have there been any updates for tomorrow? Thanks!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 12:05 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   See attached.   I gave you more than you need in the event the Leader has time to join on front end or back end, no expectations though.       AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000260 DOT-Am.Oversight-001253 --- --- From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:58 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Great, sounds good. Thanks!   Also, do you all have a run of show for the Wednesday DOT event?   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:36 AM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   (b) (6)           From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:28 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Below is what I just got back from the White House on location. (b) (6) Thanks!   The event will take place at the State Floor in the East Wing. Access details will be sent momentarily.   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:29 AM To: 'Gehring, Wendy (OST)' Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000261 DOT-Am.Oversight-001254 (b) (6)   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:27 AM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   Do you know where it will be held? (b) (6)   Thanks!     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:21 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   There is a White House reception tomorrow night from 6:00 – 7:00 pm honoring the Senate. (b) (6)           AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000262 DOT-Am.Oversight-001255 Updated 3/28/17 @ 6:15 am DRAFT RUN OF SHOW WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 2017 Wednesday, March 29, 2017 9:00 am Room Set 10:00 am Run Thru on Stage for S1 1:00 pm Doors Open for Guests 2:15pm [Informational: Video loop on repeaters screens] VIP Hold for former DOT Secretaries (Media Center as one potential site) 2:30pm Dr. Chao, Family & Guests arrive DOT, East Entrance and go through expedited entry. Escorted to hold room, location TBD – possibly in media center. LOC: U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20590 Todd to arrange VIP entry, Marianne to arrange hold room. 2:50pm Dr. Chao, Family & Guests escorted to reserved seating (90100 seats) 3:00pm Ceremony Begins VOG: Welcome and Introduces: Former DOT Secretaries (seated in a front row) Congressional Leadership (who are then seated on stage) 3:04 pm Presentation of the Colors Pledge of Allegiance (Utilize DOT Sign Language Member) 1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000263 DOT-Am.Oversight-001256 Updated 3/28/17 @ 6:15 am Alphonso Barr (FAA) Neal Law (OST) Joyce McGill (FHWA) Anthony Matarazzi (MARAD) Linda Sorkin (FTA) Steve Wood (NHTSA) Bettie Gatewood (FHWA) Nan Prillerman (FHWA) Sceleato Rice (FAA) National Anthem Rachell Macklin (FRA) 3:11 pm Emcee Introduces Senator John Thune 3:12 pm Senator John Thunes Remarks 3:15 pm Emcee Introduces Elizabeth H. Dole 3:16pm Secretary Elizabeth Hanford Dole delivers remarks 3:19 pm Emcee Introduces Chairman Shuster 3:21 pm Chairman Shuster delivers remarks 3:24 pm Emcee Introduces Gov. McAuliffe 3:25 pm Gov. McAuliffe delivers remarks 3:28 pm Emcee Introduces Michael Sacco 3:32 pm Michael Sacco delivers remarks 3:35 pm Emcee Introduces Leader McConnell 3:36 pm Leader McConnell remarks 3:41 pm The Leader Introduces THE SECRETARY 3:42 pm THE SECRETARY delivers remarks AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 2 DOT-18-0010-B-000264 DOT-Am.Oversight-001257 Updated 3/28/17 @ 6:15 am 3:51 pm THE SECRETARY conclude s her remark s 3:52 pm God Ble ss America 3:55pm Ceremony Ends (Musical for Walkout) Refre shments Available for Attendees Judge Ronnie Yoder THE SECRETARY'S VIP Guests are escorted to 9th Floor. Advance: TBD Todd Inman to reserve elevator bank for guests. 4 :00 pm4:45pm 5:00pm VIPs parti cipate in tour of Suite /9th Floor Refre shment s and t-Photo Ops (Lincoln Confere nce Room ) {br{6) ### AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 3 DOT-18-0010-B-000265 DOT-Am.Oversight-001258 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Line by line for 50th Anniversary Monday, March 27, 2017 12:51:00 PM Run of Show DOT 50th Anniversary Event.S1 Homecoming.docx     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000266 DOT-Am.Oversight-001259 2:00pm Official Group Photo Session with Secretary Chao LOC: DOT Media Center Staff: Allison Moore, Wendy Gehring 2:50pm Dr. Chao, Family & Guests escorted to reserved seating (~120 seats) LOC: West Atrium, DOT 3:00pm Ceremony Begins VOG: Welcome and Introduction 3:04 pm Presentation of the Colors Pledge of Allegiance National Anthem 3:11 pm Emcee Introduces Secretary Elizabeth Hanford Dole and Acknowledges VIPs 3:12pm Secretary Elizabeth Hanford Dole delivers remarks 3:14 pm Emcee Introduces Chairman Shuster 3:15 pm Chairman Shuster delivers remarks 3:18pm Emcee Introduces Governor McAuliffe 3:19 pm Governor McAuliffe delivers remarks 3:22 pm Emcee Introduces Michael Sacco 3:23 pm Michael Sacco delivers remarks 3:27 pm Emcee Introduces Senator Thune 3:28pm Senator Thune Remarks 3:32pm Emcee Introduces The Leader 3:36pm Leader McConnell remarks 3:41pm The Leader Introduces THE SECRETARY 3:42pm THE SECRETARY delivers her remarks AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000267 DOT-Am.Oversight-001260 3 :54 pm THE SECRETARY concludes her remarks 3 :54 pm God Bless America Judge Ronnie Yoder 3 :55pm Ceremony Ends (Musical for Walkout) Refreshments Ava ilable for Attendees THE SECRETARY 'S VIP Guests are esco1ie d to 9th Floor through special VIP cordoned off bank of elevators. 4 :00pm 4 :30pm Tour of Secretaiy 's Suite Refreshments (Lincoln Conference Room) 4 :30pm 4 :45pm {br{6) 5:00pm (b)(6 ) {br{6) Driver: DOT Security AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000268 DOT-Am.Oversight-001261 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Wednesday MML Dinner Monday, March 27, 2017 5:18:41 PM Secretary will attend.   Arriving around 7pm is my guess.     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000269 DOT-Am.Oversight-001262 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Fwu, Melissa (OST) RE: White House Reception 3/28 Tuesday, March 28, 2017 6:04:56 PM He (b) (6) should be able to be there by 3:20 and speak at 3:36.   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 5:59 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Fwu, Melissa (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   (b) (6)     --- --- From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 5:44 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Is the run of show you sent me still current or have there been any updates for tomorrow? Thanks!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 12:05 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   See attached.   I gave you more than you need in the event the Leader has time to join on front end or back end, no expectations though.       From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:58 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   Great, sounds good. Thanks! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000270 DOT-Am.Oversight-001263   Also, do you all have a run of show for the Wednesday DOT event?   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:36 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   (b) (6)           From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 11:28 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (6)   .   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:29 AM To: 'Gehring, Wendy (OST)' Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   (b) (6) .   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:27 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000271 DOT-Am.Oversight-001264 Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: White House Reception 3/28   (b) (6)   Thanks!     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, March 27, 2017 8:21 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: White House Reception 3/28 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   There is a White House reception tomorrow night from 6:00 – 7:00 pm honoring the Senate. (b) (6)           AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000272 DOT-Am.Oversight-001265 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Tomorrow Dinner Tuesday, March 28, 2017 3:27:40 PM Laura, Can you  confirm time and location for tomorrow’s dinner?   Thanks in advance!     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000273 DOT-Am.Oversight-001266 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: Party invitation from the Lerners/Nationals/Wills Wednesday, March 29, 2017 2:13:05 PM baseball party directions & map.pdf Invite for MM/ELC. I need to run this by MM, but likely he attends. -----Original Message----] From: Sarah [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 1:52 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Stewart, Don (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Party invitation from the Lerners/Nationals/Wills March 29, 2017 Please find attached an invitation for Leader McConnell and Sec. Chao. A map/directions card has been attached as well. Many thanks, Sarah Walton Secretary/Scheduler Office of George F. Will Washington, DC AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000274 DOT-Am.Oversight-001267 ~~ mJJ JJ~ cr,7 -) G The Lerner Family & George and Mari Will :c -I invite you to celebrate THE NEW SEASON Cocktails and Buffet Monday, May 1, 2017 6--9 o'clock DOT-Am.Oversight-001268 DOT-18-0010-B-000275 ~ § Rsvp (703) 892,9430 ~ Sarah Walton ~ ar-et ____ a~ ,... Business Attire From: To: Subject: Date: Popp, David (McConnell) McInerney, Marianne (OST) quick question about today"s event Wednesday, March 29, 2017 11:10:05 AM Marianne  Good morning, this is David Popp from Leader McConnell’s office. Do you have time for a quick whenever you are free. phone call regarding today’s event at DOT? I’m at (b) (6)   Thanks  David Popp Communications Director Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (b) (6) (office) (b) (6) (mobile) republicanleader.senate.gov   - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000276 DOT-Am.Oversight-001269 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: KY Delegation Meeting Wednesday, March 29, 2017 10:54:46 AM I’ll have to check with the Leader, but the date for next week it is almost certain he would not be able to join.   From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 10:51 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: KY Delegation Meeting   Hi Laura –   The Secretary wanted to invite the Kentucky Delegation to DOT for an informal get together.   I worked with Jen Beil to narrow down the dates the Congressmen would be available to come to DOT Headquarters for an informal get together (+1).   The dates the Congressmen narrowed down are:   Wednesday, April 5:  Rogers, Guthrie, Massie and Comer or Thursday, April 27:  Rogers, Guthrie, Barr and Comer   Is this a meeting the Leader would want to join?  I do not have a time yet, just checking on a date that may be better.       Thank you –   DeLynn   DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000277 DOT-Am.Oversight-001270 From: To: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) McGuire, Brian (McConnell) RE: Meeting request, per Leader McConnell Wednesday, March 29, 2017 11:11:00 AM No problem, thanks!     From: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 10:58 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Meeting request, per Leader McConnell @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Wendy—This did happen I can now confirm. Sorry for the delayed reply.   Brian McGuire Chief of Staff U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building (b) (6)   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 11:01 AM To: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) Subject: FW: Meeting request, per Leader McConnell       From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 8:05 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); SecretaryScheduler (OST) Subject: FW: Meeting request, per Leader McConnell   Wendy – this came directly to me.   I am sending it through Secretary Scheduler (b) (6)   D   From: Britton Clarke [mailto:(b) (6) @clarke.consulting] Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 7:50 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @ushertransport.com; dfurth tanktruck.org Subject: Meeting request, per Leader McConnell ----   DeLynn, Good morning. I am following-up with you in hopes to schedule a meeting with Secretary Chao, per Leader McConnell’s request. As background, Bill Usher, President, Usher Transport, headquartered in Louisville, KY had a meeting with Leader McConnell while in DC last week to discuss trucking’s #1 issue, F4A- see whitepaper attached.   At the Leader’s advice, I am following up with you to schedule a brief meeting with Secretary Chao for Mr. Usher and trucking CEO’s to discuss this important issue further. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000278 DOT-Am.Oversight-001271   Thank you in advance for your great assistance. Look forward to hearing from you. My best, Britton   Britton Clarke Cell (b) (6)       AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000279 DOT-Am.Oversight-001272 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Monday night event: Schwarzman Thursday, March 30, 2017 3:16:28 PM Thanks a million!     From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2017 3:10 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Monday night event: Schwarzman @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Unfortunately he won’t be able to join. We’ve already declined for the Leader.    Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2017 2:49 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Monday night event: Schwarzman   Is the Leader going? Secretary is and asked if 1. He was going and 2. If the RSVP has been done.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000280 DOT-Am.Oversight-001273 From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date : Atta chment s: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST): Henry, Delynn (OST) FW: Invitat ion I Dinner IHO Genera l and Mrs. David Petraeus Saturday, April 01, 20 17 2:30:39 PM image001.png image002.pnq I Embassy of Colombia I April 8th Laura, Do yo u know if the Leader w ill be able to atte nd t he below? Thanks! From: CarmenHenriquez[mailto: 1724Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20036 10005 PORUM @ CANCILLERrA liC.~U ~ P~f ~ Embojadade Colombiaen EstodosUnido.s WNWcolomb jaemborg WNWcancillecia govco DOT-18-0010-B-000281 DOT-Am.Oversight-001274 5 From: Elaine Chao fma ilto i< > Sent: Wednesday, Marc h 29, 2017 7 :52 AM To: Carme n Henr iquez .;< bH5> !] @colombiaemb.o rg> 6 6 H > Cc:Gehring Wendy ; Gehring Wendy .d< Subject:Fwd: Invit at ion I Dinner IHO Genera l and M rs. David Petraeus > I Embassy of Colombia I Apr il 8t h Correctio n: Secretary Chao WI LL att end t his din ner. Please contact We ndy Gehr ing of Dept of Transpor t at ion From:Carmen Henr iquez @colomb iaemb .org > Date: M arch 28, 2017 at 12:31 :13 PM EDT To: ,· H5> > Subject:Invitation I Dinner IHO General and Mrs. David Petraeus I Embassyof Colombia I April 8th The Ambassador of Colombia to the United States, Juan Carlos Pinzon, and Mrs . Pilar de Pinzon, will host an intimate dinner honoring General David Petraeus, Chairman of the KKR Global Institute and Former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency . The Amba ssador of Colombia Juan Carlos Pinzon and Mrs. Pilar de Pinzon request the pl easure of the company of The Honorable Elaine L. Chao and The M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000282 DOT-Am.Oversight-001275 Honorable Mitch McConnell at an intimat e dinner in honor of General Da vid Petraeus and Mrs. Holly Knowlton on Saturday, Ap ril 8th at 7:00P.M This invitation is non-transferrable Please inform of any dietary restrictions Business Attire R.S. V.P by April / h tl>)( 6) @colombiaemb org Residence of the Ambassador of Colombia 1520 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 CarmenHenriquez Social& ProtocolSecretary Embassyof Colombia 1:81 ensi @colombiaemb.org if : 6 6 ii : En Colombia(571) 3814000ext' ><> UJ\UJ 1724Massachusetts AveNW Washington, D.C.20036 @ CANCILLERrA~ ;:;;, 7;. Embajoda de Colombia enEstodos Unidos www.colombiaemb.org www.cancilleria. gov.co DOT-18-0010-B-000283 DOT-Am.Oversight-001276 Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy(OST) Henry, Delynn (OST) From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date : Atta chment s: Re: Invitat ion I Dinner IHO General and Mrs. David Petraeus Saturday, April 01, 2017 3:52:18 PM image001.png image002.pnq I Embassy of Colomb ia I April 8th We'll check wit h hi m thi s week and l et you know . On A pr 1, 2017 , at 2:31 PM, Gehr ing , We ndy (OST) wrote: Laura, Do you know if the Leader will be able to attend t he below? Thanks! 5> From: CarmenHenriquez[.mailtQi < @colombjaemb ,org] Sent: Wednesday,March 29, 2017 12:39 PM To: Gehring, Wendy(OST) Subject: FW: Invitation I Dinner IHO General and Mrs. DavidPetraeus I Embassyof Colombia I April 8th Ms. Wendy good afternoon, The Ambassador and his spouse are very honored to have Secretary Chao at t he din ner on Saturday, April 8th . I wou ld like to know if Secretary is planning to attend t he dinner wit h Senator McConnell. Please fee l free to contact me if you need anything. Best regards, Carmen CarmenHenriquez Social& ProtocolSecretary Embassyof Colombia 1:81 ensi @colombiaemb.org ~ : b)(6) ~ : En Colombia(571)3814000ext' 1724Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20036 6 6 H > M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000284 DOT-Am.Oversight-001277 www.colombiaemb.org www.cancilleria. gov.co 6 From: Elaine Chao ,._ (m=a= il=to "1 "_____ ___. !] Sent: Wednesday , March 29, 2017 7 :52 AM To: Carme n Henr iquez .; Cc:Gehring Wendy ; Gehr ing Wendy lbf( 6J > Subject: Fwd: Invit at ion Colomb ia I Dinner IHO Genera l and Mrs. David Petraeus I Embassy of I Apr il 8th Correctio n: Secretary Chao W ILL attend t his din ner. Please contact We ndy Gehr ing of Dept of Transpor t at ion From: Carmen Henriquez ~bnsi ,@colomb iaemb .org > Date: March 28, 2017 at 12:31 :13 PM EDT TO : oiSecretaiyCtiao > Subject:Invitation I Dinner IHO General and Mrs. David Petraeus I Embassyof Colombia I April 8th The Ambassador of Colombia to the United States, Juan Carlos Pinzon, and Mrs . Pilar de Pinzon, will host an intimate dinner honoring General David Petraeus, Chairman of the KKR Global Institute and Former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency . The Amba ssador of Colombia Juan Carlos Pinzon and Mrs. Pilar de Pinzon request the pl easure of the company of The Honorable Elaine L. Chao and The Honorable Mitch McConnell DOT-18-0010-B-000285 DOT-Am.Oversight-001278 at an intimate dinner in honor of General David Petraeus and Mrs. Holly Knowlton on Saturday , April 8th at 7:00P.M This invitation is non-transferrable Please inform of any dietary restrictions Residence of the Ambassador of Business Attire R.S. V.P by April tl>ll6l lh Colombia . @colomb zaemb .org 1520 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 CarmenHenriquez Social& ProtocolSecretary Embassyof Colombia 1:81 ~b>< s> @colombiaemb.org if : UJ\UJ 5 ~ : En Colombia(571)3814000exttb>< > 1724 Massachusetts AveNW Washington, D.C. 20036 WNWcolomb jaemb org WNWcancillecia govco DOT-18-0010-B-000286 DOT-Am.Oversight-001279 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) (b) (6) Connecting Tuesday, April 04, 2017 1:54:53 PM Kristine,   (b) (6)     Call me if you get a moment this afternoon on one other topic…or let me know when you will be back at the department and I’ll call you!   Kathy   KATHY WILLS WRIGHT POLICY ADVISOR FOR NOMInATIOnS OFFICE OF THE MAJORITY LEADER, SEnATOR MITCH MCCOnnELL   DIRECT  (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000287 DOT-Am.Oversight-001280 From: To: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Rosen, Jeff (OST) RE: Senate contact Wednesday, April 05, 2017 9:21:14 AM Thanks Jeff…   KWW   From: Jeff Rosen [mailto (b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 11:08 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Senate contact   So great to see you today!  Thanks for making the time.   My other email at DOT is jeff.rosen@dot.gov.  Dont know my phone yet--if confirmed, I think it will be 3662222-- but you are always welcome to call my personal cell (b) (6) .   - (b) (6) -   Jeff Sent from my iPhone - --- On Apr 4, 2017, at 4:40 PM, Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Here’s my Senate contact info…in case you need anything. KWW   KATHY WILLS WRIGHT POLICY ADVISOR FOR NOMInATIOnS       OFFICE OF THE DIRECT  (b) (6) MAJORITY LEADER, SEnATOR MITCH MCCOnnELL - DOT-18-0010-B-000288 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001281 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio Wednesday, April 05, 2017 12:05:30 PM image001.png Great, we’ll decline for him. Thanks!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 12:04 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   Would be awesome if you’d decline for him. Appreciate it   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 12:01 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   The Senate is in recess then (b) (6) . We are happy to decline for him if that works, or we can hold till you decide what you want to do. Thanks!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 11:53 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: FW: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   FYSA   Don’t know if she will go yet or not.     From: Snyder, Sandy (OST) Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 11:46 AM To: SecretaryScheduler (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: FW: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000289 DOT-Am.Oversight-001282   From: RSVP - Embassy of Italy [mailto:rsvp.washington@esteri.it] Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 11:14 AM To: Snyder, Sandy (OST) Subject: Wednesday, April 19, 2017 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio have the pleasure of inviting The Secretary of Transportation and Senator Mitch McConnell to a dinner in honor of the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic, The Honorable Paolo Gentiloni, on Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 7:30 pm. The dinner will be held at the residence (Villa Firenze – 2800 Albemarle Street, NW – Washington, DC 20008). The dress code is business attire. Please let me know of any dietary restrictions.   Please be advised that parking is available on the premises. If you are using Uber, please let your driver know that they need to use the entrance “off of Connecticut Avenue”. If you plan to use a taxi service, please make sure to reserve your departure taxi ahead of time, as it is very difficult to get them.   Best regards,   Giovanna   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Giovanna Di Berto Social Secretary to the Ambassador Embassy of Italy (b) (6)   ~-·,.. o~ ~ ITALY 2017 ~ Hal'Ji 1n IUS .«9    ,. '7... _,,_    G7 2017 !TA LIA     DOT-18-0010-B-000290 DOT-Am.Oversight-001283 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles Thursday, April 06, 2017 10:34:19 AM Secretary Elaine Chao - Federal Regulation 395.3.pdf Todd-Hope all is well.   You may know Monty Boyd.  I think ELC would remember him.  I think this is totally a DOT issue, rather than  congressional issue.  Also, State Senator Brandon Smith works for Monty and is involved in this as well.  Thanks for taking a look.  Please let me know your thoughts.  Feel free to call my cell at (b) (6) .  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Knear, Beverly [mailto (b) (6) @whayne.com] On Behalf Of Boyd, Monty Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 5:10 PM To: (b) (6) Cc: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles   This is the body of the attached letters to Senator Mitch McConnell and Secretary Elaine Chao for your review.   This letter is in regards to Federal Regulation 395.3 – Maximum Driving Time for PropertyCarrying Vehicles.  I am the President and Owner of Whayne Supply Company and Walker Machinery Company.  Both are Caterpillar dealerships which service customers in Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Ohio.    We currently have 345 Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) in our fleet which are service trucks greater than 10,000 lbs. GVW that haul tools and perform repairs on customers’ equipment.  All of our CMVs are equipped with electronic logging devices.   We repair and maintain earthmoving and mining equipment, commercial and marine engines, and agricultural machines for our customers.  The sole purpose of driving these vehicles is to transport our service technicians and their tools to the jobsite.   A typical day for our service technician is 1 to 2 hours driving and 8 to 10 hours repairing machines or engines on the jobsite.  Normally these vehicles travel approximately 75 miles per day.  There are many occasions our technicians are not able to complete a customer’s repair due to the time restraints from this regulation.  This often requires a return trip the next day to complete the repairs.  This causes additional machine downtime and repair costs for our customers and increases our vehicle mileage.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000291 DOT-Am.Oversight-001284 I am requesting an exemption to Federal Regulation 395.3 for our service vehicles so we can better serve our customers.  These vehicles solely transport technicians and tooling to a worksite and spend the majority of their work day repairing machines versus driving.  My understanding is there are other industries that are exempt from this regulation and we are requesting the same consideration.   I appreciate your attention to my request and please contact me if you need additional information.   Monty L. Boyd President/CEO   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000292 DOT-Am.Oversight-001285 ml Va'.Wll~l Walker ml WHAYNE SUPPLY COMPANY CECIL I. WALKER MACHINERY CO. 10001 Linn Station Road Louisville, Kentucky 40223-3828 P.O. Box 35900 Louisville, Kentucky 40232-5900 (502) 774-4441 April 5, 2017 US Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 Re: Federal Regulation 395.3 – Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles Dear Secretary Chao: This letter is in regards to Federal Regulation 395.3 – Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles. I am the President and Owner of Whayne Supply Company and Walker Machinery Company. Both are Caterpillar dealerships which service customers in Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Ohio. We currently have 345 Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) in our fleet which are service trucks greater than 10,000 lbs. GVW that haul tools and perform repairs on customers’ equipment. All of our CMVs are equipped with electronic logging devices. We repair and maintain earthmoving and mining equipment, commercial and marine engines, and agricultural machines for our customers. The sole purpose of driving these vehicles is to transport our service technicians and their tools to the jobsite. A typical day for our service technician is 1 to 2 hours driving and 8 to 10 hours repairing machines or engines on the jobsite. Normally these vehicles travel approximately 75 miles per day. There are many occasions our technicians are not able to complete a customer’s repair due to the time restraints from this regulation. This often requires a return trip the next day to complete the repairs. This causes additional machine downtime and repair costs for our customers and increases our vehicle mileage. I am requesting an exemption to Federal Regulation 395.3 for our service vehicles so we can better serve our customers. These vehicles solely transport technicians and tooling to a worksite and spend the majority of their work day repairing machines versus driving. My understanding is there are other industries that are exempt from this regulation and we are requesting the same consideration. I appreciate your attention to my request and please contact me if you need additional information. Monty L. Boyd President/CEO I pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000293 DOT-Am.Oversight-001286 From: To: Subject: Date: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Joo, Mae; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell Friday, April 07, 2017 1:46:00 PM My apologies for the late response.     Unfortunately the Secretary must be out of town on April 29 so cannot attend the dinner.   Thank you so much for your kind invitation.   She very much appreciates your thinking of her.   Kind regards,   DeLynn     DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   (b) (6)       - From: Joo, Mae [mailto:(b) (6) @abc.com] Sent: Friday, April 07, 2017 1:34 PM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell   Wanted to check in to see if Secretary Chao and guest can join us?     From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 10, 2017 10:36 AM To: Joo, Mae <(b) (6) @abc.com>; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell   Thanks so much.  I will check on this for you.   Kind regards,   DeLynn   - -- From: Joo, Mae [mailto:(b) (6) @abc.com] Sent: Friday, March 10, 2017 10:14 AM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000294 DOT-Am.Oversight-001287 To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell   Delynn,   If the Secretary wants to bring another family member, please let me know.   Hope she can join!       From: Joo, Mae Sent: Monday, March 06, 2017 12:44 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Delynn Henry (delynn.henry@dot.gov) Subject: Re: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell   Thank you for the consideration.  Hope Secretary Chao can still attend. Sent from my iPhone On Mar 6, 2017, at 12:22 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> Mae,   Thank you for inviting Senator McConnell to join ABC News for the White House Correspondents Dinner on April 29th. Unfortunately the Senator will not be in Washington that weekend so he will be unable to participate. I am copying DeLynn Henry regarding Secretary Chao’s attendance.   Many Thanks, Laura   Laura H. Vincent Scheduler Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol     From: "Joo, Mae" <(b) (6) @abc.com> Date: March 5, 2017 at 10:45:11 AM EST To: "Moore, Allison (OST)" , "Moore, Margaret Anne (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> - -- AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000295 DOT-Am.Oversight-001288 Subject: ABC News Invitation for Secretary Chao & Leader McConnell ABC News would like to invite Secretary Chao and Leader McConnell as our guest to the White House Correspondents Dinner on 4/29 in Washington, D.C.   Do you think they can join us?   Kindly, Mae   Mae Joo Coordinating Producer, This Week with George Stephanopoulos 1717 DeSales Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036 (b) (6)     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000296 DOT-Am.Oversight-001289 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) FW: Formal Speaker Invitation: Paducah Chamber Public Policy Series, May 4: Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao Monday, April 10, 2017 11:31:00 AM FYSA   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   - From: Fran Johnson [mailto:(b) (6) @paducahchamber.org] Sent: Monday, April 10, 2017 11:23 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Formal Speaker Invitation: Paducah Chamber Public Policy Series, May 4: Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao   Dear Todd:   This is a followup to your conversation with Paducah Chamber President Sandra Wilson regarding the Chamber’s invitation to Secretary Chao. This e-mail is our formal invitation to the Secretary to serve as the keynote speaker for the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce’s Public Policy series luncheon on Thursday, May 4 at 11:30 or 12 Noon (depending on the Secretary’s travel schedule).    The luncheon will be held at the Walker Hall Event Center (225 Madison Street) and will be a ticketed event.  Contact person for the arrangements will be Ms. Wilson.  On the day of the event your contact person will be Fran Johnson, Vice President of Government Affairs.  Ms. Johnson’s contact information is:  Direct Line - (b) (6) ; Cell Phone – (b) (6) or E-Mail:  (b) (6) @paducahchamber.org).   We appreciate the opportunity to host Secretary Chao in her home state and in Paducah.  We look forward to receiving a confirmation soon.   Thank you!   - - ---- - Fran   Fran Johnson IOM Vice President – Government Affairs Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce P. O. Box 810 AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000297 DOT-Am.Oversight-001290 Paducah, Kentucky 42002 – 0810   Phone:  (b) (6) E-mail:  (b) (6) @paducahchamber.org       AMf--P.C/\N - ---- pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000298 DOT-Am.Oversight-001291 Carmack. Terry (McConnell) Inman. Todd (OST) Fwd: Help? Tuesday, April 11, 2017 11:3S:54 AM From: To: Subject: Date: Do you want to take this from here or shall I get th em to write a fonn al letter of invitation? Thanks . Teny tl>)( 6) Sent from my iPhone Begin fo1wa rded message : . d r!bic si From: Jim For i_" .--.. -..._--. > Date: April 11, 2017 at 11 :30:27 AM EDT To: "Ca1m ack Teny (McConnell) lbH si·----< Cc: Jim Ford << s> > Subject: Help ? @mcconnell.senate.gov )" Hi Terry , I hate t o bot her yo u wit h th is but could use your direction/gu idance. We wo uld like t o inv ite Sec. Chao to speak at ou r Business Summ it on Friday, July 21 in Louisville and were wonde ring w hat t he best approach wo uld be o r whom we sho uld approac h. Any help wou ld be great ly app reciated . Thanks, Jim Kentucky Chamber UJJmnq &ts,nes& A~ lH5> If: 502-848-875 1 I m:"bHS> ----- DOT-18-0010-B-000299 DOT-Am.Oversight-001292 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) RE: Help? Tuesday, April 11, 2017 11:37:00 AM Much appreciated.  (b) (6)     I’ll reach out and have them submit the full invitation.   This is typically a big group if I remember correctly?   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 11:35 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Fwd: Help? @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Do you want to take this from here or shall I get them to write a formal letter of invitation? Thanks. Terry   (b) (6)   Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: ------- From: Jim Ford <(b) (6) @kychamber.com> Date: April 11, 2017 at 11:30:27 AM EDT To: "Carmack, Terry (McConnell) ((b) (6) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Jim Ford < @kychamber.com> Subject: Help? @mcconnell.senate.gov)" Hi Terry,   I hate to bother you with this but could use your direction/guidance. We would like to invite Sec. Chao to speak at our Business Summit on Friday, July 21 in Louisville and AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000300 DOT-Am.Oversight-001293 were wondering what the best approach would be or whom we should approach. Any help would be greatly appreciated.   Thanks, Jim   Kentiucky Chamber t/nili'r19Busmos& A~ K!tfltild.'}' Jim Ford Senior Vice President of Business Education Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 464 Chenault Road Frankfort, KY 40601 p: (b) (6) f: 502-848-8751 m: (b) (6)   - - DOT-18-0010-B-000301 DOT-Am.Oversight-001294 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) RE: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary Tuesday, April 11, 2017 3:07:00 PM    (b) (5) -   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 2:59 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary @mcconnell.senate.gov]     (b) (5)       From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 2:44 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary   Thanks for getting back to me.  (b) (5) - ---- Ill      Kris       From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 2:28 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Thanks, Kris.  (b) (5)       From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 1:23 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary   Hi Scott – - ---- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000302 DOT-Am.Oversight-001295   (b) (5)   Thanks!   Kris Iverson DOT       From: Abegg, John (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, April 10, 2017 10:50 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Cc: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Subject: Re: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hello Kristine.    When the Senate returns from recess, it will vote Monday afternoon on the Perdue nomination for Secretary of Agriculture and a cloture vote on the Rosenstein nomination for Deputy Attorney General.   I am copying Scott Raab, who handles the Commerce Committee for our office. ‎ He would be the best person to comment on the Rosen nomination.    Thanks.    John   Sent from my BlackBerry 10 smartphone. From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Sent: Monday, April 10, 2017 7:36 PM To: Abegg, John (McConnell) Subject: Vote on DOT Deputy Secretary ‎ Hello John – Secretary Chao suggested I contact you as my best source in the Leader’s office.  You may remember me – I was Assistant Secretary for Congressional & Intergovernmental Affairs at DOL when Elaine Chao was the Secretary of Labor.  Now I am helping out over at DOT.  I wanted to touch base with you regarding a confirmation vote on Jeff Rosen, who is nominated for Deputy Secretary of Transportation.  He was reported by the Commerce Committee last Wednesday on a 15-12 vote (one Democrat voted yes).  (b) (5)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000303 DOT-Am.Oversight-001296 (b) (5)   I look forward to working with you on nominations.   If there is anything else I can do for you, I am generally working the government affairs portfolio until we have a confirmed Assistant Secretary (soon I hope!), so please call.   Best, Kris Iverson (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000304 DOT-Am.Oversight-001297 From: To: Subject: Date: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Siegrist, Ben RE: KY items Wednesday, April 12, 2017 11:45:05 AM Are you here? call me and I’ll pop out   (b) (6) From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2017 11:20 AM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: KY items   Heading your way from DOT in about 5. That work for you?  Sent from my iPhone On Apr 11, 2017, at 1:43 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: - (b) (6)   From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 1:38 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: KY items   Excellent thank you! Looking at around 4ish.    (b) (6)   Sent from my iPhone On Apr 11, 2017, at 12:46 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Yes, I’ll be here! call me when you’re pulling up and I can meet you at that corner   (b) (6) From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 11, 2017 12:43 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: KY items   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000305 DOT-Am.Oversight-001298 Are you aro und t his afternoo n? I've got some t rains, elephan t s, and a pict ure of the Inaugurat ion for yo u .. ' 6><6> ---------- Sent fr om my iPhone On Ap r 5, 2017, at 10:46 AM, Penn, Step hanie (McConnell) @mcconnell.senate.gov > w rot e: Cool. Tks. From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto·ben sjegrjst@dot gov] Sent: Wed nesday, April 05, 2017 10:45 AM To: Penn, St ephanie (McConnell) 6> < @mcconnell.senate.gov > Subject: Re: KYit ems Leaving DOT now . Sent fr om my iPhone On Ap r 5, 2017, at 10:05 AM, Penn, Step hanie (McConnell) @mcconnell.senate.gov > w rot e: tl>)( 6) From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben .siegrist@dot.gov ] Sent: Wed nesday, April 05, 2017 10:00 AM To: Penn, St ephanie (McConnell) 6 ~ bH > ,@mcconnell.senate.gov > Subject: RE: KYit ems Perfect. See you then . From: Penn, Stephanie(McConnell) 5 [.IJlailtQ.;: tt>> <> @mcconneU.senate.gov] Sent: Weanesday, April OS, 2017 9:29 AM To: Siegrist, Ben Subject: RE:KYitems 10:45aand I can meetyou - call mewhen you're close, it will takemy like 6min to get outside From: Siegrist, Ben DOT-18-0010-B-000306 DOT-Am.Oversight-001299 [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 9:06 AM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: KY items   If I headed over in about an hour, would that work for you (or some interns) to come grab this stuff from my car?  Sent from my iPhone On Apr 4, 2017, at 5:44 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Sounds good! u too!   From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 5:44 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: KY items   Roger, roger.  Will talk then.  Have a good night!   From: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 5:43 PM To: Siegrist, Ben Subject: RE: KY items   Lets connect in the morning! Thanks!!   From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 5:42 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000307 DOT-Am.Oversight-001300 <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: KY items   Hey sorry I got caught in a meeting – are you (or any of your people) still around?  I can depart DOT ASAP and get this wrapped up or I can plan to do it first thing tomorrow morning.  My cell is (b) (6)   Just let me know!   From: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 12:44 PM To: Siegrist, Ben Subject: RE: KY items   Yes, any time will work, just let me know and will meet you at the corner with the cart at the spot you picked up the stuff --- does that (b) (6) work? THANK YOU   From: Siegrist, Ben [mailto:ben.siegrist@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 9:56 AM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: KY items   Hi Stephanie,   Apologies we ended up holding onto the items we borrowed from the Leader’s office a few weeks ago.  I wanted to check and see if you or other folks in your office might be available this afternoon between 12:30 – 2:00 if I were to swing by Russell and return everything?  I can certainly be flexible with timing, just know I’ll AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000308 DOT-Am.Oversight-001301 be in the area around that time.  Just let me know!   Thanks, Ben   -----------------------------------------Ben Siegrist Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation ben.siegrist@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000309 DOT-Am.Oversight-001302 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) RE: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles Friday, April 07, 2017 5:19:00 PM I do know Monty and yes it most likely is a DOT issue.   I’m checking into it.    J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, April 06, 2017 10:34 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles   Todd-Hope all is well.   You may know Monty Boyd.  I think ELC would remember him.  I think this is totally a DOT issue, rather than  congressional issue.  Also, State Senator Brandon Smith works for Monty and is involved in this as well.  Thanks for taking a look.  Please let me know your thoughts.  Feel free to call my cell at (b) (6) .  Thanks.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Knear, Beverly [mailto (b) (6) @whayne.com] On Behalf Of Boyd, Monty Sent: Wednesday, April 05, 2017 5:10 PM To: (b) (6) Cc: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles   This is the body of the attached letters to Senator Mitch McConnell and Secretary Elaine AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000310 DOT-Am.Oversight-001303 Chao for your review.   This letter is in regards to Federal Regulation 395.3 – Maximum Driving Time for PropertyCarrying Vehicles.  I am the President and Owner of Whayne Supply Company and Walker Machinery Company.  Both are Caterpillar dealerships which service customers in Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Ohio.    We currently have 345 Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) in our fleet which are service trucks greater than 10,000 lbs. GVW that haul tools and perform repairs on customers’ equipment.  All of our CMVs are equipped with electronic logging devices.   We repair and maintain earthmoving and mining equipment, commercial and marine engines, and agricultural machines for our customers.  The sole purpose of driving these vehicles is to transport our service technicians and their tools to the jobsite.   A typical day for our service technician is 1 to 2 hours driving and 8 to 10 hours repairing machines or engines on the jobsite.  Normally these vehicles travel approximately 75 miles per day.  There are many occasions our technicians are not able to complete a customer’s repair due to the time restraints from this regulation.  This often requires a return trip the next day to complete the repairs.  This causes additional machine downtime and repair costs for our customers and increases our vehicle mileage.   I am requesting an exemption to Federal Regulation 395.3 for our service vehicles so we can better serve our customers.  These vehicles solely transport technicians and tooling to a worksite and spend the majority of their work day repairing machines versus driving.  My understanding is there are other industries that are exempt from this regulation and we are requesting the same consideration.   I appreciate your attention to my request and please contact me if you need additional information.   Monty L. Boyd President/CEO   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000311 DOT-Am.Oversight-001304 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Fwd: Meeting Request Friday, April 21, 2017 5:27:41 PM Greg is the Calloway county GOP chairman and about to be the first district GOP chair.  Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: (b) (6) From: "Alvey, Morgan" < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: April 21, 2017 at 3:54:18 PM EDT (b) (6) To: "Carmack, Terry (McConnell)" < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Meeting Request Terry,   Here are the details of the meeting Greg DeLancey wanted to inquire about with - Secretary Chao.  He will be in D.C. July 15th-19th with a group from Taylor Motors.  He wanted to see if a quick meet and greet would be possible.  His number is (b) (6) 1111   Thanks, Morgan AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000312 DOT-Am.Oversight-001305 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) RE: Meeting Request Friday, April 21, 2017 5:42:00 PM No problem.  I just hung up with him.  He was actually asking for him and all of his sales managers that would be in town.  We will most likely be able to do it just run a few traps first.    J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, April 21, 2017 5:27 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Fwd: Meeting Request @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Greg is the Calloway county GOP chairman and about to be the first district GOP chair.  Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Alvey, Morgan" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: April 21, 2017 at 3:54:18 PM EDT To: "Carmack, Terry (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Meeting Request Terry,   Here are the details of the meeting Greg DeLancey wanted to inquire about with - Secretary Chao.  He will be in D.C. July 15th-19th with a group from Taylor Motors.  He wanted to see if a quick meet and greet would be possible.  His number is (b) (6) 1111   Thanks, Morgan AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000313 DOT-Am.Oversight-001306 From: To: Inman, Todd (OST) Dan Colletta Cc: ~ \%~e.1.cha,::~~;;;v Subj ect : Re: Letter of Support for I-71/75 Fast Lane grant application Monday, April 24, 2017 3:26:26 PM Date : ~ l~~r:i:oo1~ ~ : ln~ @mcconnell.senate.gov;.,_ lbl_<6 _l --- ~ Hi Dan , I can fo1wa rd these on but based upon the email address you have used it will not get to the Secretaiy through the Executive Secretai·iat. The con ect email is Elaine.l.chao@dot.gov . J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secreta,y Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Apr 24, 2017 , at 1:50 PM, Dan Colletta 1 b>< S> !@dukerealty.com > wrote : Dear Secreta1y Chao, Please see the attached letter of suppo 1t from Duk e Realty for the FAST Lan e grant application submitted by KYTC. Thanks, Dan Colletta Vice President Leasing & Developme nt Divers ity Ambassado r [cid:image001.jpg@0 1D1E817 .926 1A660] 5181 Nato rp Boulevard, Suite 600 Cincinnati OH 45040 tl>)( 6) F: 513.234.3750 www.dukerealty.com Sign up for Prope1iy Ale1ts Twitter M pVERSIGHT l DOT-18-0010-B-000314 DOT-Am.Oversight-001307 LinkedIn ¦ YouTube ¦ Facebook AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000315 DOT-Am.Oversight-001308 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) RE: FASTLANE Tuesday, April 25, 2017 11:55:25 AM Tonya,   Thanks so much for following up, it is greatly appreciated. I will convey the info to our constituents.   Have a great week.   Best,   Hunt     From: Gross, Tonya (OST) [mailto:Tonya.Gross@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 25, 2017 11:26 AM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: RE: FASTLANE   Hello Hunt – I don’t have any new information on FASTLANE grants.  We are still waiting on guidance from the Secretary and the “non-career” staffers on how we should proceed.  Sorry I couldn’t be of more help.       Thanks,   Tonya   Tonya V. Gross U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary Governmental Affairs (202) 366-4563   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, April 24, 2017 10:05 AM To: Gross, Tonya (OST) Subject: FASTLANE @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Good Morning, Tonya   I was wondering if there was any update on FASTLANE or if there was anything new you had heard about when announcements would be made. We have had inquiries from constituents regarding the program and I thought I would reach out. Any new information would be greatly appreciated.   Thank you , AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000316 DOT-Am.Oversight-001309   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll Legislative Correspondent U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000317 DOT-Am.Oversight-001310 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) nominees Wednesday, April 26, 2017 12:16:00 PM Hi Scott –   I’m just checking to see if there was any news about scheduling votes on nominations.  (b) (5)   Thanks, Kris Iverson   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT - DOT-18-0010-B-000318 DOT-Am.Oversight-001311 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: Coffee with Secretary Chao Thursday, April 27 Wednesday, April 26, 2017 11:23:48 AM Great, tks!   From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, April 26, 2017 11:13 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: Coffee with Secretary Chao Thursday, April 27   We expect it to last an hour.   Of course no one needs to stay that long – we certainly understand the schedule over there.   So far we have:  Congressmen Rogers, Guthrie, Barr and Comer.   From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, April 26, 2017 11:02 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Subject: RE: Coffee with Secretary Chao Thursday, April 27 @mcconnell.senate.gov]   The Leader will plan on coming.  How long do you expect it to run?  And (no rush) but can you get us a list of the delegation that are planning to attend once it’s final?   Tks!   From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 25, 2017 12:52 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Coffee with Secretary Chao Thursday, April 27   Laura and Stef:    We invited the Kentucky delegation to come have coffee with the Secretary on Thursday morning.    Of course the Leader is more than welcome to join.   I will extend the invitation to Senator Paul as well.    We do know how busy his schedule is so no worries if he cannot attend.   All the best -- DeLynn       Dear Schedulers from the Kentucky Delegation:   I would like to thank Jen Beil for initially contacting you all and coordinating a date for the coffee.    This is message is to confirm we are still on for the coffee on Thursday, April 27 at 8:30am at the Department of Transportation.     Our address is:   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000319 DOT-Am.Oversight-001312 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. (the Intersection is M and New Jersey, across the street from the Navy Yard Metro Station)   Your Member is more than welcome to bring a staff member.   Whether it is the Chief of Staff or Transportation staffer, we will leave that up to your discretion.    Please provide the name of the staff member attending so we can provide a list to security.    We will have staff members in the lobby greeting the members and your staff and will escort them to the 9th floor.   The meeting will take place in the Secretary’s conference room.   If your member needs parking, please let me know.   We have limited reserve parking we can set aside but would need to know prior to Thursday morning.  We will need to know the tag number, make and model.   We would like to provide the delegation the opportunity to bring up issues importation to them.    We will have several of our staff members in the meeting that can cover various transportation.    When I have the list of our attendees, I will send out another note.   We anticipate the breakfast to be about an hour.   Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.   Kind regards and we looking forward to welcoming your Member and staff to our office.   DeLynn   DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000320 DOT-Am.Oversight-001313 Subj ect : Raab. Scott (McConnell} Iverson. Kristine (OST) Re: Jeff Rosen"s nom ination Date : Friday, April 28, 2017 S:19:Sl PM From: To: tl>ll5l On Apr 28, 2017 , at 4 :58 PM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote: Great - t hanks ! From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [~ @mcconneU,senate,gov ] Sent: Friday, April 28, 2017 4: 34 PM To: Ive rson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Jeff Rosen's nomination From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov ] Sent: Friday, Apr il 28, 2017 4:11 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConne ll) <'{l>H si·--@mcconnell.senate .gov> Subject: Jeff Rosen's nom inat ion Hi Scott Any word regard ing a vot e on Jeff Rosen? Kris Iverson DOT DOT-18-0010-B-000321 DOT-Am.Oversight-001314 Subj ect : Raab. Scott (McConnell} Iverson. Kristine (OST) Re: Jeff Rosen"s nom ination Date : Friday, Apri l 28, 2017 S:19:Sl PM From: To: tl>ll5l On Apr 28, 2017 , at 4 :58 PM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote: tt>ll5> t hanks! From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [~ @mcconneU,senate,gov ] Sent: Friday, April 28, 2017 4: 34 PM To: Ive rson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Jeff Rosen's nomination From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov ] Sent: Friday, Apr il 28, 2017 4:11 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConne ll) <'{l>H si·--@mcconnell.senate .gov> Subject: Jeff Rosen's nom inat ion Hi Scott Any word regard ing a vot e on Jeff Rosen? Kris Iverson DOT DOT-18-0010-B-000322 DOT-Am.Oversight-001315 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Wilkinson, James (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Fwu, Melissa (OST) Re: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests Thursday, May 04, 2017 8:10:14 PM Thanks! Jeb Wilkinson Office of the Secretary  U.S.Department of Transportation  1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington DC 20590 (b) (6) On May 4, 2017, at 6:37 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Great, see you tomorrow Jeb. Will make sure you get cleared through for S-230.   Thanks, Laura   From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2017 3:28 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Wilkinson, James (OST) Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests   Hi, Laura,   James “Jeb” Wilkinson will be available tomorrow, 5/5 at 10:30am to do the walkthrough.  Would you mind getting him bypassed to get up to your offices at S-230?   Jeb’s information is below and he is Cc’d here:   James Wilkinson Cell: (b) (6)   Laura Vincent Desk: (b) (6)   Thank you so much!   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000323 DOT-Am.Oversight-001316 From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2017 10:27 AM To: 'Vincent, Laura (McConnell)' Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests   I’ll let you know this afternoon. Trying to figure out exactly who will be able to do it and when.   Thanks J   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2017 10:10 AM To: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests @mcconnell.senate.gov]   What time do they need to be cleared for?   From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2017 10:06 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests   Hi, Laura,   The advance staff who will be visiting on Friday and shepherding the Delegation on 5/8 will be either James Wilkinson, Geoff Smith, or Ben Siegrist. Thanks so much for arranging!     From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Sent: Wednesday, May 03, 2017 3:47 PM To: 'Vincent, Laura (McConnell)' Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests   Sorry! They would like to tour this Monday, May 8th.   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, May 03, 2017 3:46 PM To: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests @mcconnell.senate.gov]   What date do they want the tour?   Thanks, Laura   From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) [mailto:melissa.fwu@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, May 03, 2017 3:34 PM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000324 DOT-Am.Oversight-001317 To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: U.S. Capitol Tour for VIP Guests   Hi, Laura,   So sorry about the wait; I finally heard back from the overseas guests today. Could we request a private 1-hour U.S. Capitol tour for them from 1:30-2:30pm? They are a delegation from Jiansu Province, China, and they will be bringing an interpreter so language shouldn’t be an issue.   Also, if it’s not too much trouble, could we have someone from the office meet them curbside? A driver will be dropping them off.   Jiansu Delegation (6):   1 (b) (6) Secretary of the CPC Xuyi County Committee   2 (b) (6) Secretary of the CPC Tianquanhu Township Committee   3 (b) (6) Interpreter of Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Huai’an Municipal People’s Government   4. (b) (6) , President of Golden Fields (US) Holdings, LLC President of Golden Stone Capital (US), LLC   5.  (b) (6) Vice President of Golden Fields (US) Holdings, LLC & Golden Stone Capital, LLC   6. (b) (6) Vice President of Golden Fields (US) Holdings, LLC & Golden Stone Capital, LLC   Thanks so much, Laura!   Best,   Melissa Fwu Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000325 DOT-Am.Oversight-001318 From: To: Subject: Date: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Wilkinson, James (OST) RE: Thank you Monday, May 08, 2017 6:16:07 PM Laura, the delegation was thrilled to get the VIP treatment by your office and were particularly excited to hear that the leader’s office was normally off limits to normal guests. They even asked to swing by at the end of the tour to take pictures there.   Thank you again for a wonderful visit!   - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, May 08, 2017 4:03 PM To: Wilkinson, James (OST) Cc: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: Thank you @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Great, glad it all worked out well.   Thanks, Laura   From: Wilkinson, James (OST) [mailto:james.wilkinson@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, May 08, 2017 4:02 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: Thank you   Laura,   Thanks for your help with setting up the tour today for the Jiansu group.  Everything went smoothly and they really enjoyed it.   Jeb Wilkinson Advance Representative Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000326 DOT-Am.Oversight-001319 From: To: Subject: Date: Wilkinson, James (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Re: Wilson dinner Tuesday, May 09, 2017 2:13:57 PM Sure call you in 15 min Jeb Wilkinson Office of the Secretary  U.S.Department of Transportation  1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington DC 20590 (b) (6) On May 9, 2017, at 2:10 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hi Jeb,   Can you give me a call? (b) (6)   Thanks, Laura   . From: Wilkinson, James (OST) [mailto:james.wilkinson@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 1:51 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Wilson dinner   Laura,   Jeb here. Do you have a point of contact for the Wilson dinner tomorrow night? Wendy just forwarded your email to me. I just want to be able to confirm what the order of awardees is and who in fact is giving The Leader the award. Thanks!   Jeb Wilkinson Advance Representative Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000327 DOT-Am.Oversight-001320 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Morgan, Owen (OST) RE: Wilson Dinner Wednesday, May 10, 2017 10:10:17 AM Good Morning,   I’ve updated the run of show below with the updates I have received from the Wilson Center. Let me know if the Secretary has any questions. Also, the Wilson Center sent me the below update regarding arrival since they had an elevator go out of commission.   Thanks!   The 4 Seasons elevator between the main lobby and the downstairs ballroom floor where our whole event is to take place just went out of commission this past weekend and will not be operable for another month.  The plan: Tomorrow night, when cars pull into the 4 Seasons driveway, the driver will be asked whether folks want to be dropped off at front door, or drive straight down into the garage (even chauffeurs and Ubers will be allowed) to the designated Red Carpet entrance.  No steps at all and he will be whisked right into the green room.     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 1:29 PM To: 'Gehring, Wendy (OST)' Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Morgan, Owen (OST) Subject: RE: Wilson Dinner   Below is the run of show. I believe they may be switching MM to being the final awardee so the order may change. Also, I believe Governor Haley Barbour will present MM with the award just so you know. Attached is their press release on the event.   Thanks, Laura   Between 5:45 and 6:00 pm – Honorees arrive at hotel and brought to a private room to meet each other, Dinner Chair and senior leadership of the Wilson Center 6:00 to 6:30 pm – VIP reception – at 6:30 dividing doors open up to the simultaneous broader reception 6:00 to 7:00pm – One hour cocktail reception; simultaneous with smaller and separate VIP reception for the first thirty minutes.) 6:50 – 6:55 – Group photo opp with honorees 6:55 pm – Honorees taken to their respective dinner seats, Chimes to signal opening of doors to AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000328 DOT-Am.Oversight-001321 ballroom 7:10 pm – Everyone is seated, including Honorees 7:15pm – Welcome and Intro by Tom Nides, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the Wilson Center 7:25 pm – Dinner entrée served, beginning with head and premium tables 7:53 pm – Award Presentation begins 7:55 pm – Honoree for Global Corporate Citizenship Award: Chanda Kochhar, CEO, ICICI Bank (Intro, video, remarks) Presented by Hugh MacKinnon 8:18pm – Honorees for Corporate Citizenship Award: Jim Murren, CEO of MGM Resorts International, and Heather Hay Murren (Intro, video, remarks) Presented by Speaker Boehner 8:40 pm - Honoree for Public Service Award: Senator Mitch McConnell (Intro, video, remarks) Presented by Gov. Haley Barbour 9:05 pm – Closing remarks by Earl E. Stafford, member of the Wilson Center Board of trustees and Chief Executive Officer of the Wentworth Group LLC 9:30pm – Event closes.     From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 1:15 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Morgan, Owen (OST) Subject: Wilson Dinner   Can you send me whatever you have on the Wilson dinner for invite/run of show? We need to put it in her briefing book.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000329 DOT-Am.Oversight-001322 w THE WOODROW WILSON AWARDS Wilson Center Press Contact: Ryan McKenna Phone: (202) 691-4217 ryan.mckenna@wilsoncenter.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Woodrow Wilson Awards to Honor World-Renowned Leaders from the Private and Public Sector in Washington, DC Chanda Kochhar, Managing Director and CEO, ICICI Bank U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Majority Leader Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International Heather Hay Murren, Private Investor and Philanthropist WASHINGTON, DC (March 1, 2017) – The Woodrow Wilson Center will pay tribute to individuals from the public and private sector who exemplify President Wilson’s dedication to fostering international peace and cooperation at an awards ceremony and dinner in Washington, DC on May 10, 2017. Chanda Kochhar, Managing Director and CEO of ICICI Bank, is the recipient of the 2017 Woodrow Wilson Award for Global Corporate Citizenship. U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Majority Leader, is the recipient of the 2017 Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service. Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International and Heather Hay Murren, Private Investor and Philanthropist, are the recipients of the 2017 Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship. These prestigious awards will be presented by the Wilson Center’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Thomas R. Nides, and its Director, President and CEO, former Congresswoman Jane Harman. The Woodrow Wilson Awards are given to individuals whose actions and accomplishments, either in their careers or through service, reflect President Wilson’s belief “there is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.” Such individuals have been recognized worldwide by the Wilson Center since 1998. AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000330 DOT-Am.Oversight-001323 “The Woodrow Wilson Awards have a long history of recognizing extraordinary individuals who lead by example, helping others better understand how inter-connected the global community is and that we all must work together to make the world a safer and more prosperous place for all,” said Nides. ICICI Bank, the largest private Indian multi-national banking and financial services company headquartered in Mumbai, serves as a Title Sponsor for this year’s Woodrow Wilson Awards. Sriram Iyer, President and CEO of ICICI Bank Canada, said, “ICICI Bank, as the largest private bank in India with a growing global footprint, is delighted to serve as a Title Sponsor … The Wilson Center is one of today’s most innovative and respected think tank institutions worldwide, and it’s our distinct honor to support the event and this year’s honorees who represent the Center’s commitment to addressing today’s most pressing global public policy issues that affect both the public and the private sector.” Previous recipients of the Woodrow Wilson Awards are listed here: Previous recipients of the Woodrow Wilson Awards include former U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney; current U.S. Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson; former U.S. Secretaries of State Dr. Henry Kissinger, General Colin Powell, Hillary Clinton, and Condoleezza Rice; former U.S. Secretaries of Defense Ash Carter and Chuck Hagel; former Chairman, President and CEO of Boeing, W. James McNerney, Jr.; Executive Chairman of Yum! Brands, David C. Novak; Former Chairman and CEO of Chevron, Dave O’Reilly; His Excellency Juan Manuel Santos, President, Republic of Colombia; Broadcast Journalist, Barbara Walters; and Musician Andrew Lloyd Webber among many other distinguished individuals throughout the United States and around the world. For more information, please visit: https://www.wilsoncenter.org/dcawards2017 A\.1[ H C,/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000331 DOT-Am.Oversight-001324 From: To: Subject: Date: Wilkinson, James (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Tonight Wednesday, May 10, 2017 10:10:00 AM (b) (6) Laura   Did you ever get a final run of show for tonight? Thx.   Jeb Wilkinson Advance Representative Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000332 DOT-Am.Oversight-001325 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Wilkinson, James (OST) Somerville, Tamara (OST); (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; McInerney, Marianne (OST); Moore, Allison (OST) Inman, Todd (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: June 8th Bio Friday, May 12, 2017 1:12:00 PM 6.8.17 Seaman"s Church Institute Silver Bell Awards Dinner.doc I have attached the event sheet for everyone's information about the below listed event -----Original Message----From: Furman, Jon (OST) Sent: Friday, May 12, 2017 1:10 PM To: Somerville, Tamara (OST); Genero, Laura (OST) Cc: Wilkinson, James (OST) Subject: June 8th Bio The Secretary has requested a bio for her June 8th event. She asked to have a couple of options/ variations to choose from. Jeb is copied incase you need more information about the event. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks, Jon Furman Special Assistant to the Secretary Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000333 DOT-Am.Oversight-001326 EVENT SHEET FOR THE SECRETARY Date/Time of Event: June 8, 2017 7:30pm to 9:45pm Date of Request: April 19, 2017 Name of Event: The Seaman’s Church Institute Silver Bell Awards Dinner Location: Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers New York, NY Host Organization: The Seaman’s Church Institute Event Background: This will be the 40th annual dinner to support the programs of The Seaman’s Church Institute (SCI) Attendees: TBD Press: OPEN Length of Remarks: TBD Format: 7:30pm – 7:40pm 7:45pm – 7:55pm 7:55pm - 8:00pm 8:00pm – 8:15pm 8:15pm- 8:20 pm 8:20pm – 8:25pm 8:30pm – 8:35pm 8:35pm – 9:15pm 9:15pm – 9:25pm 9:25pm – 9:35pm 9:35pm – 9:45pm AMERICAN PVERSIGHT Guest are seated for dinner Presentation of Colors & Invocation First course is served Official welcome remarks including sponsor Acknowledgement Richard T. du Moulin introduces S-1 S-1 delivers remarks and introduces Dr. Chao and Angela Chao Acceptance remarks by Dr. Chao Dinner Joe Cox presents Lifetime Achievement Award Rick Calhoun presents Distinguished Service Award Closing remarks DOT-18-0010-B-000334 DOT-Am.Oversight-001327 9 :45 pm Atti re : Bu siness T alk in g Poin ts: La ur a Gen ero Eve nt Sh eet Coo rdina tor : Jeb Wilk in son Co ntact(s) : Jenni fe r Koe ni g B reen Eve nt co nclu des (Afte r awar ds D esse1is an d Cor di als served for guest w ho wis h to j oi n) r{6) r{6) (bl (6J (b)( 6) --Pr ev i ou s Paiiic ip ati on : @ seam enschur ch .or g No n e Note: Tim ing is rough at this point. I w ill forward you a more accurate run of show as soon as we have it solidified. As mentioned, the Silver Bell Award is usually our final award presentation, but we are changing the order to accommodate Dr. Chao. It is our hope that everyone will be able to stay with us for the remainder of the evening and the additional two award presentations. other items: • • • • • • • There will be a locked room available that Secretary Chao is welcome to use if needed. This room is shared w ith SCIstaff prior to event but we can certainly make it available to her privately if she needs that considerat ion. Please send a headshot or photo for her introduction and confirm how she should be referenced in remarks and in print. Can you also forward an officia l bio as well? We wi ll send you any press releases, programs, etc. for review and approval prio r to print ing. I can also share the script for the evening w ith you as well once it is drafted. Program is slated for printing no sooner than 10 days pr ior to event. I wi ll let you know any VIPs in room We have worked w ith Pier Sixty {Chelsea Piers) for many years. In fact, we are their longest cont inuous client. They are very accommodating and I have already alerted them that there w ill be security and probably a site visit in advance. Please confi rm if any of the Secretary's staff will be in attendance with her and should be seated for dinner. I can seat at nearby ta bles. Also please confirm if security should be seated or if we should provide meals. Can you advise how long you th ink the Secretary w ill speak (estimated is fine)? I just want to give you the name of everyone on the SCIteam: • Rev. David Rider - Executive Director and President AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000335 DOT-Am.Oversight-001328 • • • • • • • Richard T. du Moulin – Chairman of the Board and the Silver Bell Awards Dinner committee Jennifer Koenig Breen – Director of Development Viveka Jahn – Special Events Coordinator Naomi Walker – Director of Communications Nancy Scocozza – Consultant for event logistics Beth Turner – Senior Corporate Events Manager at Pier Sixty (point of contact for venue and catering) Jimmy DePalma – DePalma Productions (handles all our AV/Media throughout the event) Filled Out by: Date: AMERICAN pVERSIGHT Jeb Wilkinson April 26, 2017 (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000336 DOT-Am.Oversight-001329 From: To: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov l:l>ll 6l Question from Secretary Olao Friday, May 12, 2017 3:40 :00 PM Hi Laura Secretary Chao and Leader McConnell were both invit ed to attend a breakfast w ith UN Sec Gen on Can you confirm whether or not he plans on going? Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transportation DOT-18-0010-B-000337 DOT-Am.Oversight-001330 From: To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Question from Secretary Chao Friday, May 12, 2017 3:43:45 PM Date: We are cur rent ly review ing. Not sure if t hat dat e wor ks yet. W ill let yo u all know. Thanks, Laura From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto :gabrielle .basile@dot.gov ] Sent: Friday, May 12, 2017 3 :40 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McCon nell) 1bJ Subject: Questio n from Secretary Chao Hi Laura Secretary Chao and Leader McConnell were bot h invit ed to attend a breakfast w ith UN Sec Gen on Can yo u confirm whet her or not he plans on going? Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportat ion DOT-18-0010-B-000338 DOT-Am.Oversight-001331 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST}: Basile,Gabrielle (OST}: Henry, Delynn (OST) FW: Dinner Invitation from Justice Anthony M Kennedyand Wayne and Catherine Reynolds Monday, May 15, 2017 3 :38 :00 PM l:l>ll 6l 5> and Stef l:l>ll I Please see below for Dinner on Thurs May 25. 5 From: Moore,Vanessa[mailto:CbH > @cbrf.org] Sent: Monday,May 15, 2017 3:23 PM To: Gehring,Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, Delynn (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner Invitation from Justice Anthony M Kennedyand Wayneand CatherineReynolds Hi ladies!! The Comt has asked that any guest with a security detail be in touch with them prior to the day of th e dinner. Can you pass this contact onto your detail for us and for the detail at the Leader 's office? It is much appreciated. Regards , Vanessa From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto-wendy gehrjng@dot gov] Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 12 :04 PM 5 To: Moore, Vanessa 4 ,@cbrf.o rg> Cc:Gehring, We ndy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrie lle (OST) ; Henry, Delyn n (OST) Subject: Dinner Invit ati on fr om Justice Ant hony M Kennedy and Wayne and Catherine Reynolds Vanessa, Confirming the details o n t his: Thursday, May 25, 7 :00pm (unt il when?) East Conference Room USSC Dinner in hono r of the legacy of Judge Frank M Johnson, Jr. I am fair ly sure Secret ary will attend but will get back w ith you . DOT-18-0010-B-000339 DOT-Am.Oversight-001332   Also could I ask that you add Elle, DeLynn and me to your contacts for Secretary?   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   (b) (6) E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000340 DOT-Am.Oversight-001333 From: To: Subject: Date: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) Re: How many Dems do we need? Monday, May 15, 2017 11:21:05 AM Checking on the latest on attendance  On May 15, 2017, at 11:19 AM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote: (b) (5)       From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, May 15, 2017 11:16 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: Re: How many Dems do we need? @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (5) On May 15, 2017, at 11:05 AM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote:   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000341 DOT-Am.Oversight-001334 To : Subj ect : Raab. Scott (McConnell} Iverson. Kristine (OST) Re: How many Dems do we need? Dat e : Monday, May 15, 2017 11:25 :46 AM Fro m: tl>ll5l On May 15, 20 17, at 11:19 AM , Iverson , Kristine (OST) wrote: tl>ll5l From: Raab, Scott (McConnell)[~ @mcconneU,senate,gov ] Sent: Monday,May 15, 2017 11:16 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: Re: How many Demsdo we need? tl>ll5l On May 15, 2017, at 11:05 AM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrot e: DOT-18-0010-B-000342 DOT-Am.Oversight-001335 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) RE: Jeff Rosen Monday, May 15, 2017 6:13:00 PM Thanks for your help, Scott.     - From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, May 15, 2017 6:10 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Jeff Rosen   Thanks, Kris.  (b) (5)   @mcconnell.senate.gov]   From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, May 15, 2017 5:26 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Jeff Rosen   - ---- (b) (5)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000343 DOT-Am.Oversight-001336 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell); Rossi, Nick (Commerce); Arnakis, Adrian (Commerce) McMaster, Sean (OST); Rosen, Jeff (OST) Rosen nomin - TPs rebutting Public Citizen letter.docx Monday, May 15, 2017 11:25:00 AM Rosen nomin - TPs rebutting Public Citizen letter.docx   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000344 DOT-Am.Oversight-001337 TALKING POINTS TO RESPOND TO THE SIGN-ON LETTER INSERTED IN THE HEARING RECORD BY SENATOR BLUMENTHAL The Public Citizen letter is a personal attack, but each of its assertions has been rebutted by Mr. Rosen’s testimony and QFR responses. First, Mr. Rosen has not represented the Alliance of Auto Manufacturers during the last decade. He has not represented the Airlines for America since 2013. But regardless of the timing, these are perfectly legitimate organizations, as is the U.S. Chamber of Chamber. And there is no reason a lawyer who has represented them at some points in a 35 year legal career cannot serve honorably and well. [See response to Q6 of Schatz Post-Hearing QFRs, and responses to Q39 and Q27 of Blumenthal PostHearing QFRs, and response to Q7 of Nelson Pre-Hearing QFRs, and response to Q1 of Schatz Pre-Hearing QFRs.] As General Counsel of DOT, Mr. Rosen did oversee the regulatory process. During that time, when some unproductive rulemakings were terminated, DOT also issued numerous important safety regulations, as well as other regulations. A complete list of final rules is publicly available, and it is extensive. With regard to NHTSA's rule on vehicle roofs, it was NHTSA who determined to include a preemption provision for national uniformity. [See response to Q27 of Blumenthal Post-Hearing QFRs and response to Q13 of Nelson PostHearing QFRs.] The letter erroneously asserts that Mr. Rosen represented the U.S. Chamber in a legal challenge to EPA's tailpipe/fuel economy rule. That was actually the law firm of King and Spalding—it is shown on the cover of the legal briefs in that case that it was not Kirkland & Ellis, where Rosen worked, but a different firm. Mr. Rosen did represent the U.S. Chamber in litigation challenging other EPA rules, but far from being "soundly rejected," as the letter claims, the side that Mr. Rosen represented won a 9-0 decision in the U.S. Supreme Court in UARG v . EPA, No. 12- 1272 (June 23, 2014). [See response to Sen Blumenthal at nomination hearing in March 29, 2017, and response to Q7 of Nelson Pre-Hearing QFRs.] Regarding the letter's reference to a supposed anecdote of Mr. Rosen asking a tautological question of EPA during his tenure as General Counsel at OMB and demanding memos about it, the episode was falsely reported by a journalist who apparently never bothered to check with Mr. Rosen. [See response to Q41 of Blumenthal Post-Hearing QFRs.] But there is nothing wrong with a lawyer asking questions in order to obtain information to properly advise policymakers. As to an executive order requiring a Presidential appointee gatekeeper in the department for new rules, that was already the practice in the Clinton administration, and not an innovation of anything Mr. Rosen did. To the contrary, the approach during his tenure at OMB increased transparency for the public. [See response to Q33 of Schatz Post-Hearing QFRs.] The Public Citizen letter attacks Mr. Rosen for having testified in support of the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2013, which it claims could "shut down the regulatory process.” That assertion alone shows what an overreach the letter is, because that bill was bipartisan and AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 1 DOT-18-0010-B-000345 DOT-Am.Oversight-001338 was cosponsored by Commerce Committee Ranking Member Bill Nelson. [See response to Q31 of Blumenthal Post-Hearing QFRs.] The actual record shows that when Mr. Rosen was General Counsel at DOT, he took a balanced and effective approach to regulation. In considering his readiness to work in a bipartisan manner, it should not be forgotten that when he was at DOT he worked for Secretary Norman Mineta, who was a Democrat in the Bush Cabinet. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 2 DOT-18-0010-B-000346 DOT-Am.Oversight-001339 From: To: Subject: Date: Burr, Geoff (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Call Tuesday, May 16, 2017 2:07:00 PM (b) (6) Hazen:   I wanted to see if you had a moment briefly chat about a media inquiry we received that also involves the Leader. I am in meetings the next couple hours but will step out if you are able to call. My cell is (b) (6) .   Thanks very much.   Geoff Burr Acting Chief Of Staff Department of Transportation   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000347 DOT-Am.Oversight-001340 From: To: Mcinerne y. Marianne (OST) P>> @mcconnell.senate.gov 1 Subject: PN:Bloomberg media inquiry : Curtis Ellis Date: Tuesday, May 16, 2017 11:53: 00 AM St u: Would you be able to call me in regard to t his note and reference below Thank you Marianne Marianne Mcinerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 5 Mobile: lb>< > 5 From: Josh Eidelson (BLOOMBERG / NEWSROOM:) [mailto:tb>< > Sent: Tuesday, May 16, 2017 10:48 AM To: Mcinerney, Marianne(OST); Moore,Allison (OST) Subject: Bloomberg media inquiry: Curtis Ellis @bloomberg.net] ------ All ison and Marianne , I'm reac hing out seeki ng comme nt from Secretary Chao for a story we' re plann ing to file later today rega rding Curtis Ellis, who we reported yesterday is a fi nalist to run DOL's Burea u of Internat ional Labor Affa irs (here's our story on Ellis and concerns amo ng some staff and sta keholders about some of his past controvers ial commen ts: https ://www.bna.com /trump-ally-ellis-n730 14450933 /). Our new story w ill include a tweet and articles he w rote in 2014 attacking Chao and Senator McCon nell : https ://twitter .com/curtisellis /status/518440201635381248 http ://www. ci ncin nati. com/story/op inion/contributors /2014/ 10/04/opi nion-love-bl ind- comes-mccon nell-chjna/16652453 / http ://www.w nd.com/2015/01/ m itch-mcconne lls-sellout-fol low-the-money / Wonde ring if Secreta ry Chao has any commen t on Ellis' comments or his potential select ion to run ILAB . Thanks , Josh Josh Eidelson Reporter , Businesswee k 5 tt>H > @bloomberg.net \ UJ \U J http ://josheidelson.com twitter: @joshe idelson M pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000348 DOT-Am.Oversight-001341 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Gross, Tonya (OST) FASTLANE Letter of Support- McConnell Wednesday, May 17, 2017 2:38:11 PM Owensboro Riverport Authority Letter from Sen. McConnell to Ms. Tonya Gross 5.17.pdf Hi Tonya,   Please see attached for a letter of support from Senator McConnell regarding Owensboro Riverport Authority’s FASTLANE grant application.  ORA reached out to us requesting an updated letter of support after receiving an email from Todd Inman at USDOT.  A physical copy has been placed in the mail as well.   Also, are FASTLANE grants being reviewed again? If so, is it advised for us to submit new letters of support for applications we had written in about under the last administration?   Thank you for your help on this, Tonya, it is greatly appreciated.   Best,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000349 DOT-Am.Oversight-001342 MAJORITY LEADER MITCH McCONN ELL KENTUCK Y COMMITTEES: AGR ICU LTURE 317 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILD ING WAS HINGTO N, DC 205 10-1702 (202) 224--2541 APPROPRIATIONS RULES AND ADMIN ISTRATION May 17, 2017 Ms. Tonya Gross Acting Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590-0001 Dear Ms. Gross: I write on behalf of my constituents at the Owensboro Riverport Authority (ORA) regarding their competitive grant application with the Department of Transportation's Fostering Advancements in Shipping and Transportation for the Long-term Achievement of National Efficiencies (FASTLANE) grant program (CFDA 20.934). I am told that this funding, if awarded, would allow ORA to implement safety improvements and widen a two mile section of KY33 l to better serve local Owensboro residents and businesses as well as remediate safety concerns along the mixed land use sections of KY33 l. My constituents have informed me that this funding would aid ORA in its efforts to enhance direct access between the Ohio River and ORA's Class I rail service to enable more efficient intermodal connections within Daviess County and the region. It is my understanding, that that these improvements would allow a safer and more reliable entryway into the Owensboro Riverport and its surrounding industrial neighbors. As our nation continues on a path of unsustainable debt, it is more important than ever that we in Congress, and you in the Administration, work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely. It is with this in mind that I draw your attention to ORA's application, which I believe merits your full and fair review. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ~_;-,,t#.t:?_u • &'{~; NNELL UNITED ST A TES SENA TOR MM/hv fEOERAL BqlL DIN G 24 J EiA,r MA I"'Si'lse'I\T 1885 0I>C1C H1c;,1-twAv n 1 CORPORA Tf sum 345 Su•Tt 108 j}VaERYSI G HT~'t,'st4,o,, lEXJNGTON, KY 40503 300 Sou rH MAIN SUITE 310 LONDON, KY 40741 18591224-8286 (606) 864-2026 DRIVE 601 W EST BR OAD WAY 100 f OUNTA1N AVEN UE DOT-18-0010-B-000350 SUI TE 300 SUIT£ 630 LOUISVILLE,KY 40202 (502) 582--6304 42001 (270) 442-4554 PADUCAH , KY DOT-Am.Oversight-001343 From: To: Date: Attachments: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Wednesday, May 17, 2017 2:29:00 PM Mnuchin Wedding Invitation.pdf Hi Stef:   (b) (6)       Invitation is attached.  I will RSVP for the Secretary once I hear back about the Leader.   Thanks so much,   DeLynn AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000351 DOT-Am.Oversight-001344 AND REQUEST THE PLEASURE OF YOUR COMPANY AT THE CELEBRATION OF THEIR MARRIAGE SATURDAY, THE TWENTY - FOURTH OF JUNE TWO THOUSAND AND SEVENTEEN HALF PAST SIX O'CLOCK IN THE EVENING 130 1 CONSTITUTION WASHINGTON, DINNER AVENUE DISTRICT AND DANCING NORTH WEST OF COLUMBIA TO FOLLOW DOT-18-0010-B-000352 DOT-Am.Oversight-001345 PARKING NEAR TH E VENt;E IS VERY LI~HTED AND DUE TO SECURITY , VALET WIL L '.XOT BE AVAILABLE. WE WILL BE PROVID it,;G TRA.'.'iSPORTAT IO~ FOR OUR OUT OF TOWN GU ESTS FROM THE TR UMP INTERNATIONA L HOTEL AND THE W ILLARD INTERCON TINENTAL DEPARTING PROM PTLY AT 5:40 PM WE KINDLY REQUES T THAT OUR Gl ' ES TS BRING A VALID GO VERNME:'\T-ISSCED PHOTO ID. PLEASE ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 5:50 PM TO E~SURE SUHICIENT TIME FOR SECURITY SCREENI~G IN LIEU OF GIFTS , WE ASK THAT O UR GUESTS CONTRIBU TO ONE OF OUR FA TE VORITE CHARITIES LISTED BELO\'{ PL EASE NOTE THAT WE AR E UNABLE TO ACCE PT PERSONAL GIFT S MATTEL CHILDREN ' S HOSPITAL MUTT MATCH LA - AKIMAL RESCUE PARALYZED VETERA NS OF AMERICA MAKE-A-WISH® AM ERICA AM \(.,AN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000353 DOT-Am.Oversight-001346 THE FAVOR OF A REPLY IS REQUESTED ACCEPTS BY THE WITH DECLINES PLEASURE WITH REGRET PLEASE PROVIDE THE BEST PHONE NUMBER TO REACH YOU TO COLLECT INFORMATION REQUIRED FOR ATTENDING SECURITY THE EVENT PLEASE NOTE ANY DIETARY REQUIREMENTS AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000354 DOT-Am.Oversight-001347 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Siegrist, Ben; Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Inouye Event and Dinner Thursday, May 18, 2017 11:28:45 AM 5.18.17 LOC Inouye Dinner.docx 5.18.17 LOC Inouye Lecture Series Panel.docx Stef, See attached. Ben is advance, his info is on the sheet.   Table:   Mr. Reed Hastings, CEO Netflix Mr. David Ferriero, Archivist of the United States Ms. Ann Compton, ABC News Dr. William Hughes, physician and husband to Ms. Compton Mrs. Irene Hirano Inouye, widow to Senator Inouye Mr. Ted Widmer, Director of the Kluge Center (Tentative) Senator Mazie Hirono, D-HI (Tentative) Ms. Shelia Crowley, Acting Director of Peace Corps     Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation   E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000355 DOT-Am.Oversight-001348 EVENT SHEET FOR THE SECRETARY Date/Time of Event: May 18, 2017 8:00pm – 10:00pm Name of Event: Daniel K. Inouye Distinguished Lecture Series: Dinner Location: Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building Great Hall First Floor Host Organization: John W. Kluge Center Library of Congress Event Background: This dinner will follow THE SECRETARY’s participation in the lecture series event. THE SECRETARY will be seated at the head table along with fellow lecture participants, Reed Hastings and Ann Compton. Additionally, Senator Inouye’s widow, Irene Hirano Inouye, will be seated with THE SECRETARY. A full list of guests at the table is below. Attendees/Audience: Approximately 100 guests will depart the lecture hall and move to the Great Hall Press: CLOSED Length of Remarks: N/A Format: 8:00pm Cocktail reception begins in the Great Hall 8:20pm Guests are to be seated 8:20pm Robert Newlen, the LOC Chief of Staff, will offer a champagne toast 8:25pm Mrs. Inouye will present THE SECRETARY and other lecture participants with a traditional Hawaiian lei 8:35pm Buffet dinner begins 10:00pm Dinner concludes AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000356 DOT-Am.Oversight-001349 Attire: Business Talking Points: N/A Event Sheet Coordinator: Ben Siegrist (b) (6) Event Point of Contact: Dan Turello (b) (6) Previous Participation: N/A Note: THE SECRETARY, Mr. Hastings, and Mr. Newlen will be presented with Hawaiian leis immediately following the champagne toast. Per the Kluge Center, guests have traditionally worn the leis throughout the dinner. There will be a photographer on site for internal documentation of the event. THE SECRETARY will be seated at dinner with: - Mr. Reed Hastings, CEO Netflix - Mr. David Ferriero, Archivist of the United States - Ms. Ann Compton, ABC News - Dr. William Hughes, physician and husband to Ms. Compton - Mrs. Irene Hirano Inouye, widow to Senator Inouye - Mr. Ted Widmer, Director of the Kluge Center - (Tentative) Senator Mazie Hirono, D-HI - (Tentative) Ms. Shelia Crowley, Acting Director of Peace Corps Filled Out by: Ben Siegrist Date: May 16, 2017 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000357 DOT-Am.Oversight-001350 EVENT SHEET FOR THE SECRETARY Date/Time of Event: May 18, 2017 6:00pm – 8:00pm Name of Event: Daniel K. Inouye Distinguished Lecture Series: Inspiring a Sense of Service and Idealism Location: Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building Coolidge Auditorium Ground Floor Host Organization: John W. Kluge Center Library of Congress Event Background: The Daniel K. Inouye Distinguished Lecture Series is made possible through a generous donation from The Daniel K. Inouye Institute. Each year the lecture will focus on one theme that reflects Senator Daniel K. Inouye's legacy of public service and civic engagement. Each lecture will be held at the Library of Congress and live streamed on the campus of the University of Hawaii. This event will be moderated by ABC News Anchor Ann Compton. THE SECRETARY will be joined on stage by Reed Hastings, CEO of Netflix. Attendees/Audience: The event is open to the public. There will likely be around 300 attendees. Press: OPEN. The event will be live-streamed. Members of the press may participate in the Q&A portion but will be restricted to questions related to the event’s theme. Length of Remarks: 90 minutes of participation in a moderated conversation Format: 6:00pm THE SECRETARY arrives at LOC green room behind the Coolidge Auditorium and is given lapel microphone 6:25pm THE SECRETARY, Mr. Hastings, and Ms. Compton are escorted to seats in the front row of the auditorium AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000358 DOT-Am.Oversight-001351 6:30pm Event begins; Ted Widmer, Director, Kluge Center, introduces the lecture series, welcomes speakers and moderator 6:37pm Moderator’s introductory comments 6:45pm Moderated conversation begins 7:00pm 3 recorded questions from University of Hawaii students and Peace Corps volunteers will be aired on the screen above the stage 7:25pm Q & A with the live audience begins; Audience microphones will be handled by LOC staff 7:50pm Ted Widmer thanks speakers and moderator 8:00pm THE SECRETARY and invited guests return to the Green Room for a brief hold before heading to the Great Hall for dinner along with 100 invited guests. Attire: Business Talking Points: See list of potential discussion topics attached below Event Sheet Coordinator: Ben Siegrist (b) (6) Event Point of Contact: Dan Turello (b) (6) Previous Participation: N/A Note: Previous speakers that have participated in the lecture series have included Former Secretaries Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Norm Mineta, and former Senator Alan Simpson. Filled Out by: Ben Siegrist Date: April 12, 2017 AMERICAN pVERSIGHT (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000359 DOT-Am.Oversight-001352 Suggested Themes Personal Histories • [Sec. Chao] Your first foray into government service was as a White House Fellow in the Ronald Reagan White House. Before this you had worked in the private sector with Citibank. How did this transition happen? What was memorable? What was it like to work in the White House? • [Mr. Hastings]Your first experience with a kind of government service was as a mathematics teacher with the Peace Corps in Swaziland. What inspired you to join? What did you find? Public Service • [Mr. Hastings] The view from California is often different than from inside the beltway. When you look at the political landscape, what do you see? • [Sec. Chao] We have a lot of students following us at the University of Hawaii. Why should they get involved in public service? What is the reward? The Peace Corps • Over 220,000 Americans have served in the Peace Corps since its founding. How have their lives been changed? How have they changed the lives of those they served? • Does the Peace Corps influence the way Americans are viewed in the world? • [Sec. Chao] How has the Peace Corps evolved over time? What were your goals while you were Director? • [Mr. Hastings] You are very involved in the world of education and philanthropy and in creating opportunities for minorities and non-traditional students. Based on your experience championing innovative models, how might the Peace Corps continue attracting the best and most diverse students? What about mid-career candidates and retirees? Public-Private Partnerships • You have spent significant portions, or most of your career in the private sector. How can people with skills developed in the private sector find ways to serve in government, civic life, or philanthropy? • What have been your best experiences with private-public partnerships? DOT-18-0010-B-000360 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001353 Leadership • You are at the helm of large, complex organizations with multiple stakeholders. How do you maintain integrity and authenticity when working with so many different competing interests? • Surveys show that trust in government is very low at the moment, with only a small percentage of citizens claiming they have faith in government institutions. Trust in corporations is low too. Are there some foundational values—in how you lead, or in how you work with partners and customers—that are as relevant in business as they are in public service? And what can leaders, in any sector, do to gain the trust of the American people? • What makes for a good leader? Is there one quality that you must see before gaining confidence in a leader? Setbacks • [Mr. Hastings] There is a common view that occasional failure is part and parcel of innovation and this seems especially true in the world of start-ups. Do you agree? Can you tell us about a defeat or a setback and what you learned from it? The Qwikster episode is often cited. Can you give us a sense of how that decision unfolded? • [Sec. Chao] What about political setbacks? Are trial and error and experimentation as important in the public sector as they are in business? • Apologies are tough to make and getting the tone and message right can be really difficult. Is there any value to apologizing for mistakes? How authentic can one really be, in business or in politics? Is it worth the risk? Victories • Tell us about a victory which gave you a sense that you were honoring your values. What made you proud? Questions from Univ. of Hawaii students and Peace Corps Volunteers Sample of questions The Kluge Center has received: • From U. of Hawaii student to Reed Hastings: How did the Peace Corps help you become an entrepreneur? • From U. of Hawaii student to Sec. Chao: What inspiring message do you have for minorities and women? • Peace Corps volunteer to Reed Hastings: How can residents in more developed countries gain empathy for challenges in the developing world? • Peace Corps volunteer to Sec. Chao: How would you encourage today’s leaders to follow through with their idealism? DOT-18-0010-B-000361 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001354 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Infastructure Ta king Points Tuesday, May 23, 2017 2:12:00 PM https://www.wh tehouse.gov/s tes/whitehouse.gov/files/omb/budget/fy2018/fact sheets/2018%20Budget%20Fact%20Sheet Infrastructure%20In tiative.pdf J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000362 DOT-Am.Oversight-001355 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Thursday night Tuesday, May 23, 2017 11:45:37 AM Could you now regret the Thursday night dinner at the Supreme Court for him?   Thanks!   Also – I have a long term schedule here in S-230 ready for you guys. (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000363 DOT-Am.Oversight-001356 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Lipp, Sarah (OST) Slater, Bryan (OST); Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Schellin, Meredith (McConnell) RE: Phone Call Wednesday, May 24, 2017 2:45:48 PM Department of Transportation Open Positions.docx Absolutely – please see attached for the list. Kathy, I will email you separately regarding a phone call! Thank you,   Sarah Lipp Administrative Assistant Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration (b) (6)   Your feedback is important.  Please take a moment to complete the M Customer Service Survey.       From: Slater, Bryan (OST) Sent: Wednesday, May 24, 2017 2:38 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Cc: Schellin, Meredith (McConnell); Lipp, Sarah (OST) Subject: RE: Phone Call   Cathy, thanks – My day is crazy – I’m asking Sarah to find a time for us – Sarah, could you work to lock in a time that works for both of us tomorrow?  Also, could you end Kathy the non blurb list open positions?   Thanks, B   Bryan Slater Assistant Secretary for Administration U. S. Department of Transportation Bryan.slater@dot.gov (b) (6)   From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, May 24, 2017 11:05 AM To: Slater, Bryan (OST) Cc: Schellin, Meredith (McConnell) Subject: Phone Call @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Bryan, Let me know when you’d like to talk about personnel for DOT. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000364 DOT-Am.Oversight-001357 Here are few times today (tomorrow afternoon is good as well).   Today, May 24th 12:15pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 4:30pm   I look forward to talking. Kathy     KATHY WILLS WRIGHT POLICY ADVISOR FOR NOMInATIOnS OFFICE OF THE MAJORITY LEADER, SEnATOR MITCH MCCOnnELL DIRECT  (b) (6)       AMf--HICJ\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000365 DOT-Am.Oversight-001358 Department of Transportation Appointee Positions Still Open/Searching IMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY (S-1) Deputy Chief of Staff (NC SES 2) * Special Assistant - Advance– (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARY (S-2) *Special Assistant (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION POLICY (S-3) Special Assistant (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER (S-80) *Chief Information Officer (NC SES) Special Assistant for Innovative Communications (New Sch C) OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS (A) Press Secretary (Sch C) Special Assistant for Digital Strategy (Sch C) Press Advance (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE CFO/ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR BUDGET AND PROGRAMS (B) *CFO/Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs (PAS/EX-IV) OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL (C) *Deputy General Counsel (NC SE) Associate General Counsel (Sch C) Legal Advisor to the General Counsel (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORTATION POLICY (P) Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy (PAS/EX-IV $155,500) - HOLD *Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy (Sch C ) DOT-18-0010-B-000366 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001359 Associate Director for Public Engagement (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR AVIATION AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS (X) *Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (PAS/EX-IV) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS (I) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Affairs (NC SES) Senior? Congressional Affairs Officer? (Cong?)(Senate?) (Sch C) Senior? Congressional Affairs Officer (Cong?) (Senate?) (Sch C) OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY (R) *Deputy Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology (Sch C) FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA) Administrator (PAS/EX-II) *Associate Administrator for Airports (NC/FAA Executive) *Asst Administrator for Aviation Policy, International Affairs, & Environment (NC/FAA Executive) FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION (FHWA) *Administrator (PAS/EX-II) *Deputy Administrator (NC SES) Chief Counsel (NC SES) *Associate Administrator for Highway Policy and External Affairs (NC SES) Director of Public Affairs (Sch C) FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (FMCSA) *Director of Governmental Affairs (Sch C) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION (FRA) Special Assistant (Sch C) FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION (FTA) DOT-18-0010-B-000367 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001360 *Deputy Administrator (NC SES) Chief Counsel (NC SES) Associate Administrator for Communications and Legislative Affairs (Sch C) MARITIME ADMINISTRATION (MARAD) *Deputy Administrator (NC SES) *Chief Counsel (NC SES) Director, Office of Congressional and Public Affairs (Sch C) NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) Administrator (PAS/EX-III) *Deputy Administrator (NC SES) *Chief Counsel (NC SES) Director of Communications (Sch C) *Director of Governmental Affairs PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (PHMSA) *Deputy Administrator (NC SES) Chief Counsel (NC SES) Special Assistant to the Administrator (Sch C) SAINT LAWRENCE SEAWAY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (SLSDC) Administrator (PA/EX-IV) OTHER APA Outreach Labor Outreach *We have some potential candidates but could always use more. DOT-18-0010-B-000368 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001361 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Popp, David (McConnell) Re: Fred Barnes Wednesday, May 31, 2017 3:19:26 PM David Thank you for passing this along. We would be happy to put the Secretary together with Fred. (b) (6) Best number is personal cell. . Thank you Marianne Sent from my iPhone - ---- On May 31, 2017, at 2:07 PM, Popp, David (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hi, Marianne. I hope this email finds you well.   Fred Barnes from the Weekly Standard reached out. He is working on an infrastructure package and would like to include a story on the Secretary.   He asked for the best contact at DOT. Is that you? If so, what number can he best reach you at?   Thank you in advance  David   David Popp Communications Director Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (b) (6) republicanleader.senate.gov   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000369 DOT-Am.Oversight-001362 From: To: Subject: Date: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Burr, Geoff (OST); vivieca.wright@va.gov RE: VA - Louisville Monday, June 05, 2017 4:58:54 PM Many thanks for the introduction, Geoff – and it is very nice to meet you over email, Vivieca.  If you have time for a call, I would certainly welcome the opportunity to catch up about this important project for Kentucky.   Thank you both.   Phil (b) (6)     From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, June 05, 2017 4:31 PM To: vivieca.wright@va.gov; Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Subject: VA - Louisville   Vivieca and Phil:   Based upon a conversation Secretary Shulkin and Secretary Chao had at the White House last evening, she asked me to connect you two.  I don’t fully have all the details but my understanding this involves hospitals in Louisville. I apologize for not being able to provide greater context here but I wanted to just provide you with each other’s emails and hopefully that can facilitate further discussion here.   Please let me know if I can assist here at all.    Thanks,   Geoff Burr Chief Of Staff Department of Transportation   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000370 DOT-Am.Oversight-001363 From: To: Subject : Date: Atta chments: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack FW:KTC - intro and meeti ng request Thursday, June 08, 2017 1:05:0 1 PM KTC Excellence in Motion.pdf J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 ) (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaO'scheduler@dotgov From: King, Eric L [mailto:H 6J Wanted t o simply connect wit h you in search of a cont act at DOT to meet wit h UK's/Kentucky's Transportatio n Center team . We have worked wit h the House and Senate Appropria t ions committee on several init iat ives involving rura l developme nt and delivery of t ransportat ion proj ects. I am attaching a quick read backgrou nder on our center . I am uncertain of t he people you have on board, so would value any direct ion/connect ion . V/r, Eric Eri c L. King Direc tor University of Kentucky FederalRelations DOT-18-0010-B-000371 DOT-Am.Oversight-001364 --"·i,"t'!'· ,,. • - ... --·~--.. . ,· . . .. .J •• (;., "....,-_ '·:· .. EXClSLLEN~ -~-~-~ ....~.S'!fO _,. ~ ,.r ' -...:.c PJ. KENTUCKY Transpo ration Center We provide services to the transportation community through research, technology transfer and education. We create and participate in partnerships to promote safe and effective transportation systems. Construction Management he Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) is housed in the University of Kentucky's Department of Civil Engineering. Specializing in basic and applied research, since 1981 KTC has delivered high-quality research that the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) and other clients have relied on to improve the management of transportation assets. KTC is a solution-driven organization that prioritizes activities which strengthen infrastructure resiliency while providing its clients with significant and enduring returns on investment. The Center's dedicated staff is poised to continue expanding their national profile and cement their place as research leaders by tackling the urgent transportation problems confronting the state and nation. This overview summarizes KTC's areas of expertise, principal activities, and noteworthy accomplishments. T PROGRAM AREAS Bridge Preservation There are over 14,000 bridges in Kentucky, and the structura l integr ity of all must be mainta ined. KTC's Bridge Preservation Group stud ies the techn iques and materi als used to repair, reinforce, and p reserve bridges and related structu res. Current research includes: protect ive coati ngs for conc rete and steel , testi ng the performance of coati ngs aga inst accelerated weat hering , environmenta l issues, and the-impact of surface contam inants. pVERSIGHT The Construct ion Engineering and Proj ect Management Group develops innovative meth ods, tec hnologies, and strateg ies to imp rove proj ect de livery. Researchers integrate construction knowledge into proj ect plann ing and design, with the aim of reducing costs, shorte ning proj ect du ration, and delivering effect ive, safe p roj ects. Intelligent Transportation Systems ITS is at t he lead ing edge of identify ing how techno log ical t ransfor mations inf luence the operation of transpo rtation networks. The group integra tes advanced techno log ies int o com mercial vehicle and other t ransporta tion systems to imp rove the ir safety and efficiency. ITS has enjoyed national p romi nence for over 20 years and maintains a key partne rship w ith the FHWA's Commercia l Vehicle Informa tion Systems and Ne tworks (CVISN) progra m. Traffic and Safety The Traffic and Safety Group is committed to bols tering t he safety of transportat ion netwo rks. Projects focus on everyth ing from highway safety, operationa l analysis, and high way safety design to t ransportat ion planni ng and forecasti ng. The g roup is responsible fo r Kentucky's annu al seat be lt survey and assists KYTC in preparing the annual Strateg ic Highway Safety Plan. Technology Transfer 2 KTC's nationa lly recogn ized Technology Transfer Program (T ) br idges t he gap between tra ining and info rmation , de livering hund reds of works hops and tra ining events around Kentucky each year. The group develops how-to manua ls, d ispenses expert advice, offers legis lative and regu latory news, and provides on-site technical assistance and access to the only transpo rtation library in the Co mmonwealth . T 2 's partne rships with FHWA, KYTC, and a network of 58 Local Technica l Assistance DOT-18-0010-B-000372 Programs in the United States enable it to de liver cost-effective, pract ical solutions to real-wor ld transportat ion prob lems. DOT-Am.Oversight-001365 PROGRAM AREAS Finance and Economics Special Projects and Initiatives Researchersin Special Projects and Initiatives have expertise in multiple disciplines and excellent project management skills, enabling them to quickly respond to a wide variety of transportation research opportunities not addressed by other program areas. They oversee innovative projects focused on enhancing the efficiency and economic competitiveness of the nation's transportation systems. The group manages the design and implementation of KTC's largest research project - Fedtrak"'- Funded by the Departmen t of Homeland Security, Fedtrak"' is a risk management and supply chain tracking system that will monitor the movement of Tier 1 hazardous materials on the nation's highway netwo rk. Researchers have also developed - and are currently delivering project management training to KYTCengineers involved in the design and implementa tion of new projects. Researchers in th is program area conduct applied research on transportation infrastructure, facilities, and maintenance. Determining how transportation departments pay fo r these services is critical fo r decision making. Researchers work with multiple colleges within University of Kentucky to answer pressing questions about transportation financing and project delivery. Planning The backbone of any functional and resilient transportation system is good planning. The Planning Group coordinates inte rdisciplinary projects among multiple program areas and academic de partments. Project work targets data processing for decision making, travel models, advanced technologies, and multimodal transportation. Pavements, Materials and Geotech The fo undation of a resilient transportation system is durably constructed roads, bridges, and infrastruct ure. Pavements, Materials and Geotech conducts research on asphalt, concrete pavement structures, and underlying subgrade materials. The group explores quality control, materials handling, construction sequencing, construction techniques, and performs forensic evaluations of highway infrastruct ure. Structures KTC's Structures Group uses field testing and finite element structure modeling to evaluate, monitor, and develop strategies to strengthen new and existing structures. These strategies provide insights into how structures respond to natural disasters and other hazards. The Structures and Bridge Preservation program areas often collaborate on projects geared toward increasing structure resiliency. KTC - WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED • KTC's team has 117 part - and fu ll-t ime enginee rs, researchers. technicians, trainers, and adm inistrative professionals. Fifteen professors from the College of Engineer ing.the Ganon College of Business and Economics. and the Mart in School of Public Policy and Adm inistration also contribute to KTC's p rojects . • KTC's program areas g ive valuable hands-on research expe rience to unde rg raduate and graduate students . • Over the past year, KTC's Technology Transfer Program has delivered over 330 training workshops, wh ich reached more than 8.000 industry p ractitioners. • Since 2009, KTC has pe rformed mo re than 130 SPR p rojects on beha f of KYTC and received over $60 million tota l in externa l fund ing . Jo e Crabtree, Ph D, PE D ir ect o r Ken tuc ky Transportat io n Center Phone 859 257 4508 E-mail JOe crabtree@uky • Three of KTC's prog ram areas - Traffic and Safety, Construct ion Management, and Bridge Preservation - have recent received p roject funding from the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, whi le the Special Projects and Initiatives area has been awarded significant fund ing from the Department of Home land Security. • KTC has forged strong working relat ionships with a number of governmenta l agencies, p rivate corporations, and universities. At the national level, KTC has contributed to p rojects sponsored by the USDOT, FHWA, FMCSA, USACE, and NCSL. In add ition to working with multiple state governments, KTC has comp leted proj ects for KSP, Lextran and numerous city and county agencies in Kentucky. KTC's corporate partners on recent proj ects have included Banelle Memo rial Institute, Northrop Grumman, Visual Risk, UPS, and Genera l Dynamics. Total Awards 2009 $ 9,6 72,909 5 $ 4,380,351 28 $ 8,313,88 7 10 $11,849,590 5 $10,546,792 3 $ 6,912,677 8 $12,300 ,000 4 2011 2013 2015 Rank on UK Campus Clark Graves, Ph D, PE, PG Associate Director Ke ntuck y Transpo rtat io n Center Phone 859 257 7388 E-mail da rk graves@uky edu edu Kentucky Fiscal Year Transpo rtation Center • 176 Raymond Building University of Kentucky Campus Rank W/ 0 Medical 3 Rank within College % of COE from KTC 1 35% 13% 4 1 37% 41% 3 1 46% 38% 3 1 53% Do ug Kre is, PE, MBA, PMP Associate Di rector Ke ntucky Transportation Center DOT-18-0010-B-000373 Phone 859 257 6898 E-ma il do ug kre 1s@uky edu Lexington, KY 40506-0281 DOT-Am.Oversight-001366 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack FW: Whayne Supply Company exemption Thursday, June 08, 2017 3:59:00 PM     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Watson, Shannon (FMCSA) Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 3:48 PM To: Yager, Tom (FMCSA); Worthy, Sharon; Hopkins, Gabrielle Cc: Minor, Larry (FMCSA); Inman, Todd (OST); Hough, Lisa (FMCSA) Subject: Whayne Supply Company exemption   Everyone: In an effort to set up a call on this matter, I reached out to Senator Smith. He indicated that there was confusion on the matter at hand. Mr. Boyd did write to the Secretary in his letter of April 5, 2017. Larry Minor sent his subsequent email on April 10 in response to Mr. Boyd’s letter. This should have closed out the matter in CCMS and provided Mr. Boyd with a template for filing for an exemption. For some reason, this wasn’t closed out and the Agency sent a letter to Mr. Boyd denying his exemption. Senator Smith said that Mr. Boyd was surprised because he was still preparing the exemption for submission according to Larry’s recommendations. They were confused by the denial of an exemption that he had yet to submit.   Senator Smith expressed appreciation for our reaching out to him and said that Mr. Boyd may have a few questions related to the application process that he believes can be handled by a phone call. As the Senator will be out of the country next week, he said that a call the week of June 18 would be ideal. He indicated that he will be drafting me an email stating all of this.   Thanks, everyone. It appears that we can stand down on this one for now. I’ll coordinate with you on your availability that week.   Shannon   Shannon L. Watson Senior Advisor to the Associate Administrator for Policy Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000374 DOT-Am.Oversight-001367 Washington, DC  20590 (b) (6)   From: Yager, Tom (FMCSA) Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:56 PM To: Watson, Shannon (FMCSA) ; Minor, Larry (FMCSA) ; Worthy, Sharon ; Hopkins, Gabrielle Subject: RE: Exemption Application Process   I hadn’t seen this previously, but he obviously didn’t follow any of Larry’s instructions. His filing was less than one page and lacking most key points.   From: Watson, Shannon (FMCSA) Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:11 PM To: Minor, Larry (FMCSA) ; Worthy, Sharon ; Hopkins, Gabrielle ; Yager, Tom (FMCSA) Subject: FW: Exemption Application Process   FYI – I found an earlier communication with Mr. Boyd of Whayne Supply Company.   Shannon Watson   From: Minor, Larry (FMCSA) Sent: Monday, April 10, 2017 1:29 PM To: (b) (6) @whayne.com Cc: Watson, Shannon (FMCSA) ; Horan, Charles (FMCSA) Subject: Exemption Application Process   - -- Mr. Boyd,   This is a follow-up to our telephone conversation this morning concerning your April 5 letter to Secretary Chao and your company’s interest in seeking relief from FMCSA’s 14-hour rule.   Generally, the process for applying for an exemption is straightforward.  You would send a letter to FMCSA explaining your company’s operations and how the Agency’s hours-of-service rules are implemented in your operations and the number of drivers you have that must comply with the requirements.  This includes a discussion of the typical work day where AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000375 DOT-Am.Oversight-001368 the drivers would operate vehicles on public roads 1 to 2 hours per work day and spend approximately 8 to 10 hours at a given worksite repairing machines or engines.  You should provide an estimate of how often the 14hour rule may present a challenge for your operations and identify an alternative approach for ensuring that drivers are not fatigued while operating commercial vehicles on public roads.  For example, as we discussed, if you believe having the option of an occasional 16-hour nonextendable within which all driving must be completed would address your needs, you would provide an estimate of how often during the average workweek drivers would likely use the 16-hour window, and perhaps include any maximum number of times you would allow them to use it.   Ideally, what you want to present is an explanation of why you believe the terms and conditions of the exemption you are seeking would achieve a level of safety equivalent to what is provided by the 14-hour rule.  Among the issues you would want to cover:   · Drivers would only operate vehicles 1 to 2 hours per day; · The round-trip distance drivers operate between your terminal and the jobsite is about 75 miles; · All your commercial vehicles are currently equipped with electronic logging devices; · Drivers have mandatory breaks during the workday, at the jobsite; and, · The maximum on-duty time during the average work week is ___________.   For your reference, I have attached an example of a recent exemption application we received from the Trucking Alliance to allow hair testing in lieu of urine testing for pre-employment drug testing.  The request was structure to address the requirements for exemption applications, as provided in 49 CFR Part 381 (copy attached to this e-mail).  Also attached is a copy of the Federal Register notice we published seeking public comment on the application for an exemption.   You may visit http://www.regulations.gov to see the public docket for this specific AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000376 DOT-Am.Oversight-001369 exemption application – interested parties may submit comments to any of our dockets via this website using the docket number posted at the beginning of the Federal Register notice.   I hope this information is helpful to you in preparing your application for an exemption.   You should address your application to FMCSA:   Ms. Daphne Y. Jefferson, Deputy Administrator (MC-AD) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590   Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.   Sincerely,     Larry   Larry W. Minor Associate Administrator for Policy (MC-P) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000377 DOT-Am.Oversight-001370 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Fwd: Waiver Thursday, June 08, 2017 3:06:24 PM J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: (b) (6) From: "Brandon D. Smith" < > Date: June 8, 2017 at 2:57:19 PM EDT To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Subject: Re: Waiver Whatever you did worked brilliantly!  They just called and withdrew the denial of request!  Everything is on track and we are setting up a joint conference call next week.  Thanks! B Sent from my iPhone On Jun 8, 2017, at 10:54 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: I called Mr. Minor a few minutes and he indicated he wasn't aware of the messages or calls but he also said it could be that an associate had retrieved them.  He will have the file pulled and I've asked that he follow up with you and to give me a status update as well.   It's quite possible an associate was handling under his name.   J. Todd Inman AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000378 DOT-Am.Oversight-001371 Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) -----Original Message----(b) (6) From: Brandon D. Smith [mailto: ] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:28 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: Terry Carmack Subject: Waiver Hey,  I tried to reach you via phone call this morning but was unable to do so.  Whayne Supply received an email last Thursday from Larry Minor at DOT informing them their request had been denied.  I forwarded the email on to Terry Carmack.  Here's my concern... we are still compiling all the information needed to file for a waiver and as of today have not submitted anything to Mr. Minor, so we have no idea what it is he turned down.  I have on 4 separate occasions called Mr . Minor and left him messages explaining who I was and what we are working on... he has never called me back.  Hers is how you can help us,  ask Mr. Larry Minor to return my calls so we can bring him up to speed on exactly where we are in the process of getting this prepared for him.  We have several questions we need his help in so we can move forward. Takeaways are. 1.  We are almost finished with the check list sent to us by Mr. Larry Minor. 2.  We have a few questions that will help us complete this process AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000379 DOT-Am.Oversight-001372 but need guidance from Mr.Minor 3.  Our only request at this time from The Secretary's is please ask Mr. Larry Minor to return my calls.  Brandon D. Smith (b) (6) Thanks. B Sent from my iPhone AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000380 DOT-Am.Oversight-001373 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Fwd: Whayne Supply - State Senator Brandon Smith (FW: Exemption Application Process) Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:39:25 PM Administrative Procedures for Hair Testing Program 01-18-2017-182853.pdf ATT00001.htm Trucking Alliance - Application for Exemption - Hair Testing FMC-161216-001.pdf ATT00002.htm 2017-01278 - Trucking Alliance Exemption Application - Federal Register Notice.pdf ATT00003.htm CFR-2016-title49-vol5-part381-subpartC.pdf ATT00004.htm J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: From: "Minor, Larry (FMCSA)" To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Cc: "Van Steenburg, John (FMCSA)" , "Watson, Shannon (FMCSA)" Subject: Whayne Supply - State Senator Brandon Smith  (FW: Exemption Application Process) Todd,   As an FYI, my team just pulled up a prior communication I had with Mr. Boyd from Whayne Supply where I provided a copy of a recent exemption application we received and how we announced the application in the Federal Register.      Larry   From: Minor, Larry (FMCSA) Sent: Monday, April 10, 2017 1:29 PM To: (b) (6) @whayne.com AMf--f CAN - -- pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000381 DOT-Am.Oversight-001374 Cc: Watson, Shannon (FMCSA) ; Horan, Charles (FMCSA) Subject: Exemption Application Process   Mr. Boyd,   This is a follow-up to our telephone conversation this morning concerning your April 5 letter to Secretary Chao and your company’s interest in seeking relief from FMCSA’s 14-hour rule.   Generally, the process for applying for an exemption is straightforward.  You would send a letter to FMCSA explaining your company’s operations and how the Agency’s hours-ofservice rules are implemented in your operations and the number of drivers you have that must comply with the requirements.  This includes a discussion of the typical work day where the drivers would operate vehicles on public roads 1 to 2 hours per work day and spend approximately 8 to 10 hours at a given worksite repairing machines or engines.  You should provide an estimate of how often the 14-hour rule may present a challenge for your operations and identify an alternative approach for ensuring that drivers are not fatigued while operating commercial vehicles on public roads.  For example, as we discussed, if you believe having the option of an occasional 16-hour non-extendable within which all driving must be completed would address your needs, you would provide an estimate of how often during the average workweek drivers would likely use the 16-hour window, and perhaps include any maximum number of times you would allow them to use it.   Ideally, what you want to present is an explanation of why you believe the terms and conditions of the exemption you are seeking would achieve a level of safety equivalent to what is provided by the 14-hour rule.  Among the issues you would want to cover:   ·       Drivers would only operate AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000382 DOT-Am.Oversight-001375 vehicles 1 to 2 hours per day; ·       The round-trip distance drivers operate between your terminal and the jobsite is about 75 miles; ·       All your commercial vehicles are currently equipped with electronic logging devices; ·       Drivers have mandatory breaks during the workday, at the jobsite; and, ·       The maximum on-duty time during the average work week is ___________.   For your reference, I have attached an example of a recent exemption application we received from the Trucking Alliance to allow hair testing in lieu of urine testing for pre-employment drug testing.  The request was structure to address the requirements for exemption applications, as provided in 49 CFR Part 381 (copy attached to this e-mail).  Also attached is a copy of the Federal Register notice we published seeking public comment on the application for an exemption.   You may visit http://www.regulations.gov to see the public docket for this specific exemption application – interested parties may submit comments to any of our dockets via this website using the docket number posted at the beginning of the Federal Register notice.   I hope this information is helpful to you in preparing your application for an exemption.   You should address your application to FMCSA:   Ms. Daphne Y. Jefferson, Deputy Administrator (MC-AD) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590   Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.   Sincerely, AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000383 DOT-Am.Oversight-001376     Larry   Larry W. Minor Associate Administrator for Policy (MC-P) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000384 DOT-Am.Oversight-001377 Administrative Procedures for Hair Testing Program (Should the DHHS establish laboratory protocols for hair testing labs, those will be used in lieu of the below.) AMF- (1) Definitions "Chain of custody" refers to the methodology used to document the handling of a (a) specimen for the purpose of maintaining control and accountability from initial collection to final disposition for all such materials or substances and providing for accountability at each stage in handling, testing, and storing specimens and reporting test results. "Confirmation test," "confirmed test," or "confirmed drug test" means a second analytical (b) procedure used to identify the presence of a specific drug or metabolite in a specimen, which test must be different in scientific principle from that of the initial test procedure and must be capable of providing requisite specificity, sensitivity, and quantitative accuracy . "Drug(s)" means amphetamines; cannabinoids; cocaine; phencyclidine (PCP); opiates; (c) synthetic narcotics; or a metabolite of any of the substances listed in this paragraph. "Cancelled test." A cancelled test is a drug test that has a problem identified that cannot (e) be or has not been corrected , or which is otherwise required to be cancelled. A cancelled test is neither a positive nor a negative test. "Employee" is any person who is designated in a DOT agency regulation as subject to (f) drug testing. The term includes individuals currently performing safety-sensitive functions designated in DOT agency regulations and applicants for employment subject to preemployment testing . "Invalid drug test" is the result of a drug test for a specimen that does not meet collection (g) or analytical requirements; contains an adulterant or an exogenous interfering substance; has abnormal physical characteristics; or has an endogenous substance at an abnormal concentration that prevents the laboratory from completing or obtaining a valid drug test result. "Medical Review Officer (MRO)" is a person who is a licensed physician and who is (h) responsible for receiving and reviewing laboratory results generated by an employer's drug testing program and evaluating medical explanations for certain drug test results. "Refuse to submit to a controlled substances test" means that a driver: (i) Failed to appear for any test (except a pre-employment test) within a reasonable (1) time, as determined by the employer, consistent with applicable DOT agency regulations, after being directed to do so by the employer. Failed to remain at the testing site until the collection process was complete . An (2) employee who leaves the testing site before the collection process commences on a pre-employment test is not deemed to have refused to test; Failed to provide a hair specimen for any required drug test. Provided, that an (3) employee who does not provide a specimen because he or she has left the testing site before the collection process commences for a pre-employment test is not deemed to have refused to test; Failed to provide a sufficient amount of hair when directed and it has been (5) determined, through a required medical evaluation, that there was no adequate medical explanation for the failure . If there is an adequate medical explanation or a legitimate religious objection to hair collection, the MRO will direct that a urine specimen be collected in lieu of a hair specimen ; Failed to undergo a medical examination or evaluation, as directed by the MRO (7) as part of the verification process, or as directed by the DER; Failed to cooperate with any part of the testing process (e.g., behave in a (8) confrontational way that disrupts the collection process); or Is reported by the MRO as having a verified adulterated or substituted test result. (9) (2) Hair specimen collection procedures Designation of collection site . Each hair drug testing program shall have one (1) or (a) more designated collection sites which have all necessary personnel, material, Rev 01/2017 PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000385 1 DOT-Am.Oversight-001378 (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) AME equipment, facilities, and supervision to provide for the collection, security, temporary storage, and shipping or transportation of hair specimens to a licensed drug testing facility. Security. The collection site should be secure from entry by unauthorized personnel. The temporary storage area in the designated collection site needs to be secure. Chain of custody. Chain of custody standardized forms shall be properly executed by authorized collection site personnel upon receipt of specimens. Handling and transportation of hair specimens from one authorized individual or place to another shall always be accomplished through chain of custody procedures. Every effort shall be made to minimize the number of persons handling specimens. Access to authorized personnel only. The hair collection site shall be off limits to unauthorized personnel during the actual collection of specimens. Privacy. Procedures for collecting hair shall be performed on one individual at a time to prevent substitutions or interference with the collection of samples. Integrity and identity of specimen. Precautions shall be taken by the collector to ensure that the root end of a hair specimen is indicated for the testing facility that performs the testing. The maximum length of hair that shall be tested is 1.5 inches distal from the skin. This length may be changed if a review officer requests the testing of proximal segments to assist their evaluation of testing data. The information on the hair specimen container and on the chain of custody form shall identify in some manner the individual from whom the specimen was collected. The following minimum precautions shall be taken when collecting a hair specimen to ensure specimens are obtained and correctly identified. (1) When an individual arrives at the collection site, the collection site person shall request the individual to present photo identification. If the individual does not have proper photo identification, the collection site person shall contact the supervisor of the individual, the coordinator of the drug testing program, or any other employer official who can positively identify the individual. If the individual's identity cannot be established, the collection site person shall not proceed with the collection. (2) If the individual fails to arrive at the assigned time, the collection site person shall contact the appropriate authority to obtain guidance on the action to be taken. (3) The collection site person shall note any unusual behavior or appearance on the chain of custody form. (4) Hair shall be cut as close to the scalp or skin as possible. The specimen should be collected from multiple locations so as not to leave notable bald spots. Upon taking the specimen from the individual, the collection site person shall determine that it contains a minimum of approximately 50 mg of hair. (5) Both the individual being tested and the collection site person shall keep the specimen in view at all times prior to the specimen container being sealed with a tamper resistant seal and labeled with the individual's specimen number and other required information. (6) The collection site person shall label the container which contains the hair with the date, the individual's specimen number, and any other identifying information provided or required by the drug testing program. (7) The individual shall initial the container for the purpose of certifying that it is the specimen collected from the individual. (8) The collection site person shall indicate on the chain of custody form all information identifying the specimen. The collection site person shall sign the chain of custody form next to the identifying information or the chain of custody on the specimen container. (9) The individual shall be asked to read and sign a statement certifying that the specimen identified as having been collected from the individual is in fact the specimen the individual provided. (10) The collection site person shall complete the chain of custody form. Rev 01/2017 PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000386 2 DOT-Am.Oversight-001379 (g) (h) AME Collection control. To the maximum extent possible, collection site personnel shall keep the individual's specimen container within sight both before and after collection. After the specimen is collected, it shall be properly sealed and labeled. An approved chain of custody form shall be used for maintaining control and accountability of each specimen from the point of collection to final disposition of the specimen. The date and purpose shall be documented on an approved chain of custody form each time a specimen is handled or transferred and every individual in the chain shall be identified. Every effort shall be made to minimize the number of persons handling specimens. Transportation to the testing facility. Collection site personnel shall arrange for transportation by US Mail or other carrier/courier of the collected specimens to the drug testing facility. The specimens shall be placed in containers which shall be securely sealed to eliminate the possibility of undetected tampering. (3) Training and qualifications of collection site personnel (a) Collection procedures and training shall clearly emphasize that the collection site person is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the specimen collection and transfer process, carefully ensuring the modesty and privacy of the donor. (b) A collection site person shall have successfully completed documented training to carry out this function or shall be a licensed medical professional or technician who acknowledges in writing he or she has been provided instructions for collection as described in Paragraph 6. (1) A non-medical collection site person shall receive appropriate training in collection procedures as described above and shall demonstrate proficiency in the application of these collection procedures prior to serving as a collection site person. A medical professional, technologist, or technician licensed or otherwise approved to practice in the jurisdiction in which the collection takes place is not required to receive such training if that person acknowledges in writing the receipt of instructions for collection as described in Paragraph 6. (2) Collection site persons shall be provided with detailed, clear instructions on the collection of specimens in compliance with the aforementioned collection procedures. Employer representatives and donors subject to testing shall also be provided standard written instructions setting forth their responsibilities. (4) Hair cutoff levels for initial drug screening tests (a) The following initial cutoff levels shall be used when screening hair specimens to determine whether they are negative for these drugs or their metabolites. (1) Marijuana: 1pg/mg (2) Cocaine: 500pg/mg (3) Opiates and metabolites: 200pg/mg; opiates and metabolites include the following: (A) Codeine; (B) Heroin (6-monoacetylmorphine); (C) Morphine; (4) Phencyclidine: 300pg/mg (5) Amphetamines: 500pg/mg; amphetamines include the following: (A) Amphetamine; (B) Methamphetamine. (b) Synthetic derivatives of the above drugs may also be identified when testing hair. Examples of these include: (1) Hydrocodone; (2) Hydromorphone (3) Oxycodone; (4) Oxymorphone; (5) MOMA; (6) MDA; Rev 01/2017 PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000387 3 DOT-Am.Oversight-001380 ... AME (5) Hair cutoff levels for drug confirmation testing and procedures (a) All specimens identified as positive on the initial test shall be confirmed using chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS), or an equivalent accepted method of equal or greater accuracy at the following cutoff levels for these drugs or their metabolites. All confirmations shall be by quantitative analysis. (1) Marijuana metabolite: 0.1 pg/mg (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid); (2) Cocaine: 500pg/mg and contain metabolites as follows: (A) Benzoylecgonine/Cocaine ratio is greater to 0.05 or greater than or; (B) Cocaethlylene greater than or equal to 50pg/mg or; (C) Norcocaine greater than or equal to 50pg/mg or; (D) Hydroxycocaine isomers (Para, Ortho, or Meta) at 2pg/mg. (3) Opiate and metabolites: 200pg/mg. Opiate and metabolites include the following: (A) Codeine; (B) 6-monoacetylmorphine (heroin metabolite) and, as appropriate, with a Morphine concentration greater than or equal to 200pg/mg; (C) Morphine; (D) Hydrocodone (E) Oxycodone (F) Hydromorphone (G) Oxymorphone (4) Phencyclidine: 300pg/mg; (5) Amphetamines - 500pg/mg. Amphetamines include the following: (A) Amphetamine (B) Methamphetamine (with an Amphetamine concentration greater than or equal to 50pg/mg) (C) MOMA (D) MDA (b) All hair specimens undergoing confirmation shall be decontaminated using a validated wash procedure. (c) Drug extraction or digestion shall be accomplished by solvent extraction or by chemical or enzymatic methods. (d) Split hair samples may be collected to reconfirm the initial report under the same provisions as urine tests. When directed by the MRO, the split sample shall be tested by confirmation methodology without regard to cutoff levels. (6) Drug-Testing Standards for Laboratories (a) A laboratory may analyze initial or confirmation test specimens only if: 1. The laboratory has written procedures to ensure the chain of custody. 2. The laboratory follows proper quality control procedures, including, but not limited to: (A) The use of internal quality controls, including the use of samples of known concentrations which are used to check the performance and calibration of testing equipment, and periodic use of blind samples for overall accuracy. An internal review and certification process for drug test results, (B) conducted by a person qualified to perform that function in the testing laboratory. (C) Security measures implemented by the testing laboratory to preclude adulteration of specimens and drug test results. (D) Other necessary and proper actions taken to ensure reliable and accurate drug test results. (b) A laboratory shall disclose to the medical review officer a written confirmed test result report. All laboratory reports of a drug test result must, at a minimum, state: Rev 01/2017 PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000388 4 DOT-Am.Oversight-001381 The name and address of the laboratory that performed the test and the positive identification of the person tested. Positive results on confirmation tests only, or negative results, as applicable. 2. A list of the drugs for which the drug analyses were conducted. 3. The type of tests conducted for both initial tests and confirmation tests and the 4. minimum cutoff levels of the tests. Procedure for providing results to the MRO A laboratory may release the results report only after review and approval by a 1. certifying scientist. The results report may be transmitted through any means that ensures accuracy 2. and confidentiality. The laboratory, together with the MRO, must ensure that the information is adequately protected from unauthorized access or release, both during transmission and in storage. Non-negative results: The laboratory must fax, courier, mail, or (A) electronically transmit a legible image or copy of the fully-completed copy of the report that has been signed by a certifying scientist. In addition, the result may be reported electronically. In transmitting laboratory results to the MRO, the laboratory, together (B) with the MRO, must ensure that the information is adequately protected from unauthorized access or release, both during transmission and in storage. If the results are provided by fax, the fax connection must have a fixed telephone number accessible only to authorized individuals. The laboratory must transmit test results to the MRO in a timely manner, (C) preferably the same day that review by the certifying scientist is completed. The laboratory must provide quantitative values for confirmed positive drug test 3. results to the MRO when the MRO requests the results in writing. Retention of Specimens The laboratory testing the specimen must retain a specimen that was reported (a) with positive, adulterated, substituted, or invalid results for a minimum of one year. The laboratory must keep such a specimen in secure, long-term storage. (b) Within the one-year period, the MRO, the employee, the employer, or a DOT (c) agency may request in writing that a specimen be retained for an additional period of time (e.g., for the purpose of preserving evidence for litigation or a safety investigation). If no request to hold specimens is received, the laboratory may discard the specimen at the end of the year period. 1. (c) (d) AMF- Rev 01/2017 PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000389 5 DOT-Am.Oversight-001382 1/3/2017 Correspondence Folder Coversheet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration  Executive Secretariat Control number: Document date: Author(s): Subject: Action: FMC­161216­001 Action office: MC­P 10/28/2016 Due date: 6/16/2017 David Whiteside   Petition for Exemption to Allow Hair Analysis in Lieu of Urinalysis to Comply with the Pre­Employment Controlled Substances Testing of Safety­ Sensitive Transportation Workers Mandated by 49 CFR Part 382 For Signature Comments: Date Action Action by 12/16/2016 Correspondence forwarded to Larry Minor, MC­P for review/action. DMCCLEAN 12/16/2016 Folder Sent for Draft to Action Office: MC­P for 'For Signature' . Gloria.Vindel 12/16/2016 Updated Folder Information. Gloria.Vindel 12/16/2016 Work Folder Assigned to MC­P. Gloria.Vindel 12/16/2016 Incoming File Uploaded. Gloria.Vindel 12/16/2016 Control Number Created. Gloria.Vindel Date AMFfllCAN pVERSIGHT https://ccm.dot.gov/index.cfm Note Note by DOT-18-0010-B-000390 DOT-Am.Oversight-001383 1/1 Petition For Exemption To Allow Hair Analysis In Lieu Of Urinalysis To Comply With The Pre-Employment Controlled Substances Testing Of Safety-Sensitive Transportation Workers Mandated By 49 C.F.R. Part 382 October 28, 2016 I. INTRODUCTION As authorized by 49 CFR Part 381.300(c)(l) , Petitioners, J.B. Hunt Transp01i, Inc. ("J.B. Hunt"), Schneider National Carriers, Inc. ("Schneider"), Werner Enterprises, Inc. ("Werner"), Knight Transportation, Inc. ("Knight"), Dupre Logistics LLC ("Dupre"). and Maverick Transportation , LLC ("Maverick") request that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ("FMCSA") consider and grant this petition for an exemption to allow hair analysis in lieu of urinalysis to comply with the pre-employment controlled substances testing of safety-sensitive transportation workers mandated by Part 382 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations ("FMCSRs "). For the purpose of participating in the requested exemption, Petitioners seek to be exempt from the requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 382 which limit them to the use of urinalysis for random and pre-employment drug testing of their commercial drivers and driver applicants. Petitioners have in the past and continue to advocate revision of the federal regulations to permit hair analysis as an alternative method of testing for controlled substances for all motor carriers. Petitioners already have in place procedures for administering pre-employment drug testing that is more reliable and more comprehensive than the existing mandatory urinalysis procedures. Petitioners have utilized such procedures to augment urinalysis testing for several years and the data they have collected from the hair analysis overwhelmingly demonstrates that it is a more reliable and comprehensive basis for ensuring detection of controlled substance use. This is in large part due to the observed nature of hair collection contrasted with the self-collection of urine. Independent scientific studies (Attachment 1) further support the reliability of hair testing AMF-HICAN PVERSIGHT 1I Page DOT-18-0010-B-000391 DOT-Am.Oversight-001384 for the use of controlled substances. While the confirmation technology is virtually the same as that used for confirming urine positives, hair samples allow for a longer detection period for drug use. In December 2013, DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx stated "The transportation industry drug and alcohol testing program is a critical element of the Department of Transportation's safety mission .... Working closely with industry, we have, over time, seen the number of crashes and accidents linked to drug and alcohol use by safety-sensitive employees decline. Still, human risk factors remain, so there is much work to be done, and we cannot rest until we have eliminated the dangerous risk posed by illegal drug use and alcohol misuse in the transportation industries we oversee. Safety is our highest priority and we are committed to ensuring that transportation employees are drug and alcohol free." (Attachment 2) The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991 required the establishment of II comprehensive standards for all aspects of laboratory controlled substances testing and laboratory procedures to be applied in canying out this section, including standards which require the use of the best available technology for ensuring the full reliability and accuracy of controlled substances tests and strict procedures governing the chain of custody of specimen samples collected for controlled substances testing ... " (Attachment 3) Due to their experience with both hair and urine testing, it is critical to Petitioners that they and other commercial motor carriers be given the option to use the method that most effectively combats the use of illegal substances by their drivers. This would be especially beneficial for motor carriers without the financial ability to employ multiple screening methods. In Public Law 114-94-Dec. 4, 2015 "Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act" (Attachment 4), Congress mandated that the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), not 21P aqe AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000392 DOT-Am.Oversight-001385 later than one year after the date of enactment of the Act, issue scientific and technical guidelines for hair testing as a method of detecting the use of a controlled substance for purposes of section 31306 of Title 49, United States Code. It is apparent, however, that HHS will not meet the statutory requirement thus delaying regulatory development intended by the Act (Attachment 5). The duration of the requested exemption is for the period until HHS completes their work and a Final Rule is effective to permit hair tests as an alternative to pre-employment and random urine tests and the Department of Transportation (DOT) and FM CSA incorporate enabling regulations. Further, based on their firsthand experience, Petitioners urge that hair analysis is an effective alternative to urinalysis which would satisfy all objectives of the FMCSA in requiring pre-employment and random controlled substances testing of safety-sensitive transportation workers. II. EXEMPTION STANDARDS AND RULES According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations ("FMCSR"), an exemption is temporary regulatory relief from one or more FM CSR given to a person or class of persons subject to the regulations, or who intend to engage in an activity that would make them subject to the regulations. 49 C.F.R. § 381.300(a). "An exemption provides the person or class of persons with relief from the regulations for up to two years, and may be renewed." 49 C.F.R. § 381.300(b). Section 5206(a)(3) of the FAST Act amends section 31315(b) to allow an exemption to be granted for no longer than five years and to be renewed, upon request, for subsequent periods no longer than five years, if the Secretary finds that such an exemption would likely achieve an equivalent, or greater, level of safety. This rulemaking changes § 381.300(b) to allow exemptions for up to five years that may be renewed for subsequent periods of up to five years. The final rule implementing this change was effective July 22, 2016. "Part 382 -- Controlled Substances and AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 3jP29e DOT-18-0010-B-000393 DOT-Am.Oversight-001386 Alcohol Use and Testing Section" is one of the eight parts of the FMCSR from which exemptions may be granted. 49 C.F.R. § 381.300(c). As will be demonstrated in detail below, the proposed exemption meets the standards outlined by Section 381.300 et seq. of the federal regulations. An exemption may be applied for if one or more FM CSR prevents the implementation of more efficient or effective operations that would maintain a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level achieved without the exemption. 49 C.F.R. § 381.305(a). III. PETITIONERS§ 381.310(b) My name is David Whiteside, Senior Director of Safety Compliance , 615 J.B. Hunt Corporate Drive, Lowell, AR 72745, (479) 419-3807. Petitioners J.B. Hunt, Schneider, Knight, Maverick, Dupre and Werner are the motor carriers that "would be covered by the exemption" and "that would be responsible for the use or operation of CMVs covered by the exemption." See 49 C.F.R. § 381.310(b)(2). The Petitioners are commercial motor carriers with an interest in promoting highway safety for transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the FMCSA. They are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as for-hire interstate carriers and are currently operating as such in the United States of America. J.B. Hunt's USDOT identification number is 80806 with its principal place of business located at 615 J.B. Hunt Corporate Drive, Lowell, Arkansas 72745. Schneider's USDOT identification numbers are 264184, 46596, 2410128, 230991 and 164311 with its principal place of business located at 3101 S. Packerland Dr., Green Bay, Wisconsin 54304. 41 Page AMF-HICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000394 DOT-Am.Oversight-001387 Knight's USDOT identification numbers are 428823, 2516761 (Kold Trans, LLC.), and 1252905 with its principal place of business located at 20002 North 19th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85027. Maverick's USDOT identification number is 178538 with its principal place of business located at 13301 Valentine Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117. Werner's USDOT identification number is 53467 with its principal place of business located at 14507 Frontier Road, Omaha, NE 68138. Dupre Logistics' USDOT identification number is 214438 with its principal place of business located at 201 Energy Parkway Suite 500, Lafayette, La 70508. IV. STATEMENT§ 381.310(c) A. Reason Exemption is Needed Petitioners already employ hair analysis as a method for the pre-employment controlled substances testing of drivers. However, they are forced to also conduct urine tests for this purpose since it is the only screening method accepted under the regulations. While Petitioners view their use of hair testing as a necessity for safety purposes, they see their use of multiple screening methods as an unnecessary and redundant financial burden. For example, the extra cost to one Petitioner for conducting urine tests along with the hair tests is approximately $450,000 per year. Hair testing is not cheaper than urine testing . Hair drug tests cost, on average, about $70.00 including collection, laboratory testing, and Medical Review Officer (MRO) review. The cost of a urine test is about $35.00 inclusive of the services listed above. Petitioners are willing to fund the more expensive hair testing approach because of the need for accurate and reliable drug testing with a longer detection window and observed collections. The Petitioners are willing to spend AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000395 DOT-Am.Oversight-001388 more for the greater safety protections afforded by hair testing, but they object to being forced to also fund the redundant and less effective urine testing process along with it. Motor carriers who go the extra step of conducting hair tests are placed in a difficult position due to their inability to share hair testing results with other carriers. For example, one Petitioner is aware ofturning away a driver applicant based on a failed hair drug test. That driver applicant was subsequently hired by another company and involved in a fatal accident allegedly caused by him driving the wrong way on Interstate 70 near Limon, Colorado (Attachment 6 and Attachment 7). The Petitioner was not authorized to share this information with the company that ultimately employed the driver. Petitioners hope to prevent similar tragedies in the future by being permitted to share results of hair drug testing with other motor carriers. Petitioners are concerned not only about increasing the safety of their own fleets, but also about that of other fleets. If the exemption is granted and the hair test becomes the DOT result of record, companies would be able to share hair testing results with other companies when they inquire about former drivers. Reporting requirements and authorizations specified as paii of the mandatory background investigation for hiring drivers as specified in 49 C.F.R. § 391.23 currently only applies to alcohol and controlled substance testing under subpart B of 49 C.F.R. § 382 or 49 C.F.R . § 40. Further, upon publication of a FMCSA Final Rule for the Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse required by MAP-21, the results of hair test failures should be reported as an alternate to the urine test results. If this is not included in the exemption, carriers using the Clearinghouse would not be able to ensure that only drivers who have completed the required "Return to Duty Process" required by Subpart Oto 49 C.F.R. § 40 are permitted to operate commercial vehicles. 61 Page AMF-HICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000396 DOT-Am.Oversight-001389 Urine testing for pre-employment is easily circumvented by users of controlled substances. The Government Accounting Office (GAO) in 2007 published GAO-08-22ST entitled "Undercover Tests Reveal Significant Vulnerabilities in DOT's Drug Testing Program" which identified a few of the reasons why urine testing was prone to error and many drug users made their way into the commercial motor vehicles on America's roadways. Many of the vulnerabilities were in the collection process. Additionally, the detection window for the drugs of abuse is so short the users could simply abstain from use for a short period and pass the test. They are then able to resume using the drugs undetected, endangering those who share the road with them. Hair testing removes the opportunity for specimen substitution or adulteration because each collection is observed. Further, the detection window is longer than for urine making it less likely that a regular lifestyle user can abstain long enough in order to pass the test. This exemption will be needed until such time the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has established hair testing protocols and the DOT and the Federal Motor Carr ier Safety Administration have adopted hair as a suitable alternate test specimen for pre-employment and/or random testing under the regulations. authorization for release of and obtaining hair test results conducted under this exemption to comply with 49 CFR Part 391. C. Estimate of the total number of drivers and CMVs that would be operated under the terms and conditions of the exemption AM RCAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000397 DOT-Am.Oversight-001390 It is estimated that 48,286 drivers and 45,703 CMVs would operate under the terms of this exemption. D. Assessment of Potential Safety Impact from the Exemption J.B. Hunt, Schneider, Knight, Maverick, Werner, Dupre, and possibly one or more additional motor carriers would be included in the requested exemption. The Petitioners began conducting hair tests between 2006 and 2015 and have collected data on more than 100,000 driver paired (urine and hair collected in close proximity for the same testing reason) hair and urine test results. From May of 2006 through May of 2016, for example, the Petitioners had more than 7,000 drivers whose tests showed controlled substance use on the hair test but whose urine tests were negative for controlled substance use. The anticipated outcome from the exemption is to demonstrate that hair testing is better suited, in specified testing situations, to detect repeat drug users thereby removing them from safety-sensitive jobs. This would reduce the risk of drug-related traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles and encourage CMV drivers with a drug use or abuse problem to seek help with stopping the use/abuse and to improve their health. The addition of an alternate testing methodology which is more effective than urine testing at preventing drug use by drivers would serve to further the express purpose of Part 382: The purpose of this part is to establish programs designed to help prevent accidents and injuries resulting.from the misuse of alcohol or use of controlled substances by drivers of commercial motor vehicles. 49 C.F .R. § 382.101. The DOT has therefore determined that stopping the use of controlled substances by commercial drivers will help to prevent accidents and injuries. Accordingly, an 81Page AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000398 DOT-Am.Oversight-001391 alternate testing methodology that is proven more effective than urine testing at preventing drug use by drivers is, by the DOT's own determination, safer than the current regulatory methodology. Reducing the number of drug users operating commercial motor vehicles would clearly result in safer roadways. Enhanced roadway safety provides an obvious benefit to the general public. Because there are already can·iers performing hair testing to supplement the required urine testing, there is ample historical data to establish that hair testing is more effective at reducing controlled substance use by drivers. Hair testing is significantly more reliable, practical, and useful than urinalysis for the following reasons: • The longer detection period associated with hair testing increases the ability to identify repeat drug users. Hair tests detect drug use over a period of up to 90 days, while urine tests can only detect the presence of most drugs for 2-3 days. ■ Hair specimens are more easily collected. Urine collection is more invasive and requires special facilities. • Hair specimens are more easily transported and stored. ■ Hair is less likely to transmit bio-organisms than urine. • Hair specimens are more difficult to adulterate. Adulterants for urine are widely accessible. • Hair collections are, by their nature, observed collections while urine collections are self-collections with the specimen donor doing the collection behind closed doors. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on October 4, 2016 discussed findings from investigations of several serious crashes involving commercial vehicles ahead of their published repo1is (Attachment 8). As part of the discussion the NTSB came to the 91P age AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000399 DOT-Am.Oversight-001392 conclusion that; "FMCSA can do more to curb drug use: The NTSB thinks the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration should urge companies to better screen job candidates for drug use after finding that DOT's testing program failed to detect a pattern of substance abuse. The independent agency made the recommendation Tuesday after an investigation into a 2015 multi-vehicle crash near Chattanooga, Tenn., in which six people died and four were injured. A fatigued truck driver who was under the influence of methamphetamine failed to react when traffic slowed by a work zone. NTSB repeated its past recommendation that FM CSA launch an investigation into drug use among truck drivers." The below quotes were made at the board meeting: "Had the carrier in the crash used a hair drug test, the driver's drug use would have likely been identified '' - Kenny Bragg - accident investigator (human performance) with the Office of Highway Safety at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). "In this case, we had someone who had received the normal, pre-employment drug screen, who had a long history of drug use, andfor whatever reason that drug did not show up during the pre-employment test." - Robert Molloy PhD - Chief of the Report Development Division in the Office of Highway Safety at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). E. Ensuring That a Level of Safety That is Equivalent to, Or Greater Than, the Level of Safety That Would Be Obtained by Complying with the Regulation is Achieved The Petitioners have the largest data set known to exist for paired hair and urine test results. After beginning hair testing, the Petitioners' DOT urine Post Accident and Random positive result rates declined rapidly to less than half the percent positive rate AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 10JP ge DOT-18-0010-B-000400 DOT-Am.Oversight-001393 recorded before hair testing. One petitioner ' s DOT post-accident positive rate stood at zero for seven consecutive years after implementing pre-employment hair testing (for drivers who had previously been hair tested). Prior to hair testing, this carrier experienced positive rates on DOT post-accident tests that were greater than 3%. In May 2015, the carrier experienced its first DOT post-accident positive test in more than seven years by a driver who had previously tested negative on a pre-employment hair test in 2014 (Attachment 9). The Petitioners will continue to monitor these results to ensure that the positive test percentages remain below pre-hair testing results. Because the protections afforded to drivers tested under the participating carriers' programs are very similar to those currently utilized for urine testing, there will be no adverse impact to non-drug using drivers. These protections include: • Trained and certified collectors; • Strict Custody and Control Form protocols; • Certified hair testing laboratories using FDA approved testing reagents and mass spectrometry confirmation procedures; • MRO review of all results; • Accommodation for bona fide religious objection to cutting of hair and for verified medical conditions that prevent the donor from providing adequate quantities of hair for testing; • Second testing of hair sample on positive tests at the request of the donor if made within an appropriate, established, period of time. F. Impact to Petitioners if the Exemption is Not Granted AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT 11IF' age DOT-18-0010-B-000401 DOT-Am.Oversight-001394 Because the Petitioners are not able to share positive results of Company Policy tests to prospective employer carriers using the specific release required for the release of DOT required results, road safety will continue to be diminished and needless tragic crashes resulting in injury, loss of life, and loss of property will continue when drug using drivers migrate to carriers who do not use hair testing. Not only will the general motoring public be at risk, the drivers who drive for the Petitioners will also be at risk, putting the Petitioners at 1isk as well. Continuing redundant testing with a suboptimal pre-employment methodology (urine testing) results in unneeded expense and added effort. The Petitioners would be, in effect, penalized for employing innovative safety enhancements. This could discourage others from investing in other safety enhancements in the future. Reducing crashes by drug using drivers is in everyone's best interest. Government safety officials should be an advocate for safer processes and practices. AMF-HICAN PVERSIGHT 12J Paqe DOT-18-0010-B-000402 DOT-Am.Oversight-001395 Exemption Request Worksheet § 3 81.310: How do I apply for an exemption? (a) You must send a written request (for example, a typed or handwritten (printed) letter), which includes all of the information required by this section, to the Administrator, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001. (b) You must identify the person or class of persons who would be covered by the exemption. The application for an exemption must include: The class of persons who will be covered by this exemption will be all drivers employed by or contracted to the bclm-v list of carrier's who are reciuired to take Department of Transportation (DOT) pre-employment controlled substances tests. (1) Your name, job title, mailing address, and daytime telephone number; David \Vhiteside, Senior Director of Safety Compliance, 615 .J.B. HUnt Corporate Drive, Lowell, AR 72745, (479) 419-3807 (2) The name of the individual or motor carrier that would be responsible for the use or operation ofCMVs; J.B. Hunt Knight Schneider Maverick \Verner Dupre (3) Principal place of business for the motor carrier (street address, city, State, and zip code); and .J.B. 1:-lunt 615 .J.B. Hunt Corporate Drive, Lowell, AR 72745 Knight 20002 North 19th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85027 Schneider 3101 South Packcrland Drive, Green Bay, WI 54313 Maverick 13301 Valentine Road, North Little Rock, ,AR 72117 \Verner 14507 Frontier Road, Omaha, NE 68138 Dupre 201 Energy Parkway Suite 500, Lafayette, La 70508 AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 131 Page DOT-18-0010-B-000403 DOT-Am.Oversight-001396 (4) The US DOT identification number for the motor carriers. 080806 .J.B. Hunt 428823 Knight 1252905 Knight 2516761 Knight (Kold Trans, LLC.) 930484 Schneider 164311 Schneider 46596 Schneider 2410128 Schneider 230991 Schneider 178538 Maverick \Verner 053467 Dupre 214438 (c) You must provide a written statement that: (1) Describes the reason the exemption is needed, including the time period during which it is needed; Urine testing for pre-employment has been found to be easy to circumvent testing positive by users of controlled substances. The Government Accounting Office (GAO) in 2007 published GA0-08-225T entitled "Undercover Tests Reveal Significant Vulnerabilities in DOT's Drug Testing Program" which identified a few of the reasons why urine testing vvas prone to error and many drug users made their \Yay into the commercial motor vehicles on America's roadways. Many of the vulnerabilities were in the collection process. is Additionally, the detection window for the drugs of abuse so short th~ users could si.mply abstain from use for a short period and pass the test. They then could resume using the drugs and endanger those who share the road with them. Hair testing removes the opportunity for specimen substitution or adulteration because each collection is observed. Further, the detection window is longer than for urine making it less likely that a regular lifestyle user can abstain long enough in order to pass the test. This exemption will be needed until such time the Department of HCalth and Human Services (HHS) has established hair testing protocols and the DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Adrninistration have adopted hair as a suitable alternate test specimen for pre-employment and/or random testing under the regulations . Carriers who have added hair tests to their screening toolbox have seen dramatic reductions in their random and post-accident positive rates. The participating carriers would be pleased to share their data that demonstrates the effectiveness of hair testing at screening out lifestyle drug users. (2) Identifies the regulation from which you would like to be exempted; The regulations to be exempted are 49 CF'R Parts 382.i 05 and 382.30]. This is authorized by 49 CFR Part 38l.300(c)(l). AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 141 a q DOT-18-0010-B-000404 DOT-Am.Oversight-001397 (3) Provides an estimate of the total number of drivers and CMVs that would be operated under the terms and conditions of the exemption; It is estimated that 48,286 drivers and 45,703 CMVs ·would operate under the terms of this exemption. (4) Assesses the safety impacts the exemption may have; As required by 49 CFR Part 38l.305(a), the requested exemption will improve the efficiency and effoctiveness of the participating carriers' operations while maintaining a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level achieved ""ithout the exemption. Because fewer drug users will make it into the commercial motor vehicles operated by the participating carriers, there will he fewer crashes as the result of drug use. This can be measured by the number of DOT post-accident drug test positives. Because the protections afforded to drivers tested under the participating carriers' programs are very similar to those currently utilized for urine testing, there will be no adverse impact to non-drug using drivers. These protections include: • • • • • • Trained and certified collectors; Strict Custody and Control Form protocols; Certified hair testing laboratories using FDA approved testing reagents and mass spectromet1ry confirmation procedures; MRO revic-w of an results; Accommodation for bona fide religiou s objection to cutting of hair and for verified medical conditions that prevent the donor from providing adequate quantities of hair for teslting; Second testing of hair sample on positive tests at the request of the donor if made within an appropriate, established, period of time. (5) Explains how you would ensure that you could achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that would be obtained by complying with the regulation; and The participating 1carriers have been performing hair tests along with pre-employment urine tests for up to 10 years. The DOT random and post-accident positive rate of these carriers has declined dramatically and one of the participating carrier's DOT post-accident positive rate stood at zero for seven consecutive years for drivers who had previously been hair tested. Prior to hair testing, this carrier experienced positive rates on DOT postaccident tests that were greater than 3<¼,.In May 2015, the carrier experienced its first DOT post-accident positive test in more than seven years by a driver \Yho had previously tested negative on a pre-employment hair test in 2014. The participating carriers will continue to monitor these numbers to ensure that a level of safety is achieved significantly greater than would he achieved by pre-employment urine testing alone. (6) Describes the impacts (e.g., inability to test innovative safety management control systems, etc.) you could experience if the exemption is not granted by the FMCSA. The participating 1~arriers spend hundreds of thousands of dollars performing hair testing in addition to the DOT urine testing for pre-employment. This exemption will a!kn:r them AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000405 DOT-Am.Oversight-001398 to inv est their r esourc es in othe r safety initi atives that ·will fu rt her improve ea ch comp any's safety performance. Also, the carriers' ma nagem en t control systems ·would be less eiJ cctive if more drug user s make it through the drug te sting process shou ld the p articipating carriers choose to for ego the extra expense of hair testing and stop pe rforming duplicative hair testing. (d) Your application must include a copy of all research reports, technical papers, and other publications and documents you reference. See attached reports: § 381.315: What will the FMCSA do after the agency receives my application for an exemption? (a) The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will review your application and prepare , for the Administrator's signature, a Federal Register notice requesting public comment on your application for an exemption. The notice will give the public an opportunity to review your request and your safety assessment or analysis (required by § 3 81.310) and any other relevant information known to the agency. (b) After a review of the comments received in response to the Federal Register notice described in paragraph (a) of this section, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will make a recommendation(s) to the Administrator to either to grant or deny the exemption. Notice of the Administrator's decision will be published in the Federal Register. (c)(l) If the exemption is granted, the notice will identify the provisions of the FMCSR from which you will be exempt , the effective period, and all terms and conditions of the exemption. (2) If the exemption is denied, the notice will explain the reason for the denial. (d) A copy of your application for an exemption and all comments received in response to the Federal Register notice will be included in a public docket and be available for review by interested parties. (1) Interested parties may view the information contained in the docket by visiting the Department of Transportation, Docket Management Facility, 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE, Washington , DC 20590-0001. All information in the exemption docket will be available for examination at this address from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday , except Federal holidays. (2) Internet users can access all information received by the Department of Transp01iation, Docket Management Facility by using the Federal Docket Management System using the uniform resources locator (URL): http://www.regulations.gov. It is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. Please follow the instructions online for more information and help. § 381.320: How long will it take the agency to respond to my application for an exemption? The agency will attempt to issue a final decision within 180 days of the date it receives your application. However , if you leave out important details or other information necessary for the AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT 16 IP age DOT-18-0010-B-000406 DOT-Am.Oversight-001399 FM CSA to prepare a meaningful request for public comments, the agency will attempt to issue a final decision within 180 days of the date it receives the additional inf01mation. § 381.325: Who should I contact ifl have questions about the information I am required to submit to the FM CSA or about the status of my application for an exemption? You should contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Office of Bus and Truck Standards and Operations (MC-PS), 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001. 17IPage AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000407 DOT-Am.Oversight-001400 Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine xxx (2010) 1-7 Original Communication Urinalysis and hair analysis for illicit drugs of driver applicants and drivers in the trucking industry Tom Mieczkowski Ph.D.• of Soud1Florida, 4202 East fowler AvenueSOC107,Tampa,Fl 33702, USA Department of Criminology, The U11iversicy ARTICLE INFO Article /iiscory: Receiwd 17 November 2008 Receiwd in revised form 30 November 2009 Accepted 13 February 2010 Available online ,oo, K,,ywords: Drug testing Urinalysis Hair analysis Tmrk drivers Employee drug testing Employment applicant drug testing ABSTRACT 1l1epurpose of this article is to compare the differentialrate of detection of illicit drugs when using two distinct sample types. hair and urine specimens. 1l1e specimens were collected from persons who applied for employment as a truck driver. or were collectedfrom randomly selected currently employed truck drivers.The data is examined for job applicants and employees to determine if any differences in outcomes are associated with employment status or specimen type. The data is also assessed for specific patterns associatedwith particular drugs and their assay outcomes. OVerall.it was determined that drug positive cases are relatively rare. Job applicants are more likely to test positive for an illicit drug than a currently employed driver.Applicantsare more frequently positive for a drug by a factor of 3 for both urinalysis and hair analysis when compared to currently employed drivers. Approximately2% of applicants were urine positive and 9% hair positive for an illegal drug. Consideringemployed trud< drivers 0.6%were drug positive by urinalysis and 3% when using hair analysis.It is concluded that hair assays detect more drug use than urinalysis.It is also concluded that when urine and hair assay outcomes are non-concordant the typical case is a positive hair analysis with a negative urinalysis. © 2010 ElsevierLtd and Faculty of Forensicand LegalMedicine.All rights reserved. 1. Introduction Among the duties of the medical examiner is the necessity to evaluate the circumstances of injurious or fatal vehicle accidents. typically by the examination of the physical evidence presented at the scene of the event, including toxicological reports. This paper examines one specific element related to these duties, the evaluation of drug intoxication by commercial truck drivers and those who seek employment as commercial truck drivers. Safety concerns within the transportation industry and the potential use of drugs by employee involves both economic liability and public safety concerns. 1 Transportation employees engaged in dmg use present an enhanced risk to safe vehicular operation as well as being perceived as less productive in the work environment The truck drivers we are considering here are the operators of very large commercial articulated trucks of 12-16 wheels and weight up to 150,000 pounds when fully laden. lhese vehicles are colloquially referred to as "semi's" in the United States Drug testing in the workforce is a well-established practice in the United States and as a consequence there have been a number of different assessments of technology and sample types as they • Tel: +1 813 974 8281: fax: +1813 974 2803. ~.u..erapeUlics 1985:38(5):572-8. 14. car1111ellL. Aufderheide A, Springfield A, Weems C. Arriaza B. The frequency and antiquily of prehistoric coca leaf chewing practices in northern Chile: a radioimmunoassay study of a cocaine metabolite in human mummy hair. Lalin American AnLiquiiy September 1991;2:260-8. 15. Orimele V. Cannabis and amphetamine determination in human hair. In: Kintz P. editor. Drug resting in hair. New York: CRC Press; 1996. p. 181-90. 16. Baumgarmer W, Hill V. Sample preparation techniques. forensic ScienceJnrernational 1993:63(1-3):121-35. ;;;;;; DOT-18-0010-B-000414 DOT-Am.Oversight-001407 U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary 0 ·why This Program Is In1portant The transportation industry drug and alcohol testing program is a critical element of the Department of Transportation's safety mission. Pilots, truck drivers, subway operators , ship captains, pipeline controller s, airline mechanics, locomotive engineers, armed security personneland bus drivers - among othe rs - have an awesome responsibility to the public and we cannot let their performance be compromised by drugs or alcohol. Working closely with industry, we have, over time, seen the number of crashes and accidents linked to drug and alcohol use by safety-sensitive employees decline. Still, human risk factors remain, so there is much work to be done, and we cannot rest until we have eliminated the dangerous risk posed by illegal drug use and alcohol misuse in the transportati on industries we oversee. Safety is our highest priority and we are committed to ensuring that transportation employees are drug and alcohol free. Employers should make sure that employees understand the personal and professional consequences of failing to comply, and supervisors must be trained to identify the signs of drug use and alcohol misuse . Employersmust also have strong drug and alcohol testing programs and employees must be removed from safety-sensitive duties immediately if they have violated drug and alcohol testing rules. Employees must not be returned to safety-sensitive duties until they have been referred for evaluation and have successfully complied with treatment recommendations. Together, we can make a difference. llmow youwill joinme in su ot~~j(th~%easures Anthony R. Foxx Secretary of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation December 2013 Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance Attachment2 AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000415 DOT-Am.Oversight-001408 H.R.3361 Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991 (Introduced in House) SEC. 5. TESTING TO ENHANCE MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY. (a)(1) The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (49 App. U.S.C. 2701 et seq .) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: SEC .12020. ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES TESTING (a) REGULATIONS - The Secretary shall, in the interest of commercial motor vehicle safety, issue regulations within twelve months after the date of enactment of this section. Such regulations shall establish a program which requires motor carriers to conduct preemployment, reasonable suspicion, random, and post-accident testing of the operators of commercial motor vehicles for use, in violation of law or Federal regulation , of alcohol or a controlled substance. The Secretary may also issue regulations, as the Secretary considers appropriate in the interest of safety, for the conduct of periodic recurring testing of such operators for such use in violation of law or Federal regulation. (b) TESTING (1) POST-ACCIDENT TESTING - In issuing such regulations , the Secretary shall require that postaccident testing of the operator of a commercial motor vehicle be conducted in the case of any accident involving a commercial motor vehicle in which occurs loss of human life, or, as determined by the Secretary, other serious accidents involving bodily injury or significant property damage. (2) TESTING AS PART OF MEDICAL EXAMINATION- Nothing in subsection (a) of this section shall preclude the Secretary from providing in such regulations that such testing be conducted as part of the medical examination required by subpart E of part 391 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, with respect to those operators of commercial motor vehicles to whom such part is applicable. (c) PROGRAM FOR REHABILITATION- The Secretary shall issue regulations setting forth requirements for rehabilitation programs which provide for the identification and opportunity for treatment of operators of commercial motor vehicles who are determined to have used, in violation of law or Federal regulation, alcohol or a controlled substance. The Secretary shall determine the circumstances under which such operators shall be required to participate in such program. Nothing in this subsection shall preclude a motor carrier from establishing a program under this subsection in cooperation with any other motor carrier. (d) PROCEDURES FOR TESTING - In establishing the program required under subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall develop requirements which shall-(1) promote, to the maximum extent practicable , individual privacy in the collection of specimen samples; (2) with respect to laboratories and testing procedures for controlled substances, incorporate the Department of Health and Human Services scientific and technical guidelines dated April 11, 1988, and any subsequent amendments thereto, including mandatory guidelines which-(A) establish comprehensive standards for all aspects of laboratory controlled substances testing and laboratory procedures to be applied in carrying out this section, including standards which require the use of the best available technology for ensuring the full reliability and accuracy of controlled substances tests and strict procedures governing the chain of custody of specimen samples collected for controlled substances testing; (8) establish the minimum list of controlled substances for which individuals may be tested; and AMFf 11Page PVERSIGHT 3 Attachment DOT-18-0010-B-000416 DOT-Am.Oversight-001409 (C) establish appropriate standards and procedures for periodic review of laboratories and criteria for certification and revocation of certification of laboratories to perform controlled substances testing in carrying out this section; (3) require that all laboratories involved in the testing of any individual under this section shall have the capability and facility, at such laboratory, of performing screening and confirmation tests; (4) provide that all tests which indicate the use, in violation of law or Federal regulation, of alcohol or a controlled substance by any individual shall be confirmed by a scientifically recognized method of testing capable of providing quantitative data regarding alcohol or a controlled substance; (5) provide that each specimen sample be subdivided, secured, and labelled in the presence of the tested individual and that a portion thereof be retained in a secure manner to prevent the possibility of tampering, so that in the event the individual's confirmation test results are positive the individual has an opportunity to have the retained portion assayed by a confirmation test done independently at a second certified laboratory if the individual requests the independent test within three days after being advised of the results of the confirmation test; (6) ensure appropriate safeguards for testing to detect and quantify alcohol in breath and body fluid samples, including urine and blood, through the development of regulations as may be necessary and in consultation with the Department of Health and Human Services; (7) provide for the confidentiality of test results and medical information (other than information relating to alcohol or a controlled substance) of employees, except that the provisions of this paragraph shall not preclude the use of test results for the orderly imposition of appropriate sanctions under this section; and (8) ensure that employees are selected for tests by nondiscriminatory and impartial methods, so that no employee is harassed by being treated differently from other employees in similar circumstances. (e) EFFECT ON OTHER LAWS AND REGULATIONS(1) STATE AND LOCAL LAW AND REGULATIONS- No State or local government shall adopt or have in effect any law, rule, regulation, ordinance, standard, or order that is inconsistent with the regulations issued under this section, except that the regulations issued under this section shall not be construed to preempt provisions of State criminal law which impose sanctions for reckless conduct leading to actual loss of life, injury, or damage to property, whether the provisions apply specifically to commercial motor vehicle employees, or to the general public. (2) OTHER REGULATIONS ISSUED BY SECRETARY- Nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict the discretion of the Secretary to continue in force, amend, or further supplement any regulations governing the use of alcohol or controlled substances by commercial motor vehicle employees issued before the date of enactment of this section. (3) INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS- In issuing regulations under this section, the Secretary shall only establish requirements that are consistent with the international obligations of the United States, and the Secretary shall take into consideration any applicable laws and regulations of foreign countries. (f) Application of Penalties(1) EFFECT ON OTHER PENALTIES- Nothing in this section shall be construed to supersede any penalty applicable to the operator of a commercial motor vehicle under this title or any other provision of law. (2) DETERMINATION OF SANCTIONS- The Secretary shall determine appropriate sanctions for commercial motor vehicle operators who are determined, as a result of tests conducted and confirmed AMEr 2IPage PVERSIGHT Attachment 3 DOT-18-0010-B-000417 DOT-Am.Oversight-001410 under this section, to have used, in violation of law or Federal regulation, alcohol or a controlled substance but are not under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance , as provided in this title . (g) DEFINITION- For the purposes of this section, the term · controlled substance' means any substance under section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802(6)) specified by the Secretary.'. (2) The table of contents of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-570; 100 Stat. 5223) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following: Sec .12020. Alcohol and controlled substances testing (b)(1) The Secretary of Transportation shall design within nine months after the date of enactment of this Act, and implement within fifteen months after the date of enactment of this Act , a pilot test program for the purpose of testing the operators of commercial motor vehicles on a random basis to determine whether an operator has used, in violation of law or Federal regulation, alcohol or a controlled substance . The pilot test program shall be administered as part of the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program. (2) The Secretary shall solicit the participation of States which are interested in participating in such program and shall select four States to participate in the program. (3) The Secretary shall ensure that the States selected pursuant to this subsection are representative of varying geographical and population characteristics of the Nation and that the selection takes into consideration the historical geographical incidence of commercial motor vehicle accidents involving loss of human life. (4) The pilot program authorized by this subsection shall continue for a period of one year. The Secretary shall consider alternative methodologies for implementing a system of random testing of operators of commercial motor vehicles . (5) Not later than thirty months after the date of enactment of this Act , the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the Congress a comprehensive report setting forth the results of the pilot program conducted under this subsection. Such report shall include any recommendations of the Secretary concerning the desirability and implementation of a system for the random testing of operators of commercial motor vehicles. (6) For purposes of carrying out this subsection, there shall be available to the Secretary $5,000,000 from funds made available to carry out section 404 of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (49 App. U.S.C. 2304) for fiscal year 1992. (7) For purposes of this subsection, the term •commercial motor vehicle' shall have the meaning given to such term in section 12019(6) of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (49 App. U.S.C. 2716(6)) . AMF 31Page pVERSIGHT A ttachment 3 DOT-18-0010-B-000418 DOT-Am.Oversight-001411 PUBLIC LAW 114-94-DEC. 4, 2015 129 STAT. 1547 "(i) the Army National Guard of the United States; "(ii) the Army Reserve: "(iii) the Navy Reserve; "(iv) the Marine Corps Reserve; "(v) the Afr National Guard of the United States; "(vi) the Air Force Reserve; and "(vii) the Coast Guard Reserve.". (b) IMPLEMENTATION OF ADMTh'ISTRATIVE RECO.lv1l"1E:!';'DATIONS.- 49 USC 31301 note. Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall implement the recommendations contained in the report submitted under section 32308 of MAP-21 (49 U.S.C. 31301 note) that are not implemented as a result of the amendment in subsection (a). (c) IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MILITARY COM.t'\-iERCIAL DRIVER'S 4H USC 31311 LICENSE Ac'T.-Not later than December 31, 2015, the Secretary note. shall issue final regulations to implement the exemption to the domicile requirement under section 3131 l(a)(l2)(C) of title 49, United States Code. (d) CONFORMINGAMENDMEl\'T.-Section 31311(a)(12)(C)(ii) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: · "(ii) is an active duty member of"(I) the armed forces (as that term is defined in section 101(a) of title 10); or "(II) the reserve components (as that term is defined in section 31305(d)(2) of this title); and". SEC. 5402. DRUG-FREE COMMERCIAL DRIVERS. (a) L.'fGENER...6.L.-Section 31306 of title 49, United States Code, is amended(1) in subsection (b)(l)(A) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (C); (B) in subparagraph (A) by striking "The regulations shall permit such motor carriers to conduct preemployment testing of such employees for the use of alcohol."; and (C) by inserUng after subparagraph (A) the following: "(B) The regulations prescribed under subparagraph (A) shall permit motor carriers"(i) to conduct preemployment testing of commercial motor vehicle operators for the use of alcohol; and "(ii) to use hair testing as an acceptable alternative to mine testing"(!) in conducting preemployment testing for the use of a controlled substance: and "(II) in conducting ·random testing for the use of a controlled substance if the operator was subject to hair testing for preemployment testing."; (2) in subsection (b)(2)(A) in subparagraph (A) by striking "and" at the end; (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and (C) by adding at the end the follovving: "(C) shall provide an exemption from hair testing for commercial motor vehicle operators with established religious beliefs that prohibit the cutting or removal of hair."; and (3) in subsection (c)(2)- Attachment 4 AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000419 DOT-Am.Oversight-001412 129 STAT. 1548 49USC 31306 note. 49 .USC 31149 note . PUBLIC LAW 114-94---DEC. 4, 2015 (A) by (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph inserting "for urine testing, and technical guidelines for hair testing," before "including mandatory guidelines"; (B) in subparagraph (B) by striking "and" at the end; (C) by inserting "and" after the (C) in subparagraph semicolon; and (D) by adding at the end the following: "(D) laboratory protocols and cut-off levels for hair testing to detect the use of a controlled substance;". (b) GUIDELlli'ES.-Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall issue scientific and technical guidelines for hair testing as a method of detecting the use of a controlled substancB for purposes of section 31306 of title 49, United States Code. SEC. 5403. MEDICAL CERTIFICA'fION O.F VETERANS FOR COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSES. (a) IN GENERAL.-In the case of a physidan-approved veteran operator, the qualified physician of such operator may, subject to the requirements of subsection (b), perform a medical examination and provide a medical certificate for purposes of compliance with the requirements of section 31149 of title 49, United States Code. (b) CERTIFICATION.-The certification described under subsection (a) shall include-Cl) assurances that the physidan performing the medical examination meets the requirements of a qualified physician under this section: and (2) certification that the physical condition of the operator is adequate to enable such operator to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely. (c) NATIONALREGISTRYOF MEDICAL EXA.l\.:IINERS.-TheSecretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall develop a process for qualified physicians to perform a medical examination and provide a medical certificate under subsection (a) and include such physicians on the national registry of medical examiners established under section 31149(d) of title 49, United States Code. (d) DEFINITIONS.-ln this section, the following· definitions apply : VETERANOPERATOR.-The term (1) PHYSICIA.~-APPROVED ''physician-approved veteran operator" means an operator of a commercial motor vehicle who(A) is a veteran who is enrolled in the health care system established under section 1705(a) of title 38, United States Code; and (B) is required to have a current valid medical certificate pursuant to section 31149 of title 49, United States Code. (2) QUALIFIEDPHYSICIAN.-Tbe term "qualified physician" means a physician who(A) is employed in the Department of Veterans Affairs; (B) is familiar with the standards for, and physical requirements o(. an operator certified pursuant to section 31149 of title 49, United States Code; and Attachment4 AMF-HICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000420 DOT-Am.Oversight-001413 Topics lransport l.. "• 1 ~;3 ·4;::.-n,1 "'•ifi/201 1,~ .............. ..::-,1:'· .':·:v ·..... ........ . -.::..·........-.. Delays in Approving Hair Testing Aid Drug Abusers, Officials Warn This story appears in the June 6 print edition of Transport Topics. Delays in adopting federally mandated pre-employment hair drug-testing standards potentially have allowed hundreds of truck drivers who failed hair drug tests to drive for another carrier, according to fleet and medical executives. "Drivers who fail pre-employment hair tests can simply seek employment with other carriers where they can more easily pass a pre-employment urine drug test , without fear that their positive hair test results will follow them," Dave Osiecki, chief of national advocacy for American Trucking Associations , wrote in a letter last month to a top federal drug agency official. Osiecki was referring to the Substan ce Abuse and Mental Health Services Adm inistrat ion 's process of adopting mandatory hair drug- testing standards that carrie rs and other federal agencies can use to test prospective employees . SAM HSA, a subagency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has been studying hair testing since 2004. Now HHS , which is responsible for setting drug-testing standards for all federal employees , is under a congressional mandate to adopt a hair-testing standard by December. Current federally mandated urine tests check for use of marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines , opiates and phencyclidine, or PCP. Frustrated by yearslong delays , a substantial number of mostly large motor carriers already have implemented hair testing on their own alongside DOT-mandated urine tests . However , privacy laws do not permit those carriers to share those hair test failures with other carriers , said Ronald Flegel , SAMHSA'S director of workplace programs and chairman of the agency 's drug testing advisory board. Some of those carriers that have gone to the extra expense of hair testing - wh ich can detect drug use up to 90 days - are seeing patterns that support the contention that they better identify ';lifestyle drug use." Tom DiSalvi, vice president of safety and loss prevention for Schneider, said the truckload and intermodal carrier has hair-tested thousands of drivers over the past eight years. "There is a dramatic difference in positive rates: 0.36% of applicants tested positive with a urine test, while 3.67% of the same applicants tested positive using a hair test," DiSalvi said in an e-mail to Transport Topics . "This means there are thousands of seemingly qualified driving candidates that have been turned down by Schneider for chronic drug use, but who are now driving for companies that don 't use pre-employment hair testing ." DiSalvi added : "Schneider believes that if you are serious about eliminating chronic drug use in the industry, then hair testing should be used for screening applicants. " Likewise , Dean Newell , vice president of safety and driver training for Maverick Transportation , said his carrier is seeing similar results since it first added hair testing to its employee screening in 2012. Since then, more than 100 of 103 applicants who failed a hair drug test passed their urine tests at the same time, Newell said . "Anybody could stay clean for a week and typically pass a urine test," Newell told the hair test. " n-, "but they wouldn 't be able to pass Kelly Osterlitz , an executive with commercial drug tester FirstLab , said that 3% to 5% of pre-employment hair tests conducted by the lab were positive for drugs , but only 0.5% of urine tests were positive . "It has always been a concern in the industry that information regarding drug users can 't be shared , thus putting the motoring public in danger, " Osterlitz sa id. Attachment 5 AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000421 6/9/2016 DOT-Am.Oversight-001414 Several other labs and carriers that test hair did not respond to requests for comment, but in the past have been strong advocates of mandatory hair testing . Abigail Potter, an ATA research analyst , said drug use among drivers is fairly rare. "However, when people are using when they're on duty, it can be extremely costly to life and financially, " Potter said. "These are people we don 't want on the highways driving a very large truck." While federal substance abuse officials have their eyes on the December congressional mandate, Flegel said it could be another two years before HHS issues hair testing standards. Flegel said SAM HSA and HHS last month assembled 25 national experts for a "scientific and technical " closed-door meeting for three days in Washington to discuss potential issues with hair testing . The group, whose names have not been made public, is in the process of compiling a paper that will discuss scientific evidence related to the reliability of hair testing . The paper could include recommendations for further research , he said. That document then will be shared with HHS, which in turn will solicit comments from DOT and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, agencies that have expressed interest in adopting hair testing. Any subsequent proposed hair-testing standard would require a review by the White House Office of Management and Budget, Flegel said . In May 2015, SAMHSA issued a proposed rule to permit the testing of oral fluid specimens for drugs and to include drug testing for certain synthetic opiates - hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone and oxymorphone. The agency has yet to issue final guidance. By Eric Miller Staff Heporter Attachment 5 AMFfllCAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000422 6/9/2016 DOT-Am.Oversight-001415 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Fwd: Whayne Supply - State Senator Brandon Smith Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:09:48 PM Boyd Whayne Supply Co exemp appl INCOMING FMC-170424-016.PDF ATT00001.htm FMC-170424-016 D1.pdf ATT00002.htm FYI J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: From: "Minor, Larry (FMCSA)" Date: June 8, 2017 at 12:04:48 PM EDT To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Cc: "Watson, Shannon (FMCSA)" , "Van Steenburg, John (FMCSA)" Subject: Whayne Supply - State Senator Brandon Smith Todd,   This is a follow-up to our telephone conversation this morning.   We checked our records and we received a request for an exemption from Whayne Supply in April and provided a response on May 22.  Our letter explained that we need additional information to process the request and provided a point of contact for technical assistance in preparing an application for an exemption.   My team is working with our Sharon Worthy, our Director of Governmental Affairs, to contact Kentucky State Senator Brandon Smith this afternoon to explain the exemption process AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000423 DOT-Am.Oversight-001416 and why we need additional information from Whayne Supply before we can issue a Federal Register notice seeking public on the request, a process required by statute.   I’ll follow-up after our phone call with Senator Smith.   Larry     Larry W. Minor Associate Administrator for Policy Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000424 DOT-Am.Oversight-001417 Walker WHAYNE SUPPLY COMPANY CECIL I. WALKER MACHINERY mD CO. 10001 Linn Station Road Louisville, Kentucky 40223-3828 P.O. Box 35900 Louisville. Kentucky 40232 -5900 (502) 77 4-4441 April 5, 2017 US Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 Re: Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles Dear Secretary Chao: This letter is in regards to Federal Regulation 395.3 - Maximum Driving Time for Property-Carrying Vehicles. I am the President and Owner of Whayne Supply Company and Walker Machinery Company . Both are Caterpillar dealerships which service customers in Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Ohio. We currently have 345 Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) in our fleet which are service trucks greater than 10,000 lbs. GVW that haul tools and perform repairs on customers ' equipment. All of our CMVs are equipped with electronic logging devices. We repair and maintain earthmoving and mining equipment, commercial and marine engines, and agricultural machines for our customers. The sole purpose of driving these vehicles is to transport our service technicians and their tools to the jobsite. A typical day for our service technician is 1 to 2 hours driving and 8 to 10 hours repairing machines or engines on the jobsi te. Normally these vehicles travel approximately 75 miles per day. There are many occasions our technicians are not able to complete a customer's repair due to the time restraints from this regulation. This often requires a return trip the next day to complete the repairs. This causes additional machine downtime and repair costs for our customers and increases our vehicle mileage . I am requesting an exemption to Federal Regulation 395.3 for our service vehicles so we can better serve our customers. These vehicles solely transport technicians and tooling to a worksite and spend the majority of their work day repairing machines versus driving. My understanding is there are other industries that are exempt from this regulation and we are requesting the same consideration . I appreciate your attention to my request and please contact me if you need additional information . Monty L. Boyd PresidenUCEO A r.. .t r r , 1r, S 10-170419 -001 ___, DOT-18-0010-B-000425 A t.. 1 -IT DOT-Am.Oversight-001418 0 U.S.Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 Federal Motor Ca rrier Safety Administration MA Y 22 2017 Refer to: MC-PSD Mr. Monty L. Boyd President/CEO Wbayne Supply Company/Ce.cilI. Walker Machinery Co. 10001 Linn Station Road Louisville, KY 40223-3828 Dear Mr. Boyd: Thank you for your April 5 letter requesting an exemptionfrom Section 395.3 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Specificallyyou asked that your service vehicles be exempt from Se.ction395.3 so that you can better serve your customers. You may apply for an exemption if one or more FMCSRs prevents you from implementingmore efficient or effective operations that would maintain a level of safety equivalentto or greater than the level achieved without the exemption. However,your application for exemptiondoes not meet the regulatory frameworkguidelines in Section 381.310 of the FMCSRs, as it does not include all of the required elements for a request in this Section of the regulations. These specific elements are listed in Section 381.310 and are included as an attachmentto this letter. Therefore, we must deny your request for exemption at this time. I hope this informationwill be helpful. Shouldyou have any questions, please contact Mr. Thomas Yager, Chief, Driver and Carrier OperationsDivision, at (614) 942-6477, or by email at tom.yager@dot.gov. Sincerely, A FMC-170424-0 ·16 DOT-18-0010-B-000426 -IT DOT-Am.Oversight-001419 §381.310 How do I apply for an exemption? (a) You must send a written request (for example, a typed or handwritten (printed) letter), which includes all of the information required by this section, to the Administrator, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001. (b) You must identify the person or class of persons who would be covered by the exemption. The application for an exemption must include: (1) Your name, job title, mailing address, and daytime telephone number; (2) The name of the individual or motor carrier that would be responsible for the use or operation ofCMVs; (3) Principal place of business for the motor carrier (street address, city, State, and zip code); and (4) The USDOT identification number for the motor carrier. (c) You must provide a written statement that: (1) Describes the reason the exemption is needed, including the time period during which it is needed; (2) Identifies the regulation from which you would like to be exempted; (3) Provides an estimate of the total number of drivers and CMVs that would be operated under the terms and conditions of the exemption; (4) Assesses the safety impacts the exemption may have; (5) Explains how you would ensure that you could achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that would be obtained by complying with the regulation; and (6) Describes the impacts (e.g., inability to test innovative safety management control systems, etc.) you could experience if the exemption is not granted by the FMCSA. (d) Your application must include a copy of all research reports, technical papers, and other publications and documents you reference. -FMC-170424-1016 - -,.-~,-, .. -IT DOT-18-0010-B-000427 DOT-Am.Oversight-001420 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) (wendy.gehring@dot.gov) RE: Senate Spouses Coffee at the Vice President"s Residence Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:00:00 PM Thanks Laura -- adding Wendy -----Original Message----From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 11:59 AM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: FW: Senate Spouses Coffee at the Vice President's Residence For you. Thanks! -----Original Message----From: Scully, Bethany S. EOP/WHO [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 11:55 AM To: Scully, Bethany S. EOP/WHO <(b) (6) v> Cc: Morris, Ericka J. EOP/VP-Res <(b) (6) > Subject: Senate Spouses Coffee at the Vice President's Residence ] All Second Lady Karen Pence would like to invite the Senator's spouse to attend a coffee on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Vice President's Residence with fellow Senate spouses. Attached is the formal invitation as well as a WAVES form that needs to be completed if the Senator's spouse is able to attend.  To formally RSVP, please reply to this email and Ericka Morris ((b) (6) ) with a completed form of the attached WAVES information. Please also find a map attached for arrival to the VP Residence.  There is no parking available for this event at the VP Residence. Spouses should arrive via cab/uber or by a staff member dropping off at the Main Gate located at 3450 Massachusetts Ave. NW.  Upon entry, spouses will walk up to the VP Residence and enter through the gates in front of the house.  Note: All guests will be required to present a government issued ID to enter. Please let us know if you have any questions.  Thanks! - Bethany (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000428 DOT-Am.Oversight-001421 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Request for input for regulatory review. Thursday, June 08, 2017 6:28:10 AM 2017-11791.pdf ATT00001.htm https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2017-11791.pdf AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000429 DOT-Am.Oversight-001422 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Jenny Everett Monday, June 12, 2017 12:54:07 PM I do remember her.  It’s a honey bee supply company in Grayson County.  Subsequently I think MM met with her one time in DC.  I think she has moved on to somewhere else.  Very impressive young lady as I remember.   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, June 12, 2017 12:12 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Jenny Everett   Wrote the Secretary saying hello, and mentioned the Leader had toured her manufacturing plant in Kentucky when she was president/ceo.  Said she was the “bee lady” since many of the products were focused on beekeeping.     She didn’t indicate the town or time it happened, but just wondered if the name rang a bell.     She’s requested a meeting, but nothing specific.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000430 DOT-Am.Oversight-001423 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) FW: Invitation to dinner in Honor of United Nations Secretary General antonio Guterres - June 27, 2017. The Secretary of transportation and The Honorable Mitch McConnell Wednesday, June 14, 2017 8:54:40 AM Invitation to Dinner in Honor of The U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres - June 27, 2017.pdf Per Secretary, please see below and attached. She will be attending.     - From: Fay Mclaren [mailto:(b) (6) @kuwaitembassy.us] Sent: Tuesday, June 13, 2017 12:30 PM To: SecretaryScheduler (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; 'Costanzo, Emily (McConnell)' Subject: Invitation to dinner in Honor of United Nations Secretary General antonio Guterres - June 27, 2017. The Secretary of transportation and The Honorable Mitch McConnell   Dear Secretary Chao and Senator McConnell,   The Ambassador of the State of Kuwait and Mrs. Salem Al-Sabah hope that you can join them for an intimate dinner that they are hosting at their Embassy residence on Tuesday, June 27th in honor of United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres.  Please find the details in the attached invitation.   The favor of a response is kindly requested by Friday, June 16th.   Please let me know if you have any questions or require additional information.  Thank you.   Sincerely,   Fay McLaren     Fay McLaren Office of the Ambassador Embassy of the State of Kuwait Washington, DC Email: (b) (6) @kuwaitembassy.us (b) (6) Tel: Fax: (202) 364-2868     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000431 DOT-Am.Oversight-001424 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Burr, Geoff (OST) RE: call Wednesday, June 14, 2017 6:11:04 PM Great – thank you.      From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 6:02 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Re: call   She agreed to second week in July. Haven't told the committee yet but will soon.  Sent from my iPhone On Jun 14, 2017, at 5:30 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) and tks! (b) (6)     From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 5:29 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: Re: call   Yes, I can call momentarily. Best number? Sent from my iPhone On Jun 14, 2017, at 5:27 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) Do you  have time for a 2 min call sometime today or tomorrow? We’ve been asked by a committee to flag something for you.   Tks! Stef   Stefanie Hagar Muchow Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell   DOT-18-0010-B-000432 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001425 From: To: Subject: Date: Importance: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Request for Sec. Chao Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:46:49 AM High Not sure if they should be meeting with you at USDOT or at the state level?  What are your thoughts?  Thanks.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:25 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Request for Sec. Chao Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov> Terry,    A small delegation from the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce has sent an email (below) requesting to meet with Sec. Chao regarding the road project Kim Phelps describes below.   They are open as to the date.      Can you relay to our DOT contact?   Thanks       ------ ---- From: Kim Phelps [mailto (b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 7:59 AM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Request for Sec. Chao We would plan around the Secretary’s availability.  There would like be 3-4.  At most.  Might just be 2.    Thanks so much! (b) (6)         From: Kim Phelps [mailto (b) (6) @bgchamber.com] AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000433 DOT-Am.Oversight-001426 - ---- Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 3:29 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Sec. Chao Tim, Thank you for passing this request on. We would like to meet with the Secretary regarding the Southwest Parkway project. There is significant economic development in that area and the need to build that Parkway to improve traffic, grow development, and improve safety is growing significantly. Please let me know what other information I can provide. Thank you! Kim Kim Phelps VP, Communications and Public Policy Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000434 DOT-Am.Oversight-001427 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Secretary Chao ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST); Inman, Todd (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Re: Leader going to baseball diamond along with other leadrs at 7pm? Thursday, June 15, 2017 9:38:47 AM We're looking at a 6:15/30 arrival at park. MM's piece should be done by 7:15. I am at walk thru now at park so should know more soon.  On Jun 15, 2017, at 9:37 AM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: ACLI begins at 715pm. You are scheduled to speak at 730. Dinner goes until 830. I am sure they would be happy to have you speak later in order to accommodate a trip to the baseball game.   (b) (6)   From: Secretary Chao [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 11:11 PM To: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Leader going to baseball diamond along with other leadrs at 7pm?   (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000435 DOT-Am.Oversight-001428 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Secretary Chao Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST); Inman, Todd (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) RE: Leader going to baseball diamond along with other leadrs at 7pm? Thursday, June 15, 2017 11:53:13 AM I’m back at my desk if you’d like to discuss Secretary. Sounds like several of the cabinet are attending. But there are no announcement of VIPs other than the 4 Leaders so it’s totally your call.   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 9:37 AM To: Secretary Chao ; Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Inman, Todd (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Subject: RE: Leader going to baseball diamond along with other leadrs at 7pm? ACLI begins at 715pm. You are scheduled to speak at 730. Dinner goes until 830. I am sure they would be happy to have you speak later in order to accommodate a trip to the baseball game.   (b) (6)   From: Secretary Chao [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 11:11 PM To: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Leader going to baseball diamond along with other leadrs at 7pm? (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000436 DOT-Am.Oversight-001429 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) Kathy Wright (b) (5) Friday, June 16, 2017 5:35:07 PM Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6) KWW -----Original Message----From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 2:03 PM To: 'Slater, Bryan (OST)' Cc: 'jeff.rosen@dot.gov' Subject: FW: My information Brain and Jeff, Attached is a resume (b) (5) KWW -----Original Message----From: (b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, May 16, 2017 7:18 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: My information - @mcconnell.senate.gov> As discussed.  Talk to you soon. Best regards, (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000437 DOT-Am.Oversight-001430 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: Tuesday Saturday, June 24, 2017 1:15:32 PM Sounds good. Tks! On Jun 24, 2017, at 12:18 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Stef, Secretary asked us to let you know she will not attend the dinner on Tuesday night.   Thanks!     Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation   E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000438 DOT-Am.Oversight-001431 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Rosen, Jeff (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov attachments Wednesday, June 28, 2017 2:43:00 PM Letter in Support of Nomination of Steve Bradbury.pdf Keisler - 222509017 1 - Bradbury Letter.pdf Letter re Nomination of Steven Bradbury.pdf State AG Letter of Support for Bradbury Nomination w. Signatures (1).docx Bradbury - Letter to Ranking Member Nelson (23 June 2017).pdf Kathy Wright   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000439 DOT-Am.Oversight-001432 June 23, 2017 The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510-6125 Dear Senator Nelson: Thank you for your letter of yesterday concerning my nomination to be General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Transportation (the “Department”). After reviewing my responses to the Committee’s Questionnaire and my Ethics Agreement with the Department’s Designated Agency Ethics Official, or “DAEO,” you have asked me to make specific commitments regarding recusals from matters involving Takata Corporation, including its subsidiaries and successor entities (together, “Takata”), in the event I am confirmed as the Department’s General Counsel. I very much appreciate your interest in these questions, and I know from direct experience how much you personally care about addressing and resolving the safety issues relating to airbag inflator ruptures. As you know, I represented the U.S. subsidiary of Takata in connection with the airbag inflator rupture issues before the Department and elsewhere. Among other things, I participated directly in the discussions with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or “NHTSA,” that produced the consent orders governing the recalls of Takata airbag inflators and establishing the framework for expansion of those recalls going forward. With regard to Takata, as in all matters, you can be assured I take my ethical responsibilities extremely seriously, both as an attorney representing clients in private practice and as a prospective officer of the Government whose only client will be the United States. I will honor my professional duties as a lawyer and will adhere scrupulously to the requirements of the federal ethics laws and regulations, as well as the additional obligations I will assume under Executive Order 13770 (“Ethics Commitments by Executive Branch Appointees”), if confirmed. Specifically: For the duration of my tenure with the Department, I will recuse myself from all aspects of the Takata airbag inflator recalls. Furthermore, under Executive Order 13770, for a period of two years following my confirmation as General Counsel of the Department, I will not participate in any other particular matter involving specific parties that is directly and substantially related to Takata, including regulations and contracts. I do not plan to seek a waiver under applicable ethics regulations to participate in particular matters involving Takata. Respectfully submitted, Steven G. Bradbury cc: The Honorable John Thune, Chairman DOT-18-0010-B-000440 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001433 June 22, 2017 The Honorable John Thune Chairman Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 Re: The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 Nomination of Steven Gill Bradbury to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson: We write to express our strong support for the nomination of Steven Bradbury to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation. Each of us has previously served in one or more senior positions at the Department of Justice, the White House, or agencies within the Intelligence Community. We believe Mr. Bradbury is an excellent choice to serve as General Counsel. Mr. Bradbury’s professional experience, both in public service and in the private sector, render him exceptionally well-prepared for this position. A graduate of Stanford and the University of Michigan Law School, he clerked for Justice Clarence Thomas of the United States Supreme Court and Judge James Buckley of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He served during two Administrations in the Office of Legal Counsel at the Department of Justice, first as an Attorney-Adviser and later as the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General and Acting Assistant Attorney General. In those capacities, he was called upon to advise government officials at the highest levels, including many of us, on challenging and important issues of law. In private practice he has likewise been relied upon to handle matters of great significance and complexity, many of which have involved issues affecting the transportation industry. The breadth and depth of Mr. Bradbury’s background and experience, his demonstrated capacity for careful and thoughtful legal analysis, his consistent professionalism, and his strong integrity would enable him to provide exemplary service to the Department of Transportation — DOT-18-0010-B-000441 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001434 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson June 22, 2017 Page 2 and the country —as General Counsel. We strongly urge the Committee to report favorably upon his nomination. Sincerely, William P. Barr Attorney General (1991-1993) Stephen J. Hadley National Security Advisor (2005-2009) Deputy National Security Advisor (2001-2005) William A. Burck Deputy Counsel to the President (2007-2009) General Michael V. Hayden, USAF (retired) Director, Central Intelligence Agency (2006-2009) Director, National Security Agency (1999-2005) Paul D. Clement Solicitor General (2005-2008) Peter D. Keisler Acting Attorney General (2007) Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2003-2007) Fred. F. Fielding Counsel to the President (2007-2009; 1981-1986) Commissioner, 9-11 Commission (2002-2004) Edwin Meese III Attorney General (1985-1988) Mark Filip Deputy Attorney General (2008-2009) Michael B. Mukasey Attorney General (2007-2009) United States District Judge (1988-2006) Gregory G. Garre Solicitor General (2008-2009) Principal Deputy Solicitor General (2005-2008) Theodore B. Olson Solicitor General (2001-2004) Alberto R. Gonzales Attorney General (2005-2007) Counsel to the President (2001-2005) George J. Terwilliger III Deputy Attorney General (1991-1993) Kenneth L. Wainstein Homeland Security Advisor (2008-09) Assistant Attorney General for National Security (2006-08) AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000442 DOT-Am.Oversight-001435 June 27, 2017 The Honorable John Thune Chairman Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson: We write to endorse the nomination of Steven Gill Bradbury to serve as General Counsel of the Department of Transportation. We have nothing but the highest respect for his legal skills, his judgment, his work ethic, and his professionalism. As a public servant, he undoubtedly will bring those same qualities to this important job in service to the country. We thus urge you to report his nomination favorably to the full Senate. Thank you in advance for considering our views. Sincerely, Jeremy Bash Chief of Staff, U.S. Department of Defense (2011-2013) Chief of Staff, Central Intelligence Agency (2009-2011) Democratic Counsel, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (2005-2009) John P. Carlin Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division, U.S. Department of Justice (2014-2016) Chief of Staff, Federal Bureau of Investigation (2009-2011) Daryl Joseffer Principal Deputy Solicitor General (2008-2009) Assistant to the Solicitor General (2004-2008) Deputy General Counsel, Office of Management and Budget (2003-2004) The Honorable Norman Y. Mineta Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation (2001-2006) AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000443 DOT-Am.Oversight-001436 Matthew G. Olsen Former Director, National Counterterrorism Center (2011-2014) Former General Counsel, National Security Agency (2010-2011) Virginia A. Seitz Former Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel (2011-2013) The Honorable Rodney E. Slater Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation (1997-2001) Jeffrey L. Turner Managing Partner, Public Policy Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000444 DOT-Am.Oversight-001437 June 22, 2017 The Honorable John Thune Chairman Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 Re: The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 Nomination of Steven Gill Bradbury to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson: We write in strong support of the nomination of Steven Bradbury to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation. Each of us served with Steve in the federal government, and we believe him to be an excellent choice to serve as General Counsel. Steve’s education, prior public service and work in private practice make him exceptionally well-qualified for this important role. For the past eight years, Steve has served as a partner at a prominent law firm in Washington, D.C. and New York (and from 1994-2004 served as a partner at a different but equally prominent firm). He holds degrees from Stanford University and the University of Michigan Law School, and clerked for Associate Justice Clarence Thomas of the Supreme Court and Judge James L. Buckley of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. From 2004 to 2009, he served as Acting Assistant Attorney General and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General at the Office of Legal Counsel, where he advised the President, the Attorney General and the heads of executive departments and agencies on significant questions of constitutional, statutory, and administrative law. Because of Steve’s extensive experience in both government and private practice, we believe he is very well-qualified to serve as General Counsel of the Department of Transportation. While at the Justice Department, Steve approached his work with extraordinary care, and we believe he will demonstrate the same exceptional commitment at the Department of Transportation. We also understand that Steve has valuable experience handling significant matters before the Department (including one of the largest automotive safety recalls in history), and has also handled issues involving aviation competition and international route authorizations. Most important, Steve has the integrity, temperament, judgment, and legal acumen to succeed in the role of General Counsel. DOT-18-0010-B-000445 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001438 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson June 22, 2017 Page 2 In short, we believe that Steve will serve in this position with distinction and honor. We respectfully urge the Committee and the Senate to approve his nomination to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation. Sincerely, Alex M. Azar II Deputy Secretary, Health and Human Services (2005-2007) General Counsel, Health and Human Services (2001-2005) Thomas O. Barnett Assistant Attorney General, Antitrust Division (2006-2008) C. Frederick Beckner III Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2006-2009) John B. Bellinger III Legal Adviser to the Department of State (2005-2009) Legal Adviser to the National Security Council (2001-2005) Bradford A. Berenson Associate Counsel to the President (2001-2003) Megan L. Brown Counsel to the U.S. Attorney General (2007-2008) Reginald Brown Associate Counsel to the President (2003-2005) Jeffrey S. Bucholtz Acting Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2007-2008) Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2006-2008) Lily Fu Claffee General Counsel, U.S. Department of Commerce (2008-2009) Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Department of the Treasury (2006-2008) Deputy Associate Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice (2005-2006) Gus P. Coldebella Acting General Counsel, Department of Homeland Security (2007-2009) Deputy General Counsel, Department of Homeland Security (2005-2009) AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000446 DOT-Am.Oversight-001439 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson June 22, 2017 Page 3 Jonathan Cohn Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2004-2009) Daniel J. Dell’Orto Acting General Counsel, Department of Defense (2008–2009) Principal Deputy General Counsel, Department of Defense (2000-2009) Grant M. Dixton Associate Counsel to the President (2003-2006) Thomas H. Dupree Jr. Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2007-2009) John P. Elwood Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel (2005-2009) Alice Fisher Assistant Attorney General, Criminal Division (2005-2008) Brett Gerry Chief of Staff to the Attorney General (2007-2008) Deputy Assistant Attorney General, National Security Division (2006-2007) Matthew W. Friedrich Acting Assistant Attorney General, Criminal Division (2008-2009) William J. Haynes General Counsel of the Department of Defense (2001-2008) Richard Klingler Senior Associate Counsel to the President and Legal Adviser, NSC Staff (2006-2007) Special Assistant and Associate Counsel to the President (2005-2006) C. Kevin Marshall Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel (2005-2007) Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel (2004) William E. Moschella Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General (2006-2008) Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legislative Affairs (2003-2006) Carl J. Nichols Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division (2005-2008) Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General (2008-2009) AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000447 DOT-Am.Oversight-001440 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson June 22, 2017 Page 4 Jake Phillips Senior Counsel to the Deputy Attorney General (2008-2009) Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel (2007-2008) Benjamin A. Powell General Counsel, Office of the Director of National Intelligence (2006-2009) J. Patrick Rowan Assistant Attorney General, National Security Division (2008-2009) Kate Comerford Todd Associate Counsel to the President (2007-2009) Ted Ullyot White House and Department of Justice (2003-2005) AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000448 DOT-Am.Oversight-001441 June 27, 2017 The Honorable John Thune Chairman Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 Re: Nomination of Steven Gill Bradbury to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson: We the undersigned Attorneys General for various States are writing in strong support of the President’s nomination of Steven Gill Bradbury to serve as General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Transportation. As Attorneys General responsible for protecting the rights and legal interests of the people of our States, we have a keen interest in the Federal Government’s exercise of its broad authorities with respect to the Nation’s interstate transportation systems. The public safety of our highways, rail lines, and other modes of transportation is critical to each of our States, and we look to the Department of Transportation for smart and effective enforcement action in cooperation with State and local authorities. It is also important that the Federal Government act wisely and efficiently in spending tax dollars in support of needed infrastructure projects. In addition, we expect that the Department of Transportation will pursue reasonable regulatory policies that are consistent with the law and that promote safety while preserving appropriate incentives for technological innovation, private investment, and variation in approach among the States. In all of these areas, it is vital that the Department of Transportation receive sound legal counsel on the proper exercise of its statutory authorities. We believe that Mr. Bradbury has exactly the right background and set of experiences to provide that legal guidance. As the head of the Office of Legal Counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice from 2005 to 2009, Mr. Bradbury advised the entire Executive Branch on compliance with the laws and the Constitution. And as an attorney in private practice, he has gained experience with a range of regulatory and enforcement issues before the Department of Transportation. We applaud the President for AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000449 DOT-Am.Oversight-001442 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson Page 2 nominating Mr. Bradbury, and we look forward to working with him and with Secretary Chao on important transportation issues of common interest. Accordingly, we respectfully urge the Committee to move Mr. Bradbury’s nomination forward. Respectfully submitted, Alan Wilson Attorney General State of South Carolina Patrick Morrisey Attorney General State of West Virginia Leslie Rutledge Attorney General State of Arkansas Pam Bondi Attorney General State of Florida Chris Carr Attorney General State of Georgia Curtis Hill Attorney General State of Indiana Derek Schmidt Attorney General State of Kansas Jeff Landry Attorney General State of Louisiana Josh Hawley Attorney General State of Missouri Tim Fox Attorney General State of Montana Doug Peterson Attorney General State of Nebraska Adam Paul Laxalt Attorney General State of Nevada DOT-18-0010-B-000450 PVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001443 The Honorable John Thune The Honorable Bill Nelson Page 3 Sean Reyes Attorney General State of Utah Brad Schimel Attorney General State of Wisconsin Steve Marshall Attorney General State of Alabama Bill Schuette Attorney General State of Michigan Ken Paxton Attorney General State of Texas Marty Jackley Attorney General State of South Dakota Wayne Stenehjem Attorney General State of North Dakota DOT-18-0010-B-000451 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001444 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Inman, Todd (OST) RE: FYI: Murray Kentucky, Natural Gas Explosion, 1 Injury Thursday, June 29, 2017 9:19:29 AM   (b) (6)   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2017 8:22 AM To: 'Inman, Todd (OST)' ; Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: FYI: Murray Kentucky, Natural Gas Explosion, 1 Injury Thank you!   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2017 8:16 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Subject: Fwd: FYI: Murray Kentucky, Natural Gas Explosion, 1 Injury Fysa. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: From: "McMillan, Howard (PHMSA)" Date: June 28, 2017 at 10:20:18 PM EDT To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Cc: "Mayberry, Alan (PHMSA)" , "Tsaganos, Vasiliki (PHMSA)" , "Sanborn, Mark (PHMSA)" , "Klinger, Patricia (PHMSA)" Subject: FW: FYI: Murray Kentucky, Natural Gas Explosion, 1 Injury AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000452 DOT-Am.Oversight-001445 Todd , FYI Thanks Muc h ! HWM From: Schoenkin, Nathan (PHMSA) Sent: Wed nesday, June 28, 2017 9 :18:56 PM To: PHMSA Pipeline Failure Exec Update Cc: Katchmar, Peter (PHMSA); Urisko, James (PHMSA) Subject: FYI: M urray Kentucky, Natural Gas Explosion, 1 Injury Good Evening, Murray Natural Gas not ified t he Nat iona l Response Center this evening of a natura l gas release and explosion in Murray Kent ucky. The explos ion occurred in a dormitory at Murray State University . One ind ividual has been reported as injured due to th is incident. PHMSA's Office of Pipeline Safety Accide nt Invest igation Division has been in contact w it h the Kent ucky Public Service Commission (KY-PSC)on th is incide nt w ho has two invest igato rs in route (expected on scene later this evening) . The KY-PSChas been in contact w it h the operator and Fire Marshal. There are unconfirmed reports t hat the inju red party was treated and released. Several media outlets are reporting about this incident. Med ia is reporting that all students are accounted for. PHMSA's Office of Pipeline Safety w ill continue to monitor the situation and prov ide timely updates . Nathan A. Schoenkin Emergency Suppo1t & Secmity Specialist Oil Spill Preparedness and Emergency Suppo1t Division. Pipeline and Hazardous Mateli als Safety Administration [(lj)l6) DOT-18-0010-B-000453 DOT-Am.Oversight-001446 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Wilkinson, James (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell); Lewis, Holly (OST) FW: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee Monday, January 30, 2017 11:54:44 AM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Public Agenda invite.pdf Newsletter email version with invites.pdf Dept of Transportation.pdf Hello, Jeb – I hope these attachments include the information you need. Copied is the Leader’s State Director, Terry Carmack. My direct phone number is (b) (6) if you can’t get through on our main line. If you have other questions about this event, Terry may be able to shed some light on this for you. Sincerely, Angie   Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202   (b) (6)   Receive the Senator’s eNewsletter by signing up HERE   From: Tharp, Sue (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:28 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee Here is the info about the conference. Thanks!   From: Tharp, Sue (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:50 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee Here is the information requesting Secretary Chao to speak at the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative Conference. Please forward to Secretary Chao’s office. Thanks so much!!!   DOT-18-0010-B-000454 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001447 From: Johnny McTurner [mailto (b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:41 PM To: Tharp, Sue (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee - ---     Mayor David Lattus City of Hickman, Kentucky (b) (6)   From: David Lattus [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:37 PM To: Johnny McTurner <(b) (6) > Subject: Fwd: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee ---------- Forwarded message --------(b) (6) From: Colin Wellenkamp < @mrcti.org> Date: Thu, Jan 19, 2017 at 5:06 PM Subject: Invitation to DOT Secretary Nominee (b) (6) (b) (6) To: david.lattus < >   Mayor Lattus:           AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000455 DOT-Am.Oversight-001448     Attached is the invitation to the DOT Secretary nominee. We invite her to engage in the meeting at the Congressional Dinner specifically or a time more convenient to her. The attached agenda is only draft and will change quite a bit between now and in 1.5 months. We've also attached the most recent newsletter.        Could you get this to your contacts in the Senator's office to forward to the nominee? Think that is our best hope for getting this to her. Thank you so much, Mayor.        -Colin   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000456 DOT-Am.Oversight-001449 Mississippi River Cities & Towns 2017 Capitol Meeting Washington, DC Feb 28-March Janmuy 14, 2017 Th e Honorab le Elaine L. Chao Unit ed States Secretary of Transpo1ia tion Nominee P .O. Box 1118 Was hin gton , DC 20013 Dear Secretary Chao: It is with great pleasure that the mayors along the nati on 's most impo1iant wate1way invite you to speak at the Mississi ppi River Cities & Towns Ini tiative (MRC TI) Capitol Meet ing in Was hin gton, DC March 1, 2017. We invite you to come speak with our mayors and gain further and valuable perspective on how a national infrastructure renewal platform can be improved by addressing one of the most transportation infrastructure intensive zones in the nation-the Mississippi River Valley. MR CTI is an associa tion of 75 mayors on the main stem Mississippi River commi tted to b1inging nati onal attention and resour ces back to the wate 1way. The Mississippi has the larges t trad e footprint of any inland wate 1way in No 1ih Ameri ca . The River generates over $400 billion in annual revenu e supp o1i ing 1.3 million American jobs . State and local gove rnm ents provided $320 billion of the $416 billion spent on transpo1ia tion and water infr astrn cture in 2014 with $183 billion going speci ficall y to tran spo1ia tion . Our po1is depend on the surfa ce transpo1iation system for access and movement of the natio n 's freight. Wate1ways and po1is make possible m ore than 500,000 jobs and $83.6 billion in revenue within the ten-sta te Mississippi River CoITidor. The Depaiime nt of Transportation's Mai·itime Administra tion has proven an invaluable paiiner in our efforts to return container m oveme nt to the Mississi ppi River and add sign ificant capa city to the nation 's freight capabiliti es. Containe ri zed freigh t on our wate 1ways is the most efficient way to m eet increasing demand between now and 2050. We hope you can j oin us any time Mai·ch 1 or until 11 :00am on Mai·ch 2 in Washin gto n, DC . Rooms have been reserved at a redu ced rate at the Ph oenix Pai·k Hotel under the M ississi ppi River Cities & Towns room block. Reservations can be m ade by calling 202 -638-6900. A draft agenda and newsletter are includ ed here. Sincerel y, cl~~~ Chri s Coleman , Mayor of St. Paul, MN_ MRCTI Co-Chair T Belinda Constant , Mayor of Gretna, LA MRCT I Co-Chair DOT-18-0010-B-000457 DOT-Am.Oversight-001450 2 Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative January 2017 An Effort of Mayors America's Inland Coast 2017 ~ I· · ., ~- ,. )f:;..., 11 ".Jtt ; Mississippi RiverlJI' f'.ti?f&Towns Initiative~ .'.r • ·,1· , ' l '' I ~ J 1u (: - Pict ured L to R: Mayors Geo rge Flag.gsof Vicksbu rg, M S; Bob Gallagher of Bettendor f, IA; Belinda Consfcint of Gret na, LA; Fra ncis Slay of St. Lou is, MO; Dave Kleis of St. Cloud , MN ; Darryl Gre nnell of Natches , MS; Richard Lee of Port Allen, LA; Harry Rediger of Cape Girardea u, MO ; Russell Love n of Guttenbe rg, IA Mayors Unveil Plan to Achieve Clean Water in Ten States At their Annual Meeting in Natchez , MS Mayors along the Nation's most important inland wate1way announced a multi-pron ged appro ach to improving the wate r quality of the Mississippi River. "Mayors ofMRCT I consider clean water a top priority because more than 20 million people and 50 cities drink the surface wate r of the Mississippi River . Also , the top three economies on the Mississippi are Manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture generating $366 billion in annual revenue directly supp orting over 1.1 million jobs. These three economies depend on one vital resource clean fresh water." said Mayor Dave Kleis, Mayor of St. Cloud, MN and MRCTI Executive Committ ee member representing MN . More than 52 percent of the nation 's total fresh water withdrawals are sourced from surface water rivers, lakes, and streams. largest source of jobs on the M ississippi River. Data from USGS shows the Mississipp i River CoITidor as one of the most intensive surface water use regions withdrawing a minimum of38 billion gallons annually. The Mayo rs' pro gram is comprised of thr ee parts: 1) Increase the capacity o f federal programs that assist states to reduce their nutrient loading quotient; 2) Increase nutri ent monitoring capacity throughout the Mississippi River Valley and bolster state efforts to set goals and timelines for both nitrogen and phosphorns; 3) Create market signals within the food production and retail industries that nutrient reduction practices are an important supply chain control for city procurement policies and priorities. Landmark Alliance with Walmart Announced Pait of the Mayors ' plan includes a uniqu e alliance with Walmaii to incentivize sustainab le agriculture through the supply . Mississi ppi River Cities and Walmai·t pledged a collective effort in urging food suppliers set aside acreage in all ten Mississippi River states for the implementa tion of nutrient reductive practices such as cover crops. Cities fmi her committed to using DOT-18-0010-B-000458 procurement authority to create directives that require a po1iion of city-p urchased food DOT-Am.Oversight-001451 be from acreage practicing nutrient reduction. Mayors Represent MRCTlin Mexico and China ':fr_:/ While Mayor Constant was in Mexic~ ~May g_IJChris Cole :-~ man of St. Paul and Roy Buol of Dubuque were,ly1 B,2 j P:.! g urging mayor s and international organizations ni* e;;-'., . . .; healthy rivers part of their climate mitigatio11plans~·Oh{ ' '".;: natural infrastrncture has carbon and other greenhouse gas ·· reductive prope1iies. A 2013 study by the Smithson- . ian found that freshwater wetlands, can absorb up greenhouse intensive to 32 percent more carbon in streams , and creek house gas to DOT-18-0010-B-000459 DOT-Am.Oversight-001452 • 2016U.S.-CHINA Top picture L to R: Ramiro Martinez Costa, President of the Mediterranean Net w ork of Basin Organizations ; Lupercio Ziro ldo Antonio, Secretar y of Brazilian Netw or k of Basin Organization s; Mayor Belinda Constant , Normand Cazelais, Secretary Genera l of the North Amer ican Netw ork of Basin Organizations ; Tracy Mo lefi, Chair of the Afr ican Net w ork of Basin Organization s; Manue l Al ejandro Gomez Me lchor, President of the North Net w ork of Basin Organizations ; Jean-Francois Donzier, Genera l Secretar y of the Internationa l Netw ork of River Basins. Bottom: Mayor Coleman meet s w ith Erik Solheim , Executive Director of the UN EnvironmenDOT-18-0010-B-000460 ta l Program. Mayor Coleman addresses the U.S.- China Climate Summit in Beijing. Mayor Buol ofDOT-Am.Oversight-001453 Dubuque , IA in Beij ing, China. MRCTI 5th Annual Meeting in Mayors gathered in Natchez, MS for their fifth Ann ual Meeting to celebrate the city's 300th anniversary and unveil agreements regarding clean water, disaster resilience, and National Geographic. Clean Water Alliance with Walmart Stores, Inc. Walmart has agreed to an alliance with MRCTI on redu cing nutri ent loading in the Mis siss ippi River through incentivizing the suppl y chain around practices that retain nitro gen and ph osphom s mitigat ing what mayors deem the greatest threat to their wate r security. We plan to continue to suppo1t farmer s and their communities improving livel ihoods , productivity and wate r quality. The MRCTI alliance is an exciting oppo 1tunity to promote nutrient reduction in food procurem ent practices across the 10 Mississ ippi River basin states ," explained Brittni Furrow , Senior Director of Global Susta inability for Walmait , pictur ed left, first column. MRCTI has also partnere d with USGS , Upper Mississ ippi River Basin Associat ion, American Wate r, and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition to suppo1t this wo rk. Disaster Preparedness The Mississippi River has sustaine d significant sto1m According to Mayor Dave Kleis , impact since the strut of "One of the greatest threat s to our 20 16. Louisiana Lt. Governor water is nutri ent loading. Our cities Billy Nunge sser (pictured want to make a difference in re ducleft) , outlin ed the impacts of ing the amount of nutri ents flowing into our water. We historic Augus t flooding to found that procurement requirement s around the food cities MRCTI mayors urging that purcha se for city facilities , programs , and events could send state s and cities partner for a signal to the market place that controllin g for nutrien t polmore preparedness and recovlution in the suppl y chain is critical." ery resources . The Lt. Governor explained that as much In answer to this, "Wa lmait will continue its wo rk on nutriwate r feel on the Baton ent reduction while launching an alliance with MRCTI. ToDOT-18-0010-B-000461 date , Walmait is workin g with 17 suppliers in its agricultur e Rouge ai·ea as is caiTied by the Mississ ippi River over an 18 -day period . Continued onDOT-Am.Oversight-001454 next page . suppl y chain enga ging 23 millio n acres in best practice s. “Cape Girardeau, MO has seen an all-time high flood level. Three-fourths of Mississippi was impacted by flood water effecting 12 million people,” explained Mayor Errick Simmons of Greenville, MS. Mississippi River Cities& Towns Initiative But, it’s not just flooding. Minnesota heat indices climbed above100 degrees at the end of July. We’ve had over 45,000 homes damaged or destroyed in Louisiana since March,” said Mayor Richard Lee of Port Allen, LA just across the River from Baton Rouge, LA. MRCTI mayors, asked FEMA to improve their process for the application of disaster resources. According to Mayor Richard Lee of Port Allen, LA, “We need to make it easier for states and cities to treat climate impacts with disaster mitigation resources as they occur – at the regional level.” MRCTI recommends that FEMA make updates to the program and allow for broader multistate projects to meet climate change at the scale it is happening – throughout the ten-state corridor. Greenville Mayor Errick Simmons details disaster impacts on the River during MRCTI Hosts National Geographic Role-Out - NATIONAL G1EOGRAPHIC ™ MRCTI hosted the launch of the Mississippi River Geotourism MapGuide website in partnership with National Geographic Maps, the Mississippi River Collaborative, the Big River Strategic Initiative and the Delta Regional Authority. The landmark project has taken two and a half years to plan and execute and is a historically significant digital asset for everyone who visits or lives in the ten states along the Mississippi River. Delta Regional Authority Chairman The Geotourism MapGuide highlights the Chris Masingill signs Memoranunique and authentic landscapes and resilient people of dum of Common Purpose with the Mississippi River that is the lifeblood of the econoMRCTI and the Collaborative. mies along its banks and a unique melting pot of experiences not found anywhere else in the United States or across the world. It is designed to showcase to national and international audiences the diverse natural, cultural and historic attractions that define the many communities along the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Geotourism MapGuide:  Is one of only 20 Geotourism MapGuide websites worldwide to date;  Showcases more than 1,300 sites and travel experiences nominated by locals;  Is a resource designed to improve local, rural economic development;  Provides access to a niche national market of 65 million “geotravelers;”  Provides a long-term resource for promoting the communities and culture along the Mississippi River. MRCTI entered into a Memorandum of Common Purpose with the Mississippi River Connections Collaborative. The Collaborative works to increase recognition of America’s Great River, its people, places and stories and to enhance all existing resources, and acquire funding for conservation and development. Signatories to the Memorandum include the DOT-18-0010-B-000462 Delta Regional Authority, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Big River Strategic Initiative, DOT-Am.Oversight-001455 Great Rivers Greenway, and the Mississippi River Parkway Commission. Continued on next page. pVERSIGHT MRCTI Corporate Advisory Board Seats New Members, Selects New Chair and Vice Chair Mayor Bob Gallagher of Bettendorf, IA presided over the MRCTI Corporate Advisory Board (CAB) Breakfast at the Annual Meeting in Natchez, MS where three new members were seated and CAB leadership was selected. The Big River Strategic Initiative and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) both came aboard the MRCTI CAB. Sarah Carlson of Iowa Practical Farmers (pictured right) accepted the appointment on behalf of the Coalition. Terry Eastin, Executive Director of the Big River Strategic Initiative and Bob Salmon, Senior Vice President of American Queen Steamboat took the seats for their respective organizations. The Big River Strategic Initiative is a collection of projects to activate and celebrate the Mississippi River and its surrounding landscape including the Big River Crossing. NSAC has joined the CAB to assist MRCTI with its effort to improve water quality through the promotion of sustainable agriculture practices by incentivizing the supply chain around such techniques. The first and second largest river cruise vessels on the Mississippi River are operated by the American Queen Steamboat Company. American Queen was recognized in 2014 and 2015 as the world’s top river cruise line. Mayor Gallagher also officially recognized SCF Marine as the new CAB Chair for 2016-17 and NSAC as the new Vice Chair. SCF Marine was represented by company president Tim Power. SCF pledged to work with MRCTI toward returning container movement to the Mississippi River. Mississippi River Cities & Towns Offer Aid to Hurricane Impacted Communities, Make Recommendations for Better Disaster Preparedness “As mayors of cities along the Mississippi River, the Hurricane Matthew devastation hits home for us. Our ‘coasts’ have many of the same vulnerabilities. In fact, within just the past ten months, cities and towns on the Mississippi experienced record flooding and record heat at a prolonged level,” reflected Mayor Belinda Constant of Gretna, LA and MRCTI Co-Chair. “Since January of this year, the Mississippi River Valley has sustained $10 billion in impacts; this is becoming a more and more frequent pattern with escalating costs. We’re becoming rather astute to this new normal and we believe we can present some credible recommendations on how to mitigate these disasters better,” stated Mayor Chris Coleman, Mayor of St. Paul, MN and MRCTI Co-Chair. Continued on next page. pVERSIGHT IL --- ,, -~ · ....·~ .,. • "\. --- t ~ ' ~ r ---•1 - ~", .. ~ ,I • " ~-t - I.~ .!!' : = ~ • t ! ·, .j , 4 I ~ ~ 1- ' .. i - ! ,) :• ~· .. ; . .r ' ~ - 'I' . ,.-. .,. ~ , Bettendorf, IA. Mayor Bob Gallagher is interviewed after the MRCTI Quad City press conference. Below, Riverdale, IA Mayor Sonya Paddock discusses disaster recovery with IA Congressman Dave Loebsack. j , I -= ·"~- \ r DOT-18-0010-B-000463 DOT-Am.Oversight-001456 _.. “Mayors up and down the Mississippi River stand ready to offer assistance to hurricane impacted areas just as we did in the wake of Hurricane Katrina,” stated Mayor Bob Gallagher of Bettendorf, IA. MRCTI has urged FEMA to rethink their pre-disaster mitigation program criteria, which is currently constructed to be state specific. In light of recent natural disasters, it has become evident that this policy is limiting the region’s ability to effectively respond to the impacts. “We are approaching disaster resilience from a ‘natural process’ point of view by giving the River room to ebb and flow as well as absorbing risk on-site instead of pushing more water down river to the next city,” explained Mayor Frank Klipsch of Davenport, IA. Those cities offering mutual aid to hurricane-ravaged communities include: St. Paul, MN St. Louis, MO La Crosse, WI Memphis, TN Davenport, IA Greenville, MS “We need to make it easier for states and cities to treat cliBettendorf, IA Gretna, LA mate impacts with disaster mitigation resources as they ocQuincy, IL cur – at the regional level,” recommended Mayor John Thodos, of East Moline, IL Helena-West Helena, AR Mayor Jay Hollowell (3rd from R) stands with AR Governor Asa Hutchinson during the ribbon cutting of the Big River Crossing in West Memphis, AR. Longest Recreation Bridge Links AR and TN across the Mississippi MRCTI Executive Committee members Mayor Strickland of Memphis, TN and Mayor Hollowell of Helena-West Helena, AR participated in the Big River Strategic Initiative’s opening of the Big River Crossing on October 22. The Big River Crossing is a $17.5 million pathway over the Harahan Bridge. The project restores the original1917 automobile route adjacent to the active rail line on historic Union Pacific cantilevered truss bridge. The automobile pVERSIGHT route has been transformed for pedestrian traffic. When completely linked, the Big River Crossing will ultimately make possible the second longest Mississippi River trail. This is all part of a larger effort to have one alignment of trail from headwaters to gulf that does not use roadways. “The Mississippi River has more than 50 state parks, 60 national historic landmarks, 50 interpretive centers, 20 scenic overlooks, and 124 mayor-lead municipalities. The more we can connect all these attractions, the better,” said Mayor Hollowell speakingDOT-18-0010-B-000464 at the event. DOT-Am.Oversight-001457 Pictured L to R: Mayors Jo Anne Smiley of Clarksville, MO; Tom Thompson of Grafton, IL; Francis Slay of St. Louis, MO; James Spann of Hartford, IL; U.S. DOT MARAD Administrator Paul ‘Chip’ Jaenichen,; Dru Buntin, Executive Director of the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association \II '""PP• R" tr Cn,e To\\n,, lnlllall\C MRCTI Awarded DOT Grant return of container movement on the River is big part of that effort,” said Mayor Francis Slay of St. Louis. The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Admin- “It is essential that we invest in integrated, multi-modal transportation systems that support the efficient movement istration announced the awarding of Marine Highway of freight and people throughout this country,” says MariGrants for the Mississippi River. Though the program is national, many of the grants have been awarded to projects time Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen. on the Mississippi River signifying the incredible importance of the waterway. Further, of the six projects that are receiving grant funds, five are for container-on-barge. Emily LaRosa Grantees include a planning grant for a partnership led by the Port of St. Louis, the Mississippi River Cities & has been brought-on as MRCTowns Initiative, the Inland River Port & Terminal Asso- TI’s new Operations Manager. ciation, and the Upper Mississippi River Basin AssociaEmily served as the Association to build the container economy for the Mississippi tion’s first intern in 2013 and River and work with freight forwarders to offer the Mishas returned with a degree sissippi River as a container option. from Carnegie Mellon University as well as account manage“The Mayors of the Mississippi River have been working ment experience from 3 firms. to build a sustainable economy for the waterway and the MRCTI Welcomes New Operations Manager MRCTI Awarded Largest Foundation Grants To Date This fall, the Initiative was awarded a two-year grant from both the Walton and McKnight Foundations. These grants comprise the largest combined sum ever allocated to the Association since it began in 2012. The grants will go to support MRCTI’s water quality work as part of the Association’s Clean Water Program announced at the MRCTI Annual Meeting in Natchez, MS this September. Mayors have worked closely with Walton since 2012 and McKnight since 2014 to build the association and create capacity for the Mayors to reduce nutrient loading. VERSIGHT Mayors Set to Meet in DC Mayors will gather in Washington, DC Feb 28-March 2, 2017 to make a critical push for valuable infrastructure investment from the incoming administration. Mayors have set both natural and conventional infrastructure as a priority and will meet with Washington leaders to devise a plan forward. The Phoenix Park is serving as the Capitol Meeting headquarters. "''''" DOT-18-0010-B-000465 DOT-Am.Oversight-001458 MRCTI capitol meeting 2017 The 5th Annual Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative Capitol Meeting Agenda February 28 – March 2, 2017 Washington, DC Unless otherwise noted, all sessions and events are open to all mayors and other officially invited attendees. Official functions and meeting services are located in the Phoenix Park Hotel unless otherwise stated. February 28 Dinner with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 6:00pm – 9:00pm, The McDermott Building, Main Conference Room, 500 North Capitol Street, NW Mayors may gather in the hotel lobby at 5:50pm to walk next door to dinner venue. Registration materials will be available at the dinner. Mayors will be joined by leadership from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a sit-down dinner to discuss current challenges facing the Mississippi River as well as possible solutions. Presiding: GEORGE FLAGGS, Mayor of Vicksburg, MS CHRIS COLEMAN, Mayor of St. Paul, MN, MRCTI Co-Chair BELINDA CONSTANT, Mayor of Gretna, LA, MRCTI Co-Chair Discussion: MAJOR GENERAL MICHAEL WEHR (invited) Commander, Mississippi Valley Division U.S. Army Corps of Engineers APPOINTMENT PENDING Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) United States Department of the Army EDWARD E. BELK (invited) Chief, Operations & Regulatory Practice Directorate of Civil Works U.S. Army Corps of Engineers March 1 Funding Infrastructure Improvements In Our Cities 8:00am – 10:00am, National Association of Realtors Building, 12th floor 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW Mayors will meet in the Phoenix Park Lobby at 7:50am and walk 1 block to breakfast venue. Discussion: How MRCTI Cities Can Attract and Fund Better/Less Costly Infrastructure Projects Presentation: MACQUARIE INFRASTRUCTURE AND REAL ASSETS INC. New York, NY PFM Group, GOVERNMENT FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICE Washington, DC DOT-18-0010-B-000466 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001459 Capitol Hill Executive Meetings 10:30am – 12:00pm, Russell Senate Office Building Discussion: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Office of the Secretary U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Natural Resource Conservation Service U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Office of the Administrator FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY Risk Management Directorate Capitol Hill Lunch 12:30pm – 1:30pm, Russell Senate Office Building Presiding: TIM KABAT, Mayor of La Crosse, WI Presentation: Bill to Repatriate Funds Held by US Businesses Oversees to Fund Infrastructure White House Meeting (Mayors and city staff only) 2:30pm – 4:00pm, White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Presiding: CHRIS COLEMAN, Mayor of St. Paul, MN, MRCTI Co-Chair BELINDA CONSTANT, Mayor of Gretna, LA, MRCTI Co-Chair Welcome: PRESIDENT’S OFFICE OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS Discussion: PRESIDENT’S NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL Disaster Resilience and National Security Break (Return to Hotel) 5:00pm – 6:00pm Congressional Dinner 6:30pm – 7:00pm, Opening Reception Mayors may gather in the hotel lobby at 6:15pm to board busses for the Dinner venue Join St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, Gretna Mayor Belinda Constant, and members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives for a reception and dinner with the Mississippi River Caucus. 7:00pm – 8:30pm, Dinner This is our chance to impress upon new members of Congress and the Administration the importance of the Nation’s Inland Waterway System and the valuable Federal Partnerships that can fulfill America’s infrastructure needs. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000467 DOT-Am.Oversight-001460 March 2 Breakfast: Drinking Water Source Protection 8:00am – 9:30am, Phoenix Park Hotel Presiding: CHRIS COLEMAN, Mayor of St. Paul, MN, MRCTI Co-Chair BELINDA CONSTANT, Mayor of Gretna, LA, MRCTI Co-Chair Discussion: National Source Water Collaborative U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mayors Press Conference 10:00am, TBD 11:00am – Adjourn Hotel Information Rooms are available at a reduced rate within the historic Phoenix Park Hotel (pictured below), 520 Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001. Reservations can be made by calling 202-638-6900, ask for the block under Mississippi River Cities & Towns (code 21131). 520 North Capitol Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 p 202.638.6900 f 202.638.4025 DOT-18-0010-B-000468 pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001461 From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date : Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Leader Schedule Friday, June 30, 2017 11 :SS:2S AM Ok, sounds good. We expect him to be in DCth ose dat es. Let me know if t here is anyth ing else. Thanks! From: Basile,Gabrielle (OST)[mailto :gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, June 30, 2017 11:54 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) / Cc:Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Leader Schedule ___________ I don't th ink so? I w ill need t o check wit h her, but for right now she just want ed to know if t he ...... Leader wou ld be in Washington, DCon t hose dates. »<5> Elle Basile Office of the Secreta.Iy U.S. Department of Transpo 1tation tl>)(6) E: Gao rielle .Basile@dot.gov From: Vincent , Laura (McConnell)[~m~a""'ilt ... o.._ i___ ..i:l .a®=m...,c.,.c""'oo1.1.10 ...e.... ll.... ,s-e...,na .... t.,.,e,._g.....,oy ] _ Sent: Friday, June 30, 20 17 11:52 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Leader Schedule 5 > ? We are in session those dates so he w ill be here, tt>n but we do have member lunches typ ically t hose dates. Thanks! From: Basile,Gabrielle (OST)[mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2017 11:08 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) / Cc:Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Leader Schedule Hi Laura, M Secretary Chao has been invited t o something called t he Alice Award Luncheon put on by t he DOT-18-0010-B-000469 pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001462 National Women's Party. Before we coordinate w ith t his organization to schedule someth ing on her calendar, Secretary Chao would like to know what the Leader is doing on t he fo llowing dates t hat have been suggested for the event. The date options that we would like to know about are: September 14, 20, and 28th . Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation tl>)( 6) E: Gao rielle .Basile@dot.gov DOT-18-0010-B-000470 DOT-Am.Oversight-001463 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Chip Hucheson Wednesday, July 05, 2017 2:19:56 PM Chip Hutcheson The Times Leader Post Office Box 439 Princeton, Kentucky 42445-0439     From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) [mailto:delynn.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, July 05, 2017 2:11 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Chip Hucheson   Hi Laura – do you by chance have an address for Chip Hutcheson.  He is the retiring Times Leader publisher.   Thanks –   DeLynn   DeLynn Henry Executive Assistant Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590   (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000471 DOT-Am.Oversight-001464 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Re: Metro Council District 8 Podcast Thursday, July 06, 2017 3:47:27 PM (b) (5)   Sent from my iPhone On Jul 6, 2017, at 11:36 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Have you heard of this?  Thoughts?   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Thursday, July 06, 2017 11:05 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Metro Council District 8 Podcast   Want to run the traps before I send to her?   From: Coan, Brandon [mailto (b) (6) @louisvilleky.gov] Sent: Thursday, July 06, 2017 10:47 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Masterson, Jasmine Subject: FW: Metro Council District 8 Podcast     Hi, Wendy.   I am Secretary Chao’s City Councilman in Louisville, KY.  Please see below for more information but I am writing to request that the Secretary appear as a guest on my monthly podcast next time she is in Louisville and available.  The podcast is about the city of Louisville, city government, the Highlands area where we live and related urban issues.  It is not a political podcast in any way.  Naturally, I would love to have a conversation with Secretary Chao about transportation and infrastructure in Louisville.  I hope this is something she’d enjoy and find interesting – I know my constituents certainly would!  If you have any questions or want to discuss, please call me at the AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000472 DOT-Am.Oversight-001465 office phone below or on my cell: (b) (6) .  Thanks very much!   https://louisvilleky.gov/government/metro-council-district-8/eight-more-mileslouisville-metro-council-district-8-podcast   Best Regards,   Brandon Coan   Metro Council District 8 (b) (6)   601 W. Jefferson Street Louisville, KY 40202   Please sign-up to receive important notifications regarding District 8!  Our goal is to increase from zero to 8,000 engaged subscribers by 2019.   From: Coan, Brandon Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 5:54 PM To: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov' Cc: Masterson, Jasmine Subject: FW: Metro Council District 8 Podcast   Andrew,   Thanks again for speaking with me earlier today.  As I mentioned on the phone, I’ve created a new, monthly podcast as part of my plan to communicate in new ways with my District 8/Highlands neighborhood constituents.  “Eight More Miles: the Louisville Metro Council District 8 Podcast” is designed to teach citizens about the issues facing our city (past, present and future), how city government works, and to inspire them to do community service work.   Please find below (embedded/attached) the recording of our first episode with guest Jerry Abramson, scheduled for release Mon 4/3.  I hope you’ll find it informative and entertaining.  In any case, I am writing to invite both Senator McConnell and Secretary Chao to appear (separately) as featured guests on the show at their soonest opportunities.  I understand they both have incredibly tight schedules during their time in Louisville but it would be an honor for me and a tremendous privilege for listeners.  I have a one-woman production team (using portable professional equipment) and we would come to the Senator and Secretary at the dates/times/locations of their choosing.  We would ask for one hour appointments, which includes time for setup and breakdown.   Finally, as I also mentioned, I’ve never met either Senator McConnell or Secretary Chao but I have three very relevant connections:  1) I am their Metro Council representative; AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000473 DOT-Am.Oversight-001466 2) I am a forme r law clerk to, and close family friend of, the Honorable Charles R. Simpson Ill; and 3) my wife's grandmother, M inx Auerbac h, worked for t he Senator fo r many years. In fact, it was flipping throug h old newspaper clippings of M inx's (CourierJournal articles abo ut our t hen Count y-Judge Execut ive bringing cable t elevisio n to Jefferso n County !) t hat inspired me t o extend th is invit at ion. I sincerely hope t hey will accept. If yo u have any questions or want t o discuss this furt her, please call me at your 5 > convenience . My off ice pho ne is below and cell phone is:' 6>< • Jasmine Mast erson, copied here, is my Legislat ive Aide. You can read more about me here : https ://lo uisvilleky.gov/government/metro-co uncil-dist rict-8 Best Regards, Brandon Coan Metro Council Dist rict 8 tl>)l 6) 601 W . Jefferson Street Louisville, KY40202 Please sign-up to receive important notifications regarding District 8! Our goal is to increase from zero to 8,000 engaged subscribers by 2019. From: Taylor Killough (mailto~n5> @kertiscreative.com] Sent: Wednesday,March 29, 2017 3:13 PM To: Coan, Brandon Subject: Metro Council District 8 Podcast [lil District 8 Jerry Abramson 032117 mixdownv2.mp3 Taylor Killo ugh Producer I KertisCreative 786 S. Shelby St . I Louisville , KY 40203 tl>)(6) The information contained in this commun ication from the sender is confidential. It is intended sole ly for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strict ly prohibited and may be unlawful. DOT-18-0010-B-000474 DOT-Am.Oversight-001467 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov FW: Steven Bradbury"s nomination Friday, July 07, 2017 9:46:00 AM Sharon Soderstrom Please note below and share with the Leader.   (b) (5)   Kris       From: Donoghue, Joe (McCain) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, July 07, 2017 8:57 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Steven Bradbury's nomination @mccain.senate.gov]   Hi Kris.   Thanks very much for your e-mail.  (b) (5)     Please let me know if you need more information.   All the best,   Joe   From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, July 6, 2017 4:00 PM To: Donoghue, Joe (McCain) <(b) (6) @mccain.senate.gov> Subject: Steven Bradbury's nomination   Joe –   (b) (5)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000475 DOT-Am.Oversight-001468 (b) (5) •   I’ve also attached copies of several letters supporting Steve’s nomination, signed by veterans of both Republican and Democratic administrations.   If you have any questions about Steve’s nomination, or if Sen. McCain would like to meet with him, please let me know.   Kris Iverson Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000476 DOT-Am.Oversight-001469 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao"s travel to Louisville Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:08:54 PM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Thanks for this info, Wendy.    Angie   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:01 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) ; Condia, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville   (b) (6)         From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 1:04 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville   (b) (6)     Please note that Andrew Condia, the Senator’s Louisville Field Rep, will be attending this event and can provide any pertinent details about it.    I’ve copied Andrew.   (b) (6)   Thanks, Wendy.    Angie   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000477 DOT-Am.Oversight-001470 From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) Subject: FW: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville   Angie, Secretary will have her security team through at least Friday afternoon. I think they will return on Friday afternoon/evening to DC (b) (6)       Thanks!     From: Furman, Jon (OST) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:50 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Fwd: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville   Forwarding  Jon Furman  Special Assistant to the Secretary  Department of Transportation Begin forwarded message: From: "Schulte, Angie (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: July 10, 2017 at 12:15:28 EDT To: "Delynn Henry ((b) (6) )" <(b) (6) >, "Jon Furman (jon.furman@dot.gov)" Cc: "Condia, Andrew (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Hi, Delynn and Jon – Could you fill us in about Secretary Chao’s visit here this week, please?  I understand that she is addressing Greater Louisville, Inc. at a luncheon event on Friday.  (b) (6) Will her DOT security team accompany her? Any info you have would be much appreciated. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000478 DOT-Am.Oversight-001471 I have copied Andrew Condia, Senator McConnell’s Louisville Field Representative.  If there’s someone else we need to contact about this, please feel free to let us know. Thanks, Angie   Angie Schulte State Office Manager United States Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202   (b) (6)   Receive the Senator’s eNewsletter by signing up HERE     DOT-18-0010-B-000479 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001472 From: To: Subject: Date: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: GLI Visit Friday Tuesday, July 11, 2017 3:01:22 PM   Todd,   Happy to share a few bullet points on some items that might come up:   · (b) (5) I I I I I   I hope this is helpful, these are some of the issues I would expect to come up in this context. Let me know how else I can be helpful.   Best, Andrew     Andrew M. Condia Field Representative U.S SENATOR MITCH McCONNELL (b) (6)       From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 5:31 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: RE: GLI Visit Friday   Thanks.  Feel free to send any specific issues or questions you may think that will come up.     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000480 DOT-Am.Oversight-001473   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 4:12 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: GLI Visit Friday @mcconnell.senate.gov]     Thanks for reaching out Todd! Let me know if and how I can be helpful. Look forward to seeing you.   Best, Andrew     Andrew M. Condia Field Representative U.S SENATOR MITCH McCONNELL (b) (6)       From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 3:59 PM To: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: GLI Visit Friday   Hi Andrew,   I understand you’ll be attending the GLI speech which Secretary Chao is keynoting on Friday.  We’ll look forward to seeing you there.   As it stands we plan on arriving probably at 11:30.  We also have one and possibly two private meetings after the speech as well.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000481 DOT-Am.Oversight-001474 Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000482 DOT-Am.Oversight-001475 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Happy to help. (b) (5) Condia, Andrew (McConnell) McInerney, Marianne (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Re: Sec Chao Remarks Friday, July 14, 2017 10:36:02 AM (b) (5)   Sent from my iPhone On Jul 14, 2017, at 10:30 AM, McInerney, Marianne (OST) wrote: Andrew and Terry Appreciate your time and apologize for interrupting your morning with this.  If you wish to forward to Rep. Shell prior to my call – this(b) (5) Thank you again – Marianne   (b) (5)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000483 DOT-Am.Oversight-001476 (b) (5)       Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    From: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, July 14, 2017 10:25 AM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Cc: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Subject: RE: Sec Chao Remarks @mcconnell.senate.gov]     (b) (6) (b) (5) I hope this helps.   Thanks, Andrew   From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) [mailto:marianne.mcinerney@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, July 14, 2017 10:14 AM To: Condia, Andrew (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Sec Chao Remarks       Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000484 DOT-Am.Oversight-001477 U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, July 14, 2017 10:11 AM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov Subject: Re: Sec Chao Remarks @mcconnell.senate.gov]   I'm sorry. I just don't know enough about this topic to answer the question.    (b) (5) Thanks.  Sent from my iPhone On Jul 14, 2017, at 6:48 AM, McInerney, Marianne (OST) wrote: Thank you for your time this morning.  Attached are Secretary Chao’s remarks for today.  (b) (5)         Thank you Marianne McInerney Cell (b) (6)   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    From   <7-14-17 Greater Louisville remarks v7-14-17 108am reading version.docx> AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000485 DOT-Am.Oversight-001478 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Message from Secretary Chao Monday, July 17, 2017 7:28:00 PM Sharon Soderstrom (b) (5)   Please get in touch if you hear anything or have questions.   Thanks, Kris Iverson (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000486 DOT-Am.Oversight-001479 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) Could you give me a call when you get a minute? Friday, July 28, 2017 3:36:00 PM (b) (6)   It’s about the THUD appropriations bill.  I want to alert you to a major issue with it.  If you give me a heads up about when you might be available, I will see if I can lasso Derek Kan into the call as well.   Thanks! Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000487 DOT-Am.Oversight-001480 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Stefanie Muchow Fwd: General Kelly Trying to Connect with Leader McConnell Sunday, July 30, 2017 9:21:56 AM Stef, See below. Do you want me to provide your number or contact info? J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: From: "Sanborn, Mark (PHMSA)" Date: July 30, 2017 at 9:16:26 AM EDT To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" , David Wonnenberg (b) (6) < > Subject: General Kelly Trying to Connect with Leader McConnell Todd, please find my friend David Wonnenberg copied on this e-mail. David is Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional Affairs at DHS. General Kelly would like to talk with Senator McConnell ASAP and needs a contact number. David asked if I knew anyone who could help so that is why I am putting him in touch with you. If I can be of any further assistance to either of you, please call or email. Thanks. Mark Sanborn Director, Office of Governmental, International, and Public Affairs Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration mark.sanborn@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000488 DOT-Am.Oversight-001481 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Wonnenberg, David Sanborn, Mark (PHMSA); Inman, Todd (OST); Cassidy, Ben Re: General Kelly Trying to Connect with Leader McConnell Sunday, July 30, 2017 9:30:05 AM Talked to David. Tks all.  (b) (6) On Jul 30, 2017, at 9:27 AM, Wonnenberg, David < > wrote: + Stefanie Muchow and DHS Assistant Secretary Ben Cassidy Thanks, Mark. Todd- one clarification, Secretary Kelly would like to make a call direct to the Majority Leader today vice ASAP. Please advise best number and windows for a call from Sec. Kelly to Maj Ldr McConnell. Given the changing landscape of the Sec's duties, appreciate accommodating call in this fashion. FYI I just left Stefanie a VM moments ago. V/r, David (b) (6) With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values. From: Sanborn, Mark (PHMSA) Sent: Sunday, July 30, 2017 9:16:26 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Wonnenberg, David Subject: General Kelly Trying to Connect with Leader McConnell Todd, please find my friend David Wonnenberg copied on this e-mail.  David is Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional Affairs at DHS.  General Kelly would like to talk with Senator McConnell ASAP and needs a contact number.  David asked if I knew anyone who could help so that is why I am putting him in touch with you.   If I can be of any further assistance to either of you, please call or email.  Thanks. Mark Sanborn Director, Office of Governmental, International, and Public Affairs Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration mark.sanborn@dot.gov (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000489 DOT-Am.Oversight-001482 (6) From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Friday, 8/11 - dinner with Sessions Tuesday, August 01, 2017 9:37:08 AM Great, tks.     From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2017 9:34 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: FW: Friday, 8/11 - dinner with Sessions   Fysa we are working on location, not sure if that was shared back with you.     From: "Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell)" <(b) (6) Date: July 31, 2017 at 4:43:28 PM EDT To: 'Elaine Chao' <(b) (6) > Subject: Friday, 8/11 - dinner with Sessions @mcconnell.senate.gov> Dinner confirmed with Sessions on 8/11.  They don’t care where.  The Leader wanted me to see if you had any preferences. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000491 DOT-Am.Oversight-001484 From: To: Subject: Date: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) Noms Thursday, August 03, 2017 8:51:35 AM (b) (5)   Can we chat this morning? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000492 DOT-Am.Oversight-001485 From: To: Subject: Date: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Burr, Geoff (OST) Re: Floor Thursday, August 03, 2017 7:21:03 PM (b) (5) > On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:42 PM, Burr, Geoff (OST) wrote: > > (b) (5) > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:39 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >> >>(b) (5) >> >>> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:37 PM, Burr, Geoff (OST) wrote: >>> >>> (b) (5) - >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:32 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >>>>   >>>> We just confirmed the two FERC noms.  (b) (5) >>>> >>>> -----Original Message---->>>> From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] >>>> Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 6:31 PM >>>> To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> >>>> Subject: Re: Floor >>>> >>>> (b) (5) Thanks for the update. >>>> >>>> Sent from my iPhone >>>> >>>>> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:24 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> There might be a few, but I don't think anything on the DOT front.  (b) (5)   We think we are done within a half hour.  >>>>> >>>>> -----Original Message---->>>>> From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] >>>>> Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 6:05 PM >>>>> To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> >>>>> Subject: Floor >>>>> >>>>> Scott: >>>>> >>>>> Do you have a sense if there will be another batch of noms tonight? Any sense on when floor action will end? >>>>> >>>>> Thanks - - - - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000493 DOT-Am.Oversight-001486 >>>>> >>>>> Sent from my iPhone >>>> >>> > AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000494 DOT-Am.Oversight-001487 From: To: Subject: Date: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Burr, Geoff (OST) Re: Floor Thursday, August 03, 2017 6:36:13 PM (b) (5) > On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:34 PM, Burr, Geoff (OST) wrote: > > (b) (5) > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:32 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >> >> We just confirmed the two FERC noms.  (b) (5)   >> >> -----Original Message---->> From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] >> Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 6:31 PM >> To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) >> Subject: Re: Floor >> >> (b) (5) Thanks for the update. >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >>> On Aug 3, 2017, at 6:24 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: >>> >>> There might be a few, but I don't think anything on the DOT front.  (b) (5)   We think we are done within a half hour.  >>> >>> -----Original Message---->>> From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] >>> Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 6:05 PM >>> To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> >>> Subject: Floor >>> >>> Scott: >>> >>> Do you have a sense if there will be another batch of noms tonight? Any sense on when floor action will end? >>> >>> Thanks >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >> > - - - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000495 DOT-Am.Oversight-001488 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Request for Sec. Chao Thursday, August 03, 2017 3:31:39 PM I truthfully didn’t remember this exchange.  Thanks.  I will track it back.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 3:28 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Request for Sec. Chao Terry,   See below.  I haven’t seen anything further on this so we haven’t taken any further action.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:49 AM To: 'Carmack, Terry (McConnell)' Subject: RE: Request for Sec. Chao Not for sure what the southwest parkway project is.  But I’m assuming it’s a KYDOT project unless it’s Fastlane or Tiger.     If they can sent the project proposal to me to review I can have our folks take a look at it.  My initial gut is to have them meet with Secretary Thomas in Frankfort and possibly our FHWA regional liaison.  But if they need to come to DC I can get them some time with an administrator and then try to have her drop by for a few minutes. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000496 DOT-Am.Oversight-001489         J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:46 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: FW: Request for Sec. Chao Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov] Not sure if they should be meeting with you at USDOT or at the state level?  What are your thoughts?  Thanks.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:25 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Request for Sec. Chao Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov> Terry,    A small delegation from the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce has sent an email (below) requesting to meet with Sec. Chao regarding the road project Kim Phelps describes below.   They are open as to the date.      Can you relay to our DOT contact?   Thanks       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] AMf--P.C/\N PVERSIGHT ----D --- DOT-18-0010-B-000497 DOT-Am.Oversight-001490 - ---- Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 7:59 AM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: RE: Request for Sec. Chao @mcconnell.senate.gov> We would plan around the Secretary’s availability.  There would like be 3-4.  At most.  Might just be 2.    Thanks so much! Great to see you yesterday!         From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2017 3:29 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Sec. Chao ----0 --- - ---- Tim, Thank you for passing this request on. We would like to meet with the Secretary regarding the Southwest Parkway project. There is significant economic development in that area and the need to build that Parkway to improve traffic, grow development, and improve safety is growing significantly. Please let me know what other information I can provide. Thank you! Kim Kim Phelps VP, Communications and Public Policy Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000498 DOT-Am.Oversight-001491 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) RE: We need you asap Thursday, August 03, 2017 10:35:28 AM Thanks Kris – (b) (5)      From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 10:33 AM To: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Raab, Scott (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: We need you asap   - Sorry – I was in a meeting with ELC.   (b) (5) We got the message –             From: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 9:23 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Cc: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Subject: We need you asap Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Thanks much.  Sharon AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000499 DOT-Am.Oversight-001492 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: BG Chamber highway project Friday, August 04, 2017 9:36:06 AM SW Parkway Data sheet 04272017.pdf Todd—Bowling Green project description attached.  Thanks for taking a look.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 8:53 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: BG Chamber highway project   @mcconnell.senate.gov> Here is the project description Bowling Green Chamber is pursuing if they get a meeting with Sec. Chao.     Thanks     •--- From: Kim Phelps <(b) (6) @bgchamber.com> Sent: Thursday, August 3, 2017 3:00 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking In Of course!  We would like to meet with the Secretary regarding the Southwest Parkway project. There is significant economic development in that area and the need to build that Parkway to improve traffic, grow development, and improve safety is growing significantly.  I have attached a data sheet on the project as well.    Let me know what else you need! Best,   Kim       From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:50 PM To: Kim Phelps AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000500 DOT-Am.Oversight-001493 Subject: RE: Checking In   Can you provide a list of topics or proposal(s) you wish to discuss?     If a specific project, a proposal summary would be helpful.    Sorry, to sound bureaucratic, but they like to have this in considering the request.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:21 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Checking In   We have not.  Thank you very much!   Kim   - ---- From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:19 PM To: Kim Phelps Subject: RE: Checking In @mcconnell.senate.gov]   No, and I take it you haven’t either.  I typically forward to our contact person there and they get back to the constituent group directly to coordinate dates, etc., and I am often out of the loop on that part.   Let me circle back and remind them of the request.  It’s been six weeks now.   Thanks for bringing to our attention.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:09 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking In   Any chance you’ve heard anything on our request to meet with Sec. Chao?  - ---- Thanks!   Kim   Kim Phelps Vice President, Communications and Public Policy Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000501 DOT-Am.Oversight-001494 710 College Street Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (b) (6) www.bgchamber.com www.southcentralky.com     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000502 DOT-Am.Oversight-001495 SOUTH CENTRAL KENTUCKY INDUSTRIAL PARK EMPLOYMENT & TRAFFIC GROWTH PROJECTIONS 2017 TO 2022* s3.8e TOTAL PARK GROWTH BY 2022: MINIMUM INCREASE IN DAILY TRUCK TRAFFIC MINIMUM ECONOMIC IMPACT INCREASE SOUTHWEST PARKWAY - PROPOSED ROUTE TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT 2017 Employees: 3,410 Direct Income: $204.5 Million Economic Impact: $9.5 Billion Project 1 2022 Project 2 Employees: 4,775 Direct Income: $286.4 Million Economic Impact: $13.3 Billion KPEX Proposed Route *One-third of companies reporting (7 of 20) as of April 24, 2017. Graham Packaging Industrial Park Boundary KAAP Future Expansion NORTHWEST CORNER GROWTH Railroad 2017 2022 Employment: 767 Truck Traffic (daily): 430 Increase: 67% 1,282 575 34% South Central Kentucky Industrial Park Northwest Corner, detail SCKIP map on Reverse. NORTHWEST CORNER GROWTH BY 2022: MINIMUM INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT BEHIND RAIL MINIMUM INCREASE IN DAILY TRUCK TRAFFIC BEHIND RAIL BOWLING GREEN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 710 COLLEGE STREET BOWLING GREEN, KY 42101 VERSIGHT OF PARK'S TOTAL GROWTH BY 2022 BEHIND THE RAIL DOT-18-0010-B-000503 ~.~ SouthCe~tral Kentucky 7t~ DOT-Am.Oversight-001496 CentralForBusiness.Southern ForLiving. FORT DEARBORN COMPANY BENDIX STOODY SOUTHERN FOODS OWLS HEAD ALLOYS STUPP BRIDGE 10 11 12 13 BERRY PLASTICS CORPORATION 9 7 DOT-18-0010-B-000504 KIRIU CHEP CORP./BLUE COTTON WALTEX SKY LLC CLEMENT DAVID & KALAH 18 19 20 GRAHAM PACKAGING COMPANY, INC. TAZ TRUCKING KOBE ALUMINUM AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS 31 32 METAL WORKS RECYCLE RELOAD LLC PINK LILLY BOUTIQUE 29 28 30 INTERNATIONAL PAPER CONTINENTAL MACHINERY MOVERS 25 SHOP HQ-EVINE LIVE JACKPOT MARKET 24 27 BOWLING GREEN ATHLETIC CLUB 23 AY PARKW L HWEST TA ED SOUT 2.3 MILES TO E PROPOS ELY VILL AT SH IM NA APPROX CE BETWEEN LE ROAD ELLVIL DISTAN & RUSS ROAD 0 150' 600' Z:/2014/SCKIP FILE PATH: REV. DATE: 3-21-17 SCALE: 1" = 300' 300' 10.00 900' AD) ILLE RO LOTAC3. IN KY ANKL TO FR 10.00 LOTAC2. ASHV - W (N US 31 168 16 15 11.00 AC. EMPLOYEES 61 EMPLOYEES 17.00 AC. N IO AT RT O 22 31 -W E LL VI 1.40 AC. SH A (N 23 25 ) AD RO 35.73 AC. 5 EMPLOYEES 284 COURT 10 12.51 AC. T A1C7 . LO 23.60 9 30.19 AC. SOUTHWOOD 23.64 AC. LOT 16 1.21 AC. LOT 6 24 3.50 AC. LOT 5 1.0 2.68 AC. 2.56 AC. CONTINENTAL MACHINERY MOVERS 9.28 AC. US 1.98 AC. LOT 7 FL 21 20 4.91 AC. . DR RK PA T 8C. EX LO 8 A 5.12 AC. 12.55 AC. 3.77 AC. LOT 11 SP AN TR 1.99 AC. LOT 9 X CS WAY 26 FED EX 22 21 ( FLEX BUILDING) CAPE ELECTRIC SUPPLY VALSPAR 17 DOT-Am.Oversight-001497 RC COMPONENTS NNELL 16 30 MCCO 15 31 MITCH 5.53 AC. 2.14 AC. LOT 10 19 EMPLOYEES ESMT. KAPSTONE CONTAINER CORPORATION TAZ TRUCKING 10.83 AC. 13 UE 14 ET Y STRE CENTUR 50 EMPLOYEES 2 VEN AL A 8 SUN PRODUCTS CORPORATION WALTEX SKY LLC. 8.74 AC. 17 19.25 AC. 90 WAY EMPLOYEES NNELL MCCO 11 DRAIN. 6 15.02 AC. 5.31 AC. LOT 15 18 10.00 AC. MITCH 99 EMPLOYEES 21.26 AC. 150 EMPLOYEES CENTR GEORGIA PACIFIC SUBSTATION 14 21.14 AC. 88 EMPLOYEES 28 10.94 AC. 12 34.67 AC. L AVEN UE WRECC ELECTRIC SUBSTATIONS 13 81.73 AC. EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES 12 3 CENTRA 4 LOT 1 -----WRECC ELEC. SUBSTATIONS 80 MW CAPACITY 30 MW AVAILABLE 29 72 EMPLOYEES 6 960 68 EMPLOYEES 8 29.85 AC. EMPLOYEES 42.92 AC. ----------- -------163 26 63.68 AC. EMPLOYEES 7 24.84 AC. 149 EMPLOYEES R.J. CORM AN RAILR OAD 27 36.33 AC. AN TR IO AT RT N N EE GR ROM G F Y LIN 6 MI WA W K . BO X. 0 AR TO RO ER P P H AP TC NA X CS O SP X CS AY 3 ~~ ........ ~~ 23.82 AC. AD RO 154.66 +/- AC. '\ 80 4 S 0.7 AC. 71 EMPLOYEES HI N NA KW 5 GEORGIA PACIFIC -, KAWANI SHI COURT MP IO H. EMPLOYEES 120 EMPLOYEES L M H TC 2 KOBE ALUMINUM AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS \,~.. 56.39 AC. LOT 18 WI LIA 1 SUN PRODUCTS CORPORATION \ 114 \ , \' \ 1 -,_ "-----' -'\ _ 146.83 AC. 495 EMPLOYEES 150' USA-TVA TRANSMISSION LINE ESMTS ME RAILROAD 2 87.32 AC. ~ 32 43.95 AC. (BUILDABLE 39.2 AC.) 15 EMPLOYEES CT N JU R.J. CORM AN AY W AL D RK OT OA PA S T E R T E L ES IL IL D W M HV OA TH .3 S R U Y 2 NA LE SO EL EN IL D T E LV SE MA TW EL S PO I E O OX B US PR PPR CE D R N A A AN T S DI SOUTH CENTRAL KENTUCKY INDUSTRIAL PARK PRESENTATION MAP AR P ER (3 5 I-6 S) TO MILE .7 LOTAC4. 10.00 IO AT RT O D SP YAR AN I L TR RA N From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) McInerney, Marianne (OST) RE: Sec. Elaine Chao /Marianne McInerney Friday, August 04, 2017 11:23:17 AM Thanks much.  Terry   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) [mailto:marianne.mcinerney@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 11:14 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Sec. Elaine Chao /Marianne McInerney   Terry: Thank you for your time this morning. Greatly appreciated your insights on KET and those we might be able to use to add background flavor. I will keep you apprised of our scheduling with KET and will also be sure we are in contact on any issues that have crossover importance.   Please do not hesitate to be in touch at any time – no hour too early or late.  I have included my contact info below. Thank you again! Marianne   Marianne McInerney (b) (6) Work email: Marianne.mcinerney@dot.gov (b) (6)     Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000505 DOT-Am.Oversight-001498 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Terry Carmack (McConnell) Fwd: BG Chamber highway project Monday, August 07, 2017 11:33:00 AM More details below.   This is going to be a state project with no likely federal involvement.  However that being said I can ask our FHWA state director to do a meeting in BG with them.  If they feel its critical to meet in DC I can have the acting ED of Federal highways staff a meeting and arrange for the Secretary to drop by, but our involvement with the project will be limited.   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 Begin forwarded message: From: "Nelson, Thomas (FHWA)" Date: August 7, 2017 at 6:56:11 AM PDT To: "Waidelich, Walter (FHWA)" Cc: "Inman, Todd (OST)" , "Fulton, Finch (OST)" , "Olivera, Lucia (FHWA)" , "Hoang, Vivien (FHWA)" , "Mills, Steve (FHWA)" Subject: RE: BG Chamber highway project Butch,   Update on Bowling Green Project   This project was initiated by the local government and has gone through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Prioritization Process as a regional project.  It has a good overall score in the prioritization process.  However, it is still unknown how much funding will be available and if the available funding will be able to cover this project.  Some funds have been spent through agreement with local government to start design and purchase some of the property, but no phase of work is complete at this time.  The total project cost is estimated at $4.6M.   This project was not previously submitted for TIGER or FASTLANE grants.   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000506 DOT-Am.Oversight-001499 Thanks. Thomas.     From: Mills, Steve (FHWA) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 4:51 PM To: Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) ; Nelson, Thomas (FHWA) Cc: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Fulton, Finch (OST) ; Olivera, Lucia (FHWA) ; Hoang, Vivien (FHWA) Subject: RE: BG Chamber highway project   Butch,   At this point we are not finding much information on this one.  We did not find the project in the Bowling Green TIP.  We will continue checking and let you know what we find.   Steve Mills Assistant Division Administrator Kentucky Division (b) (6)       From: Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 4:01 PM To: Nelson, Thomas (FHWA) ; Mills, Steve (FHWA) Cc: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Fulton, Finch (OST) ; Olivera, Lucia (FHWA) ; Hoang, Vivien (FHWA) Subject: FW: BG Chamber highway project   Let me loop in the KY Division to see if they have any information.  My sense is that it's a project seeking funding since it hasn't been submitted as a TIGER or FASTLANE (in the past).  It may or may not be on the TIP for Bowling Greene.  I think the Division should be able to help provide some insight. Sent with Good (www.good.com) From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Friday, August 4, 2017 3:37:00 PM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000507 DOT-Am.Oversight-001500 To: Fulton, Finch (OST); Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) Subject: Fwd: BG Chamber highway project   Can you track down if this a fhwa or tiger or state project? J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   Begin forwarded message: From: "Carmack, Terry (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Subject: FW: BG Chamber highway project Todd—Bowling Green project description attached.  Thanks for taking a look.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 8:53 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: BG Chamber highway project   @mcconnell.senate.gov> Here is the project description Bowling Green Chamber is pursuing if they get a meeting with Sec. Chao.     Thanks     •--- From: Kim Phelps <(b) (6) @bgchamber.com> Sent: Thursday, August 3, 2017 3:00 PM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000508 DOT-Am.Oversight-001501 To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking In   Of course!  We would like to meet with the Secretary regarding the Southwest Parkway project. There is significant economic development in that area and the need to build that Parkway to improve traffic, grow development, and improve safety is growing significantly.  I have attached a data sheet on the project as well.    Let me know what else you need! Best,   Kim       From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:50 PM To: Kim Phelps Subject: RE: Checking In   Can you provide a list of topics or proposal(s) you wish to discuss?     If a specific project, a proposal summary would be helpful.    Sorry, to sound bureaucratic, but they like to have this in considering the request.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:21 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Checking In   We have not.  Thank you very much!   Kim   - --- From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:19 PM To: Kim Phelps Subject: RE: Checking In   No, and I take it you haven’t either.  I typically forward to our contact person there and they get back to the constituent group directly to coordinate dates, etc., and I am often out of the loop on that part. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000509 DOT-Am.Oversight-001502   Let me circle back and remind them of the request.  It’s been six weeks now.   Thanks for bringing to our attention.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:09 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking In   Any chance you’ve heard anything on our request to meet with Sec. Chao?  - --- Thanks!   Kim   Kim Phelps Vice President, Communications and Public Policy Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce 710 College Street Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (b) (6) www.bgchamber.com www.southcentralky.com     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000510 DOT-Am.Oversight-001503 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Thank you /Secretary Chao and Louisville Airport Improvment Grant Wednesday, August 30, 2017 11:34:00 AM Terry Thank you the insights you shared with Todd on the grant award event we were considering for Secretary Chao on Friday. Totally understand the insights  you shared and appreciate your time.  I wanted to let you know that we will to shift the in person press event to satellite interviews in the market which we will schedule remotely for this coming Friday morning. Once we have these booked, I will send you an email confirming so you are aware.   All my best Marianne   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000511 DOT-Am.Oversight-001504 From: To: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) Re: Candidate info Thursday, August 17, 2017 1:38:19 PM You got me 24-7...never a bother.  Sent from my iPhone On Aug 16, 2017, at 2:20 PM, Slater, Bryan (OST) wrote: It is – thanks Kathy – (b) (6)   B   Bryan Slater Assistant Secretary for Administration U. S. Department of Transportation Bryan.slater@dot.gov (b) (6)   From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, August 16, 2017 4:33 PM To: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: Candidate info @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6)     Hope this is helpful. Kathy           AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000512 DOT-Am.Oversight-001505 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) Emailing - (b) (6) Friday, August 11, 2017 11:51:13 AM (b) (6) (b) (5), (b) (6) KWW AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000513 DOT-Am.Oversight-001506 AMERICAN pv RSI Page 1 AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000515 RSI Page 2 AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000516 RSI Page 3 From: To: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) Re: (b) (6) Tuesday, August 15, 2017 1:20:49 PM Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6)   KWW Sent from my iPhone On Aug 14, 2017, at 12:20 PM, Slater, Bryan (OST) wrote: Kathy, (b) (5), (b) (6)   Bryan Slater Assistant Secretary for Administration U. S. Department of Transportation Bryan.slater@dot.gov (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-B-000517 DOT-Am.Oversight-001510 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) DOT nominees - status and requests Monday, August 28, 2017 11:15:00 AM As we head into the post-August session, I know you have a heavy load ahead.  However, I anticipate that nominations will be somewhere in the mix, so I wanted to send you an update of where DOT stands on our nominations.   As of today, the Department of Transportation has 4 nominees that have been reported by the Commerce Committee and are on the Senate Executive calendar:  Bradbury (GC); Kan (Undersecretary for Policy); Batory (Fed Railroad Admin); and Sullivan (AS for Govt Aff).    (b) (5)   (b) (6) (b) (5)   (b) (5) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT   DOT-18-0010-B-000518 DOT-Am.Oversight-001511   (b) (5)     Thanks very much.  Please call or email with any questions, comments, suggestions.   Kris Iverson (b) (6)     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000519 DOT-Am.Oversight-001512 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov Friday September 15th Wednesday, September 06, 2017 6:16:31 PM (b) (6) Just wanted to give you a heads up that the Secretary will address the 30 Army students at the McConnell center from 3:15pm up until the Leader arrives around 3:45/4:00pm Sent from my iPhone AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000520 DOT-Am.Oversight-001513 - From: To: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) RE: (b) (6) Wednesday, September 06, 2017 3:30:53 PM (b) (5), (b) (6) KWW   From: Slater, Bryan (OST) [mailto:bryan.slater@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2017 2:49 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: (b) (6)   Kathy, thanks.  (b) (5)   -     Bryan Slater Assistant Secretary for Administration U. S. Department of Transportation Bryan.slater@dot.gov (b) (6)   From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 2:38 PM To: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: (b) (6)   Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6) - KWW       Experience AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000521 DOT-Am.Oversight-001514 (b) (6)   (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6)   (b) (6) (b) (6)   (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000522 DOT-Am.Oversight-001515 00: b Brief overview memo is attached from our visit on 6/5/17. Do you need me to send you all the supporting documents we received? There were several spreadsheets and overviews. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000524 DOT-Am.Oversight-001517 Memorandum AM ERICAN RSI From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) FW: (b) (6) DOT Tuesday, September 12, 2017 11:07:54 AM (b) (6) Resume 2017.pdf Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6) Kathy AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000526 DOT-Am.Oversight-001519 DAV. a 3991 - I From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Ambassador Kelly Craft"s Swearing In Ceremony on September 26 Monday, September 18, 2017 10:25:00 AM image001.png Hi Laura!   Hope you had a great weekend. DeLynn forwarded me the below invitation regarding Ambassador Kelly Craft’s swearing in ceremony and reception. I wanted to let you know that Secretary Chao is planning to attend both. I will be rsvp’ing today. Let me know if you have any other questions about her schedule for that day.   Thanks!   From: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2017 1:59 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: FW: Ambassador Kelly Craft's Swearing In Ceremony on September 26     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2017 1:49 PM To: Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: FW: Ambassador Kelly Craft's Swearing In Ceremony on September 26   Wanted to make sure you all got this. Assuming ELC will go to one of these events, we should coordinate. Right now it looks like the actual swearing-in will be easier for him to attend, but we’ll know more as we get closer to the date. Thanks!   From: Louden, Emily (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2017 1:33 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Costanzo, Emily (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Ambassador Kelly Craft's Swearing In Ceremony on September 26     From: Harris, Cassandra [mailto:(b) (6) @state.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2017 1:23 PM To: Louden, Emily (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Ambassador Kelly Craft's Swearing In Ceremony on September 26   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000529 DOT-Am.Oversight-001522 Mitch McConnell and Elaine Chao are cordially invited to attend the Swearing-in Ceremony of Kelly Craft as Ambassador of the United States of America to Canada   Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at 5:00 in the afternoon   Indian Treaty Room White House Complex, Eisenhower Executive Office Building Entrance is at 17th Street and State Place Please arrive at 4:15 p.m. to allow for security screening Photo identification is required for admittance         R.S.V.P. to Cassandra Harris by Monday, September 18, 2017 (b) (6) @state.gov E-mail: (b) (6) Tel: Following a response to the R.S.V.P., an email will be sent with a link with a request to provide identification information.   A reception will follow immediately after the ceremony. Please see attached invite. Cassandra Harris Office of Canadian Affairs (WHA/CAN) Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs U.S. Department of State (b) (6)     Official  AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000530 DOT-Am.Oversight-001523 UNCLASSIFIED DOT-Am.Oversight-001524 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao featured on KET"s Connections with Renee Shaw Wednesday, September 20, 2017 4:01:31 PM ket logo.png FYI.   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6) -   @ket.org] From: Julie Schmidt [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 3:44 PM To: Steurer, Robert (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Carmack, Terry (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (McConnell) < Subject: Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao featured on KET's Connections with Renee Shaw Hi! Robert & Terr: Please find below the press release about Secretary Chao's interview with KET's Renee Shaw. We appreciate her time and look forward to airing statewide on Friday afternoon. Best regards, Julie Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao featured on KET’s Connections with Renee Shaw FOR RELEASE: September 20, 2017 AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000532 DOT-Am.Oversight-001525 The next episode of KET’s Connections with Renee Shaw sits down with U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao for a wide-ranging, oneon-one interview. The program airs Friday, Sept. 22 at 5/4 pm on KET2 and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 1:30/12:30 pm on KET. During the interview, filmed at the McConnell Center at the University of Louisville, Chao discusses the U.S. Department of Transportation’s role and involvement in emergency response and rebuilding efforts following the destruction of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in Texas and Florida. The Secretary also discusses plans to address the nation’s transportation infrastructure, including thousands of miles of roads and bridges in need of repair and improvements. She also offers insight into how the federal government plans to address and regulate rapidly developing technology behind the autonomous, or self-driving, car industry. Speaking candidly with KET host Renee Shaw, Chao shares her views on issues beyond transportation as well, including U.S. immigration policy and recent reported tensions between her husband, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and President Trump. Connections with Renee Shaw is a KET production, produced by Renee Shaw.  KET is Kentucky’s largest classroom, where learning comes to life for more than one million people each week via television, online and mobile. Learn more about Kentucky’s preeminent public media organization at KET.org, on Twitter @KET and at facebook.com/KET. ### CONTACT:   Tim Bischoff   Senior Director, Communications, Marketing and Online Content   (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000533 DOT-Am.Oversight-001526   -- @ket.org       (b) (6)   Connections_Elaine Chao - [Download as a PDF]   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000534 DOT-Am.Oversight-001527 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Stewart, Don (McConnell) RE: New York Magazine Monday, September 25, 2017 2:04:00 PM (b) (5)       Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    - From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 2:01 PM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST); Moore, Allison (OST) Subject: RE: New York Magazine   (b) (5)     From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) [mailto:marianne.mcinerney@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 1:59 PM To: Stewart, Don (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Moore, Allison (OST) Subject: RE: New York Magazine   What direction is she headed in? Is she writing for this week?   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    - ---- From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 1:57 PM To: Moore, Allison (OST) Cc: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Subject: RE: New York Magazine @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Ok, thanks. (b) (5) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000535 DOT-Am.Oversight-001528   From: Moore, Allison (OST) [mailto:A.Moore@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 1:56 PM To: Stewart, Don (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Subject: RE: New York Magazine   Hi Stew! Looping in Marianne. I checked again and no one here has heard from Olivia yet.   - ----- --- From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, September 25, 2017 12:12 PM To: Moore, Allison (OST) Subject: New York Magazine @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Has Olivia Nuzzi of New York Magazine come to you all yet about doing a joint profile of the Leader and Secretary? AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000536 DOT-Am.Oversight-001529 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: 2 things Tuesday, September 26, 2017 4:22:57 PM I will just be at the reception, not the White House.    From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 4:21 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: 2 things   Leaving soon.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 4:20 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: 2 things @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Yes I will be at Kelly’s event.  What time are you going over there?   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 4:15 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: 2 things   Swamped, but doing ok.   We have the Judge request in and I’ve advised she do a drop by.  He didn’t give us the topic, so that helps.   I’ll follow up on the other request.    Will I see you tonight at Kelly’s event? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000537 DOT-Am.Oversight-001530       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 4:07 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: 2 things @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Todd--Kathy Walker still needs a phone call from someone.  Her cell is (b) (6) .  Aviation question and she wants a meeting.   Oldham CJE David Voegele called me today.  They have an issue about a sewer pipe running under I71 near LaGrange.  Apparently Federal Highway approved a plan 25 years about in terms of the trajectory of the pipe.  Now that a larger pipe is needed, Federal Highway is balking and recommended a plan that will cost an extra $1 million.  Could we get a meeting with someone when the Judge is in DC on October 16-18?  Thanks.   And I am in DC.  Presumably you are covered up.  Thanks.  Terry     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000538 DOT-Am.Oversight-001531 From: To: Subject: Date: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Fulton, Finch (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Constituent request for grant technical assistance - Owensboro Riverport Tuesday, September 26, 2017 12:24:53 PM Many thanks, Finch!   Phil   From: Fulton, Finch (OST) [mailto:Finch.Fulton@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 26, 2017 12:23 PM To: Kan, Derek (OST) ; Maxson, Philip (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Constituent request for grant technical assistance - Owensboro Riverport   Philip,   Just confirming with you that we are following up with Brian and the Owensboro Riverport Authority.   Thanks, Finch   Finch Fulton Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy United States Department of Transportation Finch.Fulton@dot.gov (b) (6) W82-312   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Friday, September 22, 2017 3:52 PM To: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Cc: Fulton, Finch (OST) Subject: Re: Constituent request for grant technical assistance - Owensboro Riverport   Absolutely.    +Finch who can handle On Sep 22, 2017, at 3:47 PM, Maxson, Philip (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hi, Derek - great catching up with you.  I wanted to follow up with the contact information of Brian Weight at the Owensboro Riverport.  Would you mind having someone contact Brian who is seeking some technical assistance on a DOT grant application? Brian Wright   President/ CEO Owensboro Riverport Authority AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000539 DOT-Am.Oversight-001532 (b) (6) Many thanks! Phil Sent from my iPhone AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000540 DOT-Am.Oversight-001533 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Re: FAA Wednesday, September 27, 2017 6:26:27 PM I'm told the quote is good.  Sent from my iPhone - ---(b) (6) On Sep 27, 2017, at 1:41 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) < wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> Kris – We are planning to have the Leader speak tomorrow morning in support of an FAA extension.  We would like to highlight the potential impact of a lapse in funds on recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.  We have received some information from FAA via t he Commerce Committee, but before we lock anything in, I wanted to run it by DOT to make sure it is accurate and consistent with your all’s understanding of the circumstances.    “Currently air traffic in and out of the Puerto Rico is limited because of damage done to the radar, navigational aids, and other equipment. The FAA reports that failure to extend the trust fund would leave them without sufficient funding in the accounts necessary for replacement parts, equipment and supplies.  They would only have enough funding to cover salary costs for these workers for about one week. “    Thanks, Scott   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000541 DOT-Am.Oversight-001534 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) RE: FAA Wednesday, September 27, 2017 1:43:00 PM Thanks, Scott –   I will run this by the experts and get back to you asap.   Kris   - From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, September 27, 2017 1:41 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: FAA @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Kris – We are planning to have the Leader speak tomorrow morning in support of an FAA extension.  We would like to highlight the potential impact of a lapse in funds on recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.  We have received some information from FAA via t he Commerce Committee, but before we lock anything in, I wanted to run it by DOT to make sure it is accurate and consistent with your all’s understanding of the circumstances.    “Currently air traffic in and out of the Puerto Rico is limited because of damage done to the radar, navigational aids, and other equipment. The FAA reports that failure to extend the trust fund would leave them without sufficient funding in the accounts necessary for replacement parts, equipment and supplies.  They would only have enough funding to cover salary costs for these workers for about one week. “    Thanks, Scott     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000542 DOT-Am.Oversight-001535 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Re: Dinner Tonight Wednesday, October 04, 2017 3:39:44 PM Could you let me know what his events are please? (b) (6)   Sent from my iPhone On Oct 4, 2017, at 3:13 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: He’s going to go to his events tonight so won’t be able to join… thanks for the info!   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, October 04, 2017 2:11 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Dinner Tonight   Hi Y’all –   Here are the details for tonight’s dinner. The actual invite was an email from David Rubenstein (Carlyle) to Secretary Chao:   Small dinner in honor of H.R.H. Prince Khaled bin Salman (Saudi Ambassador to the U.S.) Wednesday, October 4th. Cocktail Reception begins at 6:30pm Seated dinner begins at 7:15pm Location: Anderson House 2118 Massachusetts Ave N.W. Valet Parking is available at the Anderson House POC: Laura Boring – (b) (6) – (b) (6) @carlyle.com   Let me know if you need any additional details!     Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE - -- (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000543 DOT-Am.Oversight-001536 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Invite for Secretary Chao Thursday, October 05, 2017 11:19:00 AM Hi guys,   Secretary Chao will be out of town, but wanted me to forward this invitation so that Senator McConnell is aware. Thanks!   In honor of Justic and Mrs. eil Gor uch Judge Dougla Ginsburg and D c ray r qu t th pl asur of your company at dinn r on aturday nth at (b) (6) (b) (6) al t parking   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE (b) (6)   DOT-18-0010-B-000544 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001537 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Burthey, Grover (OST) RE: Boone County / Amazon project Thursday, October 05, 2017 10:19:00 PM Thanks Phil!   From: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2017 10:19 PM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Burthey, Grover (OST) Subject: Re: Boone County / Amazon project   Hi, Derek - thank you for reaching out.  I will get you in touch with the right folks tomorrow.   Thank you again,   Phil  Sent from my iPhone On Oct 5, 2017, at 9:59 PM, Kan, Derek (OST) wrote: Phil,   Hope you’re well.  We recently heard about a Boone County development project led by Amazon.  Apparently, they are building a new hub there and we were thinking about putting that anecdote in a speech for ELC.  Do you know if that project is public and if there is someone in KY that can talk about it?  We’re curious how KY is planning on funding the project.  Thanks.   Derek AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000545 DOT-Am.Oversight-001538 From: To: Subject: Date: Burthey, Grover (OST) Maxson, Philip (McConnell); Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Boone County / Amazon project Friday, October 06, 2017 1:01:01 PM Thanks, Philip. We’ll reach out to Asa.   - From: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 9:27 AM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Burthey, Grover (OST) Subject: RE: Boone County / Amazon project @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Good morning, Derek - I have not reached out to these folks today, but here are the contacts we work with.  If helpful, I am also happy to do an introduction email to any or all of these good folks.  –Phil   (b) (6) Ashleigh de la Torre at Amazon government affairs:   @amazon.com   (b) (6) Asa Swan, Chief of Staff of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet:     @ky.gov   (b) (6) Boone County Judge Executive Gary Moore:  @boonecountyky.org       --- --- From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek.kan@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 5, 2017 10:00 PM To: Maxson, Philip (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Burthey, Grover (OST) Subject: Boone County / Amazon project   Phil,   Hope you’re well.  We recently heard about a Boone County development project led by Amazon.  Apparently, they are building a new hub there and we were thinking about putting that anecdote in a speech for ELC.  Do you know if that project is public and if there is someone in KY that can talk about it?  We’re curious how KY is planning on funding the project.  Thanks.   Derek AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000546 DOT-Am.Oversight-001539 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) Re: Nominations Friday, October 06, 2017 5:04:42 PM Thanks Scott -- (b) (5)       Have a great weekend  Laura D Laura Dove Secretary for the Majority (b) (6)   - ---(b) (6) On Oct 6, 2017, at 4:56 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) < wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> Kris -  Thanks for reaching out.  (b) (5)                                                                         I hope this is helpful.  I am adding Laura Dove in case she has additional insights as well (b) (5)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000547 DOT-Am.Oversight-001540 Scott     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 4:22 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Nominations   - --- (b) (5)   Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000548 DOT-Am.Oversight-001541 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell); Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) RE: Nominations Friday, October 06, 2017 6:39:00 PM Thanks again.  Hope you both have a good weekend!     - From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 5:18 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST); Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) Subject: RE: Nominations   Thanks.  (b) (5)     ---- ---     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 5:11 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) (b) (6) < @rep-secretary.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Nominations   Thanks, Scott & Laura –   (b) (5)     Again, thanks. Kris   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 4:57 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000549 DOT-Am.Oversight-001542 Subject: RE: Nominations   Kris -  Thanks for reaching out.  (b) (5)       I I I I I I     -     I hope this is helpful.  I am adding Laura Dove in case she has additional insights as well (b) (5)   Scott     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 4:22 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Nominations   - ---- (b) (5)   Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000550 DOT-Am.Oversight-001543 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: No worries. Raab, Scott (McConnell) Iverson, Kristine (OST) Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) Re: Nominations Friday, October 06, 2017 8:20:18 PM (b) (5) On Oct 6, 2017, at 5:27 PM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote: (b) (5)   Thanks again for responding to my questions.  Have a great weekend! Kris   From: Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 5:19 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Cc: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Subject: Re: Nominations @rep-secretary.senate.gov]   (b) (5)   -   Laura Dove Secretary for the Majority (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000551 DOT-Am.Oversight-001544 On Oct 6, 2017, at 5:10 PM, Iverson, Kristine (OST) wrote: Thanks, Scott & Laura –   (b) (5)     Again, thanks. Kris   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 4:57 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Nominations @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Kris -  Thanks for reaching out.  (b) (5)       I I                       I I I I                                           AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000552 DOT-Am.Oversight-001545 .    I hope this is helpful.  I am adding Laura Dove in case she has additional insights as well (b) (5)   Scott     (b) (5) From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, October 6, 2017 4:22 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Nominations   - --- (b) (5)   Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000553 DOT-Am.Oversight-001546 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Simon, Doug (OST) RE: From LinkedIn on (b) (6) Monday, October 16, 2017 3:34:14 PM image001.png image002.png image003.png image004.png Short and sweet but done!   From: Simon, Doug (OST) [mailto:doug.simon@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 3:22 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on   That would be great. If you want to do an email intro I can take it from there.   --------- From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 3:20 PM To: Simon, Doug (OST) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on (b) (6)   (b) (5) @mcconnell.senate.gov]   KWW   From: Simon, Doug (OST) [mailto:doug.simon@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 3:17 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on   Hey Kathy – anything yet?   From: Simon, Doug (OST) Sent: Wednesday, October 11, 2017 9:53 AM To: 'Wright, Kathy (McConnell)' Cc: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on (b) (6) -   Hey Kathy – has (b) (6) sent you anything yet?   ■ From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 5:43 PM To: Simon, Doug (OST) Cc: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on (b) (6) AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000554 DOT-Am.Oversight-001547   Hi Doug, (b) (5), (b) (6) Kathy   From: Simon, Doug (OST) [mailto:doug.simon@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 3, 2017 2:48 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: RE: From LinkedIn on (b) (6)   Thanks Bryan - Kathy – (b) (5), (b) (6) - Thank you Doug   From: Slater, Bryan (OST) Sent: Tuesday, October 03, 2017 2:11 PM To: Simon, Doug (OST) Cc: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Subject: FW: From LinkedIn on (b) (6) -   Doug, I wanted to send you this and copy Kathy on here.  Kathy, Doug is our new WH Liaison.  Doug, Kathy is Sen. McConnell’s key appointments and boards and commissions person plus a key advisor.   - (b) (5), (b) (6)   Bryan Slater Assistant Secretary for Administration U. S. Department of Transportation Bryan.slater@dot.gov (b) (6)   From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2017 2:45 PM To: Slater, Bryan (OST) Subject: From LinkedIn on (b) (6)   Bryan, (b) (5), (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT - DOT-18-0010-B-000555 DOT-Am.Oversight-001548 an interest. LMK. KWW (b) (6) (b) (6) (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000556 DOT-Am.Oversight-001549 (b) (6)   (b) (6) (b) (6)   (b) (6) AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000557 DOT-Am.Oversight-001550 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) RE: Veterans Day Invite from SECVA for T.H. The Secretary of Transportation and T.H. Mitch McConnell Monday, October 16, 2017 10:11:06 AM image001.png I can do, Sec will not be attending either.     From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 10:10 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Veterans Day Invite from SECVA for T.H. The Secretary of Transportation and T.H. Mitch McConnell   Tks! The Leader (b) (6)   . Want us to decline for him or do you want to  handle? Either way is fine. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 9:52 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: FW: Veterans Day Invite from SECVA for T.H. The Secretary of Transportation and T.H. Mitch McConnell   FYI attached.     From: RSVP Protocol [mailto:vacorsvppr@va.gov] Sent: Monday, October 16, 2017 9:51 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Veterans Day Invite from SECVA for T.H. The Secretary of Transportation and T.H. Mitch McConnell   Please find attached an invitation for T.H. The Secretary of Transportation and T.H. Mitch McConnell from The Secretary of Veterans Affairs and The Veterans Day National Committee to attend the Sixty-fourth Annual Veterans Day National Ceremony on Saturday, November 11, 2017, at 10:30 a.m., at the Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington National Cemetery. A hard copy invitation will follow.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Kindly respond by November 1st at (202) 461-0054 or rsvpprotocol@va.gov       Office of Protocol Office of the Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs T:  202.461.0054 F: 202.273.5959     VA Core Values: Integrity Commitment Advocacy Respect Excellence   AM VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000558 DOT-Am.Oversight-001551 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Question Thursday, October 19, 2017 4:05:00 PM (b) (6) (b) (6) Thanks!   1) (b) (6) – don’t have a formal invitation for this one atm 2) Dinner with Robert Day – see save the date below   October 2, 2017 Dear Ela.ine and Mitch , For the past two decades , I have hosted a small dinner party the Friday before the Alfalfa Dinner . The next dinner will take place on Friday , January 26, 2018. I would love to have you join me. Please save the date , and an invitation will be sent to you in November. Sincerely , The Honorable Elaine Chao and The Honorable Mitch McConnell Washington DC AMf-f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000559 DOT-Am.Oversight-001552 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: BG Chamber highway project Monday, August 21, 2017 8:43:10 AM Yes.  They still want to meet.    Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:11 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: BG Chamber highway project   Anything further we need to do on this one?   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   From: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, August 07, 2017 11:45 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Re: BG Chamber highway project @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Thanks. Will report back. Great seeing you at FF.  Sent from my iPhone On Aug 7, 2017, at 11:34 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: More details below.     This is going to be a state project with no likely federal involvement.  However that being said I can ask our FHWA state director to do a meeting in BG with them.  If they feel its critical to meet in DC I can have the acting ED of Federal highways staff a AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000560 DOT-Am.Oversight-001553 meeting and arrange for the Secretary to drop by, but our involvement with the project will be limited.     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   Begin forwarded message: From: "Nelson, Thomas (FHWA)" Date: August 7, 2017 at 6:56:11 AM PDT To: "Waidelich, Walter (FHWA)" Cc: "Inman, Todd (OST)" , "Fulton, Finch (OST)" , "Olivera, Lucia (FHWA)" , "Hoang, Vivien (FHWA)" , "Mills, Steve (FHWA)" Subject: RE: BG Chamber highway project Butch,   Update on Bowling Green Project   This project was initiated by the local government and has gone through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Prioritization Process as a regional project.  It has a good overall score in the prioritization process.  However, it is still unknown how much funding will be available and if the available funding will be able to cover this project.  Some funds have been spent through agreement with local government to start design and purchase some of the property, but no phase of work is complete at this time.  The total project cost is estimated at $4.6M.   This project was not previously submitted for TIGER or FASTLANE grants.   Thanks. Thomas.     From: Mills, Steve (FHWA) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 4:51 PM To: Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) ; Nelson, Thomas (FHWA) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000561 DOT-Am.Oversight-001554 Cc: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Fulton, Finch (OST) ; Olivera, Lucia (FHWA) ; Hoang, Vivien (FHWA) Subject: RE: BG Chamber highway project   Butch,   At this point we are not finding much information on this one.  We did not find the project in the Bowling Green TIP.  We will continue checking and let you know what we find.   Steve Mills Assistant Division Administrator Kentucky Division (b) (6)       From: Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 4:01 PM To: Nelson, Thomas (FHWA) ; Mills, Steve (FHWA) Cc: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Fulton, Finch (OST) ; Olivera, Lucia (FHWA) ; Hoang, Vivien (FHWA) Subject: FW: BG Chamber highway project   Let me loop in the KY Division to see if they have any information.  My sense is that it's a project seeking funding since it hasn't been submitted as a TIGER or FASTLANE (in the past).  It may or may not be on the TIP for Bowling Greene.  I think the Division should be able to help provide some insight. Sent with Good (www.good.com) From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Friday, August 4, 2017 3:37:00 PM To: Fulton, Finch (OST); Waidelich, Walter (FHWA) Subject: Fwd: BG Chamber highway project   Can you track down if this a fhwa or tiger or state project? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000562 DOT-Am.Oversight-001555 J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   Begin forwarded message: From: "Carmack, Terry (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: "Inman, Todd (OST)" Subject: FW: BG Chamber highway project Todd—Bowling Green project description attached.  Thanks for taking a look.  TC   Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky  40202 (b) (6)   From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 8:53 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: BG Chamber highway project   Here is the project description Bowling Green Chamber is pursuing if they get a meeting with Sec. Chao.     Thanks     •--- From: Kim Phelps <(b) (6) @bgchamber.com> Sent: Thursday, August 3, 2017 3:00 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking In Of course!  We would like to meet with the Secretary regarding the Southwest Parkway project. There is significant economic development in that area and the need to build AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000563 DOT-Am.Oversight-001556 that Parkway to improve traffic, grow development, and improve safety is growing significantly.  I have attached a data sheet on the project as well.    Let me know what else you need! Best,   Kim       From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:50 PM To: Kim Phelps Subject: RE: Checking In   Can you provide a list of topics or proposal(s) you wish to discuss?     If a specific project, a proposal summary would be helpful.    Sorry, to sound bureaucratic, but they like to have this in considering the request.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:21 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Checking In   We have not.  Thank you very much!   Kim   - --- From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:19 PM To: Kim Phelps Subject: RE: Checking In   No, and I take it you haven’t either.  I typically forward to our contact person there and they get back to the constituent group directly to coordinate dates, etc., and I am often out of the loop on that part.   Let me circle back and remind them of the request.  It’s been AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000564 DOT-Am.Oversight-001557 six weeks now.   Thanks for bringing to our attention.       From: Kim Phelps [mailto:(b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 2:09 PM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking In   Any chance you’ve heard anything on our request to meet with Sec. Chao?  - --- Thanks!   Kim   Kim Phelps Vice President, Communications and Public Policy Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce 710 College Street Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (b) (6) www.bgchamber.com www.southcentralky.com     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000565 DOT-Am.Oversight-001558 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell); Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) RE: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan) Wednesday, October 25, 2017 3:52:00 PM (b) (5)     - From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 3:31 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST); Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Subject: RE: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan)   Kris – I am adding Terry Van Doren, who handles the EPW side of the Transportation issues.    (b) (5)   From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 1:13 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan)   - ---- Hi Scott –   Senate EPW voice voted one of our noms this morning – Paul Trombino to be Federal Highway Administrator.  He has strong bipartisan support (Tammy Baldwin even wrote an endorsement for him, and Joni Ernst introduced him at the hearing).    (b) (5)   Thanks,   Kris USDOT (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000566 DOT-Am.Oversight-001559 (6) From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Raab, Scott (McConnell); Iverson, Kristine (OST) RE: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan) Wednesday, October 25, 2017 3:44:49 PM (b) (5)   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 3:31 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) ; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan)   Kris – I am adding Terry Van Doren, who handles the EPW side of the Transportation issues.    (b) (5) .   From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 1:13 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Nominee (whose name is not Derek Kan)   - --- Hi Scott –   Senate EPW voice voted one of our noms this morning – Paul Trombino to be Federal Highway Administrator.  He has strong bipartisan support (Tammy Baldwin even wrote an endorsement for him, and Joni Ernst introduced him at the hearing).    (b) (5)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000568 DOT-Am.Oversight-001561 Thanks,   Kris USDOT (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000569 DOT-Am.Oversight-001562 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) FW: Follow up Thursday, October 26, 2017 4:23:00 PM FYSA   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) -   From: Kelli Pendleton [mailto:(b) (6) @christiancountychamber.com] Sent: Thursday, October 26, 2017 4:18 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Re: Follow up Heard from District Rep from KY Trans that they are working signs and trying to get the Gov. to come down for a ceremony. I spoke with him after the meeting and asked that he please provide us with details when that happens so that we may include comments regarding the Secretary as well as Sen. McConnell.    Seems to be moving forward. Thank you so much!!!!   Kelli Pendleton President/CEO Christian County Chamber of Commerce (b) (6) www.christiancountychamber.com   From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Friday, October 13, 2017 3:20 PM To: Kelli Pendleton Subject: Re: Follow up   (b) (6) I will be back in the office on Tuesday.  (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000570 DOT-Am.Oversight-001563 Regarding the signs I wouldn’t be worried. The State FHWA director told me it was handled and he is usually good. Because it takes several months to get them produced I would suspect that’s somewhat of the delay.     If you haven’t heard anything by the end of the month then maybe it would be good to make some contact.       (b) (6) Sent from my iPad - ----- On Oct 14, 2017, at 4:00 AM, Kelli Pendleton <(b) (6) wrote: @christiancountychamber.com> Good Friday afternoon!!  I hope this email finds you well. I just wanted to follow up that I have not heard any news from KYDOT regarding the "future" signs. Do you think it would be wise for me to contact them directly? Any and all guidance greatly appreciated.    (b) (6)      Hope you are well and have a great weekend!   Kelli Pendleton President/CEO Christian County Chamber of Commerce (b) (6) www.christiancountychamber.com AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000571 DOT-Am.Oversight-001564 From: To: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Maxson, Philip (McConnell) Re: Cloakroom Wrap Up Thursday, November 02, 2017 6:04:09 PM Thanks! Really appreciate your help. On Nov 2, 2017, at 5:09 PM, Maxson, Philip (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) .   Phil     Monday, November 6th: The Senate will convene at 3:00pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #107, Steven Andrew Engel, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. At 5:30pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Engel nomination. Please note, on Tuesday, November 7th at 12:00pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #247, John H. Gibson II, of Texas, to be Deputy Chief Management Officer of the Department of Defense. - Please also note, the Leader filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order: Cal. #107 - Steven Andrew Engel, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. Cal. #384 - Peter B. Robb, of Vermont, to be General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board for a term of four years. Cal. #407 - William L. Wehrum, of Delaware, to be an Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. - Cal. #159 - Derek Kan, of California, to be Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy.         From: Cloakroom [mailto:subscriptions_cloakroom@rep-secretary.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2017 4:46 PM Subject: Cloakroom Wrap Up AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000572 DOT-Am.Oversight-001565   Wrap Up Memo THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2017 AT 04:45 PM Cloakroom Wrap Up Roll Call Votes: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #432, Allison H. Eid, of Colorado, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. Confirmed. (56-41) Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #433, Stephanos Bibas, of Pennsylvania, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit. Invoked. (54-43) Confirmation of Executive Calendar #433, Stephanos Bibas, of Pennsylvania, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit. Confirmed. (53-43) Executive Session: Cal. #409 - Peter Henry Barlerin, of Colorado, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Cameroon. Cal. #410 - Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick, of the District of Columbia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. Cal. #411 - Michael James Dodman, of New York, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. Cal. #414 - Michele Jeanne Sison, of Maryland, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Career Minister, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Haiti. Cal. #415 - Jamie McCourt, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the French Republic, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador of the United States of America to the Principality of Monaco. Cal. #416 - Richard Duke Buchan III, of Florida, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Spain, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador of the United States of America to Andorra. Cal. #417 - Larry Edward Andre, Jr., of Texas, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Djibouti. Cal. #418 - Thomas L. Carter, of South Carolina, for the rank of Ambassador during his tenure of service as Representative of the United States of America on the Council AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000573 DOT-Am.Oversight-001566 of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Cal. #419 - Nina Maria Fite, of Pennsylvania, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Angola. Cal. #420 - Daniel L. Foote, of New York, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Zambia. Cal. #422 - Kenneth Ian Juster, of New York, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of India. Cal. #423 - W. Robert Kohorst, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Croatia. Cal. #424 - Edward T. McMullen, Jr., of South Carolina, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Swiss Confederation, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador of the United States of America to the Principality of Liechtenstein. Cal. #425 - David Dale Reimer, of Ohio, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Mauritius, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Seychelles. Cal. #426 - Eric P. Whitaker, of Illinois, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Niger. Cal. #427 - Carla Sands, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Denmark. Cal. #429 - Michael T. Evanoff, of Arkansas, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Diplomatic Security). Cal. #431 - Manisha Singh, of Florida, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Economic and Business Affairs). Cal. #378 - Kyle Fortson, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the National Mediation Board for a term expiring July 1, 2019. Cal. #380 - Gerald W. Fauth, of Virginia, to be a Member of the National Mediation Board for a term expiring July 1, 2020. Cal. #385 - Linda A. Puchala, of Maryland, to be a Member of the National Mediation Board for a term expiring July 1, 2018. (Reappointment) Cal. #295 - Paul Dabbar, of New York, to be Under Secretary for Science, Department of Energy. Cal. #296 - Mark Wesley Menezes, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Energy. Cal. #323 – Richard Glick, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Federal Energy AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000574 DOT-Am.Oversight-001567 Regulatory Commission for the term expiring June 30, 2022. Cal. #324 – Kevin J. McIntyre, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for the remainder of the term expiring June 30, 2018. Cal. #325 – Kevin J. McIntyre, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for the term expiring June 30, 2023. (Reappointment) Cal. #361 - Steven E. Winberg, of Pennsylvania, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Fossil Energy) Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items in today’s session of the Senate. Monday, November 6th: The Senate will convene at 3:00pm. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #107, Steven Andrew Engel, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. At 5:30pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Engel nomination. Please note, on Tuesday, November 7th at 12:00pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #247, John H. Gibson II, of Texas, to be Deputy Chief Management Officer of the Department of Defense. Please also note, the Leader filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order: Cal. #107 - Steven Andrew Engel, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Attorney General. Cal. #384 - Peter B. Robb, of Vermont, to be General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board for a term of four years. Cal. #407 - William L. Wehrum, of Delaware, to be an Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Cal. #159 - Derek Kan, of California, to be Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy.         AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000575 DOT-Am.Oversight-001568 Wrap Up Memos are sent from the Senate Republican Cloakroom using the telephone alert system. An E-mail copy is sent to offices and posted on Trunkline (http://gop.senate.gov) as a convenience, but primary notification will always come via telephone. If you have questions about wrap up memos, unanimous consent items or other floor scheduling matters, please call the Cloakroom at (202) 224-6191. Please do not reply to this message. To change your Trunkline email subscriptions, please visit your user profile page.   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000576 DOT-Am.Oversight-001569 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Introduction Thursday, November 02, 2017 9:48:00 AM Let’s schedule for 4:00pm and if we need to change it I’ll let you know. Thanks!   Once you get to DOT just tell security at the front desk you are here for a meeting with the Secretary and a member of our advance team will bring you up to the suite. If you have any questions, please let me know!   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   - From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2017 9:47 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Yes.  4:00PM would be great, but I’m happy to make 3:30pm work as well.   Thanks, Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2017 9:46 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Would 3:30pm or 4:00pm work?   - ---- Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2017 9:44 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000577 DOT-Am.Oversight-001570 Hi Elle,   Yes.  I am available tomorrow afternoon and would be happy to come to DOT.        Thanks, Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2017 9:36 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany!   Would you be available to meet with Secretary Chao here at DOT tomorrow afternoon?   - ---- Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 4:02 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Thank you, Elle!   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 4:01 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany,   I believe that the Secretary will be here in Washington, DC (b) (6) Once I fully confirm this I will be sure to see where a meeting time would work in her schedule. Thanks!   - ---- Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000578 DOT-Am.Oversight-001571 -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 3:59 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Elle,   Sorry to bug you again, but wanted to check in periodically.  Again, no rush or anything, just want to touch base.   Happy Halloween.   Thanks,   Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 3:23 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany!   So sorry it has taken me this long to get back to you. I absolutely have not forgotten about your request to meet with Secretary Chao. The Secretary is doing a lot of traveling, but when I find a weekend that she is in Washington, DC I will be sure to let her know you are available. Thank you for being so flexible and patient.   - ---- -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 1:25 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Elle,   Don’t mean to rush you or anything. (b) (6)   Thanks,  Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000579 DOT-Am.Oversight-001572 - ---- ---- Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 2:54 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Introduction   Not at all! It is definitely on my radar.  Sent from my iPhone On Sep 20, 2017, at 2:52 PM, Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Thank you, Elle.  I don’t mean to rush you; I completely understand.  Just wanted to check in.    Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 2:49 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany,   I would like to try and schedule a meeting between you and the Secretary when she will be in town one weekend in the near future. However, I am currently trying to work out when that weekend will be. When I know more about her travel in the future, I will be sure to reach out to you. I appreciate your patience!   - ---- -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 12:36 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Elle,   I just want to check in and see where things stand.   Thanks.    From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:42 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   I will be sure to let you know of a date in the near future when she is in town!   - ----------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:38 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000580 DOT-Am.Oversight-001573 Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Elle,   Absolutely.  I’m happy to meet over the weekend.  And thank you for your help on this.   Thanks, Tiffany     From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:33 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany,   I am checking with our senior team on the Secretary’s availability for the near future. This may need to be set for some time on the weekend (b) (6) if that is ok? That way, she can devote more time to the meeting.   - ---- -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:15 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Elle,   I just want to touch base and check on the status of this.    Thanks, Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2017 2:22 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Ok – back soon!   Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   - ---- (b) (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000581 DOT-Am.Oversight-001574 -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, September 07, 2017 2:20 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Elle,   It will just be an introduction meeting; no other specific topics.   Thanks, Tiffany   Chongyang (Tiffany) Ge Counsel Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2017 2:11 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Tiffany,   Could you please give me some information on the topic of this meeting?   Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   - ---- (b) (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov   From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 12:11 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Thank you, Elle.   Tiffany   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000582 DOT-Am.Oversight-001575 Sent: Wednesday, September 6, 2017 12:07 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Tiffany,   I will get back to you shortly on the Secretary’s availability. Many Thanks   Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation   - ---- (b) (6) E: Gabrielle.Basile@dot.gov   From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 12:05 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   (b) (6)     -     I’ve cc’d Elle in our scheduling team to see what she can do.   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   --------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 11:34 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Todd,   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000583 DOT-Am.Oversight-001576 (b) (6)     I also want to circle back and see if I can get on the Secretary’s schedule for a brief meeting some time this month. Happy to work with the scheduler, if that’s easier.    Many thanks, Tiffany   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2017 3:51 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany, (b) (6)   I’ll try and see what I can do, but it looks like she may be pushed into some other meetings for Friday for sure and possibly out on travel on Monday.    Anything I can do in the future please let me know.       - ---- J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2017 2:48 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Todd,   (b) (6)   And like we discussed, I’d be more than happy to come by tomorrow or Monday to meet the Secretary briefly.  I have a lunch on Friday and a 10:30am on Monday, but AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000584 DOT-Am.Oversight-001577 otherwise flexible.    Thanks much, Tiffany   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 7:31 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   - ---- (b) (6)         J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:38 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Great.  I’m pretty open next Thursday all day and Friday afternoon.  Just let me know what works best for you.   Thanks, Tiffany   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:33 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction   Hi Tiffany and thanks for reaching out.     - ---- (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000585 DOT-Am.Oversight-001578 (b) (6)     I would love to get together.  I’m on travel with the Secretary starting tomorrow through Wednesday.     Is Thursday or Friday of next week open for you?  I would love to show you around here.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov)   -------- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:08 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Hi Todd,   I want to introduce myself.  (b) (6) I would love an opportunity to meet you and introduce myself in person.  I’m fairly open the next couple of weeks, as we are in recess.  If your schedule allows, I’m happy to walk over to your office and meet you.  Please let me know.       Thanks, Tiffany   Chongyang (Tiffany) Ge Counsel Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000586 DOT-Am.Oversight-001579 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) Re: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms Friday, November 03, 2017 6:22:35 PM Thanks. Sent from my iPhone On Nov 3, 2017, at 5:53 PM, Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Thanks Kris.  (b) (5)   I’ve let Geoff know as well.    From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 5:36 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms   - ---- (b) (5)     From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 4:50 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST); Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) Subject: RE: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms   Thank you.    From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, November 3, 2017 4:45 PM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Soderstrom, Sharon (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms   - ---- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000587 DOT-Am.Oversight-001580 (b) (5)       From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 4:36 PM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST); Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) Subject: RE: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms   Thank you, Kris.  (b) (5)     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, November 3, 2017 3:46 PM To: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; (b) (6) Raab, Scott (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Sen. Kennedy hold on DOT noms   - --- (b) (5) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000588 DOT-Am.Oversight-001581 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Simon, Doug (OST) Slater, Bryan (OST) CFO Monday, November 06, 2017 9:22:35 AM (b) (5) KWW   KATHY WILLS WRIGHT POLICY ADVISOR FOR NOMInATIOnS OFFICE OF THE MAJORITY LEADER, SEnATOR MITCH MCCOnnELL   DIRECT  (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000589 DOT-Am.Oversight-001582 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm Monday, November 06, 2017 5:36:48 PM Correct, for now.     - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 5:36 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm   Ok, dinner tomorrow at 701 and (b) (6)   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 5:35 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Muchow, Stefanie (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm   Now at 701 Penn (b) (6) .       Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation   E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000590 DOT-Am.Oversight-001583 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Smith, Loren (OST) RE: Hi Erica! Checking in from DOT Tuesday, November 07, 2017 12:46:49 PM Hi yes! Adding you now!   (b) (6)   Great team! Glad you are there.       From: Smith, Loren (OST) [mailto:Loren.Smith@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, November 7, 2017 10:32 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Hi Erica! Checking in from DOT (b) (6) - Wanted to ask - could you please put this address on your list? (b) (6) ••• Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor – Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) W82-326  loren.smith@dot.gov    AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000591 DOT-Am.Oversight-001584 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017 Tuesday, November 07, 2017 6:01:00 PM image001.png Just as an FYI (b) (6)   – Secretary is planning to go to this event. Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 8:58 AM To: 'Vincent, Laura (McConnell)' <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017   Thanks   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 8:52 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017   Unlikely, he has other events. Since she is addressed as well wanted to make you all got it too.   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 8:50 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017   Thanks! Does he plan on going? I know he has another event on his calendar for that night.   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-18-0010-B-000592 DOT-Am.Oversight-001585 Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 8:48 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: FW: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017   Wanted to make sure you all got this too.   From: Pernilla Scott [mailto:(b) (6) @gov.se] On Behalf Of Washington Invit Sent: Saturday, November 04, 2017 10:31 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (6) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Invitation from the Ambassador of Sweden November 14, 2017   ,i. 'TneJI m6assaaorofSweaen Jf.P.. IJ(arinOCofsaott er lias tne pfeasure to in, ite Senator!M.itm.5Wi;Connellatuf 'Ilie1£onora6fi: Piaine£. Chao to a qafa. 1Dinnerin Jf cmareftfie 201 - }lmerican 'i\ o6efLaureates rr'uesday, CJi. ovem6er14, a.t 6:30 pm '11i:, ,) Im&1:2,;sdor.r (i(,:;id"f1!. .c J9'00 .'.\ 61'!U~ ) i 1•m :.1-,," . ·-fim9tm 0C, 20016 0r,:;s ro,1,-: '1!kcf..,'Ii.: 'If:is ilt.,efmt'il!n is pg;maf ::P{ ,'lZ ;, r ,:;po1' £ 6)•:'.\l'r..• ~ ,!:> 577 1:,mai!: wasfimgum. in 1,f_t@go. .;F/wn f'i'1:02-46'r-2652 •,:; ;, ,2,t,1nm at.7=f!"i1t1.& f.- li!di@U , wit li) :.I-H'f',-(:1'efan) ' diet'.21) ' TSi'trit"tti ;u Comp!J.m S!t!L 1) ' ..' Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Invitation: Federalist Scalia Dinner   I have put it on her schedule. (b) (6) We will RSVP for her.     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, November 07, 2017 10:47 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Invitation: Federalist Scalia Dinner @mcconnell.senate.gov]   We had the invitation delivered to our office as well and the Leader would like to attend. I’ll RSVP yes for him. Let us know if she plans on attending as well.   Thanks!   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 4:11 PM To: 'Gehring, Wendy (OST)' Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Invitation: Federalist Scalia Dinner   Thanks, we’ll run this by him and let you know.   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 3:57 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: Invitation: Federalist Scalia Dinner   Laura, AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000594 DOT-Am.Oversight-001587 - (b) (6)   Let us know!   Thanks!     From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 3:54 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Tuesday Nov 7 Dinner @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Got it, thank you!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 3:51 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Tuesday Nov 7 Dinner   Laura, As I said, we are confirmed for Tuesday 7pm with Secretary Mnunchin and Ms. Linton at their residence address is (b) (6) .       Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation   E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000595 DOT-Am.Oversight-001588 I /jfued - - A DOT-18-0010-B-000598 I - S10-17·1030-0IEl1 - -IT DOT-Am.Oversight-001591 ·., @k Subject: RE: Rand Paul   - Thanks.    (b) (5) From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 10:14 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Rand Paul @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (5)   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 10:09 AM To: 'Iverson, Kristine (OST)' Subject: RE: Rand Paul   (b) (5)     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 10:08 AM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Rand Paul   - ---- OK.  Will do. (b) (5)   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 10:05 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Subject: RE: Rand Paul @mcconnell.senate.gov]   (b) (5)   From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 9:28 AM AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000600 DOT-Am.Oversight-001593 To: 'Iverson, Kristine (OST)' Subject: RE: Rand Paul   (b) (5)     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 13, 2017 9:11 AM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Rand Paul   - --- Scott –   (b) (5)     Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000601 DOT-Am.Oversight-001594 From: To: Subject: Date: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) Mariner, Robert (OST) RE: TIGER Grant Follow Up Monday, November 13, 2017 4:11:44 PM Hi, Robert   I just wanted to check in and see if there was any update on McCreary County Fiscal Court’s TIGER Grant status.  Any information you could provide would be very helpful.   Thank you,   Hunt   (b) (6)   From: Mariner, Robert (OST) [mailto:Robert.Mariner@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 2:05 PM To: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: TIGER Grant Follow Up   Will do.   Robert   From: VanderToll, Hunt (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 2:00 PM To: Mariner, Robert (OST) Subject: TIGER Grant Follow Up   Hi, Robert   Thank you for taking the time to speak on the phone.  If you wouldn’t mind adding me to the list of those notified regarding McCreary County Fiscal Court’s TIGER grant status, I would appreciate it.     Thank you,   Hunt   Hunt VanderToll U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000602 DOT-Am.Oversight-001595 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Update Monday, November 13, 2017 4:26:00 PM (b) (5)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000603 DOT-Am.Oversight-001596 From: To: Subject: Date: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Smith, Loren (OST) RE: Votes -- between 4:30-5pm Tuesday, November 14, 2017 6:11:10 PM Great!   No those were the only two votes yesterday!   Great week for DOT!   From: Smith, Loren (OST) [mailto:Loren.Smith@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, November 14, 2017 5:46 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Re: Votes -- between 4:30-5pm - Thanks Erica! Very excited about this week's confirmations! Question: were any votes taken yesterday other than Derek Kan confirmation and Steve Bradbury cloture? ••• Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor – Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) W82-326  loren.smith@dot.gov    On Nov 14, 2017, at 4:38 PM, Suares, Erica (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: FYI: The Senate is voting now on 2 roll call votes on the following: 1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #254, Steven Gill Bradbury, of Virginia, to be General Counsel of the Department of Transportation (voting now) 2. Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #383, David G. Zatezalo, of West Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health   Reminder: on Thursday, November 9, Leader McConnell filed cloture on:   Executive Calendar #383, David G. Zatezalo, of West Virginia, to be Assistant Secretary of Labor • for Mine Safety and Health. • Executive Calendar #300, Joseph Otting, of Nevada, to be Comptroller of the Currency. • Executive Calendar #313, Donald Coggins, of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina. • Executive Calendar #314, Dabney Langhorne Friedrich, of California, to be United States District Judge for the District of Columbia.   DOT-18-0010-B-000604 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001597 From: To: Subject: Date: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Rosen, Jeff (OST) Vote Result Tuesday, November 14, 2017 5:48:35 PM Steven Bradbury – Confirmed 50-47   KATHY WILLS WRIGHT POLICY ADVISOR FOR NOMInATIOnS OFFICE OF THE MAJORITY LEADER, SEnATOR MITCH MCCOnnELL   DIRECT  (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000605 DOT-Am.Oversight-001598 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Mariner, Robert (OST) Tara Hackney (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov; TIGERGrants (OST) FY 2017 TIGER Grant Application - McCreary County Fiscal Court, KY Wednesday, November 15, 2017 11:37:00 AM Good Morning Ms. Hackney,   I am writing to inform you that the McCreary County Fiscal Court, KY will not be able to submit their TIGER grant application for the FY 2017 round of the TIGER Discretionary Grant Program.    Per the TIGER Discretionary Grant Program’s late application policy:   To ensure a fair competition for limited discretionary funds, the following conditions are not valid reasons to permit late submissions:   (1) failure to complete the registration process before the deadline date; (2) failure to follow Grants.gov instructions on how to register and apply as posted on its website; (3) failure to follow all of the instructions in this notice of funding availability; and (4) technical issues experienced with the applicant’s computer or information technology (IT) environment.   Based on our review of the information provided, the McCreary County Fiscal Court, KY did not properly verify their www.Grants.Gov registration in advance of the application deadline (SAM ID/DUNS/AOR and www.Grants.Gov access registration) and no application was submitted via www.Grants.Gov in advance of the October 16, 2017, application deadline.    Therefore, the application the McCreary County Fiscal Court, KY was attempting to submit will not be considered for the FY 2017 round of the TIGER program.   If you have any questions about this e-mail or its content, please let me know.   Robert   Robert A. Mariner, Deputy Director Office of Infrastructure Finance and Innovation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000606 DOT-Am.Oversight-001599 U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE W84-314 Washington, DC 20590 (b) (6) E-mail: robert.mariner@dot.gov AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000607 DOT-Am.Oversight-001600 From: To: Subject: Date: Burr, Geoff (OST) Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) Re: RE: Wednesday, November 15, 2017 9:33:01 AM Pretty sure we should be the one thanking you all. We greatly appreciate all the time and effort put into our noms this week. Huge week for us. Thank you.  Sent from my iPhone On Nov 15, 2017, at 9:03 AM, Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Geoff – meant to connect yesterday to thank you and the Secretary for all of your help on Bradbury.  Best, Sharon   From: Burr, Geoff (OST) [mailto:geoff.burr@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 02, 2017 7:06 PM To: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: Re:   Thanks Sharon. Very much appreciated.  @mcconnell.senate.gov> Sent from my iPhone On Nov 2, 2017, at 7:03 PM, Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hey Geoff – Flake’s chief is in flight to Arizona – will circle back as soon as I connect.  Sharon AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000608 DOT-Am.Oversight-001601 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) An idea Friday, November 17, 2017 2:58:00 PM   (b) (5)              (b) (5)                     -                                                                                                  (b) (6)       What do you think?   Kris AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000609 DOT-Am.Oversight-001602 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Thanks!   Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) RE: A personal invitation for The Honorable Mitch McConnell from Lally Graham Weymouth and Don Graham Friday, November 17, 2017 3:22:42 PM image001.png - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, November 17, 2017 3:22 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: FW: A personal invitation for The Honorable Mitch McConnell from Lally Graham Weymouth and Don Graham wanted to make sure you all saw this since the Secretary may be (b) (6) interested in attending.   @washpost.com] From: Lally Graham Weymouth [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, November 17, 2017 2:48 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Vincent, Laura (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (McConnell) < Subject: A personal invitation for The Honorable Mitch McConnell from Lally Graham Weymouth and Don Graham My brother Don Graham and I are having a special screening of Steven Spielberg's new film "The Post" which is largely about our late mother, Katharine Graham. We both hope that you can join us on December 15th for this special night in Washington.  AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000610 DOT-Am.Oversight-001603 Graham Waymauih and Donald Graham Invi'lt run In a Fri-ruin.- atrial-ling ai Hui-Vin Splilhlru'! null: ?The Fast" Friday. ??rombrr 3:09 FM Hull'nlul ?ragrupl?lic': Erna-Icnnr ?udilariunl 'Il'i? Elleel. NW ?It'??ii?n in al ?to can! lacutian [hi1 invilalian i1 Click here to RSVP DOT-1 8-001 0-B-000611 DOT-Am.Oversight-001604 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: McClure, Donna (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Fwd: Governing Board Agenda drones Tuesday, November 28, 2017 2:05:24 PM image00001.png ATT00001.htm image00002.png ATT00002.htm image00003.png ATT00003.htm Board Meeting Agenda 11 28 17.pdf ATT00004.htm Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Massey, Harold B (Hazard)" <(b) (6) @kctcs.edu> Date: November 28, 2017 at 10:02:08 AM EST To: "(b) (6) @hazard.kyschools.us" <(b) (6) @hazard.kyschools.us>, perry county (b) (6) < >, "(b) (6) @knottky.com" <(b) (6) @knottky.com>, "(b) (6) " <(b) (6) >, "(b) (6) @mail.house.gov" <(b) (6) @mail.house.gov>, "(b) (6) @perrycountyky.org" <(b) (6) @perrycountyky.org>, "(b) (6) @hazard.kyschools.us" <(b) (6) @hazard.kyschools.us>, "(b) (6) @krpky.com" (b) (6) @kctcs.edu>, "Roark, < @krpky.com>, "Lindon, Jennifer A (Hazard)" <(b) (6) Donna D (Hazard)" <(b) (6) @kctcs.edu>, "McClure, Donna (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>, "Jones, Regena (Paul)" Subject: Governing Board Agenda - .-- Massey, Harold B (Hazard) has shared OneDrive for Business files with you. To view them, click the links below. AMf--f CAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000612 DOT-Am.Oversight-001605 ~ asA IIIIIIIIE IIIIIIT NATIONAL I. II. III. UNMANNED ROBOTIC RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT ~ CEN T ER Welcome – Judge Alexander Guests – a. Donna McClure – Senator McConnell’s Office b. Regena Jones – Senator Paul’s Office c. Andrea Begley – Congressman Roger’s Office Agenda a. Announcements – Partners, guests – 5 Minutes b. Information – Senate and Congressional Staff i. Donna McClure – Senator McConnell’s Office - 5 Minutes ii. Regena Jones – Senator Paul’s Office - 5 Minutes iii. Andrea Begley – Congressman Roger’s Office -5 Minutes c. Grants – Benny, Bart – 5 minutes i. No word AML, EDA d. 501c3 – 15 Minutes i. Items for discussion and new business – Benny 1. At the board meeting, we need to talk about (and maybe try to get some examples of) the policies the board will need to adopt for our non-profit IRS 1023 application filing: I.E. : a. Conflict of interest policy b. Personnel Policy c. Compensation arrangement (formal) – HCTC and Drone Port for Bart d. Fund Raising Agreement – Policy to cover any third party organization/company that we may contract to provide fund raising services e. Policy in regard to receipt/donations of funds that are restricted by donor(s) f. Defined scholarship program (including review/selection committee members—must be board members) e. Land – Survey, Appraisal and Environmental – Bart, Benny – 5 minutes PARTNERS F OR ECO N O MIC DEVELOP M ENT PERRY COUNTY FIS CAL COURT ~ Hazard Comm unity & Technical Coll ~~ KNOTT COUNTY FISCAL COURT Wendell H . Ford REGIONAL AIR PORT Ul(,ltlklOIJCA.110~ IH, IM ltUU DOT-18-0010-B-000613 DOT-Am.Oversight-001606 ~ asA IIIIIIIIE IIIIIIT NATIONAL UNMANNED ROBOTIC RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT ~ CEN T ER f. Integrated Airspace – Bart, Donna, Paul, Benny – 10 minutes i. Timeline 1. 11-28-17 - Notice of Intent - Thursday 2 weeks ago 2. 12-13-17 – Volumes I and II submitted 3. 12-13-17 – Request as interested party deadline 4. 1-4-18 – Lead Applicant complete volumes III, IV, V, and VI 5. Pray! ii. Multiple people writing 1. Next Deadline 13th 2. 2 at least on same item, independent and integrate 3. Steps: a. Proofed b. Revised c. Submitted iii. Political – Filing on 13th push! 1. L. D. Gorman 2. Congress 3. State 4. Speaking with Airmap tomorrow g. SAR Event – 10 minutes i. Discussion ii. After action tomorrow iii. Video files copied iv. Spring Event Planning h. Director’s Report – 10 minutes i. Crash Course FAA 107 test 8 hour Dec. 12th and 14th ii. Meeting about Toyota Thursday 1. Vendor 2. Business Proposal PARTNERS F OR ECO N O MIC DEVELOP M ENT PERRY COUNTY FIS CAL COURT ~ Hazard Comm unity & Technical Coll ~~ KNOTT COUNTY FISCAL COURT Wendell H . Ford REGIONAL AIR PORT Ul(,ltlklOIJCA.110~ IH, IM ltUU DOT-18-0010-B-000614 DOT-Am.Oversight-001607 ~ asA IIIIIIIIE IIIIIIT NATIONAL IV. UNMANNED ROBOTIC RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT ~ CEN T ER 3. Teams iii. Col Parkers appropriations i. Business – Chairman – Scott Alexander i. Old Business – 5 Minutes 1. Bank Account ii. New Business – 10 Minutes 1. Board Members a. Ranked Person from partner? 2. Section 3c – Benny 90 Minutes – Motion to Close – 2:30 PM PARTNERS F OR ECO N O MIC DEVELOP M ENT PERRY COUNTY FIS CAL COURT ~ Hazard Comm unity & Technical Coll ~~ KNOTT COUNTY FISCAL COURT Wendell H . Ford REGIONAL AIR PORT Ul(,ltlklOIJCA.110~ IH, IM ltUU DOT-18-0010-B-000615 DOT-Am.Oversight-001608 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) DOT nominees Thursday, November 30, 2017 9:53:00 AM Hi, Scott –   First of all, thank you very much for your efforts to help confirm both Derek Kan and Steve Bradbury.  Clearly, the Leader deserves total credit for getting them across the finish line, and we appreciate your keeping us informed about members straying off the reservation, etc.  Thanks!  You guys are rock stars!   (b) (5)     (b) (6)   (b) (5) (b) (6) -      (b) (5)      Thanks for any insight you can share.  Again, many thanks for Derek and Steve!   Kris   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000616 DOT-Am.Oversight-001609 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Taylor, Mary Elizabeth E. EOP/WHO Raab, Scott (McConnell); McMaster, Sean (OST) DOT PAS POSITIONS Thursday, November 30, 2017 1:52:00 PM DOT PAS POSITIONS.pdf Hello Mary Elizabeth –   (b) (6) As you know, I have been handling nominations for DOT.    My last day here will be Dec 15, so I am wrapping up loose ends and cleaning up my office.   (b) (5) I have attached a grid showing the current status of DOT nominations.    -   Please note that any individual who was nominated by the President is on the (b) (5) Executive Calendar.    · Sullivan (govt affairs) was a privileged nomination and was placed on the calendar by the Commerce Committee in June. · Batory (rail), Trombino (highways), and Martinez (motor carriers) were all reported by voice votes, no dissents. (b) (5) · Furchtgott-Roth (research)       I will be here two more weeks, so please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have questions or info to share!   Best, Kris Iverson AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000617 DOT-Am.Oversight-001610 (6) DOT PAS POSITIONS (updated 11/20/17) Position Nominee Confirmed: Secretary Deputy Secy U/S for Policy Gen Counsel MARAD Admin PHMSA Admin Elaine L. Chao Jeffrey A. Rosen Derek T. Kan Steven G. Bradbury Mark Buzby Howard Elliott Pending on the Senate Executive Calendar: A/S Govt Affairs Adam J. Sullivan FRA Admin Ronald Batory FHWA Admin Paul Trombino FMCSA Admin Raymond Martinez A/S Research Diana Furchtgott-Roth Intent Nominated Hearing Reported Confirmed 3/7/17 4/6/17 6/5/17 6/22/17 9/8/17 1/20/17 3/21/17 5/16/17 6/6/17 6/26/17 9/11/17 1/11/17 3/29/17 6/8/17 6/27/17 7/26/17 9/29/17 1/24/17 4/5/17 (15-12) 6/29/17 8/2/17 (14-13) 8/2/17 10/4/17 1/31/17 (93-6) 5/16 (56-42) 11/13/17 (90-7) 11/14/17 (50-47) 8/3/17 (UC) 10/5/17 (UC) 5/8/17 7/10/17 9/8/17 9/26/17 9/28/17 5/10/17 7/11/17 9/11/17 9/29/17 10/2/17 ---7/26/17 10/5/17 10/31/17 10/31/17 6/21/17 8/2/17 10/25/17 11/8/17 11/8/17 (14-13) Pending in Committee: None Pending in nomination process: FTA Admin Thelma Drake Vacant (current and forthcoming): OST-X OST-B NHTSA Admin FAA Admin Prepared by K. Iverson DOT-18-0010-B-000619 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001612 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: McClure, Donna (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Fwd: Survey USA Drone Port Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:48:04 AM DRONE PORT Description.docx ATT00001.htm DRONE PORT DESCRIPTION.pdf ATT00002.htm SURVEY.pdf ATT00003.htm FYI Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: - -(b) (6) From: "Massey, Harold B (Hazard)" < @kctcs.edu> Date: November 30, 2017 at 10:19:17 AM EST (b) (6) To: "McClure, Donna (McConnell)" < @mcconnell.senate.gov>, (b) (6) "Jones, Regena (Paul)" < @paul.senate.gov>, (b) (6) (b) (6) " @mail.house.gov" < @mail.house.gov> Subject: Survey USA Drone Port Hello Donna, Regina and Andrea,   I wanted to share the survey results with you.  We are preparing the deed for the first 5 acres now and should have it ready by the first of next week.  The other 45 will be granted when the infrastructure is placed on the property.  Thank you for all you are doing.  We are over halfway complete with the entire application.  We have a team of 9 that is working on it and researching continuously.  I know that each of you grasp the positive implications that our proposal being selected will offer.  Thank you very much and please call or email with any suggestions or if I can assist in any way.   Gratefully,   Bart Massey M.Ed UAS Commercial Pilot Director of Operations USA Drone Port - -(b) (6) (b) (6) @kctcs.edu   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000620 DOT-Am.Oversight-001613 SURVEY DESCRIPTION Lying and being on the waters of Balls Fork, a tributary of Troublesome Creek, north of the intersection of CR 1390 and KY 1087, in Knott County, Kentucky, and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an 18" long, 5/8" diameter, set iron pin with plastic cap marked LS 3178 (hereinafter set iron pin), said iron pin located N 43° 31' 32" E, 3,015.62' from the center of a rock pile, said rock pile being a comer to an adjoining tract of land described in DB 281, Pg. 498 of the Knott County Clerk's office; said point of beginning also located S 20° 15' 43" E, 144.74' from the southern corner of a barn; said point of beginning also located at N 3,674,295.39 and E 5,690,406.05 of the Kentucky State Plane Coordinate System, Single Zone, NAD 1983; thence with a new dividing line N 87° 57' 02" W, 413.65' to a set iron pin, said iron pin located in a proposed right-of-way of an existing gravel road and being 30' east of the existing centerline of said gravel road; thence turning and following the proposed right-of-way, around a curve to the right, said curve having an arc length of 413.94', a radius of 637.62', and having a long chord of N 0° 18' 11" E, 406.71' to a set iron pin; thence continuing with said proposed right-of-way N 18° 08' 56" E, 95.94' to a set iron pin; thence turning and leaving said proposed right-of-way and running with a new dividing line S 87° 57' 02" E, 399.44' to a set iron pin; thence S 02° 02' 58" W, 498.70' to the point of beginning, containing 5.00 acres, more or less, by survey. Being a part of property conveyed by Deed dated August 31, 201 7, recorded in Deed Book 281, Page 493, from Lorene Adams, by and through her Power of Attorney, Andrea Adams, of record in the Knott County Clerk's Office. :;;;;4 umyo;,/;b;9,Ir~;~~ The description above is based upon a ground survey completed under the supervision of Hank w~ oompleted 201 I ll-1JK1~1tat1111r.r,~•1111n1:r•~ " ·$ii UCi~NSED § ;i; PROFESSIONAL ~ =LANO SURVEYOR~ f m,r:,l!m:lltmm,m.>t. AMERICAN PVERSIGHT 9 DOT-18-0010-B-000621 DOT-Am.Oversight-001614 From: To: Subject: Date: Thank you!   Fulton, Finch (OST) Suares, Erica (McConnell); Smith, Loren (OST) RE: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list? Thursday, November 30, 2017 12:15:37 PM - From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:33 AM To: Smith, Loren (OST) Cc: Fulton, Finch (OST) Subject: RE: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list?   Of course!   From: Smith, Loren (OST) [mailto:Loren.Smith@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:31 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Fulton, Finch (OST) Subject: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list?   Finch is a colleague here at DOT (Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Policy office) and also a former Senate staffer. (b) (6)   ~~~~ Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor – Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation W82-326 loren.smith@dot.gov (b) (6)   - ---- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000622 DOT-Am.Oversight-001615 From: To: Subject: Date: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Thursday, November 30, 2017 12:03:11 PM Thanks, Todd.  Rep. Bechler called me this morning and said he had sent a letter to Secretary Chao, but didn’t specify exactly when or where.  I offered to put him in touch with you via email, so he should be expecting the email.  I’ll give him a call back tomorrow if he doesn’t respond to the email today.  Appreciate your help!   From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 10:47 AM To: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   Morgan,   Hope your doing well.  I just wanted to follow up and let you know the Department has no record, ever, of receiving any correspondence from Representative Belcher.  It could be that she wrote to the KYDOT but if she wrote to KY FHWA we would still have a record in the department.  That’s why I asked if she could share her correspondence.       J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 10:44 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @lrc.ky.gov Subject: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   Hi Todd,   I hope this email finds you well.  State Rep. Lynn Bechler, copied on this email, sent a letter to Secretary Chao regarding a section of U.S. 60 in Crittenden County which has seen a high number of accidents and fatalities.  Rep. Bechler wanted a contact at the DOT to make sure the letter made it into the right hands, so I wanted to put you two in touch.   - -- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000623 DOT-Am.Oversight-001616 Thanks!   Morgan Alvey Field Representative Senator Mitch McConnell 100 Fountain Avenue, Suite 300 Paducah, KY 42001 (b) (6)   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000624 DOT-Am.Oversight-001617 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) McClure, Donna (McConnell) RE: Survey USA Drone Port Thursday, November 30, 2017 2:33:00 PM No.  Just wanted to set the stage for you somewhat.   Also, I got LD scheduled. December 15th here at DOT   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: McClure, Donna (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 2:32 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Re: Survey USA Drone Port   Thanks. Is there anything you need me to do? I’ve been emphasizing the need to get the land in their name since my first meeting with them.  Sent from my iPhone On Nov 30, 2017, at 11:51 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Thanks.  I spoke to Mr. Massey yesterday and asked for a copy of their application for drone waiver program. Ironically he stated he did not have a copy which I found odd.  He stated Ky Department of Aviation submitted it (which is the correct entity) but surprising to me that he hadn’t seen or would have a copy of it……   Regardless I asked for him to send it to me by COB today.  The project sounds good, but I would temper expectations that there are a lot of applicants that are already much farther along in design, build, implementation that this one.  (I noted they don’t even truly have their all their applications for tax exempt etc) and with not having the land in their name and no formal dedicated space to date, it all makes working the project much harder….   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000625 DOT-Am.Oversight-001618 West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: McClure, Donna (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:47 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Fwd: Survey USA Drone Port   FYI  @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: - -- @kctcs.edu> From: "Massey, Harold B (Hazard)" <(b) (6) Date: November 30, 2017 at 10:19:17 AM EST To: "McClure, Donna (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>, "Jones, Regena (Paul)" (b) (6) < @paul.senate.gov>, "(b) (6) @mail.house.gov" (b) (6) < @mail.house.gov> Subject: Survey USA Drone Port Hello Donna, Regina and Andrea,   I wanted to share the survey results with you.  We are preparing the deed for the first 5 acres now and should have it ready by the first of next week.  The other 45 will be granted when the infrastructure is placed on the property.  Thank you for all you are doing.  We are over halfway complete with the entire application.  We have a team of 9 that is working on it and researching continuously.  I know that each of you grasp the positive implications that our proposal being selected will offer.  Thank you very much and please call or email with any suggestions or if I can assist in any way.   Gratefully,   Bart Massey M.Ed UAS Commercial Pilot Director of Operations USA Drone Port - -- (b) (6) (b) (6) @kctcs.edu   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000626 DOT-Am.Oversight-001619 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) Re: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Tuesday, December 05, 2017 2:38:06 PM Thanks so much for your help with this, Todd.  Rep. Bechler called me today and asked for a contact person for the KYTC and Secretary Thomas. Do you know who would be the best to contact in that office? Sent from my iPhone On Dec 4, 2017, at 4:15 PM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Good evening.   I wanted to let you know the letter actually arrived in the department today. (dated November 22)  Because of security measures it’s not unusual for correspondence to take a few weeks.       Once you’ve spoken with Secretary Thomas and KY FHWA they should escalate it to us for further review.        J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) [mailto:(b) (6) @LRC.KY.GOV] Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2017 9:21 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   No, I have not.  I asked Judge Newcom to provide statistics to me but he chose to write directly to Secretary Chao and copy me on the letter.  I plan on contacting Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Thomas this coming week.  Please provide a contact for me with the Federal Highway Administration. Lynn Bechler AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000627 DOT-Am.Oversight-001620 Kentucky State Representative District 4 From: Inman, Todd (OST) [todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2017 8:23 PM To: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) Cc: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Subject: Re: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Thank you.  We had been unable to find any correspondence from you which was what we were originally told      I’ll inquire into the letter tomorrow as we should have a copy.       Have you already spoken with KYTC and Ky FHWA about this before writing the Secretary.  That’s typically the order in which things get elevated.     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   - -- On Dec 3, 2017, at 8:11 PM, Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) <(b) (6) @LRC.KY.GOV> wrote: Todd, Do you have a fax?  If so, please send me the number so that I can fax what I have to you.  My scanner is broken, hence my request for a fax number. The letter to Secretary Chao was sent by Crittenden County Judge Exec Perry Newcom, with a copy to me.  I completely agree with his comments.  Thanks for looking into this. Lynn Bechler Kentucky State Representative District 4 From: Inman, Todd (OST) [todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:13 AM To: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Cc: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) Subject: RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Thanks Morgan, AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000628 DOT-Am.Oversight-001621   I’ll be glad to check into it. Give me a few days.  In the interim, Representative Bechler if you could send me a copy of the letter that might help speed up the process on our end.   Thanks   Todd     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 10:44 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @lrc.ky.gov Subject: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   Hi Todd,   I hope this email finds you well.  State Rep. Lynn Bechler, copied on this email, sent a letter to Secretary Chao regarding a section of U.S. 60 in Crittenden County which has seen a high number of accidents and fatalities.  Rep. Bechler wanted a contact at the DOT to make sure the letter made it into the right hands, so I wanted to put you two in touch.   Thanks!   - -- Morgan Alvey Field Representative Senator Mitch McConnell 100 Fountain Avenue, Suite 300 Paducah, KY 42001 (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000629 DOT-Am.Oversight-001622 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Tuesday, December 05, 2017 3:43:00 PM Here’s the information I sent in the email previously.       Thomas (Tom) Mills is the division administrator (b) (6) and Steve Mills is the assistant (b) (6) administrator .      We work with Secretary Thomas quite often and he is a great resource.  I think you’ll find him and his staff to be very helpful.     Regarding Secretary Thomas, since he’s a state employee he doesn’t fall under our jurisdiction.   J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   From: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, December 05, 2017 2:38 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) <(b) (6) @LRC.KY.GOV> Subject: Re: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   Thanks so much for your help with this, Todd.  Rep. Bechler called me today and asked for a contact person for the KYTC and Secretary Thomas. Do you know who would be the best to contact in that office?   Sent from my iPhone - On Dec 4, 2017, at 4:15 PM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Good evening.   I wanted to let you know the letter actually arrived in the department today. (dated November 22)  Because of security measures it’s not unusual for correspondence to AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000630 DOT-Am.Oversight-001623 take a few weeks.       Once you’ve spoken with Secretary Thomas and KY FHWA they should escalate it to us for further review.        J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   ------- From: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) [mailto:(b) (6) @LRC.KY.GOV] Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2017 9:21 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   No, I have not.  I asked Judge Newcom to provide statistics to me but he chose to write directly to Secretary Chao and copy me on the letter.  I plan on contacting Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Thomas this coming week.  Please provide a contact for me with the Federal Highway Administration. Lynn Bechler Kentucky State Representative District 4 From: Inman, Todd (OST) [todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2017 8:23 PM To: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) Cc: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Subject: Re: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Thank you.  We had been unable to find any correspondence from you which was what we were originally told      I’ll inquire into the letter tomorrow as we should have a copy.       Have you already spoken with KYTC and Ky FHWA about this before writing the Secretary.  That’s typically the order in which things get elevated.     AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000631 DOT-Am.Oversight-001624 J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary  United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590   On Dec 3, 2017, at 8:11 PM, Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) wrote: Todd, Do you have a fax?  If so, please send me the number so that I can fax what I have to you.  My scanner is broken, hence my request for a fax number. The letter to Secretary Chao was sent by Crittenden County Judge Exec Perry Newcom, with a copy to me.  I completely agree with his comments.  Thanks for looking into this. Lynn Bechler Kentucky State Representative District 4 From: Inman, Todd (OST) [todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:13 AM To: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) Cc: Bechler, Lynn (State Rep.) (LRC) Subject: RE: State Rep. Lynn Bechler Thanks Morgan,   I’ll be glad to check into it. Give me a few days.  In the interim, Representative Bechler if you could send me a copy of the letter that might help speed up the process on our end.   Thanks   Todd     J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000632 DOT-Am.Oversight-001625 Washington DC 20590   From: Alvey, Morgan (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 10:44 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Cc: (b) (6) @lrc.ky.gov Subject: State Rep. Lynn Bechler   Hi Todd,   I hope this email finds you well.  State Rep. Lynn Bechler, copied on this email, sent a letter to Secretary Chao regarding a section of U.S. 60 in Crittenden County which has seen a high number of accidents and fatalities.  Rep. Bechler wanted a contact at the DOT to make sure the letter made it into the right hands, so I wanted to put you two in touch.   Thanks!   - -- Morgan Alvey Field Representative Senator Mitch McConnell 100 Fountain Avenue, Suite 300 Paducah, KY 42001 (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000633 DOT-Am.Oversight-001626 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Ashley Gunn Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (U# (b) (6) ) Tuesday, December 05, 2017 12:31:40 PM We got it handled. Sorry for confusion.         - From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Sent: Tuesday, December 05, 2017 12:28 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Ashley Gunn - Cc: Tucker, Deva (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (U# (b) (6) ) (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone On Dec 4, 2017, at 7:29 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6)   Thanks!   From: Gunn, Ashley L. EOP/WHO [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Monday, December 04, 2017 7:21 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Elle Basile (Gabrielle.basile@dot.gov) ; Tucker, Deva EOP Subject: Re: WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (U# (b) (6) ) (b) (6) - Ashley Gunn Senior Director Cabinet Affairs (b) (6) (no text) The White House On Dec 4, 2017, at 6:43 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000634 DOT-Am.Oversight-001627 (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Thanks Ashley! (b) (6)   Many thanks, Laura   From: Gunn, Ashley L. EOP/WHO [mailto:(b) (6) ] Sent: Monday, December 04, 2017 6:20 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Fwd: WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (U# (b) (6) ) - Hi Laura, (b) (6) Thank you so much, Ashley Gunn Senior Director Cabinet Affairs (b) (6) (no text) The White House Begin forwarded message: (b) (6) From: < > Date: December 4, 2017 at 11:57:30 AM EST Ashley Gunn To: < > Subject: WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (U# (b) (6) ) - WAVES APPOINTMENT STATUS (b) (6) Event Name: Arrive West Exec and Escort to Christmas Party (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000635 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001628 (b) (6) (b) (6) Please log-in to the WAVES Request System (WRS) to view the visitor details. This is an automated email and is not monitored. Please do not respond to this email address. Contact the WAVES Center with any appointment questions. All e-mail to/from this account is subject to official review and is for official use only. Action may be taken AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000636 DOT-Am.Oversight-001629 in response to any inappropriate use of the Secret Service's e-mail system. This e-mail may contain information that is privileged, law enforcement sensitive, or subject to other disclosure limitations. Such information is loaned to you and should not be further disseminated without the permission of the Secret Service. If you have received this e-mail in error, do not keep, use, disclose, or copy it; notify the sender immediately and delete it. ­ AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000637 DOT-Am.Oversight-001630 From: To: Subject: Date: Iverson, Kristine (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) RE: (b) (5) Wednesday, December 06, 2017 9:53:00 AM OK.  Thanks.   - From: Raab, Scott (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, December 06, 2017 9:52 AM To: Iverson, Kristine (OST) ; Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) <(b) (6) @rep-secretary.senate.gov> Cc: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> (b) (5) Subject: RE:   - (b) (5)     From: Iverson, Kristine (OST) [mailto:kristine.iverson@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, December 6, 2017 9:49 AM To: Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Dove, Laura (Rep-Secretary) <(b) (6) @rep-secretary.senate.gov> @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Soderstrom, Sharon (McConnell) <(b) (6) (b) (5) Subject:   ---- ---- (b) (5)   (b) (5) Confidential -t. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000638 DOT-Am.Oversight-001631 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Stewart, Don (McConnell) Sec Chao Inquiry Wednesday, December 06, 2017 4:29:00 PM Wanted to get a few minutes on the phone with you to give you a heads up on an inquiry from the Inceptor regarding the Secretary. She wanted me to run it by you and get your thoughts. or (b) (6) . If you  have a minute, can you give me a call on either (b) (6)   Thank you Marianne   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave SE Washington, DC 20590 Mobile (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000639 DOT-Am.Oversight-001632 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST) FW: Important message from Lally Weymouth and Don Graham about the December 15th screening Friday, December 15, 2017 1:36:52 PM     From: Lally Weymouth [mailto:(b) (6) @washpost.com] Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2017 1:58 PM To: Lally Weymouth <(b) (6) @washpost.com> Subject: Important message from Lally Weymouth and Don Graham about the December 15th screening Dear All, We can't wait to see you tomorrow night, December 15th, for our special screening of Steven Spielberg's new movie, "The Post". Please arrive by 6:30 PM so that we can shake hands, have a drink, and you can meet Co-Producers Amy Pascal and Kristie Krieger.  It was originally Amy's idea to make this movie and she took the idea to Mr. Spielberg. Kristie is Mr. Spielberg's long-term partner. We want everyone to be in their seats and the movie to begin at 7:00 PM. There will be a reception and food immediately afterwards. Lally and Don AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000640 DOT-Am.Oversight-001633 Lull'ylr Graham Wermuuih and Donald Graham Are expecting yeu at the private screening n-f SpielhErg'n new film "The Post? fridur. Detember 1:110 PM Malina-Inf Gengrunhic'a Greg-renew Audilurium 11:5 11th Shirl. NW Ile?eplicrn in feiluw til the some Inc-alien This inviluliafp E5 nun-ironsleruhle DOT-Am.Oversight-001634 From: To: Burr, Geoff (OST) @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @cornyn.senate.gov; (b) (6) Re: ATL Update Monday, December 18, 2017 9:57:48 AM (b) (6) (b) (6) Subject: Date: @mail.house.gov; (b) (6) @mail.house.gov @mcconnell.senate.gov; Quick update: 1.  All concourses have power.  2.  Train system is not operational.  Passengers can walk between terminals. 3. TSA checkpoints were flowing starting at 3:30 a.m. this morning.  Atlanta airport indicate lines are very manageable at this time. 4.  No passengers are still at the Georgia Dome  5.  Southwest indicates they had 197 aircraft on the ground.  Over 100 with baggage on them.  They are starting to unload baggage at this time and will wave the bags on so not to overwhelm the system.  They indicate they hope their system is up and running by noon at normal capacity.   6.  All FAA facilities are fully staffed today and can handle normal loads.   Weather is instrument flight rating only due to fog this a.m.  However they do not anticipate problems.  A departure prioritization plan is in place to get planes out as early as possible.   This will free capacity for inbounds later in the day.  A national traffic officer will be working strictly Atlanta today in order to make sure this does not affect the national system.  7.   Delta indicates E concourse there is power but they have concerns about stability on the electrical grid there.   This is their international concourse.  8.  Georgia power indicates the repairs are temporary in nature, but they do not believe there will be intermittent power issues going forward.   9.  No cause has been determined of why the primary and back up systems both failed, but an investigation is under way.   There Ian obviously a substantial backlog of flights and many travelers and flights will continue to be impacted today and into tomorrow.  Sent from my iPhone On Dec 17, 2017, at 9:14 PM, Burr, Geoff (OST) wrote: Good evening. I wanted to share the below information for awareness and because it has the potential to impact member availability for votes tomorrow and into Tuesday.  Here is the latest that we know on the situation in Atlanta. Please do not forward.  AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000642 DOT-Am.Oversight-001635 1.  General aviation and freight is open and running.  The tower itself is still handling operations and air traffic control is not impacted by the power outage.  2.  The fire occurred between two concourses (E & F) in a power vault, resulting in complete loss of power to one concourse.  Another is partially out but it is hopeful it will be open in the next few hours. 3.  Delta is planning on getting a few international flights out tonight, but that is speculative. 4.  The airport grounds (runway lights, directional markers, etc) are operational which allows for some flight operations.   The lack of power affects primarily the TSA screening portion of commercial operations.  5.  Trains between concourses are not running and the baggage system is completely down at this time.   6.  It may take 30 hours to restore full power capacity at the airport. 7. The Mayor of Atlanta will conduct a press conference at 8:30.  8.    Georgia Emergency Management is in charge and FEMA and FAA have been in regular contact with them throughout the night. We will conduct another call at 6 a.m. with FAA.  Hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.  Geoff Burr  Chief of Staff  Department of Transportation  Sent from my iPhone AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000643 DOT-Am.Oversight-001636 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Burr, Geoff (OST) Re: Question Friday, December 22, 2017 8:27:43 AM We played with that idea, but he's actually not. We're doing a presser this morning in DC and .  (b) (6) On Dec 22, 2017, at 8:26 AM, Burr, Geoff (OST) wrote: Hey Stef:   Quick question: Is the leader flying to Louisville today, and if so is he doing a press conference at the airport? Someone had said something to us to that effect.   We have ELC doing a press event with the Mayor of Louisville and others at 11 in regards to Dixie Highway.   Thanks.   Geoff Burr Chief Of Staff Department of Transportation   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000644 DOT-Am.Oversight-001637 From: To: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Retreat Wednesday, January 10, 2018 10:27:00 AM I just noticed the information below on the Congressional Institute Draft Schedule for the House/Senate Republican Retreat.  Let me know if you are expecting to come or overnight and I can reserve rooms for your folks under our block.  I am cc’ing my boss Brian Verderese the other lead for Greenbrier.   1 FEB at 1000hrs:    Joint Session: Repairing and Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure Working Session with Presentations and Q&A     Moderator: Mark Strand Panelists:  Secretary of Transportation, the Honorable Elaine Chao Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation John Thune, Chairman House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Bill Schuster, (other panelists TBD) Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000645 DOT-Am.Oversight-001638 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) SOTU Secretary"s Dinner Monday, January 29, 2018 9:44:33 AM [Untitled].pdf Attached is the formal invite. Thanks! AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000646 DOT-Am.Oversight-001639 , ..Jlh.lE'." E. ADAMS SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D. C. 20510 December 6, 2017 Dear Leader McConnell and Secretary Chao, On January 30, 2018, the President will deliver his State of the Union address to a Joint Session of Congress. It is my honor to invite you to the Secretary of the Senate's annual supper at six thirty in the evening in S-207. the Mansfield Room, which will immediately precede the Joint Session. [ hope you enjoy your holiday seaso :1and ! 3m looking forward to seeing you in the new year to contin ue this wonderful Senate tradition. Sincerely, Julie E. Adams Secreta,y of the Senate R.s.v.p. by Januar y 18 202-224-9077 rsvp(a)sec.senate. gov AMt::HICAr\ pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000647 DOT-Am.Oversight-001640 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) FW: Invitation to Attend WCI"s 17th Annual Leadership Service Award Reception and Dinner Tuesday, January 30, 2018 10:56:46 AM     From: WCI [mailto:wci@waterwayscouncil.org] Sent: Monday, January 29, 2018 4:38 PM To: WCI Subject: Invitation to Attend WCI's 17th Annual Leadership Service Award Reception and Dinner   .. •-~-~ ~ ~ WATER .WAYS COIJHC I L,     INC , Please join us as our guest at Waterways Council, Inc.'s 17th Annual Leadership Service Award Reception and Dinner honoring Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Wednesday, February 14, 2018. This widely attended event will take place at the Watergate Hotel, 2650 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. - ---- The favor of a reply would be greatly appreciated. You may R.S.V.P. at (202) 765(b) (6) 2115 or @waterwayscouncil.org. Very truly yours, Michael J. Toohey   DOT-18-0010-B-000648 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001641 From: To: Subject: Date: Smith, Loren (OST) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Re: Senate Update - Immigration Tuesday, February 13, 2018 8:15:35 PM Hi Erica - could you please add Darien Flowers to your list? He’s at darien.flowers@dot.gov sorry to be a bother! And THANK YOU for those excellent three DOT confirmations!!! Very exciting!!! ••• Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor – Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) W82-326  loren.smith@dot.gov    On Feb 13, 2018, at 8:06 PM, Suares, Erica (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hi everyone,   The Senate convened at 10:00 am today and resumed consideration of the motion to proceed (MTP) to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration. We are still post-cloture on the motion to proceed – meaning we are in the “30 hours post-cloture” on the MTP (FYI: all time during recess, adjournment, Morning Business, and Leader remarks counts post-cloture on the motion to proceed).   Normally, the entire 30 hours of post-cloture debate on the MTP isn’t used, but today Democrats objected to setting up amendment votes, and thus objected to moving this debate forward – so we are still in the 30 hours until tomorrow. As the Leader has noted, and Stew also points out in his note below, everyone has known for weeks that this Immigration debate would begin this week, so there has been ample time to draft and file amendments. Currently, as of tonight there are 14 amendments filed to the bill (13 R, 1 D).   Example of a floor exchange today -- regarding whether or not we should begin debate and set up votes:   12:07 PM (McConnell and Schumer exchange below – a similar exchange occurred between Leader McConnell and Senator Durbin tonight, in which Democrats make clear that they would like to choose which R amendments they would like to vote on. In contrast, Leader McConnell makes an important point – we can start setting up amendment votes for each side, and vote on the amendments of each side’s choosing – emphasis below).   MR. MCCONNELL: Now, Mr. President, for months senators have been clamoring for a floor debate on DACA, border security, and other urgent issues pertaining to immigration. We certainly had ample time to prepare. Now the week we set aside for this debate has arrived. The week my democratic colleagues insisted that we dedicate to this issue. The clock is ticking but the debate has yet to begin. That's because our democratic colleagues have yet to yield back any of their post-cloture time so we can begin this important debate. If we're going to resolve these matters this week, we need to get moving. In my view, the proposal unveiled yesterday by Senator Grassley and a number of other senators offers our best chance to find a solution. I've committed that an amendment process will be fair and both sides will have the opportunity to submit ideas for debate, for votes. But for that to happen, our colleagues will have to DOT-18-0010-B-000649 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001642 actually introduce their own amendments rather than just talk about them. My colleague, Senator Toomey, for example, had done just that. He's put forward an amendment to address one of the most glaring aspects of our nation's broken immigration system, sanctuary cities. I see no reason to further delay consideration of this and other substantive proposals. So let's start by setting up a vote on his amendment and an amendment for my democratic colleagues, an amendment of their choosing, not mine. With their consent we can start the debate and have the first two amendment votes. So, Mr. President, consistent with that, I would ask consent that at 2:15 today, the motion to proceed to H. R. 2579 be agreed to. I ask unanimous consent that Senator Toomey or his designee be recognized to offer amendment 1948, and that the democratic leader or his designee be recognized to offer an amendment. Further, that the time until 3:30 P. M. Be equally divided between the leaders or their designees and that following the use or yielding back of that time, the Senate vote on the amendments in the order listed with 60 affirmative votes required for adoption and that no second-degree amendments be in order prior to the votes. Finally, that if any of the amendments are adopted, they become original text for purpose of further amendment. Mr. Schumer: Mr. President? THE PRESIDING OFFICER: Is there objection? MR. SCHUMER: Reserving the right to object. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: The democratic leader. MR. SCHUMER: Mr. President, I appreciate the process the majority leader agreed to this week, but the proposal he just offered does not address the underlying issues of this debate, why we're here. It doesn't address dreamers nor does it address border security. As I said this morning, the Senate must focus on finding a bipartisan solution that addresses those two issues, dreamers and border security. Rather than the partisan proposal offered by the Republican leader, I suggest we consider two proposals inside the scope of debate. One for each side. Let the Republicans offer the president's plan in the form of legislation carried by the senators from Iowa and Arkansas, which the leader supports, and the democrats will offer the bipartisan Coons-McCain bill, narrow legislation that protects the dreamers, boosts border security, and adds resources for immigration courts. Each is the opening foray, one for democrats, one for republicans, and can start the process and let us know where we stand. Our legislation is ready to go and we'd be happy to vote as soon as the Republicans have their proposal drafted and ready for an amendment vote. To begin this debate as the Republican leader suggests would be getting off on the wrong foot, unrelated to DACA, very partisan. Respectfully, I suggest we move to the bills offered by senators Grassley and Senator Coons instead. Let's get this debate started on the right foot. So I object to the leader's request. THE PRESIDING OFFICER: The objection is heard.   As a reminder, the Senate invoked cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration, yesterday, 97-1.   Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 14th: the Senate will convene at 10:00 am. Following Leader remarks (at approximately 10:30 am) the Senate will proceed to vote on the motion to proceed to H.R. 2579, the vehicle for Immigration. Today in the Senate (Tuesday, February 13, 2018): Roll Call Votes: There were no roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate. Executive Session: DOT-18-0010-B-000650 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001643 Cal. #155 - Adam J. Sullivan, of Iowa, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation. Cal. #261 - Ronald L. Batory, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. Cal. #469 - Raymond Martinez, of New Jersey, to be Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Wrap Up: There were no wrap up items during today’s session of the Senate.   Thanks, Erica   Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)   To: The Fourth Estate From: STEW RE:  I don’t get it either Remember, Senate Democrats insisted on having an immigration debate this week. In fact, they shut down the government over it. They’ve known the debate would be this week for about a month now. Yet for the second day in a row, Senate Democrats have objected to actually starting debate on DACA/immigration/border security (if you don’t understand their obstruction, you’re not alone—I don’t get it either). The Majority Leader asked consent again this evening to have amendment votes tonight (Coons and Toomey). Sen. Durbin objected to having votes. So, the post-cloture time will continue to run overnight, and the Senate will convene at 10:00 tomorrow and we’ll finally be on the underlying House shell bill (the Dems can no longer stall the motion to proceed at that point). The Senate will adopt the motion to proceed following Leader remarks in the morning. That’s the good news. The bad news is that Dems can continue to object to voting on amendments tomorrow. And they likely will. Again, I don’t understand it either—you’ll need to ask them to explain it. And while Sen. Schumer today said “the sooner, the better” on wrapping up this debate, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in a letter to Sens. Schumer and McConnell today urged the Senate to “work swiftly,” Democrats continue to stall. Just last week, Sen. Schumer said that Democrats are “ready to proceed to a neutral bill—a shell bill— DOT-18-0010-B-000651 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001644 on immigration next week,” and that the Majority Leader “has guaranteed an amendment process, fair on all sides, where we will alternate amendments. That means some of the people who are on the very conservative side will get amendments and some on the very liberal side” will get votes. (Sen. Schumer, Congressional Record, S.795, 2/8/2018)   Yet this week, he objected to proceeding to the neutral bill by refusing to yield back post-cloture time for the second day in a row. He also now refuses to allow alternating amendments from both sides—unless he gets to pick both sides’ amendments and the order in which the Senate votes. That’s not the commitment the Majority Leader made to the Senate. Tomorrow will be a new day, and another chance for Democrats to stop objecting and start voting. But remember, having amendment votes tomorrow requires consent, and Democrats can object if they want to object. Here’s hoping that they won’t. While you’re waiting, maybe you can go here and find a new best friend. STEW @StewSays     For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2Hbn0H9                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2EZqFab On Immigration Reform, Border Security, Senate Needs to Look Past Talking Points, Focus on Making Law ‘Yesterday, a number of my colleagues announced a reasonable proposal that I believe is our best chance to make law… Their solution provides funding to secure the border, reforms extended family chain migration, and recalibrates the visa lottery program. This proposal has my support. And during this week of fair debate, I believe it deserves the support of every senator who is ready to move beyond making points and make law.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the immigration and border security debate: “Yesterday, the Senate took an initial step toward considering proposals to address DACA, border security, and other immigration issues. This week’s debate comes as no surprise to my colleagues. For a month now, I’ve repeatedly stated my intention to bring these issues to the Senate floor following a government funding agreement. Senators have had plenty of time to prepare. “There is no reason why we should not reach a bipartisan solution this week. But to do this, we need to get the debate started, look past making political points, and focus on making law. Making law will take sixty votes in the Senate, a majority in the House, and the president’s signature. “Yesterday, a number of my colleagues announced a reasonable proposal that I believe is our best chance to make law. It attends to my Democratic colleagues’ stated top priority: A compassionate solution for 1.8 million illegal immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. In exchange, it also delivers on the president’s stated conditions. Their solution provides funding to secure the border, reforms extended family chain migration, and recalibrates the visa lottery program. “This proposal has my support. And during this week of fair debate, I believe it deserves the support of every senator who is ready to move beyond making points and make law. But if other proposals are to be considered, our colleagues will have to actually introduce their own DOT-18-0010-B-000652 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001645 amendments, rather than just talk about them. I made a commitment to hold this debate, and to hold it this week. I have lived up to my commitment. I hope everyone will cooperate so this opportunity does not go to waste.” ###     For Immediate Release, Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Contacts: Don Stewart, David Popp Robert Steurer, Stephanie Penn Release: http://bit.ly/2Bu6nGq                   YouTube: http://bit.ly/2Ep55iD American Households Seeing Lower Utility Bills Thanks To Tax Reform ‘Recently, Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest utility, announced that their savings from tax reform will completely cover the costs of rebuilding critical infrastructure in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Absent tax reform, consumers would have paid for much of the repairs, in the form of higher rates. Now the utility can cover the cost itself, saving Florida families an average of $250. And in other states, from Montana to Massachusetts to my home state of Kentucky, utilities are planning to directly pass along their savings by cutting consumers’ monthly bills.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the benefits Americans across the country continue to see from tax reform:   “Last week, as part of our bipartisan funding agreement, the Senate approved much-needed disaster relief for communities hit by last year’s devastating storms. This was an important accomplishment. But it isn’t the only way this Congress has helped Americans begin to rebuild. “Recently, Florida Power & Light, the state’s largest utility, announced that their savings from tax reform will completely cover the costs of rebuilding critical infrastructure in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Absent tax reform, consumers would have paid for much of the repairs, in the form of higher rates. Now the utility can cover the cost itself, saving Florida families an average of $250. “And in other states, from Montana to Massachusetts to my home state of Kentucky, utilities are planning to directly pass along their savings by cutting consumers’ monthly bills. Of course, lower utility rates aren’t the only way tax reform is helping middle-class Americans. Week after week, the headlines are full of more bonuses, more pay raises, and more new benefits for hardworking Americans as a direct result of tax reform. “With all this good news pouring in, it’s easy to forget just how hotly the debate over tax reform was contested. Republicans argued that letting middle-class families keep more of their own money and giving American job creators a twenty-first-century tax code would unleash more prosperity and directly help American workers. “My Democratic colleagues gambled on a different prediction. Every single House Democrat voted in lock-step with their Leader. She predicted tax reform would bring about, quote, ‘Armageddon.’ Every single Democrat here in the Senate rallied behind their Leader, my friend from New York. He declared there was, quote, ‘nothing about this bill that suits the needs of the American worker.’ “We always knew one side would be proven wrong. Either tax reform would benefit middle-class DOT-18-0010-B-000653 AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001646 families and help reignite the economy, or it would not. Well, the early results speak for themselves. “In the great state of Missouri, 20 companies and counting have already announced tax reform bonuses, raises, or benefits. That includes thousand-dollar bonuses for 2,500 workers at Central Bank of St. Louis. And at Great Southern Bank in Springfield. And more bonuses at Mid-Am Metal Forming in Rogersville. One of the senators from Missouri voted for the policy that made all this happen. Their other senator tried to block it. “In Ohio, tax reform has already led Jergens to double employees’ annual raise. It’s enabled Sheffer Corporation, a cylinder manufacturer, to give workers four-figure bonuses. Here’s how Sheffer’s CEO responded to the Democrats who’ve been trying to talk down these bonuses: Quote, ‘Some people have said that’s ‘crumbs,’ but for the Sheffer people, we consider that fine dining.’ “And remember, these bonuses and pay raises are just the tip of the spear. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act also directly helps families by cutting tax rates and expanding deductions. In every paycheck, American workers will keep more of what they earn. “But only one senator from Ohio voted to put all this middle-class progress on the menu. Because every single Democrat in the Senate and the House voted to stop tax reform. Fortunately for middle-class families in Missouri, in Ohio, in Kentucky, and across the nation, Republicans overcame the obstruction and passed this historic bill.” ###     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000654 DOT-Am.Oversight-001647 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack. Terry (McConnell) Inman. Todd (OST) RE: Sched uling Wed nesd ay, Feb ruary 15, 2017 9 :53 :05 AM Very helpful. Thanks. Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 tl>ll6l From: Inma n, Todd (OST) [mailt o :t odd .inman@dot.gov ] Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 5:38 PM 6ic---To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) t6>< @mcconnell.senat e.gov> Subject: Scheduling Terry, Feel free to share secretaryscheduler@dot.gov to your staff if they have groups or ind ividuals want ing meetings w ith the Secretary. If there is someone of importance you our your team want to make sure we take an extra look at, when they submit the request have the cc me and that will flag it for al l three schedulers that we need to get it in front of her. No guarantees but it wi ll help. Let me know anything else I can do. Look forward to seeing you soon. Todd J. Todd In.Ulan Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90 -32 1 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretmyscheduler@dot.gov J DOT-18-0010-B-000655 DOT-Am.Oversight-001648 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Inman, Todd (OST) McGuire, Brian (McConnell) per our prior discussion. Thursday, February 16, 2017 3:32:00 PM OST Non-Career Staff Duties (3).docx J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of  Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000656 DOT-Am.Oversight-001649 DRAFT / WORK IN PROGRESS OST Non-Career Staff Duties Chief of Staff • Mike Britt; Michael.Britt@dot.gov; (b) (6) Senior White House Advisor • Anthony Pugliese; Anthony.Pugliese@dot.gov; (b) (6) Director of Operations / • Todd Inman; Todd.Inman@dot.gov; (b) (6) White House Liaison / Personnel • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Kirk Bell; Kirk.Bell@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Willis Morris; Willis.Morris@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Christopher Hess; Christopher.Hess@dot.gov; Briefing Book • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Wendy Gehring; Wendy.Gehring@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Owen Morgan; Owen.Morgan@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Melissa Fwu; Melissa.Fwu@dot.gov; Direct S-1 Assistance • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Erika Baum; Erika.Baum@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Melissa Fwu; Melissa.Fwu@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Jon Furman; Jon.Furman@dot.gov; Advance • ASSIST: Jeb Wilkinson; James Wilkinson@dot.gov; (b) (6) Executive Secretary • • (b) (6) LEAD: Ruth Knouse; Ruth.Knouse@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Monica Chin; Monica.Chin@dot.gov; Scheduling • • Wendy Gehring; Wendy.Gehring@dot.gov; (b) (6) Tina Henry; Tina.Henry@dot.gov; (b) (6) Office of Public Affairs • LEAD: Marianne McInerney; Marianne.McInerney@dot.gov; As of 02/15/17 VERSIGHT (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000657 DOT-Am.Oversight-001650 DRAFT / WORK IN PROGRESS OST Non-Career Staff Duties • ASSIST: Allison Moore; A.Moore@dot.gov; As of 02/15/17 VERSIGHT (b) (6) DOT-18-0010-B-000658 DOT-Am.Oversight-001651 DRAFT / WORK IN PROGRESS OST Non-Career Staff Duties Speechwriter • • (b) (6) LEAD: Laura Genero; Laura.Genero@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Doug Graham; Douglas.Graham@dot.gov; Budget and Programs / CFO • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Keith Nelson; Keith.Nelson@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Mike Powers; Michael.Powers@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Nick Yonkovich; Nick.Yonkovich@dot.gov; Legal • • • • (b) (6) LEAD: James Owens; J.Owens@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Matt Kopko; Matthew.Kopko@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Jim Ray; j.ray@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; brigham.mccown@dot.gov; Legislative Affairs • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Mark Sanborn; Mark.Sanborn@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Loren Smith; Loren.Smith@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Kris Iverson; Kristine.Iverson@dot.gov; Transportation Policy • Finch Fulton; Finch.Fulton@dot.gov; (b) (6) FAA • • • CONSULTANT: Dan Elwell; Daniel.Elwell@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Lori Urban; Lori.Urban@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Barry Plans; Barry.Plans@dot.gov; (b) (6) FHWA • • LEAD: Mike Powers; Michael.Powers@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Jim Ray; j.ray@dot.gov; (b) (6) FMCSA • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Loren Smith; Loren.Smith@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Chris Hess; Christopher.Hess@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; Brigham.Mccown@dot.gov; As of 02/15/17 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000659 DOT-Am.Oversight-001652 DRAFT / WORK IN PROGRESS OST Non-Career Staff Duties FRA • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Matt Kopko; Matthew.Kopko@dot.gov; (b) (6) ASSIST: Barry Plans; Barry.Plans@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Jim Ray; j.ray@dot.gov; FTA • • • (b) (6) LEAD: Matt Kopko; Matthew.Kopko@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; Brigham.Mccown@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Jim Ray; j.ray@dot.gov; MARAD • • (b) (6) LEAD: Lori Urban; Lori.Urban@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; brigham.mccown@dot.gov; NHTSA • • (b) (6) LEAD: Loren Smith; Loren.Smith@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Jim Ray; j.ray@dot.gov; PHMSA • • (b) (6) LEAD: Mark Sanborn; Mark.Sanborn@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; Brigham.Mccown@dot.gov; SLSDC • • (b) (6) LEAD: Lori Urban; Lori.Urban@dot.gov; (b) (6) CONSULTANT: Brigham McCown; Brigham.Mccown@dot.gov; As of 02/15/17 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000660 DOT-Am.Oversight-001653 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Smith, Loren (OST) Suares, Erica (McConnell) Neill, Jim (McConnell) RE: Senate Update // changing of the guard Monday, February 26, 2018 7:03:00 PM Thanks Erica and good luck in new role!   Welcome and congrats Jim, I think we may have met previously, but regardless, look forward to being in touch!   ~~~~ Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor – Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation W82-326 loren.smith@dot.gov (b) (6)     - From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, February 26, 2018 5:21 PM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Cc: Neill, Jim (McConnell) Subject: Senate Update // changing of the guard @mcconnell.senate.gov]   Good afternoon,   The Senate is in session and convened at 3:00 pm today. Following the close of Morning Business, Senator Peters delivered Washington’s Farewell Address. The Senate then proceeded to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #623, Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit.   At 5:30 pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Branch nomination.   This week will be spent processing nominations. ICYMI: Leader McConnell filed cloture on several nominations before the recess week. We will process these nominations in the order he filed cloture.   Please note the Leader has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (2/15/18): · Cal. #623 - Elizabeth L. Branch, of Georgia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit. · Cal. #153 - Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget. · Cal. #437 - A. Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., of South Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the District of South Carolina. DOT-18-0010-B-000661 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001654 · Cal. #438 - Karen Gren Scholer, of Texas, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas. · Cal. #439 - Tilman Eugene Self III, of Georgia, to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Georgia. · Cal. #536 - Terry A. Doughty, of Louisiana, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana.   Announcements:   We are very excited to announce a new McConnell team member – Jim Neill. Jim came to the Leader’s office from the Senate Budget Committee where he handled outreach and coalitions. Many of you know Jim from his good work during budget reconciliation on health care and tax reform.   Jim will handle all Conservative Coalitions for Leader McConnell, and can be reached at: Jim Neill@mcconnell.senate.gov   I won’t be going far! – I’ll be handling Business relations, Governors outreach, and an internal role here with our Legislative Directors.   FYI: The daily “Senate Update” email will go on! Starting tomorrow you may receive this update from either me or Jim – let us know if you have any questions!   Best, Erica     Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/   (b) (6)     DOT-18-0010-B-000662 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001655 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: McMaster, Sean (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell); Kan, Derek (OST) Sullivan, Adam (OST) RE: TVD <> Adam and Sean Wednesday, March 07, 2018 6:39:19 PM Terry, I would love to meet up.  Let me know if you have time later this week.  Otherwise, I will be at Senate Commerce for the Secretary's hearing next Wednesday and would love to catch up afterwards if you have a minute. -----Original Message----From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 06, 2018 11:24 PM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Sullivan, Adam (OST) ; McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: RE: TVD <> Adam and Sean Thanks Derek.  Look forward to working with y'all.  If you are up here for other meetings, let me know and hopefully we can tack on a brief sit down to get acquainted.  -----Original Message----From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek kan@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 06, 2018 8:50 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Sullivan, Adam (OST) ; McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: TVD <> Adam and Sean Terry, meet Adam and Sean. Adam is our new Assistant Secretary for Government Affairs and Sean is our DAS for Congressional. Adam and Sean, meet Terry. Terry leads transportation for the Leader. Hope you guys are able to find time to meet. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000663 DOT-Am.Oversight-001656 From: To: Subject: Date: Sullivan, Adam (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) RE: TVD <> Adam and Sean Wednesday, March 07, 2018 1:44:00 PM Hi Terry, I think we may have been introduced quickly once before a while back, but it will be great to meet you more formally soon.  (I came over from Senate Approps this week.)  I look forward to working with you and will give you a shout before I head up there next time! Best, Adam   -----Original Message----From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 6, 2018 11:24 PM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Sullivan, Adam (OST) ; McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: RE: TVD <> Adam and Sean Thanks Derek.  Look forward to working with y'all.  If you are up here for other meetings, let me know and hopefully we can tack on a brief sit down to get acquainted.  -----Original Message----From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek kan@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, March 06, 2018 8:50 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Sullivan, Adam (OST) ; McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: TVD <> Adam and Sean Terry, meet Adam and Sean. Adam is our new Assistant Secretary for Government Affairs and Sean is our DAS for Congressional. Adam and Sean, meet Terry. Terry leads transportation for the Leader. Hope you guys are able to find time to meet. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000664 DOT-Am.Oversight-001657 From: To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell} Subj ect : RE: Problematic provisions Thursday, March 08, 2018 3 :24:03 PM Kan, Derek (Osn Date : Helpfu l. Thank you . T e-vvyV£iUI\.IVor£Wv Policy Advi sor Office of Major ity Leader McCo nnell Washington, DC 205 10 I r)(S) From: Kan, Derek (OST)[mailt o:derek.kan@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 8, 2018 2:17 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (M cConnell) <'(lln si·----@mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Fwd: Problemat ic provisions Begin fo1wa rded message : From: derekkan@dotgov Date: March 7~2018 at 2 :05: 18 PM EST To: RussetlV oughll O B) DJ Glibbi'" n·----------- L C c: jeff rosen@dotgov Slemrod (OMB) -------- Subject: Problematic provisions tl>ll5l DOT-18-0010-B-000665 DOT-Am.Oversight-001658 AIVI ER I CAN pv RSI DOT-Am.Oversight-OO1659 AIVI ER I CAN pv RSI DOT-Am.Oversight-OO1660 From: To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell} Subject: RE: Gateway Friday, March 16, 2018 3 :49:14 PM Kan, Derek (Osn Date: That is fine. Thank you. Te-vvyV£iUI\.IVor£Wv Policy Adviso r Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 205 10 I r)(S) From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto :derek .kan@dot.gov ] Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 3:37 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <'(lln s·-i ---@mcconnell.senate.gov > Subject: Re: Gateway Yes wi ll be a couple of hrs because I' m in wit h the Secretary. On Mar 16, 2018, at 3:36 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) lbH6) @mcconne ll.senat e.gov> wrote: See attached document that highlights the NEC projects and funding associated with those projects ... upward $4 billion through 2020 . lbH5l DOT-18-0010-B-000668 DOT-Am.Oversight-001661 Northeast Corridor Five-Year Capital Plan Fiscal Years 2016 - 2020 l::x:~ cu~iv~. Symrnc3ry Ready to Invest Partners \Vith a stake in the future of the ~or theast Corridor (i'JEC or the Corridor ) are united and ready to reverse decades of deterioration and rebuild Northedst Corridor Five -Year Capital Plan Fiscal Years 2016 - 2020 the nation's busies t and mos t important passenger rail nern;ork. The N"EC Fi,·eYear Capita l Plan is a region -wide action plan that - if fully funded - would begin a modernization and impro,·ement program to enhance mobility and boost economic grO\Yrh. A Vital National Asset at Risk The ~ E C Fiw -Year Capital Plan is a joint effort among eight states, the District of Columbia, the l:'.S. Department of Transportation Full NEC Five-Year Capital Plan report at : http: / / nec:-c:ommission .c:om/ five-year-c:apital-plan (U.S. DOT ), Amtrak, eight commuter rail agencies, and other stakeho lders to sustain a nat ional asset tha t carries 750,000 passengers each day, moves a commuting workforce that contributes $50 billion annua lly to the gross domestic product, and transports more intercity passengers within the ~ortheas t than all airlines combined. The loss of the ~ E C for a single day could cost the country Sl 00 million in added congestion, produc ti,·ity losses, and ot her transportation impacts. T hi s scenario becomes more real \,·ith each passing clay.The N"EC is composed of many assets that elate back to the period between the Ci,·il \'.;'ar and the N"ew Deal. _,\s infrastructure deteriorates and seffice levels reach the N"EC's practical capacity, we must choose between declining reliability and limited econom ic grow th or building the next genera tion of the railroad . DOT-18-0010-B-000669 DOT-Am.Oversight-001662 National Benefits The NEC Five-Year Capital Plan - if fully funded - would provide ben efits that reach across the cou ntry. The Plan would employ an average o f 42,200 wor kers per year, mostly in manufacturing and construction, in at least 22 states ranging from South D akota to South Caro lina. Another 22,700 jobs per year would be supported across all economic sectors as these workers spen d their incomes and return do llars to the economy. Commuter and inte rcity rail passenge rs would suffer fewer delays and enjoy b etter service. Residents of the No r theast would see new or improved statio n facilities in tl1e hearts o f their hometowns and key job centers, supporting the eco nomic vitality of tl1eir surrou nding commu nities. Grow Our Economy Economic Development Invest in more than 30 stations in communities housing 7 million jobs, or 1 out of 3 in the Northeast • Modernize Our Infrastructure Reliability • Reduce malfunctions where single points of failure can delay thousands of riders and cost millions of dollars 0 0 Jobs Support 42,200 d irect jobs per year in construction, manufacturing, and related industries in as many as 22 states Efficiency Automate outdated manual tasks to maximize the productivity of each operating and maintenance dollar Prepare For Our Future Resiliency Reduce vulnerability to mobility failures and economic disaster in the face of extraordinary events Growth Lay II foundation for rail service expansion Rendering of Portal Bridge North over the Hackensack River in New Jersey. This modern replacement for a century-old, failure-prone movable swing bridge is fully designed and ready for construction, but lacks funding. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000670 DOT-Am.Oversight-001663 Shovel Ready or Funded for Construction, FY16-20 o ft. Penn Station & Moynihan Station V ft Y ♦ NJT: Newark Station Platforms o Penn Station Access .. ..... ! : • :. ..................... . : : ft V ... Gateway North Albany -Renesslae r Station Fourth Track V ~ Program ••••: I.IA.Portal Bridge ••••••: Ill}. ~ MBTA Station lmprove m en r MBTA Layover Faci lity lmprovem~nts !......... Springfield : :....0 Ill}. Sp ringfield ..... V Haro ld Interloc king Ri~er-to -River Rail Resiliency Projects "'- Union Stat ion ft V Kingston Track Improvements New Haven- ••• • Hartford Springfield Rail Prog ra m ,-,.._ ___ -; .... o Hudson Line Signals, Undergrade ~ Bridge, and Station Improvements •• • • • • ••••••••••• : New Haven Ill}. V V 0 0 Norwal k River Bridge 0 Pelham Bay Bridge Rep lacement Newa rk New York City NJT: Elizabeth Station •••••••••• ... Improvements - ....-. -••-.-••-......... 0 NJ TRANSITGRID 0 County Ya~d. ........... 0 Hunter Flyover NJT: New Brunswick Station Improvements • 1l• ••••• .. •• L..... • • ............ : "1JA •••••••••••••••••• --•••••••••••• 'Iii Delco 0 Connecticut River Bridge L.o Devon Bridge Replacement New Haven Line Stations, Signals, ••••• Catenary and Undergrade Bridge Improvements r--- Ill}. Boston .......... ft V Alba ny V ft V SEPTA Station Improve ments • :..... 0 + • • + Lead Storage and Re- inspection Fac1l1ty New Jersey High-Speed Rail Program Harrisburg ... • • Ill}. ~ ft Harnsburi : V Improvements a W Line Station State ••••••••O ••• .. ••••• Interlocking 'Iii • •••••••••••••• O Delaware Third Track Program Newark Regiona l Transportation Susquehanna Center River Bndge Replacement •••••••••••• •••••••••••: 0 MARC Storage Facility Improvements :Q Washingto n, DC :······ .. . .. A .. U ft V 0 . ft V MARC Station Improvements Baltimore & Potomac Tunnels Baltimore to Washington Section Improvements Washington Union Station Train Storage Faci lities Washington Union Station Master Plan Implementation AMERICAN pVERSIGHT 0 Projects Funded for Construction, FY16-20 ft V Shovel Ready Projects that could be Advanced to Construction if Additional Funding we re Available, FY16-20 DOT-18-0010-B-000671 DOT-Am.Oversight-001664 A Comprehensive Plan The NEC Five-Year Capital Plan integrates all categories of capital investment from all owners of and operators on N EC infrastructure , from the routine swapping of old rail ties for new, to the replacement of generation s-old major bridges and tunnels. The Plan is a consolidated statement of proposed action over the next five years if adequate funding were available. However, it does not represent a funding commitment or an agreement among agencies regarding how individual pro jects will advance. The Plan is an assessment of how much funding is available and how much additional funding is needed to implement key state -of-good-repair , system modernization , resiliency, and chokepoint mitigation projects to relieve today's most unreliable and overcrowded trains. The Plan will require far higher levels of investment than traditional funding sources have provided. A Path Forward The NEC Five-Year Capital Plan is a first-of -its-kind region-wide effort to chart a common course for feasibly ramping up capital investment. In December 2014 , the Commission approved the NEC Commuter and Intercity Cost Allocation Policy (the Policy) which establishes a new framework for regional collaboration. The Policy includes cons istent , transparent , and equitable methods for sharing operating and baseline capital costs according to each railroad's relative use. However, this agreement alone will not fully fund the NEC Five-Year Capital Plan. It has been the long-standing position of NEC stakeholders that the federal government has primary responsibility for eliminating the backlog of deferred maintenance and restming the infrastructure to a state-of -good -repair. The Policy proposes that the federal government use the NEC Five-Year Capital Plan to steer its investment in the Corridor. NEC Five-Year Capital Plan: FY2016-2020, Funded Plan vs. Unfunded Capital Needs $5 billion $4 billion $3 billion D $2 billion ■ Funded Capital Plan Unfunded Capital Needs $1 billion 0 FY2015 Budget FY2016 Plan FY2017 Plan FY2018 Plan FY2019 Plan FY2020 Plan To d ownload the full NEC Five-Year Cap ital Plan or for mo re info rmation abo ut t he N EC Com mission, plea se visit o ur we bsite : www.nec -comm ission.com Northeast Corridor Commission AML pVERSIGHT I 840 First Street NE, Suite 440 I Washington, DC 20002 info@ne c-co mmiss ion .co m I (202) 847-0280 DOT-18-0010-B-000672 DOT-Am.Oversight-001665 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) State of Good Repair Friday, March 16, 2018 2:13:41 PM Good to see you earlier.  Is there a list of the backlog for Federal Railroad Administration’s Federal-State Partnership for State of Good Repair program?  I.e. if you give that account money without provisos, what is the universe of what could be funded?    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000673 DOT-Am.Oversight-001666 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Do you have a second to chat? Saturday, March 17, 2018 6:12:25 PM (b) (6) - .  But call my cell (b) (6) -----Original Message----From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek kan@dot.gov] Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 6:10 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Do you have a second to chat? What’s a good number for you? Sent from my iPad AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000674 DOT-Am.Oversight-001667 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Follow up Saturday, March 17, 2018 2:11:38 PM I can talk now or whenever today.  What works for you?    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Sullivan, Adam (OST) [mailto:adam.sullivan@dot.gov] Sent: Saturday, March 17, 2018 12:58 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: Follow up   Hello Terry, would you be available for a quick call with Derek and me this afternoon? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000675 DOT-Am.Oversight-001668 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Kan, Derek (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov Fwd: FTA report Thursday, March 08, 2018 2:13:03 PM fy19-FTA-CIG-annual-report.pdf ATT00001.htm Van Doren, Terry Begin forwarded message: From: "Rosen, Jeff (OST)" Date: March 8, 2018 at 2:12:19 PM EST To: "Kan, Derek (OST)" Subject: FTA report   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000676 DOT-Am.Oversight-001669 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations Fiscal Year 2019 Capital Investment Grants Program Report of the Secretary of Transportation to the United States Congress Pursuant to 49 USC 5309(o)(1) and Section 3005(b)(11) of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act February 2018 Prepared by: Federal Transit Administration Available from: Federal Transit Administration Office of Planning and Environment 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 www.transit.dot.gov AMERICAN PVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000677 DOT-Am.Oversight-001670 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations Table of Contents Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 1 General Commitment Guidelines for Capital Investment Grants Program Projects ...................... 2 The FY 2019 Funding Allocations and Recommendations ............................................................ 7 Tables Table 1 FY 2019 Funding Proposed for Capital Investment Grants Program ................................ 5 Table 2A Summary of Capital Investment Grants Program FY 2019 Project Ratings .................. 9 Table 2B Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Local Financial Commitment Ratings ........................ 11 Table 2C Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Project Justification Ratings ....................................... 13 A f (I pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000678 DOT-Am.Oversight-001671 i Annual Report on Funding Recommendations Introduction This Annual Report on Funding Recommendations is issued by the United States Secretary of Transportation to help inform the appropriations process for the upcoming fiscal year (FY) by providing information on projects that have been submitted to the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) discretionary Capital Investment Grants Program. The Capital Investment Grant Program The Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Program outlined in 49 USC 5309, was most recently authorized in December 2015 by the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act1 (FAST). Since 1964, Congress has provided Federal funds to supplement certain local transit projects. In FY 2017, Congress provided $9.1 billion in formula funds distributed to state and local governments for local transit projects. The CIG Program supplements those expenditures with additional financial resources for transit capital projects that are locally planned, implemented, and operated. It provides discretionary funding for fixed guideway investments such as new and expanded heavy rail, commuter rail, light rail, streetcars, bus rapid transit, and ferries as well as corridor-based bus rapid transit investments that emulate the features of rail. There are three categories of eligible projects under the CIG program: New Starts, Small Starts, and Core Capacity. New Starts and Core Capacity projects are required by law to go through a three phase process - Project Development, Engineering, and Construction. Small Starts projects are required by law to go through a two phase process - Project Development and Construction. As defined in law, New Starts projects are those whose sponsors request $100 million or more in Capital Investment Grants Program funds or have an anticipated total capital cost of $300 million or more. Core Capacity projects are substantial investments in existing fixed-guideway corridors that are at capacity today or will be in five years, where the proposed project will increase capacity by not less than 10 percent. Small Starts projects are those whose sponsors request less than $100 million in Capital Investment Grants Program funds and have an anticipated total capital cost of less than $300 million. Section 5309 CIG funding is provided for a portion of the total project cost, including design and construction. By law, New Starts projects are limited to a maximum Section 5309 CIG program share of 60 percent, and Core Capacity and Small Starts projects are limited to a maximum Section 5309 CIG program share of 80 percent. Ordinarily, the Federal program share is less than those maximums, and often by a considerable amount. All CIG projects must be evaluated and rated on a set of statutorily defined project justification and local financial commitment criteria and receive and maintain a “Medium” or better overall rating to advance through the various phases and be eligible for funding. Ratings are point in time evaluations by FTA and may change as the proposed project proceeds through planning and design when information concerning costs, benefits, financial plans, and impacts is refined. Once a construction grant agreement is awarded, the project is no longer evaluated and rated. 1 This Annual Report is required by Federal Public Transportation Law, 49 USC 5309(o)(1). DOT-18-0010-B-000679 A VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001672 1 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations Section 3005(b) of FAST newly established the Expedited Delivery Pilot Program, which allows FTA to select up to eight projects for participation in the pilot. Eligible projects include New Starts, Small Stars, and Core Capacity projects that are seeking no more than 25 percent in Federal funding, are supported in part through a public private partnership, and will be operated and maintained by an existing public transportation provider. Similar to the requirements for the CIG Program, Section 3005(b)(11) of FAST requires FTA to submit to Congress an annual report on the proposed amount of funding for this pilot program. This Report provides general information about the CIG Program, including the guidelines that the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) uses to make funding recommendations. Table 1 identifies the FY 2019 funding amount recommended for individual CIG projects, with information on each project’s cost and funding history. No other funding of projects is recommended at this time, but Tables 2A, 2B, and 2C provide the results of FTA’s evaluation and rating of the CIG projects at this juncture. Information Available on the FTA Web Site More information on the CIG program can be found on FTA’s website at www.transit.dot.gov/funding/grant-programs/capital-investments/about-program. Also available on the website are profiles of each of the projects in the program pipeline in the section labeled “Current Projects.” General Funding Recommendation and Funding Commitment Guidelines for CIG Projects  Any project recommended for CIG funding by FTA in the Annual Report must meet the project justification, local financial commitment, and process criteria established in Section 5309, and should be consistent with Executive Order 12893, Principles for Federal Infrastructure Investments, issued January 26, 1994.  Funding recommendations are based on the results of the project evaluation process and resulting project justification, local financial commitment, and overall project ratings, as well as considerations such as project readiness and the availability of CIG funds.  The decision whether to enter into a construction grant agreement is discretionary. Even if FTA decides to proceed with such an agreement, FTA does not sign a construction grant agreement committing CIG funding until after the project sponsor has demonstrated that its project is ready for such an agreement. This includes assurance that the project’s development and design have progressed to the point where its scope, costs, benefits, and impacts are considered firm and final, the project sponsor has obtained all non-CIG funding commitments, and the project sponsor has completed all critical third party agreements. Under the longstanding CIG program framework, FTA establishes a maximum fixed CIG dollar amount upon entry into the Engineering phase for New Starts and Core Capacity projects, or at award of the construction grant agreement for Small Starts projects. Thereafter, the project sponsor assumes the risk for any cost overruns or funding shortfalls that may occur on a project. A f (I 2 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000680 DOT-Am.Oversight-001673 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations  The construction grant agreement, called either a Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) for New Starts and Core Capacity projects or a Small Starts Grant Agreement (SSGA) for Small Starts projects, defines the project including its cost, scope, schedule, and level of service; commits to a maximum level of annual and total Capital Investment Grants Program financial assistance (subject to Congressional appropriation); establishes the terms and conditions of Federal financial participation; defines the period of time for completion of the project, and helps FTA oversee and the project sponsor manage the project in accordance with Federal law. Upon completion of the payment schedule outlined in an FFGA or SSGA, the CIG funding commitment has been fulfilled. Additional CIG funding will not be recommended for the project. Any additional costs are the responsibility of the project sponsor. FTA works closely with project sponsors to identify and implement strategies for containing capital costs at the level indicated in the FFGA or SSGA at the time it was signed.  When preparing funding recommendations for the upcoming fiscal year, FTA’s priority is to honor the commitments made in existing construction grant agreements. New projects not yet under construction grant agreements are recommended for funding only if proposed CIG funding levels are sufficient.  Initial planning efforts conducted prior to entry into the first phase of the CIG process are not eligible for CIG funding, but funding may be provided for that work through grants under the Section 5303 Metropolitan Planning Program, the Section 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Program, or Title 23 “flexible funding.”  FTA encourages project sponsors to provide an overmatch as a means of funding more projects and leveraging State and local financial resources as well as other Federal financial resources. For large projects, a Federal CIG program share of 37 percent was the maximum in new FFGAs awarded since January 2017. FTA emphasizes that the process of project evaluation and rating is ongoing. As a proposed CIG project proceeds through planning and design, information concerning costs, benefits, financial plans, and impacts is refined and the project rating may be reassessed to reflect new information. A f (I pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000681 DOT-Am.Oversight-001674 3 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations A f (I 4 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000682 DOT-Am.Oversight-001675 Table 1 - FY 2019 Funding Recommendations for the Section 5309 Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Program Mode Section 5309 CIG Request Total Project Cost Section 5309 CIG Share Section 5309 Remaining CIG Funds Section 5309 CIG Appropriated/ Funding Needs Allocated After FY 2017 Through FY 2017 President's FY 2018 CIG Budget Proposal Existing New Starts Full Funding Grant Agreements (FFGAs) Existing Core Capacity Full Funding Grant Agreements Oversight - 1% takedown by statute Total Existing New Starts FFGAs CA Los Angeles, Regional Connector CA Los Angeles, Westside Subway Section 1 CA Los Angeles, Westside Subway Section 2 CA San Diego, Mid-Coast Corridor Transit Project MA Boston Green Line Extension MD Maryland National Capital Purple Line OR Portland, Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail Project TX Fort Worth, TEX Rail Subtotal LRT HR HR LRT LRT LRT LRT CR $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 1,402,932,490 2,821,957,153 2,499,239,536 2,171,200,545 2,297,618,856 2,407,030,286 1,490,350,173 1,034,411,932 16,124,740,971 Existing Core Capacity FFGAs CA San Carlos, Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project IL Chicago, Red and Purple Line Modernization Project Phase One Subtotal CR HR $ $ $ 1,930,670,934 2,066,702,783 3,997,373,717 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 669,900,000 1,250,000,000 1,187,000,000 1,043,380,000 996,121,000 900,000,000 745,175,087 499,390,221 7,290,966,308 47.7% 44.3% 47.5% 48.1% 43.4% 37.4% 50.0% 48.3% $ 365,000,000 $ 365,000,000 $ 200,000,000 $ 150,000,000 $ 400,000,000 $ 328,000,000 $ 579,510,943 $ 254,000,000 $ 2,641,510,943 $ 304,900,000 $ 885,000,000 $ 987,000,000 $ 893,380,000 $ 596,121,000 $ 572,000,000 $ 165,664,144 $ 245,390,221 $ 4,649,455,365 $ 647,000,000 $ 956,607,772 $ 1,603,607,772 33.5% 46.3% $ $ $ $ 474,043,407 $ 665,476,132 $ 1,139,519,539 172,956,593 291,131,640 464,088,233 Other Projects That May Become Ready for Funding * $ $ $ $ $ 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000 150,000,000 $ $ 100,000,000 100,000,000 $ 100,000,000 $ 111,750,149 FY 2019 Section 5309 CIG Funding Recommendations $ $ $ $ 835,664,144 200,000,000 10,461,254 1,046,125,398 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000 150,000,000 120,000,000 65,664,144 100,000,000 835,664,144 $ $ $ 100,000,000 100,000,000 200,000,000 The FY 2019 CIG budget request includes $1 billion in new budget authority and $46 million in anticipated prior year recoveries for a total of $1.046 billion. LRT = light rail transit, HR = heavy rail, CR = commuter rail * The President's FY 2018 Budget Proposal included $111,750,149 million for "Other projects that may become ready for funding" and noted, "The FFGA for the Caltrain Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project is planned to be signed shortly and the Maryland National Capital Purple Line FFGA remains under review due to pending litigation." Both FFGAs have since been signed. A V1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000683 DOT-Am.Oversight-001676 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations A f (I 6 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000684 DOT-Am.Oversight-001677 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations The FY 2019 Funding Allocations and Recommendations The FY 2019 proposal limits funding for the CIG Program to projects with existing full funding grant agreements. For the remaining projects in the CIG program, FTA is not requesting or recommending funding. Future investments in new transit projects would be funded by the localities that use and benefit from these localized projects. Therefore, FTA is recommending a total appropriation of $1.046 billion in Section 5309 Capital Investment Grants Program funds in FY 2019 with the proposed distribution as follows:  $1.037 billion for 10 existing FFGAs, including eight New Starts and two Core Capacity projects;  No funding for new Small Starts Projects;  No funding for the Expedited Delivery Pilot Program; and  $10.461 million for management and oversight (1.0% of the FY 2019 funding level.) The funding proposed for the existing FFGAs shown above includes the negotiated payment outlined in each FFGA or the amount needed to complete the CIG commitment if the project is in the last year of its payment schedule. The Administration has developed a comprehensive infrastructure proposal that accelerates projects, spurs private sector innovation, and improves how the Federal government delivers infrastructure projects. Transit projects will be eligible to compete for Federal financial support in this proposal. However, none of the projects listed in the tables below (2A, 2B, 2C) are recommended for funding from the CIG program. Project Evaluation and Ratings The Capital Investment Grants project evaluation and ratings included in this report are based on a process specified in statute. Federal transportation law (49 USC 5309) establishes various criteria on which proposed projects must be evaluated and specifies a five-point rating scale: High, Medium-High, Medium, Medium-Low, and Low. To advance in the process toward a funding recommendation in the President’s budget and a construction grant agreement, a project must be rated Medium or better overall. Even when a project is recommended for funding, receipt of Capital Investment Grants program funding is only awarded once the project sponsor can assure FTA that the proposed project scope, cost estimate, and budget are firm and reliable, all funding commitments are in place, and all critical third party agreements are completed. If a project receives a construction grant agreement from FTA, it is no longer required to be evaluated and rated. FTA does not require project sponsors to submit information annually for evaluation and rating for the Annual Report. Rather, FTA only requires sponsors to submit information for an updated evaluation and rating of the project for the Annual Report if: 1) the project sponsor wants the project to be considered as a candidate for a funding recommendation in the President’s budget; 2) significant issues have been raised in prior year evaluations that warrant a rerating; or 3) there has been a significant change to the project since the last evaluation. DOT-18-0010-B-000685 A VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001678 7 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations Projects can be expected to continue to change as they progress through the development process. Hence, the ratings included in this Annual Report should not be construed as statements about the ultimate success or failure of those projects. Rather, the ratings provide assessments of the projects’ strengths and weaknesses at the point in time when they were rated. Tables 2A, 2B, and 2C present the ratings for all projects with applications that have asked to advance in the Capital Investment Grants program. Table 2A is the Summary of FY 2019 Project Ratings; Table 2B is the Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Local Financial Commitment Ratings; and Table 2C is the Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Project Justification Ratings. Since publication of the FY 2018 Annual Report in May 2017, three projects received construction grant agreements. In addition, one project entered the New Starts Engineering phase, two projects entered the Core Capacity Engineering phase, and five projects entered the New Starts, Small Starts, or Core Capacity Project Development phase. These include the following: New Starts Project that Received Construction Grant Agreement  MD National Capital Purple Line Core Capacity Project that Received Construction Grant Agreement  CA San Carlos Caltrain Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project Small Starts that Received Construction Grant Agreement  FL Fort Lauderdale WAVE Streetcar New Starts Projects Entered into Engineering  NC Durham Durham-Orange LRT Core Capacity Projects Entered into Engineering  NY New York City Canarsie Line Power and Station Improvements  TX Dallas Red and Blue Line Platform Extensions New Starts Projects Entered into Project Development  AZ Phoenix Northwest Phase II LRT Extension  MN St. Paul METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit Small Starts Projects Entered into Project Development  IN Indianapolis Purple Line BRT  MO Kansas City Streetcar Expansion  PA Pittsburgh Downtown-Uptown-Oakland-East End BRT Project  WA Seattle Roosevelt RapidRide BRT In the project evaluations in the tables below, there are five projects that earned an overall project rating below Medium. Notwithstanding the range of projects and ratings listed below, none are recommended for funding from the current CIG program in FY 2019. However, some A f (I 8 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000686 DOT-Am.Oversight-001679 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations such projects may be eligible to use formula grant funds from other FTA programs, as such programs provided $9.1 billion to state and local governments in FY 2017. For a further discussion of the Administration’s proposals for the CIG program, please refer to the proposed Budget of the United States for FY 2019. The Budget also includes proposals of expanded infrastructure investment, some of which may be applicable to projects listed in Tables 2A, 2B, and 2C below. A f (I pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000687 DOT-Am.Oversight-001680 9 Annual Report on Funding Recommendations A f (I 10 pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000688 DOT-Am.Oversight-001681 Table 2A -- Capital Investment Grant Program Summary of FY 2019 Project Ratings CORE CAPACITY PROJECTS Phase State, City, Project Core Capacity Engineering NY New York City, Canarsie Line Power and Station Improvements TX Dallas, DART Red and Blue Line Platform Extensions Core Capacity Project Development CA San Francisco, Transbay Corridor Core Capacity Project IN Gary to Michigan City, NICTD Double Track - Northwest Indiana NJ Hudson County, Portal North Bridge TX Dallas, CBD Second Light Rail Alignment (D2 Subway) NEW STARTS PROJECTS Phase State, City, Project New Starts Engineering CA Santa Ana, Santa Ana - Garden Grove Streetcar Project MN Minneapolis, METRO Blue Line Extension (Bottineau LRT) MN Minneapolis, Southwest Light Rail Transit NC Durham, Durham-Orange Light Rail Transit WA Seattle, Lynnwood Link Extension New Starts Project Development AZ Phoenix, Northwest Extension Phase II AZ Phoenix, South Central Light Rail Extension CA Los Angeles, Westside Purple Line Extension, Section 3 ^ CA San Jose, BART Silicon Valley Phase II - Extension to San Jose and Santa Clara IN Lake County, West Lake Corridor MN St Paul, METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit NJ-NY Secaucus, Hudson Tunnel ^ NY New York City, Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 WA Seattle, Federal Way Link Extension - Sound Transit Capital Cost (millions) Financing Costs (millions) Total CIG CIG Share of Total Capital Funding Request Capital Costs Cost (millions) (millions) Local Financial Commitment Rating Project Justification Rating Overall Project Rating $336 8 $148 6 $36 2 $0 6 $372 9 $149 2 $100 0 $74 4 26 8% 49 9% Medium-High High Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium-High $2,606 1 $321 0 $1,428 6 $1,321 3 $103 5 $33 5 $134 1 $78 3 $2,709 5 $354 6 $1,562 7 $1,399 5 $1,250 0 $177 2 $772 0 $699 8 46 1% 50 0% 49 4% 50 0% Medium-High --Medium-Low Medium-High Medium-High --Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High --Medium-Low Medium-High Local Financial Commitment Rating Project Justification Rating Overall Project Rating Capital Cost (millions) Financing Costs (millions) Total CIG CIG Share of Total Capital Funding Request Capital Costs Cost (millions) (millions) $299 3 $1,506 2 $1,802 7 $2,382 7 $2,934 8 $0 0 $30 0 $55 0 $93 6 $134 6 $299 3 $1,536 2 $1,857 7 $2,476 3 $3,069 4 $149 0 $752 7 $928 8 $1,238 2 $1,172 7 49 8% 49 0% 50 0% 50 0% 38 2% Medium-High High Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium-High $303 5 $689 6 $2,913 0 $4,693 0 $661 0 $420 0 $11,429 1 $6,000 0 $2,056 2 $15 2 $14 9 $564 7 $0 0 $115 1 $0 0 $2,170 4 --$109 3 $318 7 $704 5 $3,477 8 $4,693 0 $776 1 $420 0 $13,599 5 $6,000 0 $2,165 5 $156 1 $345 2 $1,300 0 --$387 9 $189 0 $6,718 2 $2,000 0 $500 0 49 0% 49 0% 37 4% --50 0% 45 0% 49 4% 33 3% 23 1% Medium-Low Medium-High Medium-High ------Medium-Low --Medium-High Medium Medium Medium-High ------Medium --Medium Medium-Low Medium-High Medium-High ------Medium-Low --Medium-High ^ This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process PD is the phase when a project sponsor completes the environmental review process, selects a locally preferred alternative, gets it adopted into the fiscally constrained long range plan, and develops the information necessary for the project to be evaluated and rated by FTA Thus, the project cost, including financing charges, may not yet be known --- This project has not been rated because it entered PD under the MAP-21 and FAST procedures, which do not require a rating to be assigned upon entry into PD A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000689 DOT-Am.Oversight-001682 Table 2A -- Capital Investment Grant Program Summary of FY 2019 Project Ratings SMALL STARTS PROJECTS Phase State, City, Project Small Starts Project Development ^ AZ Flagstaff, Transit Spine BRT AZ Tempe, Tempe Streetcar ^ CA Los Angeles, Downtown Los Angeles Streetcar CA Sacramento, Downtown Riverfront Streetcar Project CA San Bernardino, Redlands Passenger Rail Project CA San Rafael, SMART Regional Rail - San Rafael to Larkspur Extension FL Jacksonville, First Coast Flyer Bus Rapid Transit Southwest Corridor FL Jacksonville, JTA First Coast Flyer BRT East Corridor ^ FL Orlando, SunRail Connector to the Orlando International Airport +++ FL Orlando, SunRail Phase II North FL St Petersburg, Central Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Project IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Purple Rapid Transit Line IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Red Line Rapid Transit ^ LA Baton Rouge, TramLinkBR MI Grand Rapids, Laker Line BRT MI Lansing, Capital Area Transportation Authority Bus Rapid Transit Project MN Minneapolis, METRO Orange Line Bus Rapid Transit MO Kansas City, Kansas City Streetcar Expansion MO Kansas City, Prospect MAX ^ NC Chapel Hill, North-South BRT NM Albuquerque, Rapid Transit Project NV Reno, Virginia Street Bus RAPID Transit Extension NY Albany, River Corridor Bus Rapid Transit NY Albany, Washington-Western Bus Rapid Transit NY New York City, Woodhaven Boulevard Select Bus Service OR Portland, Division Transit Project PA Pittsburgh, Downtown-Uptown-Oakland-East End BRT TX El Paso, Montana RTS Corridor ^ VA Alexandria, West End Transitway WA Everett, Swift II BRT WA Seattle, Madison Street BRT WA Seattle, Roosevelt RapidRide Project WA Seattle, Seattle Center City Connector WA Spokane, Spokane Central City Line WA Tacoma, Tacoma Link Extension WI Milwaukee, Milwaukee East-West BRT Capital Cost (millions) $32 9 $176 6 $295 4 $208 5 $274 3 $55 4 $33 2 $33 9 $175-$225M $68 7 $41 4 $139 5 $96 3 $167 5 $72 8 $141 8 $150 7 $263 0 $55 8 $96 8-$105 9 $133 7 $80 8 $40 9 $108 8 $225 7 $168 5 $195 5 $47 0 $119-$140M $73 6 $120 0 $77 2 $177 0 $72 0 $214 6 $53 5 Financing Costs (millions) $0 0 $9 4 $0 0 $0 0 $1 9 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $2 3 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 --$0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $6 2 $0 0 $0 0 --$0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0 0 Total CIG CIG Share of Total Capital Funding Request Capital Costs Cost (millions) (millions) $32 9 $186 0 $295 4 $208 5 $276 2 $55 4 $33 2 $33 9 $175-$225M $68 7 $41 4 $139 5 $96 3 $169 8 $72 8 $141 8 $150 7 $263 0 $55 8 $96 8-$105 9 $133 7 $80 8 $40 9 $108 8 $225 7 $174 7 $195 5 $47 0 $119-$140M $73 6 $120 0 $77 2 $177 0 $72 0 $214 6 $53 5 --$75 0 $100 0 $100 0 $80 0 $22 5 $23 2 $16 9 --$34 3 $20 4 $69 7 $75 0 $84 0 $56 2 $97 8 $74 1 $100 0 $29 9 $77 4-$84 7 $75 0 $40 4 $32 7 $87 1 $97 1 $87 3 $97 8 $28 2 --$43 2 $59 9 $38 6 $75 0 $53 4 $75 0 $37 4 --40 3% 33 9% 48 0% 29 0% 40 6% 70 0% 50 0% --49 9% 49 2% 49 9% 77 8% 49 5% 77 2% 69 0% 49 2% 38 0% 53 6% --56 1% 50 0% 80 0% 80 0% 43 0% 50 0% 50 0% 60 0% --58 7% 49 9% 50 0% 42 4% 74 2% 34 9% 70 0% Local Financial Commitment Rating Project Justification Rating Overall Project Rating --Medium-High --High Medium-High High Medium High --Not Rated High High Medium --Medium Medium-Low High --Medium --Medium High Medium Medium High High High Medium --Medium High High High Medium High Medium --Medium --Medium Medium-Low Medium Medium Medium --Not Rated Medium Medium Medium --Medium-High Medium Medium --Medium-High --Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium --Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium Medium --Medium-High --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium-High Medium Medium-High --Not Rated Medium-High Medium-High Medium --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium-High --Medium-High --Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium Medium-High Medium-High High Medium --Medium High High High Medium Medium-High Medium +++ Questions remain on the capital and operating costs submitted by the project sponsor Therefore, FTA was unable to develop ratings for the project ^ This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process PD is the phase when a project sponsor completes the environmental review process, selects a locally preferred alternative, gets it adopted into the fiscally constrained long range plan, and develops the information necessary for the project to be evaluated and rated by FTA Thus, the project cost, including financing charges, may not yet be known --- This project has not been rated because it entered PD under the MAP-21 and FAST procedures, which do not require a rating to be assigned upon entry into PD A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000690 DOT-Am.Oversight-001683 Table 2B -- Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Local Financial Commitment Ratings CORE CAPACITY PROJECTS Phase State, City, Project Core Capacity Engineering NY New York City, Canarsie Line Power and Station Improvements TX Dallas, DART Red and Blue Line Platform Extensions Core Capacity Project Development CA San Francisco, Transbay Corridor Core Capacity Project IN Gary to Michigan City, NICTD Double Track - Northwest Indiana NJ Hudson County, Portal North Bridge TX Dallas, CBD Second Light Rail Alignment (D2 Subway) Local Financial Commitment Factors Current Financial Condition Rating Commitment of Funds Rating Reasonableness of the Financial Plan Rating CIG Share of Capital Costs Local Financial Commitment Summary Rating Medium N/A High N/A Medium-Low N/A 26.8% 49.9% Medium-High High High --Medium Medium-High Medium --Medium-Low High Medium-Low --Medium-Low Medium 46.1% 50.0% 49.4% 50.0% Medium-High --Medium-Low Medium-High If the summary local financial commitment rating is rated at least Medium and the CIG Program share is less than 50 percent of the project’s capital cost, then the summary local financial commitment rating is raised one level. --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD. "N/A" signifies that this subfactor does not apply because the project qualified for the financial rating "warrant" outlined in FTA's Final Interim Policy Guidance. NEW STARTS PROJECTS Phase Local Financial Commitment Factors Current Financial Condition Rating Commitment of Funds Rating Reasonableness of the Financial Plan Rating CIG Share of Capital Costs Local Financial Commitment Summary Rating New Starts Engineering CA Santa Ana, Santa Ana - Garden Grove Streetcar Project MN Minneapolis, METRO Blue Line Extension (Bottineau LRT) MN Minneapolis, Southwest Light Rail Transit NC Durham, Durham-Orange Light Rail Transit WA Seattle, Lynnwood Link Extension Medium-High High High Medium-High Medium-High High High High Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium-Low 49.8% 49.0% 50.0% 50.0% 38.2% Medium-High High Medium-High Medium Medium-High New Starts Project Development AZ Phoenix, Northwest Extension Phase II AZ Phoenix, South Central Light Rail Extension CA Los Angeles, Westside Purple Line Extension, Section 3 CA San Jose, BART Silicon Valley Phase II - Extension to San Jose and Santa Clara IN Lake County, West Lake Corridor MN St. Paul, METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit NJ-NY Secaucus, Hudson Tunnel NY New York City, Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 WA Seattle, Federal Way Link Extension - Sound Transit Medium Medium Medium-Low ------Medium --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium-High High ------Low --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium-Low ------Low --Medium-Low 49.0% 49.0% 37.4% --50.0% 45.0% 49.4% 33.3% 23.1% Medium-Low Medium-High Medium-High ------Medium-Low --Medium-High State, City, Project If the summary local financial commitment rating is rated at least Medium and the CIG Program share is less than 50 percent of the project’s capital cost, then the summary local financial commitment rating is raised one level. --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD. "N/A" signifies that this subfactor does not apply because the project qualified for the financial rating "warrant" outlined in FTA's Final Interim Policy Guidance. A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000691 DOT-Am.Oversight-001684 Table 2B -- Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Local Financial Commitment Ratings SMALL STARTS PROJECTS Phase State, City, Project AZ Flagstaff, Transit Spine BRT AZ Tempe, Tempe Streetcar CA Los Angeles, Downtown Los Angeles Streetcar CA Sacramento, Downtown Riverfront Streetcar Project CA San Bernardino, Redlands Passenger Rail Project CA San Rafael, SMART Regional Rail - San Rafael to Larkspur Extension FL Jacksonville, First Coast Flyer Bus Rapid Transit Southwest Corridor FL Jacksonville, JTA First Coast Flyer BRT East Corridor FL Orlando, SunRail Connector to the Orlando International Airport +++ FL Orlando, SunRail Phase II North FL St. Petersburg, Central Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Project IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Purple Rapid Transit Line IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Red Line Rapid Transit LA Baton Rouge, TramLinkBR MI Grand Rapids, Laker Line BRT MI Lansing, Capital Area Transportation Authority Bus Rapid Transit Project MN Minneapolis, METRO Orange Line Bus Rapid Transit MO Kansas City, Kansas City Streetcar Expansion MO Kansas City, Prospect MAX NC Chapel Hill, North-South BRT NM Albuquerque, Rapid Transit Project NV Reno, Virginia Street Bus RAPID Transit Extension NY Albany, River Corridor Bus Rapid Transit NY Albany, Washington-Western Bus Rapid Transit NY New York City, Woodhaven Boulevard Select Bus Service OR Portland, Division Transit Project PA Pittsburgh, Downtown-Uptown-Oakland-East End BRT TX El Paso, Montana RTS Corridor VA Alexandria, West End Transitway WA Everett, Swift II BRT WA Seattle, Madison Street BRT WA Seattle, Roosevelt RapidRide Project WA Seattle, Seattle Center City Connector WA Spokane, Spokane Central City Line WA Tacoma, Tacoma Link Extension WI Milwaukee, Milwaukee East-West BRT Local Financial Commitment Factors Current Financial Condition Rating Commitment of Funds Rating Reasonableness of the Financial Plan Rating CIG Share of Capital Costs Local Financial Commitment Summary Rating --Medium --N/A Medium High N/A N/A --Not Rated N/A N/A Medium --N/A Medium-High N/A --N/A --N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Medium --N/A N/A N/A N/A Medium-High N/A N/A --High --N/A High High N/A N/A --Not Rated N/A N/A High --N/A Medium-Low N/A --N/A --N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A High --N/A N/A N/A N/A Medium-High N/A N/A --Medium-Low --N/A Low Medium N/A N/A --Not Rated N/A N/A Medium-Low --N/A Low N/A --N/A --N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Medium-Low --N/A N/A N/A N/A Medium-Low N/A N/A --40.3% 33.9% 48.0% 29.0% 40.6% 70.0% 50.0% --49.9% 49.2% 49.9% 77.8% 49.5% 77.2% 69.0% 49.2% 38.0% 53.6% --56.1% 50.0% 80.0% 80.0% 43.0% 50.0% 50.0% 60.0% --58.7% 49.9% 50.0% 42.4% 74.2% 34.9% 70.0% --Medium-High --High Medium-High High Medium High --Not Rated High High Medium --Medium Medium-Low High --Medium --Medium High Medium Medium High High High Medium --Medium High High High Medium High Medium If the summary local financial commitment rating is rated at least Medium and the CIG Program share is less than 50 percent of the project’s capital cost, then the summary local financial commitment rating is raised one level. +++ Questions remain on the capital and operating costs submitted by the project sponsor. Therefore, FTA was unable to develop ratings for the project. --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD. "N/A" signifies that this subfactor does not apply because the project qualified for the financial rating "warrant" outlined in FTA's Final Interim Policy Guidance. A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000692 DOT-Am.Oversight-001685 Table 2C -- Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Project Justification Ratings CORE CAPACITY PROJECTS Phase Environmental Benefits Rating Mobility Improvements Rating Congestion Relief Rating Cost Effectiveness Rating Economic Development Rating Capacity Needs Rating Project Justification Summary Rating Core Capacity Engineering NY New York City, Canarsie Line Power and Station Improvements TX Dallas, DART Red and Blue Line Platform Extensions Medium Medium High Medium Medium Medium High High Medium Medium Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium Core Capacity Project Development CA San Francisco, Transbay Corridor Core Capacity Project IN Gary to Michigan City, NICTD Double Track - Northwest Indiana NJ Hudson County, Portal North Bridge TX Dallas, CBD Second Light Rail Alignment (D2 Subway) Medium --Medium Medium High --High Medium High --Medium High High --High High Medium --Medium Medium Medium-High --Medium Medium Medium-High --Medium-High Medium-High State, City, Project --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD NEW STARTS PROJECTS Phase Environmental Benefits Rating Mobility Improvements Rating Congestion Relief Rating Cost Effectiveness Rating Economic Development Rating Land Use Rating Project Justification Summary Rating New Starts Engineering CA Santa Ana, Santa Ana - Garden Grove Streetcar Project MN Minneapolis, METRO Blue Line Extension (Bottineau LRT) MN Minneapolis, Southwest Light Rail Transit NC Durham, Durham-Orange Light Rail Transit WA Seattle, Lynnwood Link Extension Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium-Low Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium-Low Medium-Low Low Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium-High New Starts Project Development AZ Phoenix, Northwest Extension Phase II AZ Phoenix, South Central Light Rail Extension CA Los Angeles, Westside Purple Line Extension, Section 3 CA San Jose, BART Silicon Valley Phase II - Extension to San Jose and Santa Clara IN Lake County, West Lake Corridor MN St Paul, METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit NJ-NY Secaucus, Hudson Tunnel NY New York City, Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 WA Seattle, Federal Way Link Extension - Sound Transit High Medium-High High ------Low --High Medium-Low Medium Medium-High ------High --Medium Medium Medium Medium ------Low --Medium Medium-High Medium-Low Medium ------High --Medium Medium Medium Medium-High ------Medium-High --Medium Medium-Low Medium Medium ------Medium-High --Medium Medium Medium Medium-High ------Medium --Medium State, City, Project --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000693 DOT-Am.Oversight-001686 Table 2C -- Detailed Summary of FY 2019 Project Justification Ratings SMALL STARTS PROJECTS State, City, Project Small Starts Project Development AZ Flagstaff, Transit Spine BRT AZ Tempe, Tempe Streetcar CA Los Angeles, Downtown Los Angeles Streetcar CA Sacramento, Downtown Riverfront Streetcar Project CA San Bernardino, Redlands Passenger Rail Project CA San Rafael, SMART Regional Rail - San Rafael to Larkspur Extension FL Jacksonville, First Coast Flyer Bus Rapid Transit Southwest Corridor  FL Jacksonville, JTA First Coast Flyer BRT East Corridor FL Orlando, SunRail Connector to the Orlando International Airport +++ FL Orlando, SunRail Phase II North  FL St Petersburg, Central Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Project IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Purple Rapid Transit Line  IN Indianapolis, IndyGo Red Line Rapid Transit LA Baton Rouge, TramLinkBR MI Grand Rapids, Laker Line BRT MI Lansing, Capital Area Transportation Authority Bus Rapid Transit Project  MN Minneapolis, METRO Orange Line Bus Rapid Transit MO Kansas City, Kansas City Streetcar Expansion MO Kansas City, Prospect MAX NC Chapel Hill, North-South BRT NM Albuquerque, Rapid Transit Project  NV Reno, Virginia Street Bus RAPID Transit Extension  NY Albany, River Corridor Bus Rapid Transit  NY Albany, Washington-Western Bus Rapid Transit  NY New York City, Woodhaven Boulevard Select Bus Service  OR Portland, Division Transit Project  PA Pittsburgh, Downtown-Uptown-Oakland-East End BRT TX El Paso, Montana RTS Corridor VA Alexandria, West End Transitway WA Everett, Swift II BRT WA Seattle, Madison Street BRT WA Seattle, Roosevelt RapidRide Project WA Seattle, Seattle Center City Connector WA Spokane, Spokane Central City Line WA Tacoma, Tacoma Link Extension  WI Milwaukee, Milwaukee East-West BRT Environmental Benefits Rating Mobility Improvements Rating Congestion Relief Rating Cost Effectiveness Rating Economic Development Rating Land Use Rating Project Justification Summary Rating --Medium-Low --High High High High High --Not Rated Low High Medium-High --High High Low --High --High Medium Low Low Medium Medium-Low High High --Medium-High Medium-High High High Medium High High --Low --Low Low Low Low Medium --Not Rated Medium Medium-Low Medium --Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium --Medium-Low --Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Low --Low Medium Medium Medium Low Low Medium --Medium --Medium Medium-Low Medium Low Medium --Not Rated Medium Medium Medium --Medium Medium Medium --Medium --Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium --Medium Medium Medium-Low Medium Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium --Medium --Medium Low Medium Medium-High Medium --Not Rated Medium Medium-High Medium --High Medium-High Medium --High --Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium-High --Medium-High High High High Medium Medium Medium --Medium-High --Medium-High Medium-Low Low Medium-Low Medium-Low --Not Rated Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium-Low --Medium Medium Medium-High --Medium --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium Medium --Medium High Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium --Medium-Low --Medium-High Medium-Low Medium-Low Medium Medium-Low --Not Rated Medium Medium Medium --Medium Medium-Low Medium-High --Medium --Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium Medium Medium-High Low --Medium-Low Medium-High Medium-High High Medium Medium Medium Medium --Medium Medium-Low Medium Medium Medium --Not Rated Medium Medium Medium --Medium-High Medium Medium --Medium-High --Medium-High Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium-High Medium --Medium Medium-High Medium-High Medium-High Medium Medium Medium +++ Questions remain on the capital and operating costs submitted by the project sponsor Therefore, FTA was unable to develop ratings for the project --- This project entered Project Development (PD) under the MAP-21 and FAST process, which does not require FTA to perform an evaluation and rating of projects entering PD  Project qualifies for Project Justification warrants outlined in FTA's Final Interim Policy Guidance A\/1 VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000694 DOT-Am.Oversight-001687 Rosen. Jeff (OSTI From: To: Van Doren. Terry (McConnell} : Kraninger. Kathleen L. EOP/OMB: Slemrod. Jonathan A. EOP/OMB; Kan. Derek !QSU Subj ect: RE: call Date : Monday, March 19, 2018 1:23 :00 PM tl>)(5) 5 From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailt o·tb>< > Sent: Monday, March 19, 2018 1:16 PM @mcconne ll.senate .gov] To: Rosen,Jeff (OST); Kraninger, Kat hleen L. EOP/OMB 6 > >; Slemrod, Jonat han A. EOP/OMB < .;<1> )(6) ------------ >; Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: call I and Jeff can _________ fTh anks to you all for yow- expe1iise and help as al Te-vvyV£iUI\.IVor£Wv Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington , DC 205 10 I r)(S) From: Rosen, Jeff (OST) Sent: Monday, March 19, 2018 12:48 PM To: Kraninger, Kat hleen L. EOP/OMB ~ ,-----------5 EOP/OMB tb><> >; Slemrod, Jonathan A. >; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) {b)( 6) @mcconne ll.senat e.gov>; Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: call From: Kraninger, Kathleen L. EOP/OMB [mailt o lbHS> Sent: Monday, March 19, 2018 12:45 PM 5i----------To: Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB ,d!b>< 5 > (McConnell) ,d< M pVERSIGHT >; Van Doren, Terry @mcconne ll.senate.gov>; Rosen, Jeff (OST); DOT-18-0010-B-000695 DOT-Am.Oversight-001688 Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: call 5 I th ink t hat works. tl>H > 1111 From: Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB Sent: Mo nday, March 19, 2018 12:39 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <'(bl<5>c---- @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Rosen, Jeff (OST) ; Kan, Derek (OST) 5 Cc: Kraninger, Kathleen L. EOP/OMB t1>H > Subject: RE: call > Adding in kathy 5 m=a=il"""t o""'i }.... b>_<_ > ___ From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) f.... Sent: Mo nday, March 19, 2018 12:39 PM To: Slemrod, Jonath an A. EOP/OMB tbHsi----------- ___.! .... @ _,_ m "'"'" c=c=o=n"'"'" ne =l"'""l. s.... e"'" n=a=te""'.g""' o...,_ v_ ] >; Rosen, Jeff (OST) ; Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: call I am hy ing to make ce1ia in that this language accomplishes the TA you gave us last night. Can I ask for fmi her technical assistan ce? DOT-18-0010-B-000696 DOT-Am.Oversight-001689 Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB <(b) (6) > Sent: Monday, March 19, 2018 12:13 PM To: Rosen, Jeff (OST) ; Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: call   Jeff or Derek, can you please call TVD about some of the feedback we provided.   He is at (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000697 DOT-Am.Oversight-001690 From: To: Rosen. Jeff (OSTI Van Doren. Terry (McConnell} Cc: Subject : Kan. Derek (OSTI: Slemrod. Jonathan A. EOP/OMB: Lee. Jane (McConnell) : Marshall. Hazen (McConnell) : Kraninger. Kathleen L. EOP/OMB Re: Gateway revised Date: Monday, March 19, 2018 8:08 :06 AM Sent from my iPhone On Mar 19 20 18 at 7:48 AM , Van Doren , Teny (McConnell) 5 <~bH > @mcconnell.senate.gov > wrote: Thank you . Will raise with our Appropriators to see what they say. Thank you . Sent from my iPhone On Mar 19, 20 18, at 7:38 AM , Kan , Derek (OST) wrote : Thanks TVD! On Mar 19, 20 18, at 7:30 AM , Rosen , Jeff (OST) wrote: Yes, on CIG it has n01mally been lump sum . In fact, amounts to pay existin FFGAs and new ones not usuall se arated. [(ljJls> Tha DOT-18-0010-B-000698 DOT-Am.Oversight-001691 Sent from my iPhone On Mar 19, 2018 at 1:31 AM Slemrod Jonathan A. EOP/OMB ~<6><6> > wrote: I am add ing Derek, Jeff , and Kathy here to speed up the responses. From: Van Dore n, Terry (McConnell) [mailto P>H5> l @mcco nnell.senat e.gov] Sent: Mo nday, Ma rch 19, 2018 1:17 AM To: Slemro d, Jonath an A. EOP/OMB > Cc: Lee, Jane (McConne ll) @mcconne ll.senat e.goV>; M arsha ll, Hazen (McCon nell) 6> < @mcco nnell.senate.gov > Subject: RE: Gatew ay revised Thanks for this Jonny. tl>)l5) DOT-18-0010-B-000699 DOT-Am.Oversight-001692 Thanks again for this feedback. Looking fo1ward to continuing to work with you. From: Slemrod , Jonathan A. EOP/OMB 5> [mailto f>H ] Sent: Monday, March 19, 2018 12:45 AM To: Van Doren Teny (McConnell) @mcconnellsenategov> <~b>< s> Cc: Lee Jane (McConnell) <~b>< s> @mcconnellsenategov>; Marshall Hazen McCo nnell) @mcconnellsenategov> <~b>< s> Subject: RE : Gateway revised (b)(5) DOT-18-0010-B-000700 DOT-Am.Oversight-001693 From: Van Doren , Teny (McConnell) l@mcconnell. senate.gov] [mailto 15> r Sent: Sunday, March 18, 2018 11:04 PM To: Slemrod Jonathan A. EOP/OMB < (bf( 6) > Cc: Lee Jane (McConnell) < Marshall < 1 6 bn > 1 6 @mcconnellsenate gov>; Hazen cConnell) @mcconnellsenate gov> bn > Subject: Gateway revised Attached is the latest Gateway draft that the Senate Appropriations Committee put together. )( 5) I have not looked at the new legislative language in order to get it to you quickly for evaluation, so there may be other issues that I have missed. Please let us know yow- feedback. Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Maj ority Leader McConnell Washington , DC 205 10 rn 6 , I DOT-18-0010-B-000701 DOT-Am.Oversight-001694   From: Evans, Bruce (Appropriations) Sent: Sunday, March 18, 2018 10:01 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Gateway revised     - ---- AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000702 DOT-Am.Oversight-001695 Van Doren, Terry (McConnell} From: To: Rosen, Jeff (OSTI : Kan, Derek (OSTI : "Kran inger, Kathleen L. EOP/OMB" : Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB Marsha ll, Hazen (McConne ll} : Lee, Jane (McConnell) Cc: Subj ect : RE: Gateway Date : T uesday, March 20, 2018 7 :46:19 PM tl>)( 5) T e-vvyV£iUI\.IVor£Wv Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 205 10 r)(S) I From: Rosen,Jeff (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 7:28 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <'(lln si·----@mcconnell.senate.gov>; Kan, Derek (OST) >; ; 'Kraninger, Kat hleen L. EOP/OMB' <}bHS> 5 > > Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB tt>ll Cc: Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) <}l>ll5 @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee,Jane (McConnell) 6 ~bH>::--J @mcconnelI.senat e .gov> Subject: RE: Gateway Additio nal t echnical assistance: Here is the f ull sect ion on CIGfr om FY2017 Omni" For necessary expenses to carry out 49 U.S.C.5309 and section 3005(b) of t he FASTAct, $2,412,631,000, to remain available until expended." With high funding levels, t his provides tradi ti onal level of flexibili ty in accordance wit h authorizing statut e. 5 M From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) f.... m'""a""' i""" lt o ='tb i- > _<_> ____ ,.l.@ '-'"'m""'c=c=o""'" n'""" ne=l=l. s._. e"'" n=a=te...,,.g.._ o""'" v.] Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 7:16 PM To: Rosen,Jeff (OST); Kan, Derek (OST); 'Kraninger, DOT-18-0010-B-000703 pVERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001696 5 Kathleen L. EOP/OMB' l > <{b)l6) ==--------- >; Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB > Cc: Marsha ll, Hazen (McConnell) /5Jl5> 5 l > @mcconne ll.senat e.goV> @mcco nnell.se nate.gov >; Lee, Jane (McConnell) Subject: FW: Gateway tl>)(5) P ease prov ide technica ,-------------gm dan ce on the attached. Feel free to redline the attached Word document. Te-vvyV('.iUI\.I Voret'v Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington , DC 205 10 r ns> I From: Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 6:47 PM 5 To: Van Doren, Terry (McConne ll) <'{l>H >· --- @mccon nell.senate.gov >; Lee, Jane (McConnell) @mcconne ll.senat e.goV>; Jonny Siem rod ____________ ) .:{(b)(6) > Subject: FW: Gateway )( 5) From: Kieffer, Charles (Appropr iat ions) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 6:04 PM To: Marsha ll, Hazen (McConnell) 1 @mcco nnell.senate.gov >; Smythe, Austin @mail.house .goV>; Evans, Bruce (Appropr iat ions) 5 @appro .senate.gov >; Young, Shalanda >< > @mail. house.goV> Subject: FW: Gateway This is the bill/ statement language related to the NY/NJ bridge. DOT-18-0010-B-000704 DOT-Am.Oversight-001697 AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000711 RSI DOT?Am.0versight?0017o4 AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000712 RSI From: To : Su bject : Basile. Gabrielle (OST} Vincent. Laura (McConnell) FW: You are confirmed for HI LARY AND WI LBUR ROSS's event! Date: Tuesday , March 20, 2018 2 :34 :00 PM Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportatio n lbf<6J From: Elaine Chao [mailto lbHSJ ------- Sent: Friday, March 16, 2018 10:33 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle {OST) Subject : Fwd : You are confir med fo r HILARYAND WILBUR ROSS'sevent ! Begin forwa rded message : Fro m: paperlesspost@paperlesspost.com Date : March 16, 20 18 at 9:08:52 AM EDT To: "bH6J -...,.......,=-------=c""" Subj ect : Yo u are confirm ed fo r HI LAR Y AND WI LBUR R OSS 's eve nt! Reply-T o: lbHBJ -------- B You replied "attending. " "DINNER IN HONOR OF JUDY and LARRY KUDLOW" Wedne sday, March 21st at 8:oo PM illA. dd to calendar iJl Message host DOT-18-0010-B-000713 DOT-Am.Oversight-001706 Address Location [b) (6) WASHINGTON ,DC View location jI>aPerlessPost ~ j Create, send, and track expressive invita tions with Paperless Post. For· the best Paperless Post experience, add p ap erless post @acco1mts.paperlesspost.com to your address book to enszwe you receive all account messages in your in box. Click here to 1msubscribe ft·om Paper·less Post emails or to change which emails you receive. Learn more about our privac u policu. c Paperless Post• 115 Broadway, New York, NY 10006 DOT-18-0010-B-000714 DOT-Am.Oversight-001707 From: To: Subject: Date: (b) (5) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST) RE: omni Tuesday, March 20, 2018 6:10:47 PM     Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Sullivan, Adam (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 5:57 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: omni   Hey Terry, (b) (5)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000715 DOT-Am.Oversight-001708 From: To: Subject: Date: Rosen, Jeff (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) RE: Thanks so much for your help tonight. Tuesday, March 20, 2018 9:37:00 PM Have time to talk for a couple of minutes?  What is best number to call you?  I am still at office, but cell is easiest (b) (6)   From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 9:18 PM To: Rosen, Jeff (OST) Subject: Thanks so much for your help tonight.   @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sorry it has been chaotic.  Let’s see where this goes next.  Appreciate your expertise as always.   TVD   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000716 DOT-Am.Oversight-001709 From: To: Rosen. Jeff (OSTI Cc: Subj ect : Van Doren. Terry (McConnell} ; Kan. Derek Date : T uesday, March 20, 2018 7 :14:00 PM Slemrod. Jonathan A. EOP/OMB; Marshall. Hazen (McConnell) (OSTI; Lee. Jane (McConnell) ; Kraninger. Kathleen L. EOP/OMB RE: Gateway blan k The two New St arts seeking FFGAs in 2018 are Lynwood, WA and M innea polis Blue Line, and the com bined amount of CIG gran t s t hey are seeking is abo ut $1.9B (usually appro priated and rece ived over mu lti -yea r FFGA per iod) . [FW IW, neit her of these projects mee t s t he criteria of being recomme nded in the annual repo rt to Congress unde r 5903(0), but neither are ot hers .] tl>ll5l From: Rosen, Jeff (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 7:00 PM 5 To: 'Slemrod, Jonat han A. EOP/OMB ' t6>< > (McConnell) 5 >; Marshall, Hazen @mcconnell .senate .gov > '(llll > Cc:Van Doren, Terry (McConne ll) !bl <5> @mccon nell.se nat e.goV>; Kan, Derek (OST) s ; Lee, Jane (McConnell) .;(lln @mcconnell.senate .gov>; Kraninger, 5 Kath leen L. EOP/OMB tb><> > Subject: RE: Gateway blank Please be aw are that alt hough t he CIG pipelin e has 55 applicatio ns, excluding Gateway t here are only 3 unf unded Core Capacity proj ects (5309(e) ), and only 14 New Start s (5903(d) )- three of whic h have some prev ious appropriat io ns already . M any of t hese do not have any expectatio n of being ready for an FFGA in 2018; accord ing t o FTA, amo ng th e New St arts, t here were on ly t w o that project to be ready for FFGAs in 2018 if all we nt we ll. l] 5 From: Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB [ma ilto f!b>< > Sent: Tuesday, March 20, 2018 6:49 PM i.---~: -=.:..:.:.:.='-'-'-'-'==='""°"= To: Marsha ll, Hazen (McConnell) ll5> 1 @mcconne ll.senate.go V>; Rosen, Jeff (OST) ; Kan, Derek (OST) ; Lee, Jane (McConne ll) 5 > ; Kraninger, Kathlee n L. EOP/OMB > Subject: Re: Gat eway blank 5 ------- rovide input or TA based on this doc , not the oth er. bll > Thanks. --------- On Mar 20, 20 18\ at 6:13 PM , Marshall, Hazen (McCo nnell) 5 ~ @mcconnell. senate .gov> wrote: Impo1iant1y_Jb><5> T s guys. DOT-18-0010-B-000717 DOT-Am.Oversight-001710 On Mar 20 20 18 at 6:08 PM , Van Doren , Teny (McConnell) 5 <~bH > @mcconnell.senate.gov > wrote: Senate R Appropriators nying to move th e needle on Gateway are proposing the attached. I ah-eady see issues but I will await your input. Please provide technical guidan ce on the attached . Thanks in advan ce. Te-vvyV('.iUI\.I Voret'v Policy Advisor Office of Maj ority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 205 10 I rnsi From: "Evans, Brnce (Appropriations)" 1 bllSJ @appro .senate .gov> Date: March 20, 2018 at 5:53:19 PM EDT To: "Marshall Hazen (McConnell)" 16 <~bJ > @mcconnell.senate.gov > Subject: Emailing: Gateway blank < )( 5) DOT-18-0010-B-000718 DOT-Am.Oversight-001711 AMERICAN DOT-18-0010-B-000719 RSI AM ERICAN RSI From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Bill posting time? Wednesday, March 21, 2018 4:44:16 PM Yeah they're working on it now. Approps has all the pieces. Assembling and proofing. I think they should post before 6. -----Original Message----From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek kan@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 4:43 PM To: Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Bill posting time? - Do you know when the bill is going to be posted? Thanks. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000721 DOT-Am.Oversight-001714 From: To: Subject: Date: Sullivan, Adam (OST) Lee, Jane (McConnell) RE: OMNI Text Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:41:29 PM Thanks, Jane! - From: Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 8:08:19 PM To: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Subject: OMNI Text   FYI text linked below. Statement of Managers will be up later tonight. Will send summary material when received. [PDF] [XML] Senate TARGET Act [Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018] amendment to H.R. 1625   :: House Amendment to [PDF] [XML] Senate Amendment to H.R. 1625 (Rules Committee Print 115-66—Showing the text of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000722 DOT-Am.Oversight-001715 From: To: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Summary of Gateway Provision Wednesday, March 21, 2018 1:22:30 PM (b) (5)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek.kan@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 1:21 PM To: Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Summary of Gateway Provision   Would love to! Happy to help out with anything you need. (b) (5) - - ---- On Mar 21, 2018, at 1:20 PM, Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Hey Derek, I have a wh staff mailing list for budget/approps stuff. Do you want to be added? Mostly schedule but may help. Good to see former OMB and McTeam folks doing well. Love it.     From: Kan, Derek (OST) [mailto:derek.kan@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 12:49 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; (b) (6) Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Fwd: Summary of Gateway Provision   - ---- Begin forwarded message: From: "Kan, Derek (OST)" Date: March 21, 2018 at 11:58:47 AM EDT To: "Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB" <(b) (6) >, "Knight, Shahira E. EOP/WHO" (b) (6) < > Cc: "Vought, Russell T. EOP/OMB" <(b) (6) >, "Rosen, Jeff (OST)" , "Gribbin, DJ J. EOP/WHO" <(b) (6) >, "Kraninger, Kathleen L. EOP/OMB" (b) (6) < > Subject: Summary of Gateway Provision Confidential AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000723 DOT-Am.Oversight-001716 mm_O>Z b; Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Fwd: Summary of Gateway Provision   - Begin forwarded message: From: "Kan, Derek (OST)" Date: March 21, 2018 at 11:58:47 AM EDT To: "Slemrod, Jonathan A. EOP/OMB" <(b) (6) >, "Knight, (b) (6) Shahira E. EOP/WHO" < > Cc: "Vought, Russell T. EOP/OMB" <(b) (6) >, "Rosen, Jeff (OST)" , "Gribbin, DJ J. EOP/WHO" <(b) (6) >, "Kraninger, Kathleen L. EOP/OMB" Subject: Summary of Gateway Provision Confidential   (b) (5)     I AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000726 DOT-Am.Oversight-001719 (b) (5) I   I     I I I I I I I     I I   · AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000727 DOT-Am.Oversight-001720 AM ERICAN RSI Vincent, Laura (McConnell) From: To: Subject: "Elaine L. Chao" : Basile, Gabrielle (Osn RE: today"s sched ule 3pm Congressiona l Gold Award ceremo ny Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 12:48:SSPM Got it , t hanks ! 5 From: Elaine L.Chao [mailto :< > ------- Sent: Wed nesday, March 21, 2018 12:46 PM To: gabr ielle .basile@dot.gov; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) tbJ< SJ @mcconne ll.senate .gov> Subject: Fwd : today 's schedule 3pm Congressiona l Gold Award ceremony not going. 5 From : lb>< > @mcconnell.senate.gov B> @mcconnell.senate.gov , 11a ryc11ao ~ ----To : lb>< Cc: gabrielle. basile@dot.gov Sent: 3/21/2018 9:59:01 AM Eastern Standard Time Subject: RE: today's schedule 3pm Congress ional Gold Award ceremony eve. The ceremo ny is a go ... 3:00 pm in t he Emancipati on Hall in t he If you decide to come let me know and I can make sure t here is a seat reserved for you up fr ont . Leader will be on the stage as a program participa nt. You cou ld join is in the hold unt il about 2 min before the ceremony starts if you want and t hen we can move you t o your seat. Here is our press release. https://www.speaker .gov/press-release/gold-medal-ce remony -co ngress-ho nor-office- strategic-services It should be rea lly nice ... this is one of t he last WWI I ceremon ies. From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Sent: Wednesday , March 21, 2018 8 :39 AM To: Elaine L.Chao ,} 6H 6> > Cc:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov : Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) 6 > Subject: Re: today 's schedu le 3pm Congressional Gold Award ceremony Adding stef since she 's mnnin g point in thi s event. On Mar 2 1, 20 18, at 8: 18 AM , Elaine L. Chao wrote: Laura : What is this event? ElIe: Congress is open to day. M pVERSIGHT -~ ~ -------------- DOT-18-0010-B-000729 DOT-Am.Oversight-001722 (b) (6) From: huddledigest@politico.com Reply-to: reply-fe9813747563067d76-630309_HTML848643888-1376319-0@politicoemail.com Secretary Chao To: Sent: 3/21/2018 8:02:11 AM Eastern Standard Time Subject: POLITICO Huddle: LIPINSKI SURVIVES PRIMARY -- Spending bill delayed as shutdown looms -FARENTHOLD MULLS RESIGNING -- Bryant expected to announce Cochran replacement today Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) will hold a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony in honor of the members of the Office of Strategic Services for their historic contributions during World War II at 3 p.m. in CVC Emancipation Hall AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000730 DOT-Am.Oversight-001723 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) Ohio example Thursday, March 29, 2018 10:27:45 AM Was going to ask you about this.  What did y’all give to Ohio that is different than any other state?  Or what exactly did Ohio request that y’all granted to help make this happen?    Ohio is also a state that is already working to achieve a key goal of the President’s infrastructure initiative: returning power to the state and local governments that are better suited to make decisions for their communities.  Ohio signed an agreement with the Federal Highway Administration in 2015 that assigned the Ohio DOT some of the responsibilities for environmental review, consultation or other actions for specific highway and related projects.  The state successfully progressed a project, the I-71/US 36/37 Interchange Modification Improvement Project, through a NEPA Environmental Assessment Progress.  The Ohio DOT estimates that due to the agreement, it was able to cut the approval process from 64 months to 27 months, or more than half.   (b) (6) Be glad to discuss on phone with you or someone on your team.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000731 DOT-Am.Oversight-001724 From: To: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Re: State Dinner 4/24 Friday, April 06, 2018 2:12:04 PM She is out of town that whole week so we were going to decline as well. We might have already done so. Sent from my iPhone - > On Apr 6, 2018, at 2:07 PM, Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: > > Hi Elle, > > Stef just emailed the Secretary this info, but the Leader and the Secretary are invited to the State dinner honoring President Macron on April 24th. Unfortunately the Senator committed to a dinner that same night and does not feel like he can back out so he is unable to attend. Unless the Secretary asks us to hold, I am going to decline to the White House on Monday and will tell them your office will be in touch regarding the Secretary's attendance. > > Thanks! > <[Untitled].pdf> > <[Untitled].pdf> AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000732 DOT-Am.Oversight-001725 From: To: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) RE: Member of Congress Invitation: Congressional Dialogue - CIA Tuesday, April 10, 2018 1:57:27 PM Thanks!   From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 1:51 PM @mcconnell.senate.gov> To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Member of Congress Invitation: Congressional Dialogue - CIA   FYI Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6) From: Torkelson, Elizabeth [mailto:(b) (6) @loc.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 1:49 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: Member of Congress Invitation: Congressional Dialogue - CIA   Good afternoon,     The next Congressional Dialogue will be held on Tuesday, April 10.  The event will feature Stephen Coll, author of Directorate S: The CIA and America’s Secret Wars in Afghanistan and Pakistan and a special display.    The program for the evening is as follows: We encourage Members and guests to arrive as early as 7:00 PM, votes permitting, to have enough time to view the items before dinner 7:30 PM Cocktail Reception and Treasures Display in the Members Room, LJ-162 8:15 PM Opening Remarks and Dinner in the Great Hall 8:45 PM Dialogue between David Rubenstein and Stephen Coll 9:15 PM Q&A with Members of Congress 9:45 PM Conclusion – Dessert Reception in the Members Room   This dialogue is the thirty-third in a series of dinner discussions hosted by the Library of Congress exclusively for Members and their guests.   We hope your Member can join us for this event! AMf--f CAN Please respond by April 6 to specialevents@loc.gov or (202) 707-6577. RSVPs after April 6 may be limited to Members only.   pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000733 DOT-Am.Oversight-001726 **PLEASE NOTE:  We will have a check-in at the Thomas Jefferson Building Ground floor entrance for the dinner.  We will need the name of each Member’s guest so that we can successfully check everyone in.  Please make sure your Member understands that there is a one guest limit and we cannot guarantee seating to any additional guests not on.   2018 Congressional Dialogues Dinners   May 8 – Anne Applebaum on Russia and Eastern Europe   June 13 – Walter Isaacson on Innovators   June 19 – Jon Meacham on George H.W. Bush   June 27 – Bill Gates   July 10 – Doris Kearns Goodwin on Baseball: An All-American Pastime   Other Upcoming Library of Congress Events    April 11 – Kluge Conversation Breakfast on Foreign Affairs Featuring David Ignatius, Washington Post Associate Editor and columnist   May 16 – “We Write the Songs” ASCAP Concert       Elizabeth Torkelson Library of Congress Congressional Relations (b) (6) @loc.gov (b) (6) www.loc.gov/lcnet    1111 - DOT-18-0010-B-000734 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001727 From: To: Subject: Date: Sullivan, Adam (OST) Lee, Jane (McConnell) RE: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters Tuesday, April 10, 2018 4:10:00 PM Thank you, Jane   - From: Lee, Jane (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:27 PM To: Lee, Jane (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters   FYI   From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 3:17 PM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Republican Member Chair & Subcommittee Rosters   - ---- Chiefs/Staff Directors/LDs:   Please see the attached document, care of Senate Approps staff, outlining Subcommittee Chair assignments and Subcommittee Member rosters (for the Republican Members).   Thanks, Erica     Committee on Appropriations   Senator Shelby: Chair – Defense Senator Alexander: Chair – Energy and Water Development Senator Collins: Chair – Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Senator Murkowski: Chair – Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Senator Graham: Chair – State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Senator Blunt: Chair – Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Senator Moran: Chair – Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Senator Hoeven: Chair – Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Senator Boozman: Chair – Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Senator Capito: Chair – Homeland Security Senator Lankford: Chair – Financial Services and General Government AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000735 DOT-Am.Oversight-001728 Senator Daines: Chair – Legislative Branch AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000736 DOT-Am.Oversight-001729 Committee on Appropriations   Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Chair ~ HOEVEN MCCONNELL COLLINS BLUNT MORAN RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Chair ~ MORAN ALEXANDER MURKOWSKI COLLINS GRAHAM BOOZMAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Defense Chair ~ SHELBY MCCONNELL ALEXANDER COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM BLUNT DAINES MORAN HOEVEN Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Chair ~ ALEXANDER MCCONNELL SHELBY COLLINS MURKOWSKI GRAHAM HOEVEN KENNEDY LANKFORD Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government Chair ~ LANKFORD MORAN BOOZMAN DAINES KENNEDY SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Homeland Security AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000737 DOT-Am.Oversight-001730 Chair ~ CAPITO SHELBY MURKOWSKI BOOZMAN HOEVEN LANKFORD KENNEDY AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000738 DOT-Am.Oversight-001731 Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Chair ~ MURKOWSKI ALEXANDER BLUNT MCCONNELL DAINES CAPITO RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Chair ~ BLUNT SHELBY ALEXANDER GRAHAM MORAN CAPITO LANKFORD KENNEDY RUBIO HYDE-SMITH Subcommittee on Legislative Branch Chair ~ DAINES HYDE-SMITH SHELBY Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Chair ~ BOOZMAN MCCONELL MURKOWSKI HOEVEN COLLINS CAPITO MORAN RUBIO SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Chair ~ GRAHAM MCCONNELL BLUNT BOOZMAN LANKFORD DAINES RUBIO HYDE-SMITH SHELBY (ex officio) Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Chair ~ COLLINS SHELBY ALEXANDER BLUNT AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000739 DOT-Am.Oversight-001732 BOOZMAN CAPITO DAINES GRAHAM HOEVEN               Erica Suares Policy Advisor Office of the Majority Leader U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell S-230, The Capitol - --- (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov http://www.republicanleader.senate.gov/     (b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000740 DOT-Am.Oversight-001733 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Edwards, Sara (OST) Invitation for MM Tuesday, April 17, 2018 9:23:00 AM May 30 Cordish Dinner Invitation - Chao McConnell.doc See attached. I believe the Leader will be out of town on this night. I am rsvp’ing yes for Secretary Chao. They asked me to forward to your office.   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000741 DOT-Am.Oversight-001734 H E. David O'Sullivan Ambassador of the Europ ean Union to the United States and Ms. Agnes O'Hare cordially invite Senator Mitch McConnell & Secretary Elaine Chao to a dinner in honour of Maggie Cardish Wednesday , May 30, 2018 7:00 p.m. Business attire R.S. VP. r)(s---i· [(lj)l 6> or _____ @ext.eeas.europa .eu Residence of the European Union 2534 Belmont Road, NW Washington, DC 20008 Please advise of any dietary restrictions DOT-18-0010-B-000742 DOT-Am.Oversight-001735 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Hotline Request - S.2413 - Bridge Contract Transparency Wednesday, April 18, 2018 3:27:25 PM It does not have to be today; tomorrow is fine.  Feel free to refer me to a more appropriate person too if there is one.   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2018 3:22 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Hotline Request - S.2413 - Bridge Contract Transparency   Can I get a day or does it have to be today? Thank you. On Apr 18, 2018, at 3:09 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Do y’all have any issues with this attached bill?  HSGAC wants us to hotline it.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000743 DOT-Am.Oversight-001736 DAVI 8166 S.L.C. II Calendar No. 115TH CONGRES S 2D SESSION s.2413 [Report No. 115-_ __.l To provide for the appropriate use of bridge contrac ts in F ederal procurement, and for other purpo ses. IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES FEBRUARY 8, 20 18 Mrs. McCASKILL(for herself and Mr. JOHNSON) introduced th e following bill; which was read twice and referred to th e Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs _ __ _ ___ (legislative day, _ ___ __ __, Reported by Mr. JOHNSO N, with amendments [Omit the part struck through and insert the part prin ted in italic] A BILL To provide for the appropriate use of bridge contracts in Federal procurement, and for other purposes. I Be it enactedlYy the Senate and House of Representa- 2 tives of the United States ofAmerica in Congressassembl,ed, 3 4 SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the "Bridge Contract 5 Transparency and Accountability Act of 2018". AM RCAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000744 DOT-Am.Oversight-001737 DAV18166 S.L.C. 2 1 SEC. 2. REVISIONS TO FEDERAL PROCUREMENT REGULA2 3 TIONS. (a) REPORT.-Not later than 180 days after the date 4 of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator for F ed5 eral Procurement Policy, in consultation with the Adminis6 trator of the General Services Administration, shall sub7 mit to the appropriate congressional committees a report 8 on governmentwide policies, practices, and uses of bridge 9 contracts . 10 (b) AMENDM ENT OF F EDERALACQUISITION REGU- 11 LATION AND RELATEDGUIDANCE .- 12 (1) I N GENERAL.-Not later than one year 13 after the date of the enactment of this Act, the F ed- 14 eral Acquisition Regulatory Council shall, based on 15 the findings of the review under this section, amend 16 the Federal Acquisition Regulation- 17 18 AM RCAN (A) to provide for a common definition of bridge contracts, with consideration given to- 19 (i) extensions to existing contracts be- 2O yond the base and option years to avoid 21 lapses in service caused by delays m 22 awarding subsequent contracts; and 23 (ii) new short-term contracts awarded 24 on a sole source basis to avoid lapses in ·25 service caused by delays in awarding sub- 26 sequent contracts; and pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000745 DOT-Am.Oversight-001738 DAV18166 S.L.C. 3 I (B) to provide for th e appropriate use of 2 such contracts, including, as appropriate, pa- 3 rameters related to duration and cost. 4 (2) GUIDAN0E.-The Administrator for Federal 5 Procurement Policy, in consultation with the Admin- 6 istrator of General Services, may issue guidance to 7 executive agencies regarding th e use of bridge con- 8 tracts , including with respect to duration and cost, 9 and related guidanc e to implement th e policies de- 10 11 12 scribed und er paragraph ( 1). SEC. 3. AGENCY TRANSPARENCY AND REPORTS. (a) GUIDAJ~CE ON INFORMATION C0LLECTION.-Not 13 later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this 14 Act , the Administrator for F ederal Procurement Policy 15 shall issue guidanc e for executive agencies to collect infor 16 mation on the use of bridge contracts. The guidance shall 17 include an interim definition of bridge contracts for agen18 cies to use in their reporting until the Federal Acquisition 19 Regulation is amended pursuant to section 2(b)(l). 20 (b) REPORTINGTO OFFICE OF FEDERAL PROCURE- 21 MENT POLIOY.- AM RCAN 22 (1) IN GENERAL.- Not later than September 23 30, 2019, and by September 30 of each subsequent 24 year thereafte r until 2025, the head of each execu- 25 tive agency sha ll submit to the Administrator pVERSIGHT for DOT-18-0010-B-000746 DOT-Am.Oversight-001739 DAV18166 S.L.C . 4 1 Federal Procur ement Policy a report on the use by 2 the agency of bridge contracts. 3 (2) ELEMENTS.-The 4 paragraph (1) shall include the followingelements: 5 (A) The common definition for bridge con- 6 tracts used by contracting offices of the execu- 7 tive agency. 8 (B) The total number of bridge contracts 9 entered into during the previotts 5 BSettlyeftI'S 10 previous fiscal year. 11 (C) The estimated value of each contract 12 that required the use of a bridge contract and 13 the cost of the bridge contract or contracts. 14 15 16 17 (D) The reasons for and cost of each bridge contract. (E) The types of services or goods being acquired under each bridge contract . 18 (F) The length of the initial contract that 19 required the use of a bridge contract, including 20 the base and any exercised option years, and 21 the cumulative length of any bridge contract or 22 contracts related to the initial contract. 23 AM RCAN report required under AA A dcscriptiofl 6f hew ffiftfly 6f the 24 tracts -Mtfttrequired bridge eotttraets 25 sequetttly reeompeted ffittl hew pVERSIGHT Wet>e ~ efflt- Sttb- ef ~ DOT-18-0010-B-000747 DOT-Am.Oversight-001740 DAV 18166 S.L.C. 5 1 Peeofflpet,edeol'lfl'a:etswere -the sttbjeet f7f -a Ma- 2 protest . 3 (G) A description of Jww many bridge con- 4 tracts were entered into as the result of a bid 5 protest. 6 7 regulato ry, or agency guidance that the agency 8 followed to execute the bridge contracts. 9 (I) Any other matters determined to be rel- 10 evant by the Office of Fed~ral Procurem ent 11 Policy or the General Services Administration. 12 (3) PuBLICATI0N.-The report required under 13 paragraph (1) shall be posted on a publicly available 14 website of the executive agency. 15 AM RCAN (H) A description of existing statutory, (4) QUARTERLY N0TIFICATIO NS.- 16 (A) IN GENERAL.-On a quarterly basis as 17 determined under guidance prescribed by the 18 Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy, 19 each executive agency shall submit a list of 20 bridge contracts issued during th e prior quarter 21 to the Office of Federal Procurement Policy to 22 be compiled by the Administrator into a single 23 report and presented to the appropriate con- 24 gressional committees. pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000748 DOT-Am.Oversight-001741 DAV18166 S.L.O. 6 1 (B) INFORMATION REQUIRED .-The lists 2 submitted under subparagraph (A) shall include 3 unique contract identifiers, beginning and end 4 dates of initial contracts, beginning and end 5 dates of bridge contracts, and the rea sons or 6 rationale for the use of each bridge contract. 7 (c) GOVERN MENTWIDE REPORT.-Not later than 8 March 31, 2019, and by March 31 of each subsequent 9 year until 2025, the Administrator for Federal Procure10 ment Policy shall submit to the appropriate congressional 11 committees a report summarizing the use by executive 12 agencies of bridge contracts, including any recommenda13 tions for legislation to ensure accountability and trans·14 parency in the use of bridge contracts. 15 (d) PuBLIC NOTICE.-Each executive agency shall 16 provide public notice within 30 days after entering into 17 a bridge contract, including the information required to 18 be reported in subsection (b)(2) to the extent it is avail19 able. 20 SEC. 4. AGENCY POUCIES. 21 (a) IN GENERAL.-The head of each executive agency 22 shall develop policies and procedures, to the greatest ex23 tent practicable, that seek to minimize the use of bridge 24 contracts while providing for continuation of services to AM RCAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000749 DOT-Am.Oversight-001742 DAV18 166 S.L .C. 7 1 be performed through contracts and ensure appropriate 2 planning by contracting officials. 3 (b) REQUIREDELEMENT S.-Th e policies developed 4 under subsection (a) shall include the following elements: 5 (1) Sufficient time and planning to review con- 6 tract requirements, compete contracts as appro- 7 priate, enter into contracts, and consider the possi- 8 bility of bid protests. 9 (2) For contracts that do not meet timeliness 10 standards or which require entering into bridge con- 11 tracts, contracting officials shall notify the chief ac- 12 quisition officer of the executive agency and the 13 head of the executive agency. 14 (3) The Chief Acquisition Officer must approve 15 any bridge contract that lasts longer than six 16 months, and the head of the agency must approve 17 any bridge contract that lasts longer than one year. 18 (c) EXCEPTI0NS.-The policies developed under this 19 section do not apply to- AM RCAN 20 (1) service contracts in support of contingency 21 operations, humanitaria n assistance, or disaster re- 22 lief; 23 (2) service contracts in support of national se- 24 curity emergencies declared ·with respect to named 25 operations; or pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000750 DOT-Am.Oversight-001743 DAV18166 S.L.C. 8 1 2 (3) service contract s entered into pursuant to international agreements. 3 SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS. 4 5 (1) APPROP RIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- 6 TEES.-Th e term "appropriate congressional com- 7 mittees" means- 8 (A) the Committee on Homeland Security 9 and Governmental Affairs and the Committee 10 AM RCAN In this Act: on Appropriations of the Senate; and 11 (B) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- 12 ernment Reform and the Committee on Appro- 13 priations of the House of Representatives. 14 (2) EXECUTIVEAGENCY. -Th e term "executive 15 agency" has the meaning given the ferm in section 16 133 of title 41, United States Code. pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000751 DOT-Am.Oversight-001744 From: To: Subject: Date: - Smith, Loren (OST) Suares, Erica (McConnell) RE: Senate Update Friday, April 27, 2018 3:12:00 PM (b) (6)   - From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, April 27, 2018 12:36 PM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Senate Update   Hi Everyone –   The Senate will convene at 3:00 pm on Monday, May 7th. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to resume consideration of Executive Calendar #673, Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit.   At 5:30 pm the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Engelhardt nomination.   Please note – Leader McConnell has filed cloture on the following nominations in the following order (how they will be processed):   1. Cal. #673 - Kurt D. Engelhardt, of Louisiana, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit. 2. Cal. #690 - Michael B. Brennan, of Wisconsin, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 3. Cal. #729 - Joel M. Carson III, of New Mexico, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Tenth Circuit. 4. Cal. #777 - John B. Nalbandian, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit. 5. Cal. #780 - Michael Y. Scudder, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. 6. Cal. #781 - Amy J. St. Eve, of Illinois, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.   At a date and time to be determined, the Senate will proceed to up to 10 hours of debate, equally divided, followed by a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #607, Mitchell Zais, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Education.   FYI: The Senate will convene for pro forma session only with no business conducted on the following dates at the following times: Monday, April 30th at 2:30 pm & Thursday, May 3rd at 10:30 am   Yesterday in the Senate (Thursday, April 26, 2018): DOT-18-0010-B-000752 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001745 Roll Call Votes: · Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. Invoked. (57-42) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #788, Mike Pompeo, of Kansas, to be Secretary of State. Confirmed. (57-42) · Confirmation of Executive Calendar #619, Richard Grenell, of California, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Federal Republic of Germany. Confirmed. (56-42)   Executive Session – noms cleared: Cal. #621 - Yleem D. S. Poblete, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Verification and Compliance). Cal. #789 - Thomas J. Hushek, of Wisconsin, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of South Sudan. Cal. #790 - Kirsten Dawn Madison, of Florida, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs). Cal. #774 - Kenneth Steven Barbic, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Agriculture. Cal. #768 - Timothy A. Garrison, of Missouri, to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri for the term of four years. Cal. #769 - Kenji M. Price, of Hawaii, to be United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii for the term of four years. Cal. #770 - John Cary Bittick, of Georgia, to be United States Marshal for the Middle District of Georgia for the term of four years. Cal. #771 - David L. Lyons, of Georgia, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Georgia for the term of four years. Cal. #772 - Rodney D. Ostermiller, of Montana, to be United States Marshal for the District of Montana for the term of four years. Cal. #784 - Nicola T. Hanna, of California, to be United States Attorney for the Central District of California for the term of four years. Cal. #785 - Steven L. Gladden, of North Carolina, to be United States Marshal for the Middle District of North Carolina for the term of four years. Cal. #786 - Brendan O. Heffner, of Illinois, to be United States Marshal for the Central District of Illinois for the term of four years. Cal. #787 - Theodor G. Short, of Maine, to be United States Marshal for the District of Maine for the term of four years. Cal. #821 - Jon Parrish Peede, of Mississippi, to be Chairperson of the National Endowment for the Humanities for a term of four years. Cal. #773 - Hannibal Ware, of the Virgin Islands, to be Inspector General, Small Business Administration. Cal. #775 - Joseph L. Falvey, Jr., of Michigan, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims for the term of fifteen years. Cal. #776 - Paul R. Lawrence, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Cal. #710 - Rohit Chopra, of New York, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the unexpired term DOT-18-0010-B-000753 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001746 of seven years from September 26, 2012. Cal. #711 - Noah Joshua Phillips, of Maryland, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2016. Cal. #712 - Joseph Simons, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2017. Cal. #713 - Christine S. Wilson, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the unexpired term of seven years from September 26, 2011. Cal. #714 - Christine S. Wilson, of Virginia, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2018. (Reappointment) Cal. #825 - Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, of Maryland, to be a Federal Trade Commissioner for the term of seven years from September 26, 2015. Cal. #757 - Andrea L. Thompson, of South Dakota, to be Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security.   MILITARY PROMOTIONS AIR FORCE Cal. #791 - Maj. Gen. Dorothy A. Hogg to be Lieutenant General NAVY Cal. #792 - Rear Adm. Richard P. Snyder to be Vice Admiral Cal. #793 - Vice Adm. John C. Aquilino to be Admiral Cal. #794 - Vice Adm. Charles A. Richard to be Vice Admiral Cal. #795 - Capt. Gregory N. Todd to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #796 - Capt. John S. Lemmon to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #797 – The following to be Rear Admiral:               Rear Adm. (lh) Ronald C. Copley               Rear Adm. (lh) Kathleen M. Creighton Cal. #798 – The following to be Rear Admiral:              Rear Adm. (lh) Brian K. Corey  Rear Adm. (lh) Lorin C. Selby  Rear Adm. (lh) Johnny R. Wolfe, Jr. Cal. #799 - Rear Adm. (lh) Darse E. Crandall to be Rear Admiral Cal. #800 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half): Capt. Kristen B. Fabry  Capt. Joseph D. Noble, Jr. Cal. #801 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half):               Capt. Heidi K. Berg               Capt. Michael A. Brookes Capt. William E. Chase, III Cal. #802 - Capt. John J. Adametz to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #803 - Capt. Thomas J. Anderson to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #804 – The following to be Rear Admiral (lower half): Capt. James A. Aiken  Capt. Richard J. Cheeseman, Jr. Capt. Craig A. Clapperton  Capt. Keith B. Davids  DOT-18-0010-B-000754 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001747 Capt. Joseph A. Diguardo, Jr.  Capt. Leonard C. Dollaga  Capt. Christopher S. Gray  Capt. John E. Gumbleton  Capt. James A. Kirk  Capt. Timothy J. Kott Capt. Fredrick R. Luchtman Capt. Brendan R. McLane  Capt. Scott W. Pappano  Capt. Ryan B. Scholl  Capt. Lance G. Scott  Capt. Philip E. Sobeck  Capt. John D. Spencer  Capt. Douglas C. Verissimo Capt. George M. Wikoff AIR FORCE Cal. #805 - Gen. Terrence J. O'Shaughnessy to be General Cal. #806 - Col. Michael T. Gerock to be Brigadier General ARMY Cal. #807 - Maj. Gen. Stephen G. Fogarty to be Lieutenant General Cal. #808 - Brig. Gen. Raymond S. Dingle to be Major General Cal. #809 - Maj. Gen. Francis M. Beaudette to be Lieutenant General Cal. #810 – The following to be Major General:               Brig. Gen. Eugene J. LeBoeuf  Brig. Gen. Stephen E. Strand               The following to be Brigadier General:               Col. Aida T. Borras  Col. Vincent E. Buggs  Col. Barry E. Edberg  Col. Cheryn L. Fasano Col. Stephen Iacovelli  Col. Isaac Johnson, Jr.  Col. James J. Kokaska, Jr.   Col. Joseph M. Lestorti  Col. Edward H. Merrigan, Jr.  Col. Michael D. Roache  Col. Beth A. Salisbury  Col. Charles S. Sentell, III  Col. Jamelle C. Shawley  Col. Robert E. Suter NAVY Cal. #811 - Adm. Philip S. Davidson to be Admiral Cal. #812 - Rear Adm. David M. Kriete to be Vice Admiral Cal. #813 - Rear Adm. (lh) Michelle C. Skubic to be Rear Admiral Cal. #814 - The following to be Rear Admiral: AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000755 DOT-Am.Oversight-001748 Rear Adm. (lh) Eugene H. Black, III  Rear Adm. (lh) William D. Byrne, Jr.  Rear Adm. (lh) Marc H. Dalton  Rear Adm. (lh) John V. Fuller  Rear Adm. (lh) Michael P. Holland  Rear Adm. (lh) Hugh W. Howard, III  Rear Adm. (lh) Jeffrey W. Hughes  Rear Adm. (lh) Thomas E. Ishee  Rear Adm. (lh) Roy I. Kitchener  Rear Adm. (lh) Stephen T. Koehler Rear Adm. (lh) Samuel J. Paparo, Jr.  Rear Adm. (lh) Jeffrey E. Trussler Rear Adm. (lh) William W. Wheeler, III  Rear Adm. (lh) Kenneth R. Whitesell Cal. #815 - Rear Adm. (lh) Brent W. Scott to be Rear Admiral (lower half) Cal. #816 - Capt. Darin K. Via to be Rear Admiral (lower half) MARINE CORPS Cal. #817 - Lt. Gen. Michael G. Dana to be Lieutenant General Cal. #818 - Lt. Gen. David H. Berger to be Lieutenant General Cal. #819 – the following to be Brigadier General: Col. Stephen E. Liszewski  Col. Lorna M. Mahlock  Col. David L. Odom  Col. Arthur J. Pasagian  Col. Sean M. Salene  Col. Kevin J. Stewart  Col. William H. Swan  Col. Calvert L. Worth, Jr. Cal. #820 - Maj. Gen. Charles G. Chiarotti to be Lieutenant General And all nominations on the Secretary’s Desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Foreign Service.   Wrap Up: S.Res.440 – Second Chance Month S.Res.464 – Daughters and Sons to Work Day S.Res.489 – World Malaria Day S.Res.490 – Financial Literacy S.Res.491 – Independent Transportation S.Res.492 – Safe Digging S.Res.493 – Notre Dame Women’s Basketball S.Res.494 – Hoosiers Women’s Basketball S.Res.495 – Public Service S.Res.496 – Dia de los Ninos S.Res.497 – Cinco de Mayo S.Res.498 – Small Business Week DOT-18-0010-B-000756 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001749 S.Res.499 – National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention S.Res.500 – Legal Counsel   AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000757 DOT-Am.Oversight-001750 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Stewart, Don (McConnell) FW: Line Thursday, May 03, 2018 8:22:00 AM     From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Sent: Thursday, May 03, 2018 8:19 AM To: 'Elaine L. Chao' <(b) (6) (OST) Subject: RE: Line     >; Furman, Jon (OST) ; Burr, Geoff (b) (5)             AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000758 DOT-Am.Oversight-001751 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); McMaster, Sean (OST) RE: TVD <> Adam and Sean Friday, May 04, 2018 3:27:17 PM Hey guys.  We never connected.  Let me know next time you are headed to the Hill and we'll get together.  Also would you both send me all of your contact info (direct, cell, etc.)?  Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 - (b) (6) -----Original Message----From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Tuesday, March 6, 2018 8:50 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Sullivan, Adam (OST) ; McMaster, Sean (OST) Subject: TVD <> Adam and Sean Terry, meet Adam and Sean. Adam is our new Assistant Secretary for Government Affairs and Sean is our DAS for Congressional. Adam and Sean, meet Terry. Terry leads transportation for the Leader. Hope you guys are able to find time to meet. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000759 DOT-Am.Oversight-001752 From: To: Subject: Date: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Stewart, Don (McConnell) RE: Chao’s interviews with father raise ethical flags Monday, May 07, 2018 6:30:00 AM This came in on two Fridays but they were not so clear with questions   1. Is it appropriate she appears with her father 2. Who invites people to these events. Not quite the article   Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:    - From: Stewart, Don (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, May 07, 2018 6:22 AM To: McInerney, Marianne (OST) Subject: RE: Chao’s interviews with father raise ethical flags I saw. Must have been a long weekend.   From: McInerney, Marianne (OST) [mailto:marianne.mcinerney@dot.gov] Sent: Sunday, May 06, 2018 10:46 PM To: Stewart, Don (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: FW: Chao’s interviews with father raise ethical flags - ----   FYI     Marianne McInerney Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation (b) (6) Mobile:  From: POLITICO Pro Transportation [mailto:politicoemail@politicopro.com] Sent: Sunday, May 06, 2018 7:18 PM To: Rosen, Jeff (OST) Subject: Chao’s interviews with father raise ethical flags Chao's interviews with father raise ethical flags By Tanya Snyder 05/06/2018 07:17 PM EDT AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000760 DOT-Am.Oversight-001753 In at least a dozen interviews with Chinese and Chinese-American media outlets since her nomination, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has appeared beside her shipping magnate father, whose company carries goods between the United States and Asia, and who has given Chao and her husband at least $5 million in the past 10 years. In many of the videos, James Chao is introduced as founder and chairman of the Foremost Group shipping company, and, in discussing a 2016 biography about his life, speaks proudly of his daughter's role as secretary of transportation, as she sits beaming by his side. One interview with New China Press published on April 12, 2017, features the pair sitting in what appears to be the Department of Transportation, with DOT flags in view behind the interviewer. Long portions of the interview are in Chinese, with James Chao talking about his life story, with a copy of his biography on the screen, and Elaine Chao extolling her father's success story as "lifting the status of Asian-Americans in America." She also touts his $40 million gift to Harvard University. The appearances raise ethical concerns, experts say, because public officials are legally banned from using their office for any form of private gain for themselves or others. In the videos, James Chao, who has four other living daughters, sits beside the transportation secretary while discussing the family business — which has expanded in recent years and relies in part on Asian and Asian-American customers — and his 2016 biography, which touts him as a business success and philanthropic leader. Foremost Group is a family enterprise, with Elaine Chao's sister Angela serving as CEO and her sister Christine as general counsel. James Chao, in the videos, cites Elaine's work as a college student helping to build up the business. In one video, which appears to have been made as a Lunar New Year greeting, a seated James appears with Elaine and Angela to wish viewers a "happy, healthy, safe and successful new year in the upcoming Year of the Dog." Experts in government ethics said Elaine Chao's media appearances with her father might violate a regulation that prohibits federal employees from using their public office for their "own private gain, for the endorsement of any product, service or enterprise, or for the private gain of friends, relatives, or persons with whom the employee is affiliated in a nongovernmental capacity." "She needs to be careful when she appears that, say, the seal of the Department of Transportation doesn't appear on the screen," said Kathleen Clark, a government and legal ethics expert at the Washington University School of Law. Not only do the DOT flags appear prominently in the New China Press interview and several other interviews, the state flag of Kentucky appears in at least one, which points up her connection to her powerful husband, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). Hana Callaghan, director of government ethics at Santa Clara University's Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, said since public officials "have a duty to maintain and preserve trust in government," they are obligated "to avoid even the appearance of impropriety." That means they shouldn't "promote one business over another," she said. "What troubles me about [Secretary Chao's actions] is perhaps it may appear that a person in her situation is using her office and her position in order to publicize her father's book, or this AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000761 DOT-Am.Oversight-001754 book about her family," Callaghan said. "That's not a public purpose." Through her spokesperson, Elaine Chao declined a request for an interview. A senior DOT spokesperson declined to provide any details on Chao's appearances on Chinese-language media, including about her apparent use of her government office to make the videos. The spokesperson suggested Chao is simply meeting the high demand from Asian media outlets for interviews with her, because she is the first Chinese-American, and the first AsianAmerican woman, to hold a U.S. Cabinet position, having earned that distinction when she became labor secretary in the George W. Bush administration. "She and her family are the focus of [Asian-American] human interest pieces in print and broadcast media," the spokesperson wrote in an emailed statement. "These articles touch upon their immigrant journey and their success assimilating in the United States, their philanthropic activities and their success in business and government. The articles are motivational and not promotional in any form." "There is nothing inappropriate with a Cabinet member appearing with her father or other family members," the spokesperson added. "The secretary's appearances are intended to share an inspirational story about immigrants from a minority community who have become successful in our country." DOT spokespeople added that James Chao does not receive any royalties from the sales of his biography. Nonetheless, specialists in Chinese and Asian business practices say that having the owner of a family shipping business seated next to a daughter who is U.S. secretary of transportation sends a message that Foremost Group has high-level government connections — an important credential in China. "Doing business in China requires a lot of connections," said Diane Wei Liang, an author and a commentator on Chinese business, politics and culture. "Political connections are normally considered as real advantages for business people. Any business that can demonstrate these kinds of connections sends a very positive message as to how successful the business is and how effective it would be to work with them." Stanley Kwong, a professor of international management and marketing at the University of San Francisco, added that the appearance of government ties "will open up doors" in Chinese business circles. The Chao family's connections to the Chinese-American community were also on display in February, when Secretary Chao used the multi-level atrium of the relatively new DOT headquarters building — a large entertainment space — to host a Lunar New Year party for more than 400 guests, according to a list of scheduled attendees. That list showed less than 10 percent were DOT employees; the vast majority were from the Asian-American business community, including leaders from Chinese and Taiwanese chambers of commerce from cities around the United States. DOT spokespeople declined to comment on how much government funding was spent on the AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000762 DOT-Am.Oversight-001755 party, a business-attire affair that included Chinese food and for which many guests traveled from New York City and beyond. The spokespeople also rejected any suggestions of impropriety, insisting that the party was in the same vein as other ethnic celebrations the agency typically hosts, such as Asian-Pacific Heritage Month and Hispanic Heritage Month. They said the guest list was developed with input from the DOT Management Office, the DOT Asian-Pacific American Employees Council, and the White House Presidential Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. However, a DOT employee who has worked at the agency through multiple administrations said the celebrations DOT is referencing typically are for DOT employees and not primarily for outside guests. According to DOT spokespeople, Secretary Chao's father and sister were not present at the gathering. But, to Liang, it still conveyed a message of what she calls the Chaos' "connectability." "In China, business, politics, everything is connected," she said. In many of the video interviews at his daughter's side, James Chao talks with pride about her government work and contacts. In the interview with New China Press, the Chaos talk about traveling with President Donald Trump on Air Force One. "The president spent several minutes with me," James Chao said. "We were talking about business." The Foremost Group was founded by James Chao, an immigrant from Taiwan, in 1964. It celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, but is now appears to be engaging in a brisk period of expansion. Before Trump's inauguration in January 2017, it had 23 registered ships but since then has added 10 — more than a 40 percent increase in capacity — according to IHS Global ship registry information. Through Foremost Group's public relations firm, Angela Chao declined multiple requests for comment. The public relations firm also declined to provide data about the company, referring only to the portion of its website which states that the company's fleet "is approximately 5 million metric tons deadweight, transporting more than 15 million tons of goods per year" and that it "serves blue-chip clients around the world." The site also says, "Foremost charters its ships out to some of the leading companies in the world, and it is the charterers who determine what cargo the ships carry and where they load and discharge." Elaine Chao's financial disclosure form makes no mention of any previous employment with or ownership of the Foremost Group. But in a joint father-daughter interview with the Shanghai Media Group that was recorded between Elaine Chao's confirmation hearing and the president's inauguration, James Chao talked about her work to build up the company. "While my other daughters started working at my company after they graduated from college, Elaine did so while she was still at school, during summer breaks," Chao said. "My company was rather small then. In order to reduce costs, she helped me with my business. But what's special about it was that she came to the office consistently and handled a very big project during the summer. She was a big asset to our company. She put everything in order and did AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000763 DOT-Am.Oversight-001756 an excellent job." James Chao has shared his financial success with his daughter. In April 2008, Elaine Chao and her husband received a large gift from her father in honor of her mother after her death. According to McConnell's financial disclosure forms, the size of the gift was between $5 million and $25 million, contributing to a seven-fold increase in his wealth over a 10-year period. In an interview without Elaine Chao present, posted on Angela Chao's YouTube channel, James Chao spoke to a Sinovision reporter in the Foremost Group corporate office in New York about how proud he was of Elaine's nomination to be secretary of transportation. "Many people in the transportation industry wanted her to become the secretary of transportation," James Chao said in the interview, which occurred during the presidential transition period. Elaine Chao's new position also coincided with Angela Chao's ascension to the board of directors of the Bank of China, which she joined in January 2017. She was elected to the board before Elaine Chao was nominated to head DOT. As secretary, Elaine Chao maintains a tight control on inside-the-Beltway media appearances. She has never held a news conference for beat reporters and routinely demurs when reporters attempt to speak with her after public events in Washington, D.C. But she has been generous with Chinese outlets in appearances in which she extensively praises her father's life, work and philanthropy. In the interview with Shanghai Media Group, James Chao spoke about his "amazing life journey" and "the secrets of raising outstanding children," in the words of the interviewer, and Elaine Chao depicted her own success as "a milestone for Asian-Americans." The interviewer noted that during her confirmation hearing, senators sent regards to her father when questioning her. "I talk about my father a lot and my family a lot, and they admire my family tremendously," Elaine Chao said. Copies of James Chao's biography were stacked on the table beside the host. In other appearances filmed since her confirmation as secretary, Chao appears beside her father, calling her parents "trailblazers" and praising their philanthropy, the way they taught their children to set and achieve goals, and the courage they displayed during their harrowing migration to the United States. James Chao's biography, Fearless Against the Wind, was released in October 2016, less than a month before his daughter was nominated to be transportation secretary. It is available only in Chinese. Her promotion of the book via Chinese media appearances seems to have begun before her nomination. In December 2016, Chao spoke at a news conference for her father's book, saying it was the first time she'd spoken in public since the announcement of her nomination, and that it would be the last until her confirmation hearing. "The purpose of today's talk is to talk about my father's journey," she said, referring explicitly to the book and recognizing its publisher and author. In one brief video clip from May 2017 that appears to have been filmed at DOT, James Chao is the only one who speaks, entirely in Chinese. He introduces himself as the chairman of AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000764 DOT-Am.Oversight-001757 Foremost Group and says, "I bring my daughter, Elaine Chao, along with the rest of my family" to congratulate Jiangsu Province on its first development conference. Clark, the ethics professor, said Chao's behavior appears "consistent with other things we've seen in the Trump administration, with the blurring of the public/private line, the exploitation of a government authority to promote the enterprise of a family member." "There's a through line from the White House," said Clark. "A kind of nepotism. I'm not talking just about the hiring of relatives, but bringing relatives in or acting in a way that could enrich relatives — we've seen this in the White House; we've seen this at Housing and Urban Development and now ... at the Department of Transportation." Katy O'Donnell and Lauren Gardner contributed to this report. To view online: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/transportation/article/2018/05/chaos-interviews-with-fatherraise-ethical-flags-569686 Was this Pro content helpful? Tell us what you think in one click. Yes, very Somewhat Neutral Not really Not at all You received this POLITICO Pro content because your customized settings include: Transportation: Executive Branch; Transportation: Department of Transportation; Transportation: Elaine Chao. To change your alert settings, please go to https://subscriber.politicopro.com/settings This email was sent to jeff.rosen@dot.gov by: POLITICO, LLC 1000 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA, 22209, USA AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000765 DOT-Am.Oversight-001758 From: To: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell) RE: Invitation to Dinner for Amb. & Mrs. Sugiyama of Japan on June 5 Tuesday, May 08, 2018 5:50:00 PM We have accepted. Thanks!   Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6)   From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, May 08, 2018 5:50 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: FW: Invitation to Dinner for Amb. & Mrs. Sugiyama of Japan on June 5   We are going to decline this for him, but it is an invitation for her as well.   --- From: Roy Pfautch <(b) (6) @csidc.com> Sent: Monday, April 30, 2018 7:08 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Invitation to Dinner for Amb. & Mrs. Sugiyama of Japan on June 5   To Senator Mitch McConnell and The Honorable Elaine Chao United States Senator     Roy Pfautch   Cordially invites you   To dinner   In honour of   The Ambassador of Japan, Shinsuke J. Sugiyama and Mrs. Sugiyama   Tuesday, June 5, 2018   7 o’clock   The National Museum of Women in the Arts 1250 New York Avenue, N.W.   (b) (6) Please respond to or (b) (6) Email for @csidc.com AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT --- DOT-18-0010-B-000766 DOT-Am.Oversight-001759   Business Attire Valet Parking at the door     It is a happiness to welcome Yoko and Shinsuke Sugiyama back to Washington where they have served previously. I am also happy to be back to host this party as they are dear friends of over 20 years. Some who receive this invitation will recall my party to welcome Kenichiro and Nobuko Sasae in 2013. Now I hope you will join to greet the Sugiyama’s. AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000767 DOT-Am.Oversight-001760 From: To: Subject: Date: Simon, Doug (OST) Wright, Kathy (McConnell) RE: Update Call - Doug Simon + Kathy Wright Wednesday, May 09, 2018 2:17:00 PM Hi Kathy – (b) (5), (b) (6) Thank you Doug Simon DOT   From: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 9:42 AM To: Simon, Doug (OST) Subject: RE: Update Call - Doug Simon + Kathy Wright Of course…   -----Original Appointment----From: Simon, Doug (OST) [mailto:doug.simon@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 6, 2017 9:34 AM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Subject: New Time Proposed: Update Call - Doug Simon + Kathy Wright When: Monday, November 6, 2017 2:30 PM-3:00 PM (UTC-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada). Where: KWW will call (b) (6) I have an FAA interview at 3PM. I will likely have to escort him and sit with him before 3:00. Can we move up a bit? AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000768 DOT-Am.Oversight-001761 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) Re: Meeting with Clare Friday, May 18, 2018 10:31:21 AM Completely up to you. I just pinged Clare. Let’s see what times they suggest.  Sent from my iPhone On May 18, 2018, at 10:30 AM, Kan, Derek (OST) wrote: Sure if it’s not too many people. Thanks  On May 18, 2018, at 10:24 AM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Do you want to bring Kathy from OMB along?  Or no?  I am happy either way.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Friday, May 18, 2018 10:13 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Meeting with Clare   Thanks!   Two weeks is good.  It would be me and Adam Sullivan (our A/S for Govt Affairs).   Afternoon of the 29th or any time on the 30th.   From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, May 18, 2018 10:12 AM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: Meeting with Clare   I mentioned it to Clare yesterday.  Do you have some time blocks to AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000769 DOT-Am.Oversight-001762 recommend to me?  I think you mentioned Memorial Day week?  We can do earlier though if that works for you.  Who else would accompany you, if anyone?  Thanks for the reminder on this.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Friday, May 18, 2018 10:09 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Meeting with Clare   Wanted to follow-up to see when you have time to meet with Clare and us on some big projects coming down the pipeline.  Thanks. AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000770 DOT-Am.Oversight-001763 From: To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell} Subject: Kan, Derek (Osn Clare Date: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 11:01:38 AM I followed u with Clare with the new times for a potential meetin [(lj)l 5) T e-vvyV('.iUI\.I Voret'v Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 205 10 rns, I DOT-18-0010-B-000771 DOT-Am.Oversight-001764 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST); Sullivan, Adam (OST) FYI -- Gateway Tuesday, May 22, 2018 6:00:22 PM Today at the sticks after the policy lunches, Schumer got asked a question about Gateway.  I assume this is his same talking points on NY using their Amtrak and SOGR formula funds for Gateway.  Just FYI.    SCHUMER: Well, Gateway's moving forward because as you know, in the omnibus budget there's about $540 million that the president has no control over. So Gateway is moving forward. And I hope the president will see the error of his ways and support Gateway. It's a project that is needed, not just by New York, but by the whole Northeast Corridor, and we'll run into real trouble if we don't have up-to-date tunnels under the Hudson River. AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000772 DOT-Am.Oversight-001765 From: To: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Re: Clare Tuesday, May 22, 2018 11:04:19 AM Thank you for the heads up. > On May 22, 2018, at 5:01 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) > > (b) (5) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: DOT-18-0010-B-000773 DOT-Am.Oversight-001766 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Ford, Veronica (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: Happy Monday Tuesday, May 22, 2018 12:00:38 PM You are welcome and yes, that time is reserved on his calendar. We will confirm if Adam is attending.     Thank you.   From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 11:38 AM To: Ford, Veronica (OST) Cc: Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: Happy Monday   @mcconnell.senate.gov] Thanks for your help Roni.  I have locked in Tuesday, May 29th at 11AM in Dirksen 192 for our meeting with Clare Doherty.  Please confirm that still works and put on Derek’s calendar.  I think Derek may also be inviting Adam Sullivan, but I leave that to you.  Thanks again.  TVD   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Ford, Veronica (OST) Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 9:33 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Kan, Derek (OST) Subject: RE: Happy Monday   Good Morning Mr. Van Doren,   I’m Roni, Derek’s assistant.  He currently has the following times available next week:   Tuesday May 29th at 9 to 10 am, 11 to 12 noon Friday June 1st at 9 to 10 am, 11 to 12 noon and 2 to 3 pm   Let us know if any of these times will work.  If not, we can move some things around to accommodate.   Thanks AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000774 DOT-Am.Oversight-001767 ---------   From: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, May 21, 2018 6:12 PM To: Kan, Derek (OST) Cc: Ford, Veronica (OST) Subject: RE: Happy Monday   @mcconnell.senate.gov] No big deal.  I just thought maybe I heard wrong.  You give me time windows for next week and I will ask Clare what might work.  Thanks again.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Monday, May 21, 2018 4:26 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Ford, Veronica (OST) Subject: Re: Happy Monday   Sorry about that. I did until I was called to North Dakota for a conference I’m now surrogating for the Secretary.   I’ll let Roni provide times. Sorry about that. On May 21, 2018, at 4:23 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: I thought you’d told me that your preferred time window was the afternoon of the 29th and anytime on the 30th.  That’s what I offered her.  Sounds like you are in North Dakota for all those times?    Let’s start over.  Please send me your open time windows for next week.  Thanks in advance.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Monday, May 21, 2018 2:42 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT @mcconnell.senate.gov> DOT-18-0010-B-000775 DOT-Am.Oversight-001768 Subject: Re: Happy Monday   actually are you guys free in the morning? I realized I’m flying out to North Dakota that afternoon. On May 21, 2018, at 2:41 PM, Kan, Derek (OST) wrote: How does early afternoon work say around 2? On May 21, 2018, at 1:29 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: I talked to Clare; she offered, the afternoon of the 29th being best for her.  Do you want to shoot me what time(s) work for you and Adam that afternoon?  Thanks in advance.      Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000776 DOT-Am.Oversight-001769 From: To: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Re: Clare Mtg Wednesday, May 23, 2018 2:55:21 PM Great.... thank you  On May 23, 2018, at 8:50 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: It looks like Clare has invited Shannon Hines to our meeting, so you will have both subcommittee and full committee leads there.  Just FYI.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000777 DOT-Am.Oversight-001770 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Ambasciata d"Italia negli Stati Uniti Washington RSVP Edwards, Sara (OST); (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov RE: Follow-up: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio Tuesday, May 29, 2018 10:36:00 PM image001.png Giovanna,   Unfortunately, the Secretary has two night time events on Tuesday, June 5th that we cannot move. Therefore she is unable to attend the farewell dinner. Please know that the Secretary sends her regrets. Thank you so much for the invitation.   VR,   From: Ambasciata d'Italia negli Stati Uniti Washington RSVP [mailto:rsvp.washington@esteri.it] Sent: Friday, May 25, 2018 1:51 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Siegrist, Ben (OST) ; SecretaryScheduler (OST) ; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov Subject: Follow-up: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   Good afternoon,   I am writing to follow-up on the invitation below for Secretary Chao and Leader McConnell. We hope that they will be able to join us.   Have a wonderful holiday weekend!   Best, Giovanna   From: Ambasciata d'Italia negli Stati Uniti Washington RSVP Sent: lunedì 14 maggio 2018 15:37 To: gabrielle.basile@dot.gov; ben.siegrist@dot.gov; SecretaryScheduler@dot.gov; (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov Subject: Tuesday, June 5, 2018 - Invitation on behalf of The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio   The Ambassador of Italy and Mrs. Armando Varricchio have the pleasure of inviting The Secretary of Transportation and Leader Mitch McConnell to a dinner to bid farewell to The Ambassador of Germany and Mrs. Huberta von Voss-Wittig on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at 7:30 pm. The dinner will be held at their residence, Villa Firenze (2800 Albemarle Street, NW – Washington, DC 20008). Please advise AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000778 DOT-Am.Oversight-001771 of any dietary restrictions.   Please note that parking is available on the premises. If you are using Uber, please let your drivers know that they need to use the entrance “off of Connecticut Avenue”. If you plan on using a taxi service, please make sure to reserve your departure taxi ahead of time, as it is very difficult to get them.   Best regards, Giovanna   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Giovanna Di Berto Social Secretary to the Ambassador Embassy of Italy (b) (6)   [i](l[i[il - ll taly 201 I 8       DOT-18-0010-B-000779 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001772 McCain. Megan (McConnell) From: To: Inman. Todd (OST) RE: Question about Scheduling a Meeti ng Monday, June 04, 2018 6:40:46 PM Subj ect: Date : Okay. Great tha nks! From: Inma n, Todd (OST) Sent: Monday, June 4, 2018 6 :32 PM To: McCain, Megan (McConne ll) .d< bH5i·---@mcconne ll.senate.g ov> Subject: Re: Question about Schedu ling a Meet ing He emailed me direct ly ( I suspect someone gave Him my email add ress). and I have my assistant try ing t o schedu le someth ing for him. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of The Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Wasbinaton oc2os20 16 On Jun 4, 2018, at 6:29 PM, McCain, Megan (M cConne ll) <1lb> __>___ wro t e: _J @...,m.....,..cc ...o.... o... o... e.... ll... s... en....,a .... t... e..,g,..o .. v> ... ... 1 ToddHope you are doing well . I ran into State Rep . Sal Santoro the other day and he mentioned that he would be in DC later this month and was hoping to meet with soeone at DOT while he was there . Can you help me point him in the Iight direction? Thank you ! Megan Megan McCain Field Representative U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell tl>J(6J @mcconnell.senate.gov ---- ,(b)(6) DOT-18-0010-B-000780 DOT-Am.Oversight-001773 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) Slater, Bryan (OST) Rosen, Jeff (OST) FW: My information Thursday, June 08, 2017 2:04:33 PM (b) (6) ATT00001.txt Brain and Jeff, (b) (5) KWW -----Original Message----From: (b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, May 16, 2017 7:18 PM To: Wright, Kathy (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: My information - @mcconnell.senate.gov> As discussed.  Talk to you soon. Best regards, (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000781 DOT-Am.Oversight-001774 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Lee, Jane (McConnell) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) Re: 11:45? Friday, June 08, 2018 10:02:15 AM Hey guys. I have an 11:30 meeting too. Free today from 1-2; 4-5. Next week may be a bit better. Sent from my iPhone > On Jun 8, 2018, at 9:02 AM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: > > Let's check with Jane.  I have a meeting already at that time.  Let's figure out something soon though.  > > Terry Van Doren > Policy Advisor > Office of Majority Leader McConnell > Washington, DC 20510 >(b) (6) > > -----Original Message----> From: Kan, Derek (OST) > Sent: Friday, June 8, 2018 8:39 AM > To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> > Subject: 11:45? > > Will you be around at 11:45? Want to walk through our problems with the senate approps mark. If you and Jane are around, would love to share our views. > AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000782 DOT-Am.Oversight-001775 Lee, Jane (McConnell) From: To: Subject : Date : No problem! Rosen, Jeff (Osn Re: Senate schedule//Minibus text//RPC Aoo rcast attached Monday, June 18, 2018 10:02:10 PM rCbH5> --------------- Sent from my iPhone On Jun 18, 2018 , at 7:23 PM, Rosen, Jeff (OST) wrote: Great to see yo u last week, and thanks for sharing t his. Jeff From: Lee, Jane (McConnell) [mailto ; @mcconnell.senat e.gov] Sent: Monday, June 18, 2018 7:14 PM To: Lee, Jane (McConne ll) --r@ mcconnell.senate .gov> Subject: FW: Senate schedule//Minibus t ext//RPC Floorcast attached FYI on Senat e schedule, below. We've moved to t he m in ibus . Clot u re vo t e t o get star t ed was 92 -3. We moved t o proceed to HR 5895, t he House under lyi ng veh icle, by conse nt. The Senate substitute for t he mi nibus was offe red . Text is attached . Expect amendments o n the f loor tomo rrow. Nig ht! From: Laird, Carolyn (RPC) Sent: Monday, June 18, 2018 10:30 AM Cc: Laird, Carolyn (RPC)4 @rpc.senate .gov> 1 Subject: RPCFloorcast attached RPC FLOORCAST DOT-18-0010-B-000783 DOT-Am.Oversight-001776 This memo is based on comments made to Senate Republican Legislative Directors by Chris Barkley of RPC and Erica Suares of the Republican Leader’s Office on Monday, June 18 at 10:00 a.m. in SR-349. THIS WEEK: The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of H.R. 5515, the Defense Authorization bill, postcloture.  It will be in order for Senator Sanders or his designee to raise a single Budget Act point of order against the Inhofe substitute amendment #2282, as amended. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will conduct up to three votes on: 1)     The motion to waive the Budget Act re: H.R. 5515 (if a point of order is raised); 2)    Passage of H.R. 5515, as amended; and 3)     Cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R. 5895, the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction/VA Appropriations bill. In addition, this week the Senate may vote in relation to the motion to proceed to H.R. 3, the Rescissions bill. A LOOK AHEAD: Items the Senate may consider during this work period include:   • • • • • • Farm bill; Nominations; S. 2800, America’s Water Infrastructure Act; Legislation relating to opioids; FAA reauthorization; and Flood insurance legislation. On Wednesday, April 18, a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to S. 140 with a further amendment (substitute containing the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill), was entered.    RPC Staff Contacts: Chris Barkley and Carolyn Laird, 224-2946             VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000784 DOT-Am.Oversight-001777 Subject : Kan, Derek (Osn Raab, Scott (McConnell} Van Doren, Terry (McConnell} Re: Th une : FAA bill comi ng up in 'the next few weeks ' Date: Tuesday, July 10, 2018 3:51 :52 PM From: To: Cc : Thank you! Sent from my iPad 1 6 tb> _<_ __ On Jul 10, 2018, at 12:49 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) 4L wrote: . T eny 1sconect. I > _;,..,.@,..m=cc=o=nn=el=l=.s=en=a=te=·-e-g 1 [(lj)l5) I ---------- On Jul 10, 20 18, at 3:47 PM, Van Doren, Teny (McConnell) 5 <l> l@mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: tl>)l5) Te-vvyV£iUI\.IVor£Wv Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 205 10 r)(S) I From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 10, 2018 3:43 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConne ll) 6 ~ bH > ,@mcconne ll.senate.gov > Subject: Fwd: Th une : FAA bill com ing up in 'the next few weeks' Is this accurate? Begin fo1warded message: From: "POLITICO Pro Transportation Whiteboard" Date: July 10, 2018 at 12:39:54 PM PDT To: Subject: Thune: FAA bill coming up in 'the next few weeks ' Reply-To: "POLITICO subscriptions" <~ fe89137572600c7e71-1 I 58743 HTML-812238190- DOT-18-0010-B-000785 DOT-Am.Oversight-001778 1376319-0@politicoemail.com> By Tanya Snyder and Brianna Gurciullo 07/10/2018 03:38 PM EDT Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) said today that he expects the FAA bill to come to the floor "in the course of the next few weeks." The Commerce Committee advanced the bill, S. 1405 (115), more than a year ago and has been awaiting floor time. At a press conference, Thune referenced the FAA bill among other pieces of legislation, including the water infrastructure bill, that the Senate will be "working on in the course of the next few weeks," in addition to moving on President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh. After the press conference, Thune hedged on the timetable, telling reporters that committee leaders are "getting an assessment of what the universe of amendments is on FAA" and that they are "hoping we can get the Democrats to agree to a time agreement to bring it up for sure, if not in this work period, at least in the August work period, because we want to get it done." "And I think we're going to get there," he added. To view online: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/transportation/whiteboard/2018/07/thunefaa-bill-coming-up-in-the-next-few-weeks-1539444 Was this Pro content helpful? Tell us what you think in one click. Yes, very Somewhat Neutral Not really Not at all You received this POLITICO Pro content because your customized settings include: Transportation: FAA; Transportation: Aviation; Transportation: Department of Transportation; Transportation: Senate Commerce Committee; Transportation: FAA Reauthorization. To change your alert settings, please go to https://subscriber.politicopro.com/settings This email was sent to derek.kan@dot.gov by: AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000786 DOT-Am.Oversight-001779 POLITICO, LLC 1000 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA, 22209, USA AMf--H.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000787 DOT-Am.Oversight-001780 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 3:25pm Tuesday, July 24, 2018 3:29:44 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx Updated… Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000788 DOT-Am.Oversight-001781 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 5:22pm Tuesday, July 24, 2018 5:46:13 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000789 DOT-Am.Oversight-001782 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST); Sullivan, Adam (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 7:05pm Tuesday, July 24, 2018 7:34:21 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000790 DOT-Am.Oversight-001783 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:16:03 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx This is a cloakroom document, not a public document so please do not forward.  I thought you might want to see descriptions of what is filed thus far.  If you want Adam or someone else designated to get these, please let me know.  TVD   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Smith, Mike (Rep-Secretary) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:13 AM To: Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Suares, Erica (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Neill, Jim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; (b) (6) Donaldson, Steve (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Khosla, Jay (Finance) (b) (6) < @finance.senate.gov> Subject: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am       - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000791 DOT-Am.Oversight-001784 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 12:45pm Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:48:38 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx The attached is a Republican cloakroom document; it is not for forwarding or distribution.  However, I thought you’d like to see what amendments have been filed thus far.  Please flag anything you see as potentially problematic.       Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Smith, Mike (Rep-Secretary) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:46 PM To: Smith, Mike (Rep-Secretary) <(b) (6) @rep-secretary.senate.gov> Subject: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 12:45pm     - AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000792 DOT-Am.Oversight-001785 From: To: Subject: Date: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Kan, Derek (OST) RE: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:19:13 PM Yes. I will on the next one. As you can see, not much yet filed. Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:17 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am   Can you pls send to me and Adam? Thanks. On Jul 24, 2018, at 12:16 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: This is a cloakroom document, not a public document so please do not forward. I thought you might want to see descriptions of what is filed thus far. If you want Adam or someone else designated to get these, please let me know. TVD Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) From: Smith, Mike (Rep-Secretary) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:13 AM To: Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Suares, Erica (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Neill, Jim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Donaldson, Steve (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Khosla, Jay (Finance) (b) (6) < @finance.senate.gov> Subject: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am   ---- ---- --- AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000793 DOT-Am.Oversight-001786     AMERICAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000794 DOT-Am.Oversight-001787 From: To: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Re: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:19:57 PM (b) (5) On Jul 24, 2018, at 12:19 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Yes.  I will on the next one.  As you can see, not much yet filed.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Kan, Derek (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:17 PM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am   Can you pls send to me and Adam? Thanks. On Jul 24, 2018, at 12:16 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: This is a cloakroom document, not a public document so please do not forward.  I thought you might want to see descriptions of what is filed thus far.  If you want Adam or someone else designated to get these, please let me know.  TVD   Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   From: Smith, Mike (Rep-Secretary) Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2018 9:13 AM To: Marshall, Hazen (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Lee, Jane (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Suares, Erica (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) AMf--f CAN -- ------- pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000795 DOT-Am.Oversight-001788 <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Neill, Jim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Raab, Scott (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Donaldson, Steve (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Khosla, Jay (Finance) (b) (6) < @finance.senate.gov> Subject: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am       - --- AMf--P.C/\N pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000796 DOT-Am.Oversight-001789 From: To: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Re: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/24, 9:09am Tuesday, July 24, 2018 12:25:38 PM Will do. Thank you. On Jul 24, 2018, at 12:24 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Jane flagged for the Committee the concern.  Please flag amendments on the list that seem problematic.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000797 DOT-Am.Oversight-001790 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Raab, Scott (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) Udall Amendment Tuesday, July 24, 2018 7:26:45 PM S amdt 3414.pdf Does DOT have a view on this Udall Amendment that is being offered to the THUD bill that we will likely vote on tomorrow?   It has been reported that this a proxy for service on the Southwest Chief line if that influences your opinion.         AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000798 DOT-Am.Oversight-001791 g]n\'IH .\-1-H 11~::\'T::\'O.- -- \ UDXD ll'11dc1r o.--C1:1 - rl'h1t.i11g:to the· ntil ron1Ps. irnporb111<·('of lo11g--disb11H·t·pc1ssc•11g-<'l' P11rpm;c To l'XJ)l'('8S tl1t st'JJS<' of Congn·ss 1 1 : Cong., 2d Sess. THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES-115th I TT T'.I Al r-t ,n,i N~ AMENDMENT By _ UJa..ll To: ~(J_ 3414 the I 11tl>1·io1· fisc·,tl Y('HI' 1e1· pnrpmws . (! No 33qq a Page(s) ,111d --- ------- ntl'd GPO: 2016 2'.l- .'1·15 (mac ·) l fr. BE~~E:T Ir. RoBEH'I'~, ,-111dl\Ir. 0 \RD~l~H) to th IIEI~RI<'II :B99) p1·opo:-wd by l\Ir. N1rn1 .,BY himself, 3 fr. loH \~, ctrn .111d111 ,,,t ( o. \ t. t lH· .-1p1H·opriat(' place• i11titk I of di\'isi011 D i11st·rt. 1 2 I D.i\LL till' following: Nr~C'. 1__ . It ix t.lie Sl 1Ise of ( 1011gr ess t.hat1 (1) lo11g-dista11c·epc1si-w11gl'rrHil rn11t.es providl 4 1 for Sent: Monday, July 30, 2018 11:19 AM To: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Sense of the senate language for you to consider   - (b) (5) On Jul 29, 2018, at 8:07 PM, Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (5) Feedback appreciated as soon as possible. Sent from my iPhone   (b) (5)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT - DOT-18-0010-B-000802 DOT-Am.Oversight-001795 AM ERICAN RSI From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Kan, Derek (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST) Re: Udall - Moran on Southwest Chief Monday, July 30, 2018 11:14:26 AM Thanks for the heads up. (b) (5) - ---- (b) (6) On Jul 30, 2018, at 8:27 AM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) < wrote: @mcconnell.senate.gov> I am flagging that Moran and Udall are pushing for the following in the manager’s package for your situational awareness.  Lee is currently objecting.      Southwest Chief: : Provided further, That not less than $50,000,000 of the amount provided under this heading shall be expended for capital expenses related to safety improvements, maintenance, and the non-Federal match for discretionary Federal grant programs to enable continued passenger rail operations on long-distance routes (as defined in section 24102 of title 49, United States Code) on which Amtrak is the sole tenant of the host railroad and positive train control systems are not required by law (including regulations and through exceptions to regulations);   Provided further, none of the funds provided in Fiscal Year 2019 shall be used by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation to give notice under subsections (a) and (b) of section 24706 of title 49, United States Code, with respect to long distance routes (as defined in section 24102 of title 49, United States Code) on which the National Railroad Passenger Corporation is the sole tenant of the host railroad and positive train control systems are not required by law (including regulations and through exceptions to regulations), or otherwise initiate discontinuance of, reduce the frequency of, suspend, or substantially alter the schedule or route of rail service on any portion of such route operated in Fiscal Year 2018, including but not limited to implementation of service permitted by section 24305(a)(3)(A) in lieu of rail service     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000804 DOT-Am.Oversight-001797 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/31, 3:55pm Tuesday, July 31, 2018 4:19:30 PM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx Last one, since filing deadline has passed for both 1st and 2nd degree amendments.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)     AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000805 DOT-Am.Oversight-001798 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Van Doren, Terry (McConnell) Sullivan, Adam (OST); Kan, Derek (OST) FW: H.R.6147 - Minibus Appropriations Filed Amendments List; Updated 7/31, 9:00am Tuesday, July 31, 2018 9:11:22 AM H.R.6147 - Minibus.docx 1st degree filing deadline was yesterday afternoon, so this should be the bulk of what is out there.    Terry Van Doren Policy Advisor Office of Majority Leader McConnell Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000806 DOT-Am.Oversight-001799 Burr, Geoff (OST) Raab, Scott (McConnell} Re: CEO Report : Race to the fi nish on spending bills - FAA bill is ready for takeoff in Senate - China, NATTA in t he crosshairs Monday, August 06, 2018 1:20:36 PM Fro m: To : Subj ect : Dat e : 5> Thanks . tb>< Sent from my iPhone 6 1 <_ __ On Aug 6, 2018, at 12:57 PM, Raab, Scott (McConnell) _~ wrote: ..J.._,®...,1=n=-cc=o=nn=el=l.= se=n=a=te= ·,e.go"'-'-v > )( 5) On Aug 6, 2018, at 10:49 AM, BmT, Geoff (OST) wrote: Hey Scott: )( 5) Thanks. g EOFFBUBR HIEF OF STAFF EPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Begin fo1warded message: From: "CEO Repo1i" Date: August 6, 20 18 at 4:06 :46 AM PDT To: > Subject: CEO Report: Race to the finish on spending bills - FAA bill is ready for takeoff in Senate China, NAFTA in the crosshairs Reply-To: "POLITICO subscriptions" <~ DOT-18-0010-B-000807 DOT-Am.Oversight-001800 fe8d13767460027870-630337_HTML-7972039551376319-0@politicoemail.com> View online version ID 08/06/2018 07:00 AM EDT   By SARA SMITH (ssmith@politico.com)     Welcome to the August edition of the CEO Report, POLITICO Pro's high-level outlook on the policy issues driving the month ... and beyond. BUDGET & APPROPRIATIONS Racing to the finish: Defying skeptics, Congress is on track to pass many — if not a majority — of its fiscal year 2019 spending bills ahead of schedule and with relatively little fanfare this year, Pro Budget and Appropriations' Sarah Ferris reports. But most on Capitol Hill are still predicting a stopgap spending bill for at least some federal agencies. And some fear that President Donald Trump will deliver an unwanted distraction ahead of the midterms by making good on his threat to shut down the government to get more money for his border wall. Senate sets the agenda: The Senate is planning to finish its third spending bundle before Labor Day, marking nine total bills done. The upper chamber will tee up its third and likely final package, which includes Defense, S. 3159, and Labor-HHS-Education, S. 3158, the week of Aug. 13. Packaging the VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000808 DOT-Am.Oversight-001801 popular Defense bill with the largest domestic spending measure is meant to ensure bipartisan support. The House has approved six bills, albeit with a much more partisan spin. That pace is far ahead of past years, which has procedural wonks dreaming of an autumn floor schedule that bears real resemblance to "regular order" — rather than the ugly funding fight that resulted in a catch-all "omnibus" bill, H.R. 1625 (115), that enraged Trump this spring. The first snag: Despite early progress, no bills have made it to the president's desk. The pace has been slower than expected for Congress' first "minibus," H.R. 5895, to fund the departments of Energy and Veterans Affairs, as well as the legislative branch. Negotiators are still trying to resolve a multibillion-dollar gap to fund a popular veterans health program, which has created a party-line split. TRADE China, NAFTA in the crosshairs: Trade talks with China and NAFTA renegotiation talks are front and center. As the president moves closer to hitting Beijing with additional tariffs, the administration will convene public hearings from Aug. 20-23 on whether to impose a 25 percent duty on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports. The deadline for requests to appear at the hearing is Aug. 13. The administration extended a deadline to DOT-18-0010-B-000809 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001802 submit final comments until Sept. 5 after it decided to potentially raise the tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on the latest round of goods. NAFTA talks have resumed, with negotiators seeking to reach an agreement between Mexico and the U.S. by an Aug. 25 deadline so Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto can sign the deal before he leaves office in December. Mexican Economy Secretary Ildefonso Guajardo said he will be back in Washington Aug. 8 or 9 to continue meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. Around the world: Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has said the Trump-ordered investigation into whether imports of automobiles and parts pose a national security risk should be completed this month. Lighthizer will also be busy with the first round of a new trade dialogue with Japan, one of the U.S.' most important trade and security allies in the region. Those talks are tentatively scheduled for Aug. 9. Economic ministers from Southeast Asian nations will convene Aug. 26-Sept. 2 for their 50th annual meeting in Singapore. Lighthizer's office has not confirmed whether he will attend the meeting, although senior U.S. trade officials usually do. — Adam Behsudi TRANSPORTATION DOT-18-0010-B-000810 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001803 FAA, finally: With the Senate taking a shortened recess, action on a long-delayed multiyear FAA reauthorization bill, S. 1405, is likely, assuming senators can on which amendments will get a vote. Before they left for their one-week recess, they began vetting potential amendments. How quickly senators finish that chore will in large part determine when the bill comes to the floor; they seem to be targeting the last week of August. Driverless cars hitching a ride?: One of the potential amendments is the text of AV START, S. 1885 , the Senate's driverless car bill. Though supporters would love to see it catch a ride on the FAA bill, many consider that a tough lift because it's a major piece of safety legislation that lawmakers would have little chance to amend on the floor. Add to that, the continuing concerns from trial lawyers over forced arbitration related to driverless car incidents and it looks like a long shot. — Kathryn A. Wolfe DATAPOINT Opioid Rx by district: Harvard University researchers have estimated the number of opioids prescribed by doctors in each congressional district. On average, doctors wrote 77 prescriptions per 100 residents in Republican districts, and 54 prescriptions per 100 residents in Democratic districts. Much of the difference can be attributed to high prescription rates in rural areas, which tend to lean Republican. Alabama's 4th District, represented by Republican Robert Aderholt, leads the nation VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000811 DOT-Am.Oversight-001804 with 166 opioid prescriptions per residents. - Tucker Dohertl.J 100 [I] Check out the Data Point graph ic here . Want to add DataPoint to your Pro account? Learn more. AGRICULTURE Farm bill talks could be tense: This month, House and Senate agriculture leaders will seek to reconcile the two chambers' farm bills before the current version of the sweeping law expires Sept. 30 . The biggest sticking point is the House's proposed overhau l of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps, which accounts for a vast majority of farm bill spending. The House bill would impose new work requirements on millions of ablebodied adults, but Senate leaders have indicated that policy is a nonstarter. Senate Majority Leader MitchMcConnellhas s.aidhe'd like to see a farm bill conference report ready after Labor Day, but that is an ambitious timeline, particularly given the House's six-week recess. In addition, the first formal meeting of the conference committee may not take place until the end of August. Trade aid watch: The agriculture sector will also be keeping close tabs on planning for the $12 billion aid packageto help those hmt by retaliatory tariffs . Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue recentlysaid that farmers would be required to provide information about their crops and to apply for aid starting DOT-18-0010-B-000812 DOT-Am.Oversight-001805 Sept. 4 and that cash payments will go to soybean, sorghum, cotton, corn, wheat, dairy and hog farmers. Farmers will also be keeping an eye on another round of retaliation China just announced, threatening up to 25 percent tariffs on $60 billion worth of goods, after the Trump administration said it was considering ratcheting up tariffs on hundreds of billions in Chinese imports. — Helena Bottemiller Evich TECHNOLOGY Sinclair's moment of truth: The fate of Sinclair Broadcast Group's merger with Tribune Media will come into sharp focus on Aug. 8. That's the day when either company can walk away from their $3.9 billion deal. Or they could choose to plow forward, despite the FCC's decision to send the transaction into a lengthy administrative proceeding that's widely seen as a deal-killer . FCC Chairman Ajit Pai had problems with Sinclair's proposal for selling TV stations to get under the national media ownership limit; the company had wanted to spin off some stations to close associates, raising questions about how independent those stations would be. But Sinclair, known for its "must-run" pro-Trump segments, has one important fan: Trump himself, who tweeted criticism of the FCC for its "disgraceful" decision on the merger. Postal report shipping soon : Trump's postal task force, led by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, is due to issue its DOT-18-0010-B-000813 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001806 recommendations soon for reforming the U.S. Postal Service. And many in Washington are watching for signs the report will take aim at Amazon. Trump, who conflates Amazon with one of his frequent media targets, the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post, has accused the e-commerce giant of ripping off USPS and treating the service like its "delivery boy." A key question is whether the task force will recommend raising shipping rates for retailers with a large volume of online sales, like Amazon. But the Postal Service's financial problems are not driven by Amazon. The agency's history of billion-dollar losses can mostly be attributed to the decline of letter mail in the Internet era and the mandatory payments the agency must make into a retiree benefits fund. — Eric Engleman EMPLOYMENT & IMMIGRATION Texas targets DACA: A federal judge will hear oral arguments Aug. 8 in a lawsuit brought by Texas and six other states against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The states argue that former President Barack Obama overstepped his authority when he created the DACA program, which provides deportation relief and the ability to work legally to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. Texas and a larger coalition of states successfully used the same argument in a 2014 lawsuit against a broader deportation relief program for parents. And they're back before the same judge, U.S. DOT-18-0010-B-000814 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001807 District Judge Andrew Hanen. In a separate lawsuit, D.C.-based U.S. District Judge John Bates ordered the Trump administration to restart DACA in full, including accepting new applicants. He delayed the order until Aug. 23 to allow the government to appeal. 'Most pressing' family reunifications: The focus of a class-action lawsuit over family separations will shift this month to reuniting migrant children with deported parents or those released into the U.S. The Justice Department said during a late July court hearing that 468 separated children in federal custody had parents currently outside the U.S., likely because they were deported or agreed to be removed. U.S. District Judge Dana Sabraw called the deported and released parents "the most pressing group," now that the government has reunited more than 1,800 children with parents or sponsors. 'Public charge' proposal : A proposed rule that would make it harder for immigrants who receive most public benefits or welfare to obtain a green card could be coming this month. The Trump administration had planned the release for July, but the proposal remains under review. Experts and advocates tracking the so-called public charge regulation say it may be held up for further analysis. Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, wrote an April letter to the White House budget office that questioned how the rule could be considered not "economically significant." Inslee argued it would have a chilling effect on the use of public benefits AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000815 DOT-Am.Oversight-001808 among immigrant families and exert a harmful effect on his state's economy. — Ted Hesson FINANCIAL SERVICES Breaking the nominee logjam: The Senate Banking Committee should finally start clearing its backlog of nominees this month. The panel will likely consider six people after the Senate returns the week of Aug. 13, including Kathy Kraninger to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Elad Roisman to serve at the SEC and Kimberly Reed to head the Export-Import Bank. Kraninger is the only one who faces a close vote. Trump tapped her to replace Mick Mulvaney, who has led the embattled agency as interim director since November. But Kraninger has no experience in consumer issues or banking. Democrats and other critics also see her nomination as a way to keep Mulvaney, her boss at the budget office, in the loop at the agency. Crackdown on conflicts of interest: The public comment period for the SEC's proposal for brokers offering retirement investment advice ends on Aug. 7. The socalled best interest regulation, released by the agency in April, would rein in material conflicts of interest, including bonuses, sales contests and other special perks that brokers can get for recommending annuities or mutual funds that pay commissions. The top lobbying group for brokers is pressing the regulator to water down the proposal, so this fight isn't over. DOT-18-0010-B-000816 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001809 Finally, a fintech charter: On the last day of July, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency released its long-awaited, final version of a special purpose charter that would allow financial technology companies, such as online lenders, to operate as national banks. Now, the applications will start coming in. It's not clear how many fintech companies will sign up because the charter comes with provisions that some regard as onerous. These include a requirement that they draw up wind-down plans in the event they fail, a costly and painstaking process that large banks must go through. Plus, if an application is accepted, it will likely be challenged in court by state regulators. Still, a national charter would allow the fintech firms to avoid state-by-state regulations, as many bigger lenders do. Sealing the deal: Creditors and Puerto Rican government officials will try to finalize a preliminary deal they reached late last month over part of the $9 billion owed by the commonwealth's struggling electric utility. The agreement would allow bondholders to exchange their existing debt for two new tranches of bonds backed by the semigovernmental utility. It could resolve just one piece of Puerto Rico's crippling debt problem, which is standing in the way of the island's recovery from a decadelong recession. — Mark McQuillan TAX The one we've been waiting for: New federal regulations on non-corporate companies known as pass-throughs are VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000817 DOT-Am.Oversight-001810 expected soon. The guidelines should offer clarity on how these companies can claim a new 20 percent deduction on their income that qualifies for the benefit, which was established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, H.R. 1 . Myriad questions haven't been answered since the new law took effect at the beginning of the year, including whether pass-throughs made up of multiple entities can band together to claim the deduction. Broad aggregation would keep passthroughs' effective tax rate closer to what corporations effectively face. New IRS brass soon? Nominees to run the IRS — Charles Rettig to be commissioner and Michael Desmond to be general counsel — are a Senate vote away from stepping into their new roles. Both recently cleared the committee gauntlet despite Democratic votes against them, mostly due to opposition to an unrelated Treasury decision to unwind a longstanding requirement that all taxexempt groups furnish information on donors who give more than $5,000. With the Senate in session for much of this month, Rettig and Desmond could get votes soon. If at first you succeed... House Republicans are using their summer recess this month to test constituent interest in more tax cut legislation. Just before leaving Washington, GOP members of the Ways and Means Committee issued an outline centered on permanently extending the temporary individual tax cuts included in the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, which expire after eight years. They've said the House would vote on AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000818 DOT-Am.Oversight-001811 legislation in September, based on feedback Republicans receive during recess, although the plan is widely considered political, given that Senate Republicans lack the votes for passage. Funding and overhauling the IRS: Both the House and Senate have passed spending legislation that includes funding for the IRS, albeit at different levels. The House would give the agency $11.6 billion for the 2019 fiscal year and the Senate would provide $11.3 billion, so the two sides are working to bridge the difference. Congress is also considering a range of bills to revise IRS operations and tax administration, based on multiple measures that have passed the House and been introduced in the Senate. — Aaron Lorenzo CYBERSECURITY Help wanted: The Department of Homeland Security wants more help from the private sector to defend against cyberattacks, so it has launched a new center — along with a handful of other programs — to spark greater collaboration. The National Risk Management Center is meant to create something of a mind meld between business leaders and federal cyber officials and experts to identify the most pressing digital dangers and figure out the most effective path for mitigating those risks. At a Homeland Security cybersecurity summit in New York City late last month, Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen told an audience of officials, experts and executives DOT-18-0010-B-000819 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001812 that the agency is moving to counter cyber threats more vigorously because "our digital lives are in danger every single day." Additionally, DHS is stressing that it needs information about potential cyber risks and vulnerabilities from businesses. Chris Krebs, undersecretary of the National Protection and Programs Directorate at DHS, said the feds do most of the sharing now, sending out some 3.1 million so-called threat indicators to date. But it hasn't received nearly that amount in return. Beware the grid hackers: DHS has also been sounding the alarm about cyber threats to the nation's most critical infrastructure. In a series of briefings, department cyber experts and officials warned executives that a sophisticated Russian hacking unit known as Fancy Bear has infiltrated control systems inside American utilities in a campaign the government believes is ongoing. Despite some media reports that indicated the Fancy Bear attacks could lead to blackouts, several cybersecurity experts have been skeptical. Many have said it's unclear what sort of physical damage Fancy Bear could actually do. Still, many say, the power grid may be the next front in an ever-growing international cyber conflict. — Mike Farrell ENERGY Offshore drilling rollback: The Interior Department is finishing up plans to roll back the Obama administration's rules tightening safety measures for offshore drilling. Today marks the deadline for public comments on VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000820 DOT-Am.Oversight-001813 its proposed changes to rules regulating offshore oil and gas wells. The revision would remove many parts of the Obama-era rule, which was put in place in response to the Deepwater Horizon rig explosion in 2010 that killed 11 people and spilled millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. The agency is seeking to loosen requirements for third-party equipment inspectors and to reduce the amount of real-time monitoring of equipment. Industry groups have said the requirements are redundant, but environmental groups worried about another disaster have promised to fight the rollback. Pruitt probes: Scott Pruitt may have left the EPA, but the ethics investigations are still churning, and some important reports could emerge this month. The results of probes into the former administrator's expansion of his security detail are likely to be released shortly, as will the audit of Pruitt's 2017 travel and the use of a loophole in the Safe Drinking Water Act to give raises to close aides. — Ben Lefebvre and POLITICO staff DEFENSE Almost there: The final fiscal 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, H.R. 5515 (115), awaits the president's signature. The Senate cleared the legislation last week in a blowout vote, following a similar tally in the House. The compromise bill is the result of quick action by House and Senate Armed Services leaders to hammer out the differences in their respective versions. If signed soon by the president, as expected, it would be the VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000821 DOT-Am.Oversight-001814 first time in more than two decades the annual defense bill has become law before the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year. Once signed, defense hawks are set to turn their attention to enacting an appropriations bill to fund defense and other national security needs before the Oct. 1 deadline. — Connor O'Brien EDUCATION Next round in Harvard's admissions fight: There's another opening later this month to file briefs on either side of the admissions fight at Harvard University, which is battling a lawsuit accusing the school of discriminating against Asian-American applicants. All eyes are on the Justice Department, which previously filed a notice of interest in the case, but could still wade deeper into the fray. No more 'gainful' rule? The Education Department in the coming weeks is expected to propose rescinding the "gainful employment" regulation that governs federal funding of for-profit schools and other career colleges. The policy, which cuts off aid to low-performing programs, was a centerpiece of the Obama administration's crackdown on for-profit education companies. — Benjamin Wermund HEALTH CARE Secret discounts targeted: A federal rule expected to restrict or eliminate secret discounts drug companies negotiate with pharmacy benefit managers could drop this month, potentially upending the complex VERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000822 DOT-Am.Oversight-001815 payment scheme for drugs in this country. While Trump has aimed his most fiery drug price rhetoric at the pharmaceutical companies, his administration's drug price plan has taken aim at the pharmacy benefit managers who negotiate rebates for insurers and employers. The administration has said this rebate system typically hasn't provided direct discounts for patients taking the drugs and has kept prices artificially high. Pfizer's CEO, who under pressure from Trump recently agreed to temporarily delay some planned price hikes, last week predicted that the rebate system would be eliminated. — Jason Millman EHEALTH On the e-record: The health IT world expects crucial rules from HHS this fall that would establish data sharing requirements for electronic health records vendors and health systems. August will see two important conferences where government and private sector officials will discuss some of the issues at play. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT holds a three-day summit this week, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, in coordination with the White House's Office of American Innovation, will hold a related event Aug. 13. The latter event, billed as a Blue Button 2.0 Developers Conference, will give app-makers the opportunity to show the kind of support software they can provide to doctors, hospitals and patients. How such apps might DOT-18-0010-B-000823 VERSIGHT DOT-Am.Oversight-001816 come into play in health care will, in turn, depend partly on the regulations expected later in the year. Those rules may affect the prices or policies set by records vendors and their clients. — Arthur Allen View online You received this POLITICO Pro content because your customized settings include: CEO Report. To change your alert settings, please go to https://subscriber.politicopro.com/settings This email was sent to jeff.rosen@dot.gov by: POLITICO, LLC 1000 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA, 22209, USA AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000824 DOT-Am.Oversight-001817 From: To: Subject: Date: Tucker, Deva (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov question from Secretary Chao Wednesday, October 04, 2017 6:32:00 PM (b) (6) Hi Stefanie- I am looking for a contact number for Senator John Kennedy Louisiana. Secretary Chao wanted me to reach out and see what numbers you may have.   Thank You   Deva Tucker (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000825 DOT-Am.Oversight-001818 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: Tuesday Nov 7 Dinner Wednesday, November 01, 2017 3:54:36 PM Got it, thank you!   From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, November 01, 2017 3:51 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Tuesday Nov 7 Dinner   Laura, As I said, we are confirmed for Tuesday 7pm with Secretary Mnunchin and Ms. Linton at their residence address is (b) (6) .       Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation   E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6)   AMf--f CAN pVERSIGHT DOT-18-0010-B-000826 DOT-Am.Oversight-001819 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Lewis, Holly (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Here"s Feb 4 schedule as of now Monday, January 30, 2017 6:31:53 PM feb 4 17 as of 1.30.17.pdf Hi, Holly - (b) (6) If you have any questions, please email me. Tomorrow I'll be out of the office but I will check my emails several times during the day and will respond as soon as I can. Thank you, Angie DOT-Am Oversight-000995 DOT-18-0010-C-000001 From: To: Subject : Date: Herny. Del ynn /OST} Muchow.Stefanie (McConne ll): Vincent.Laura(McConnell) S1Trtpconfirmation--~ -)(6 _l __ __. Wed nesday, March22, 2017 5 :29 :00 PM Here is t he Sec retary's flig ht >15> -------- Tha nks so m uch -- Dely nn From: Jfurrnan2993[rnailto:j furrnan2993@grnail.com] Sent: Wednesday,March 22, 2017 5:25 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Fwd: Your trip confirmation?\..(b _H_5>____ _ FYI: )( 6) DOT-Am Oversight -001018 DOT-18-0010-C-000002 From: To: Subject: Date: Attachments: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) FW: 2017 Kennedy Center Spring Gala Invitation Thursday, April 13, 2017 2:55:52 PM KC Spring Gala 2017 Invitation.pdf Just wanted to be sure you all got this. From: (b) (6) Sent: Thursday, April 13, 2017 2:21 PM To: Secretaryscheduler@dot.gov; Vincent, Laura (McConnell) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: 2017 Kennedy Center Spring Gala Invitation Dear Leader McConnell and Secretary Chao, Please find attached your invitation to attend The 2017 Kennedy Center Spring Gala on Monday, May 8, 2017 Cocktail Reception at 5:30 pm Dinner at 6:15 pm Performance at 8:15 pm 'Til Midnight Party at 10:00 pm The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts requests the pleasure of your company at the 2017 Kennedy Center Spring Gala, Come Together: A Celebration of John Lennon hosted by David Duchovny. In addition to performances, the 2017 Spring Gala will also recognize the recipients of the Kennedy Center Award for the Human Spirit, Afa and Aaron Dworkin as well as Joan and Sanford Weill. It would be our privilege to have you join us for this special event. If you can attend on the evening of May 8th, we kindly request you RSVP to scheever@kennedy-center.org or to 202-4168462 by Tuesday, April 25, 2017. For more information please see the attached invitation. We hope to see you at the Kennedy Center. Best, (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001032 DOT-18-0010-C-000003 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: Per Secretary"s Request Thursday, June 08, 2017 10:12:10 AM You got it. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 10:11 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Per Secretary's Request The Leader wants to stay flexible... he might leave earlier. So he thinks it's best for her to plan on getting there on her own. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:57 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Per Secretary's Request Looks that way although I am trying to talk her into leaving at 1pm From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:45 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Furman, Jon (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Re: Per Secretary's Request Great tks! (b) (6) On Jun 8, 2017, at 9:41 AM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Attached please find her schedule for today and tomorrow. Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov P: (b) (6) M: (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001042 DOT-18-0010-C-000004 6/8/2017 9:38 AM SCHEDULE FOR SECRETARY ELAINE L. CHAO THURSDAY JUNE 08, 2017 Thursday, June 08, 2017 9:00am 9:30am 11:30am Residence/Rayburn House Office Building House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee FAA Reauthorization Hearing LOC: Staff: Advance: 2165 Rayburn HOB K Iverson/M Britt/D Elwell/S McMaster (b) (6) Geoff Smith 11:30am House/WH 12:15pm 1:00pm Infrastructure Event with VPOTUS Working Lunch LOC: EEOB Indian Treaty Room Staff: L Genero/A Bedell 1:15pm 2:05pm Infrastructure Event Working Session #1 LOC: EEOB War Room Staff: L Genero/A Bedell 2:10pm 3:00pm Infrastructure Event Working Session #2 LOC: EEOB War Room Staff: L Genero/A Bedell 3:30pm 4:15pm Roundtable Discussion with POTUS and VPOTUS LOC: EEOB State Room Staff: L Genero/A Bedell 4:15pm EEOB/DCA Hangar 6 5:00pm 5:50pm DCA/TEB Via FAA N3 Manifest: S1 (b) (6) 6:00pm TEB/Pier 60, Chelsea Piers 7:00pm Arrive Chelsea Piers J Furman T Inman M McInerney DOT-Am Oversight-001044 DOT-18-0010-C-000005 6/8/2017 9:38 AM 7:30pm 9:45pm 40th Annual Silver Bell Awards Dinner, Seamen's Church Institute LOC: Pier 60 Chelsea Piers New York, NY 10011 9:45pm Pier 60, Chelsea Piers/TEB 10:30pm 11:30pm TEB/DCA Via FAA N3 Manifest: S1 J Furman T Inman M McInerney (b) (6) 11:40pm DCA Hangar 6/Residence 11:55pm Arrive Residence ### DOT-Am Oversight-001045 DOT-18-0010-C-000006 6/8/2017 9:39 AM SCHE DULE FOR SECRETARY ELAINE L. CHAO FRIDAY JUNE 09, 2017 Friday, June 09, 2017 9:00am 10:00am10:55am Residence/DOT Roads , Rails and Regulato1y Relief State DOT Roundtable LOC: Staff: Advance: 11:00am11:25am Roads , Rails and Regulato1y Relief State DOT Roundtable with POTUS LOC: Staff: Advance: 11:30am11:50am DOT West Atrium Todd Inman tl>ll6l EO Reorg Review Meet ing LOC: Staff: - DOT Media Center J Rosen/J Ray/M Kopko Todd Inman tt>nsi?---- Roads , Rails, and Regulato1y Relief Event with POTU S LOC: Advance: 1:00pm1:45pm DOT Media Center J Rosen/J Ray/M Kopko Todd Inman tt>H si?---- Lincoln Confer ence Room J Rosen/G Bun /B Slater/K Nelson/K Iverson/T Somerv ille/ M Kopko/F Fulton/ D Kan/T Inman/H Hall/L Genero/ M Mclnemey /K Was hington DOT-Am Oversight -001046 DOT-18-0010-C-000007 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao"s travel to Louisville Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:08:50 PM image001.png image002.png image004.png image005.png Thanks for this info, Wendy. Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2017 5:01 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) ; Condia, Andrew (McConnell) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Secretary is now locked in to return to DC on Sunday. (b) (6) From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 1:04 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Furman, Jon (OST); Condia, Andrew (McConnell) Subject: RE: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville - The Leader's flight (b) (6) doesn't appear on his schedule yet. I'll refer your question to his DC scheduler. Please note that Andrew Condia, the Senator's Louisville Field Rep, will be attending this event and can provide any pertinent details about it. I've copied Andrew. As soon as we learn about the Leader's flight, I'll be back in touch. Thanks, Wendy. Angie DOT-Am Oversight-001054 DOT-18-0010-C-000008 From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Furman, Jon (OST) Subject: FW: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Angie, Secretary will have her security team through at least Friday afternoon. I think they will return on Friday afternoon/evening to DC (b) (6) (b) (6) We don't know yet about her return on Sunday, she might be going to NYC or she might be coming back to DC. Do you know what flight the Leader is on for New York? Thanks! From: Furman, Jon (OST) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:50 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Fwd: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Forwarding Jon Furman Special Assistant to the Secretary Department of Transportation Begin forwarded message: From: "Schulte, Angie (McConnell)" <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Date: July 10, 2017 at 12:15:28 EDT To: "Delynn Henry ((b) (6) " (b) (6) "Jon Furman (jon.furman@dot.gov)" Cc: "Condia, Andrew (McConnell)" (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Checking in about Secretary Chao's travel to Louisville Hi, Delynn and Jon - Could you fill us in about Secretary Chao's visit here this week, please? I understand that she is addressing Greater Louisville, Inc. at a luncheon event on Friday. Have both of her flights been scheduled and confirmed? Will her DOT security team accompany her? Any info you have would be much appreciated. DOT-Am Oversight-001055 DOT-18-0010-C-000009 Cc: Gehring. Wendy (OST) Vincent laura (McConnell} Gehring Wendy (OST}: Basile Gabrielle Subject : f(b)(6) Date: Thursday, July 13, 2017 12:36 :31 PM imageOOLpng From : To : Atta chments : (osn : Henry Oelynn (OST}: Inman Todd (OST} S unday , July 16 , 2017 Flight A M ERICAN AIRLINES 4706 ARRN AL WASHIN CTO N/ NATL,O C 1 2 :58 PM, Jul 16, 2017 DEPART UR E LOUl SVl LL,E, KY 11 :20 AM, J ul 1 6, 20 17 St;atus Class Ouratlon Equipment M HI Serv,c:e Re...,...ed Sea ts Frequen t Flyor Notes Confirmed Coach Class o Y 0 1 :38 (Non-~top ) Embra..- Emb 175 Jet None 9F (Window ) tl>)( 6) ARR-TE RMI NAL C o s oF-OCA OPERATED 8 Y REPUBUC AIRLI NES AS AM ERI CAN EAGLE ONEWORLO Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Off ice of the Secretary US Department of Transporta ti on E: wendy.gehring@dot .gov pEs, M :"5)( 6) DOT-Am Oversight-001057 DOT-18-0010-C-000010 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Re: weekend schedule Sunday, July 16, 2017 8:40:50 PM Sure will! I'll be able to send it to you tomorrow morning. Sent from my iPhone On Jul 16, 2017, at 4:09 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: Could you send me the Leader's schedule for Friday pm - through departure today? Apparently they did some things and I need to fill in Secretary's schedule. Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov P: (b) (6) M: (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001058 DOT-18-0010-C-000011 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Attachments: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST); Furman, Jon (OST) Here"s the schedule for August 5 Wednesday, August 02, 2017 5:16:05 PM AUG 5 2017 REALLY FINAL.pdf - This includes Secretary Chao's flight info(b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001064 DOT-18-0010-C-000012 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST) Henry, DeLynn (OST) RE: schedule Wednesday, August 02, 2017 2:16:02 PM Let me try to retrieve that (again) for you. I've been waiting, too. We all need that! Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, August 02, 2017 2:13 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) ; Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: schedule Do you have the (b) (6) Our security guys need the info. Thanks! From: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2017 5:27 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] Here it is as of now. Angie From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2017 5:22 PM To: Schulte, Angie (McConnell) (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: schedule Hey I hear you are still drafting but can I have whatever you have at this point? Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation DOT-Am Oversight-001068 DOT-18-0010-C-000013 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile. Gabrielle (OST) Vincent. Laura (McConnell) : Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell} Gehring. Wendy (OST) Event Attenda nce info for S1 Thursday, August 10, 2017 11: 17:00 AM Hi all, Just wanted to bling this to your attention for the ve1y far fhture. Secretaiy Chao does plan to attend the Ame1ican Enterpr ise Institute World Fonnn in Sea Island , GA on Mai?ch 8- 11th . She wanted me to tell MM 's staff so this is me doing so . Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo1tation DOT-Am Oversight-001077 DOT-18-0010-C-000014 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Re: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Friday, August 25, 2017 2:38:06 PM (b) (6) Sent from my iPhone On Aug 25, 2017, at 2:37 PM, Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: (b) (6) tks! (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of Aug 21: On travel all week Monday: (b) (6) Omaha, NE Tuesday: Omaha, NE/Anchorage, AK Weds-Thurs: Alaska Friday: Anchorage(b) (6) Week of Aug 28: Monday: in office Tuesday: Indiana Wednesday: In office Thursday: (b) (6) Friday: (b) (6) Week of Sept 5: Tuesday: (b) (6) Wednesday: (b) (6) Thursday: (b) (6) Friday: Camp David time TBD - - From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule DOT-Am Oversight-001081 DOT-18-0010-C-000015 Week of July 24: Secretary is in DC until Friday afternoon and has no evening plans Monday-Thursday (b) (6) Week of July 31: Monday July 31: in DC no evening plans Tuesday August 1: Travel to TRANSCOM; Scott AFB, Illinois; likely home in time for dinner Wednesday-Thursday: no evening plans Friday August 4 : Travel to Atlantic City to FAA Tech Center; TBD (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of July 17: (sorry for delay!) Secretary in town until Friday morning. No dinner plans for Weds. She has International Leadership Foundation Gala on Thursday night. (b) (6) Week of July 24: Secretary is in town all week. No dinner plans Monday-Thursday. Friday July 28: (b) (6) Returning on Sunday, July 30: (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful... tks Wendy! DOT-Am Oversight-001082 DOT-18-0010-C-000016 Laura will circle back with you on Sunday when we know more. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, In an effort to make it easier for you all to know what Secretary has coming up I am going to send you a weekly email with the key things for the next two weeks. To that end: Week of July 10: Secretary is in town with no evening plans on Monday Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday July 13 she is on the AA#4527 DCA/SDF arriving 9:49pm. Friday July 14: Delivering remarks to Greater Louisville Inc luncheon. She remains in Louisville the rest of the weekend. TBD where she is going on Sunday might be NYC might be DC. Regardless would be helpful to know the Leader's flight plans so we can at a minimum coordinate going to the airport. Week of July 17: Monday July 17: (b) (6) Tuesday and Wednesday July 18/19: DC (b) (6) Thurs July 20: International Leadership Foundation Gala(b) (6) Friday July 21: (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov P: (b) (6) M: (b) (6) - DOT-Am Oversight-001083 DOT-18-0010-C-000017 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Saturday, August 26, 2017 1:30:37 PM Will do. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Saturday, August 26, 2017 12:31 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Re: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Tks. The Leader just asked me to keep him posted on her schedule for this week and her arrival time Thursday so if you can let me know if things change that'd be helpful. Tks! Stef On Aug 25, 2017, at 5:29 PM, Gehring, Wendy (OST) wrote: - As of this moment, Secretary will be arriving (b) (6) on Thursday August 31 at approximately 8pm. I only think it would change if we end up not doing the day trip that day to Scott AFB. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:56 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] Ok, sounds good. when you get the time just let us know so we can pass on to the Leader. Tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:50 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule I know she will be there. Likely Thursday afternoon/evening. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:42 AM @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-Am Oversight-001084 DOT-18-0010-C-000018 To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule The Leader is asking if you have finalized with the Secretary will get to KY next week? tks. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of Aug 21: On travel all week Monday: (b) (6) Omaha, NE Tuesday: Omaha, NE/Anchorage, AK Weds-Thurs: Alaska Friday: Anchorage(b) (6) Week of Aug 28: Monday: in office Tuesday: Indiana Wednesday: In office Thursday: USTRANSCOM, Illinois maybe to SDF at end of day Friday: (b) (6) Week of Sept 5: Tuesday: Office; no dinner Wednesday: (b) (6) Thursday: Office no dinner Friday: Camp David time TBD - - From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of July 24: Secretary is in DC until Friday afternoon(b) (6) (b) (6) Week of July 31: Monday July 31: in DC (b) (6) Tuesday August 1: Travel to TRANSCOM; Scott AFB, Illinois; (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001085 DOT-18-0010-C-000019 (b) (6) Wednesday-Thursday: (b) (6) Friday August 4 : (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of July 17: (sorry for delay!) Secretary in town until Friday morning. No dinner plans for Weds. She has International Leadership Foundation Gala on Thursday night. (b) (6) Week of July 24: Secretary is in town all week. No dinner plans Monday-Thursday. Friday July 28: (b) (6) Returning on Sunday, July 30: (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful... tks Wendy! Laura will circle back with you on Sunday when we know more. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, DOT-Am Oversight-001086 DOT-18-0010-C-000020 In an effort to make it easier for you all to know what Secretary has coming up I am going to send you a weekly email with the key things for the next two weeks. To that end: Week of July 10: Secretary is in town with no evening plans on Monday Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday July 13 she is on the AA#4527 DCA/SDF arriving 9:49pm. Friday July 14: Delivering remarks to Greater Louisville Inc luncheon. She remains in Louisville the rest of the weekend. TBD where she is going on Sunday might be NYC might be DC. Regardless would be helpful to know the Leader's flight plans so we can at a minimum coordinate going to the airport. Week of July 17: Monday July 17: (b) (6) Tuesday and Wednesday July 18/19: DC (b) (6) Thurs July 20: International Leadership Foundation Gala(b) (6) Friday July 21: (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov P: (b) (6) M: (b) (6) - DOT-Am Oversight-001087 DOT-18-0010-C-000021 From: To: Cc: Subj ect : Date : Basile. Gabrielle (OST) Vincent. Laura (McConnell) : Muchow . Stefanie (McConnell} Gehring . Wendy (OST) Secretary Schedule T uesday, September OS, 2017 3:28 :00 PM tl>)(6) Friday September 8th Secretary will be departing for Camp David in the afternoon. She is still deciding how she will get there. Either Helo or Car?. Departing at roughly 2:00pm Saturday, September 9 th Camp David All day Returning roughly 5:30pm (still not decided how) Sunday, September 10th The Secretaiy MAY** go to NYC to do something for September 11th in the am, but this is still unconfumed. Possible she may go on the night of the 9th as well. Tuesday, September 12th Secretary Chao will be in MCity Michigan for AV Guidelines Release 8:30pm - Dinner at the Kennedy Center with Brian Moynihan and other guests Thursday, September 14th tl>ll6l Friday, September 15th KET Inte1view with Renee Shaw U of L McConnell Center Sunday, September 17 th The Secretaiy will be staying in Louisville to be at the Governors Highway Safety Association event the morning of September 18th . Thanks! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Depa1tment of Transpo1tation DOT-Am Oversight -001093 DOT-18-0010-C-000022 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Monday, September 25, 2017 9:13:20 AM Week of Sept 25: Monday Sept 25: Secretary in DC; no dinner plans Tuesday Sept 26: Piney Point, MD; returning for Kelly Craft events and MM Dinner Weds Sept 27: On travel: PHX Thurs Sept 28: In DC; no dinner plans Friday Sept 29: (b) (6) Week of Oct 2: Monday Oct 2: In DC: Drop By PA Delegation Dinner; but no actual dinner plans Tues Oct 3: On travel: LAS Weds Oct 4: In DC: (b) (6) Thurs Oct 5: In DC; no dinner plans Fri Oct 6: TBD From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, September 19, 2017 1:45 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Sorry for delay! Week of Sept 18: Tuesday Sept 19: Secretary is out of the office all day. Returning from University of Delaware event approx. 8pm Weds Sept 20: Secretary in DC; Nobuku Forum at Japanese Ambassador's Residence Thurs Sept 21: Travel to NYC; Mass Maritime Event (b) (6) Week of Sept 25: Monday Sept 25: in DC no dinner plans Tuesday Sept 26: in DC; Amb Kelly Craft reception, MM Dinner Weds Sept 27: Travel return to DC 9pm or later Thurs Sept 28: In DC; no dinner plans Friday Sept 29-Oct 1: No plans Week of Oct 2 Monday Oct 2: In DC; Drop by at PA Delegation Dinner w Shuster Tuesday Oct 3: travel to LAS; return late night Weds oct 4: (b) (6) Thurs Oct 5: in DC: no dinner plans DOT-Am Oversight-001095 DOT-18-0010-C-000023 Friday Oct 6-Sun Oct 8: No plans From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:56 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] Ok, sounds good. when you get the time just let us know so we can pass on to the Leader. Tks! From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:50 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule I know she will be there. Likely Thursday afternoon/evening. From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:Stefanie_Muchow@mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2017 9:42 AM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule The Leader is asking if you have finalized with the Secretary will get to KY next week? tks. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, August 21, 2017 8:28 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of Aug 21: On travel all week Monday: (b) (6) Omaha, NE Tuesday: Omaha, NE/Anchorage, AK Weds-Thurs: Alaska Friday: Anchorage(b) (6) Week of Aug 28: Monday: in office Tuesday: Indiana Wednesday: In office Thursday: USTRANSCOM, Illinois maybe to SDF at end of day Friday: (b) (6) - - DOT-Am Oversight-001096 DOT-18-0010-C-000024 Week of Sept 5: Tuesday: Office; no dinner Wednesday: (b) (6) Thursday: Office no dinner Friday: Camp David time TBD From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Monday, July 24, 2017 10:07 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of July 24: Secretary is in DC until Friday afternoon and has no evening plans Monday-Thursday (b) (6) Week of July 31: Monday July 31: in DC no evening plans Tuesday August 1: Travel to TRANSCOM; Scott AFB, Illinois; likely home in time for dinner Wednesday-Thursday: no evening plans Friday August 4 : Travel to Atlantic City to FAA Tech Center; TBD (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Sent: Tuesday, July 18, 2017 11:37 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST); Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Week of July 17: (sorry for delay!) Secretary in town until Friday morning. No dinner plans for Weds. She has International Leadership Foundation Gala on Thursday night. - (b) (6) Week of July 24: Secretary is in town all week. No dinner plans Monday-Thursday. Friday July 28: (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001097 DOT-18-0010-C-000025 (b) (6) Returning on Sunday, July 30: (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 12:59 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: RE: Secretary Upcoming Schedule @mcconnell.senate.gov] This is very helpful... tks Wendy! Laura will circle back with you on Sunday when we know more. From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, July 10, 2017 11:01 AM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell); Gehring, Wendy (OST); Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Henry, DeLynn (OST) Subject: Secretary Upcoming Schedule Laura, In an effort to make it easier for you all to know what Secretary has coming up I am going to send you a weekly email with the key things for the next two weeks. To that end: Week of July 10: Secretary is in town with no evening plans on Monday Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday July 13 she is on the AA#4527 DCA/SDF arriving 9:49pm. Friday July 14: Delivering remarks to Greater Louisville Inc luncheon. She remains in Louisville the rest of the weekend. TBD where she is going on Sunday might be NYC might be DC. Regardless would be helpful to know the Leader's flight plans so we can at a minimum coordinate going to the airport. Week of July 17: Monday July 17: (b) (6) Tuesday and Wednesday July 18/19: DC (b) (6) Thurs July 20: International Leadership Foundation Gala (b) (6) Friday July 21: (b) (6) Thanks! Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation - DOT-Am Oversight-001098 DOT-18-0010-C-000026 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: American Thursday, October 12, 2017 12:10:00 PM (b) (6) From: Tucker, Deva (OST) [mailto:Deva.Tucker@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 12:09 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: American (b) (6) From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2017 11:59 AM To: Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: American Mitch McConnell @mcconnell.senate.gov] - (b) (6) (b) (6) DOT-Am Oversight-001113 DOT-18-0010-C-000027 From: To: Cc: Subject : Date : Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell) Gehring. Wendy (OST): I nman. Todd (QSD Vincent. Laura (McConnell) RE: Leader McConnell Th ursday, Febr uary 02, 2017 5 :07 :47 PM Great to meet you, We ndy ! Add ing Laura so you have her e-mail as we ll. She's ou r scheduler and ... as much as we can ever know a plan ... she's th e one t hat knows it. ----- Best way to reach us is[(ljllS> wh ich we'll bot h answe r. Tks! St ef Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'' Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, 1\1itch1\fcConnell From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent : Thursday, February 02, 2017 3:47 PM To: I nman, Todd (OST) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : RE: LeaderMcConnell W ill do. Below is my info ! We ndy M Gehring Office of th e Secret ary U.S. Departme nt of Transporta t ion E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov From: I nman, Todd (OST) Sent : Thursday, February 02, 2017 3:05 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Cc: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : LeaderMcConnell Wendy , Meet Stefan ie Muchow . More affectionately know as Stef . She is all things Leader McConnel l. Please ma ke sure anything that cou ld affect or involves the Leader is run through her . She's top notch and has even fi lled in on DOT-Am Oversight-001152 DOT-18-0010-C-000028 some advance duties in the past (Wendy is a former advance person so she appreciates the hard work ethic it takes) I'll be glad to help in any way. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 DOT-Am.Oversight-001153 DOT-18-0010-C-000029 From: To: Subject: Date: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Inman, Todd (OST); Carmack, Terry (McConnell) RE: Meeting Request. Thursday, February 02, 2017 7:30:46 PM Todd sent me the attachment. Thanks all! From: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 6:16 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Subject: RE: Meeting Request. Terry, So nice to make your acquaintance via email. Feel free to email me requests at this email. My email account truncated the bottom half of this conversation, so I do not believe I received the meeting request being passed forward. Would you mind resending? I would be happy to put it in front of our scheduling team. Best, Melissa Fwu Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2017 2:21 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Cc: Fwu, Melissa (OST) Subject: RE: Meeting Request. No problem Terry. I'll personally send it to the appropriate person. ElC was referring to Melissa Fwu, cc'd here. Melissa, Meet Terry Carmack, State Director (b) (6) for the Leader. Good guy and more importantly a proud graduate of I would suspect Terry's request need to bypass Wendy and Tina and be put in front of ElC for review for future reference. Obviously you can send any items like that to Melissa.fwu@dot.gov If you need the generic scheduling address for just general inquiries use secretaryscheduler@dot.gov Also, her public email address which is monitored by public affairs and exec sec. is elaine.chao@dot.gov DOT-Am.Oversight-001154 DOT-18-0010-C-000030 From: To: SUbjed:: Date: 01rmactc Ieo::v (M<:OJoodll Inman Todd (OST) FW: For Secr_.,,ryElaineOlao Friday,February00, 2017 2:55:26 PM Todd - I do not know th is person, but is from Louisv ille, so I am pass ing along. Thanks. Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway , Room 630 Louisville , Kentucky 40202 11>)(6) From: Patr ick Pfiste r [ma iltc,_ lb_J _(6_J ____ Sent : Friday, Feb ruary 03, 2017 2:33 PM To : Carmack, Terry (McCon ne ll) i (b)(6J'____ _ @mcco nne ll.senate .gov> Subje<:t: For Sec retary Ela ine Chao The Honorable Elaine Chao Secretary of Transporta tion Dear Madam Secretary : I would like to take a moment and introduce myself. My name is Patrick Pfister, and actually , I am reintroducing myself . I am a professional photographer, and I photographed you when you were the Secretary of Labor. At that time, on the weekends you would be returning to Louisville (or somewhere else in the region) and often had an event to attend , one of the DOL photographers , assigned me to cover those events and send the photos back in your role as Secretary. lbJ <6> to the DOL, the same day . I really enjoyed that work and would like to return to it. I can only inlagine that similar situations will present themselves in your new jo b as Secretary of the Department of Transp ortation. Please find attached some photos of you during your service under President Bush. Thank you so much for any consideration in this matter. Sincere ly, Patrick L . Pfister ' 6)(6) PLP_0901.JPG PLP_0930.JPG I I ? PLP_0951.JPG I ? rr.; DOT-Am Oversight-001156 DOT-18-0010-C-000031 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Re: For Secretary Elaine Chao Saturday, February 04, 2017 9:55:21 PM Thanks. Good info. Something that came up a few days ago. Sent from my iPad On Feb 3, 2017, at 1:55 PM, Carmack, Terry (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Todd--I do not know this person, but is from Louisville, so I am passing along. Thanks. Terry Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) From: Patrick Pfister [mailto (b) (6) Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 2:33 PM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: For Secretary Elaine Chao ] @mcconnell.senate.gov> The Honorable Elaine Chao Secretary of Transportation Dear Madam Secretary: I would like to take a moment and introduce myself. My name is Patrick Pfister, and actually, I am reintroducing myself. I am a professional photographer, and I photographed you when you were the Secretary of Labor. At that time, on the weekends you would be returning to Louisville (or somewhere else in the region) and often had an event to attend in your role as (b) (6) Secretary. , one of the DOL photographers, assigned me to cover those events and send the photos back to the DOL, the same day. I really enjoyed that work and would like to return to it. I can only imagine that similar situations will present themselves in your new job as Secretary of the Department of Transportation. DOT-Am.Oversight-001159 DOT-18-0010-C-000032 From: To: Subject: Date: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Henry, Tina (OST) RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford"s Theater) Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:14:08 PM Good with me. I would love to get out of this. From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:13 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater) I am sure he will be p.o'd but she said NO! From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailto(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:11 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater) Tks! From: Henry, Tina (OST) [mailto:tina.henry@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:09 PM To: Paul Tetreault Cc: George Hittner; Knouse, Ruth (OST); Jennifer Kiefer Thomas Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater) Hi - I just heard back on this. We are being quite careful about putting the Secretary's name on anything right now. She is aware of it but just cannot do it this year. Sorry! Tina From: Paul Tetreault [mailto:(b) (6) @fords.org] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 4:06 PM To: Henry, Tina (OST) Cc: George Hittner; Knouse, Ruth (OST); Jennifer Kiefer Thomas Subject: RE: Letter from Secretary Elaine Chao (Ford's Theater) D Dear Tina, I just wanted to check in with you about the request for Secretary Chao to serve as an honorary co-chair of the Ford's Theatre annual gala again this year. The following individuals have confirmed their participation as co-chairs for the event in June: Iris Weinshall, Abby Blunt, Janna Ryan, Paul Pelosi, Judy McCarthy and Kasey Crowley. Obviously, Secretary Chao's participation on this distinguished list would make it complete. Please let me know, if you have any further questions. I greatly appreciate your assistance. Paul **************************** Paul R. Tetreault DOT-Am.Oversight-001176 DOT-18-0010-C-000033 Fro m: Muchow. Stefanie (McConnell) To : Subject : In man . Todd (OST) RE: mentor ing Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3 :24 :32 PM Date : Blessyou - won't share. From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3: 19 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell ) Subject : RE: mentoring Thank you! And beggars can't be choosy on time . Much Appreciated . Also, for your close hold here's an updated list of current organizational assignments . 5 From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell ) [mailtoitb_>< _ >____ i.,,@=m.:.:.cco=:.:.:nn=e=ll.=se=n=a=te=.g::,..:o=v ] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 3: 12 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring You're all set ! The closest t ime I could get was 2:20 .... Is that ok? Come to our Capito l office, 5-230, and we'll show you the office and then have a guide give you a tou r. If we' re not in session, I'll try to get you guys to t he floor. For next week: tl>)l 6) I should be here Friday so will hopefully get t o come say hello! From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 10:54 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell ) Subject : RE: mentoring Is 2 : 30 too late? I would truly appreciate it . It would be myself and tb>< s> I can send her v itals if necessary . --- tt>n s> Also , for your vis it next week get me your make/model/color number and I'l l arrange for up front parking . and tag DOT-Am Oversight-001180 DOT-18-0010-C-000034 Thanks so much! From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [~ _>_,6_<1____ Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 10:47 AM .J"@ .......... ro... cco ........ o.... oe ...l... Ls-e ... n... at... e...,,g ....... oy] To: In man, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring Perfect! I'll circle up with you next wee k for directi ons for t he best place to come, but loo king forward to seeing t he new digs. I'm happy to schedule a tou r for you. W hat t ime Friday? I' ll have our girls set you up on a private tour st arting in ou r offi ce. From: I nman, Todd (OST) [roailto;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 10:20 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : RE: mentoring tl>)( 6) That would be great . I would love to introduce you! On a personal note . I have a fr iend who is fly ing up from Ky Friday morning and I wanted to show her around . Who is the right person in your office to ask for a tour for her and I on Friday afternoon of th is week? (I'm tak ing my first day off, weekend included since January 10, I'm sure you can re late) Plus I haven't seen a sing le tourist site since I've been in town . 5>____ From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [.roailto.t b_>< _ Sent : Wednesday, February 15, 2017 8:05 AM ro .... cco .......... oo-e .... lL .... se_n...,a .... te_,g~o ..... v] J... @ ..... To: In man, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring tl>)( 6) I'd be happy to come your way . Would love t o get to meet fo lks and with it being recess it's no problem for me to get dow n your direc t ion . Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'? Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, :Mitch l\kConnell DOT-Am Oversight -001181 DOT-18-0010-C-000035 From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Sent : Tuesday,February 14, 2017 3:54 AM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject : RE: mentoring How does Thursday 2/23 around 3 pm look? She is schedu led to sit for her official portrait during that t ime so I should be free . Do you want to come v isit our place or I would be happy to come to you . (I wou ld love to introduce you around, but also don't want you to have to travel) ---1! ""'@""'m .... cco.....,,n ..... o... el.... L... se...,n_at..,e~,g.,._._oy ] 1 From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [= ""=m ~a... ilt...,o itb_ ._ >6< _ ___ 1 Sent : Monday,February 13, 2017 6:52 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring I'm pretty fl exible next Thursday, so tru ly j ust tell me t he best time for you . And we' ll be in recess so it's easy for me t o come your way. ] From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto;todd,inman@dot,goy Sent : Monday,February 13, 2017 4:41 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject : RE: mentoring No worries at all. Can't imagine you being busy . Next Thursday works . I'm like ly go ing to KY with her on Friday of next week . 5 From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) ["m ."=:a"':'-ilt=o "-itb_>< _ >____ il.,,@=m.:.:.cco=:.:.:nn=e= ll.=se=n=a=te=.g,.,,o=v ] Sent : Monday,February 13, 2017 4:24 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring --- 5 Yes! I'm a littl e crazed th is week and headed tatb>< > and Friday. would either day wo rk fo r you? , but I'm back in t he office next Thursday Stefanie Hagar l\focho'-'' Director of Operations Senate Majority Leader, 1\1itch1\fcConnell From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov ] Sent : Sunday,February 12, 2017 3:41 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConne ll) Subject : RE: mentoring DOT-Am Oversight-001182 DOT-18-0010-C-000036 Would you be free sometime later this week or possib ly after Monday of next week? From: I nman, Todd (OST) Se nt : Thursday, February 02, 2017 6:58 PM To: 'Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell)' Subject : RE: mentoring Absolute ly . I 'm seeing that's my downfall but as we ll. Just tel l me when it's conven ient . I 'd really appreciate it . 5 From: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) [mailtoi tb>< > Se nt : Thursday, February 02, 2017 6:56 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject : RE: mentoring !@mcconneU,senate,goy ] Absolu t ely !! Let's pick a day and I'll come your way and we can get together and ta lk thro ugh what I do and happy t o share anyth ing I've learned alo ng the way. For bette r or wo rse I have 13 years under my belt fo r MM and several in th is role specifi cally so I've learned a lot abo ut w hat wo rks fo r me to t ake on and w hat it works bette r for me to de legate. I th ink you and I are w ired th e same way, so you w ill likely have the same pro blem I have in giving up some of t he deta ils fo r ot hers to wo rk o n. I st ill don' t do t hat very well ! From: I nman, Todd (OST) [mailto;todd,inman@dot,goy ] Se nt : Thursday, February 02, 2017 6:49 PM To: Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Subject : mentoring I 'd like to chat about your ro le with the leader . ELC has never given me a true defin it ion of what she expe cts my role to be, but I can only imagine she models a director of operation s along the same lines as what you do for the leader? Just wanted some hints and t ips, and how to keep my head above water . No ru sh. Hope you have a great wee kend . J. Todd hunan Direct or Of Operations Office of the Secre tary United State Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite {W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 DOT-Am Overs ight-001183 DOT-18-0010-C-000037 From: To: Subject: Date: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Request for Secretary Chao to speak on May 22 in Lexington Thursday, March 16, 2017 10:22:32 AM From an employee at Luther Deaton's bank. But I don't think he is involved or cares. TC Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) - From: Susan L. Simmons [mailto:(b) (6) @centralbank.com] Sent: Thursday, March 16, 2017 10:00 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Request for Secretary Chao to speak on May 22 in Lexington Thank you for forwarding our request to the proper individual to respond to Secretary Chao's availability to speak for 20 minutes or so at our Bridging the Talent Gap event on May 22 at the Marriott Griffin Gate Hotel in Lexington. Please find below a brief description of this statewide initiative and a tentative agenda for the event: Bridging the Talent Gap Kentucky is a project the Kentucky SHRM, in conjunction with multiple business and economic development partners throughout the state, is conducting. The 2017 Bridging the Talent Gap Survey will identify skills shortages in the state of Kentucky and potential ways to address them. The data results of this survey will help Kentucky educational and training providers to better understand skills gaps, workforce and education needs. The survey results will also help our partnerships with KCEWS, the State's longitudinal data system and KCTCS to provide even more richness to the robust data sets. Tentative Schedule of Events (All times are approximate) Monday, May 22, 2017 8 a.m. - Registration Opens 8 - 9:30 a.m. - Time with Vendors8 - 9:30 a.m. - Continental Breakfast Served 9:30 a.m. - Program Begins 9:40 a.m. - National Workforce/Talent Gap Issues (Elaine Chao invited) 10:10 a.m. - State Workforce/Talent Gap Issues (Governor invited) 10:30 a.m. - Survey Results 11:10 a.m. - Panel Discussion 11:50 a.m. - Q&A for attendees 12:10 p.m. - Final Comments 12:30 p.m. - Program DOT-Am.Oversight-001236 DOT-18-0010-C-000038 From: To: Subject: Date: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) RE: Favor. Ky items Friday, March 17, 2017 1:30:51 PM I put all the stuff up front and there's a mug that belongs to Allison! From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 12:16 PM To: Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Favor. Ky items I'm sending a guy in the next 30 mins J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite (W-9) 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 On Mar 17, 2017, at 12:07 PM, Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) (b) (6) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: When is the time of pick up? Let me check to see what I can round up!!! On Mar 17, 2017, at 11:52 AM, Inman, Todd (OST) wrote: Much appreciated. And we love some PENN!!!!! J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of Secretary Elaine L. Chao United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: McGuire, Brian (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 11:51 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST); Penn, Stephanie (McConnell) Subject: RE: Favor. Ky items DOT-Am.Oversight-001240 DOT-18-0010-C-000039 From: To: Subj ect : Date: Atta chment s: In man, Todd (OST} Terry Carmack FW:KTC - intro and meeti ng request Thursday, June 08, 2017 1:05:01 PM KTC Excellence in Mot ion .pdf J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90 -321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 ) (Please direct scheduling requests to secreta01scheduler@dot.gov From: King, Eric L [mailto:< bHSJ @uky.edu] Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2017 12:43 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: KTC - intro and meet ing request ToddHope this message finds you well and enj oying your new Role at DOT. I know you're likely immersed in wor k these days, but would like t o grab dri nks somet ime. I am in DCthree weeks out of th e mont h and live i lbnsi Wanted t o simply connect wit h you in search of a cont act at DOT to meet wit h UK's/ Kent ucky's Transportatio n Cente r team . We have wor ked wit h the House and Senate Approp riat ions comm itt ee on several init iat ives involving rural developme nt and delivery of t ransportat ion proj ects. I am attaching a quick read backgrounder on our cente r. I am uncertain of t he people yo u have on board, so would value any direct ion/connect ion . V/r, Eric Eri c L. King Director Universityof Kenmcky FederalRelations DOT-Am.Oversight-001364 DOT-18-0010-C-000040 From: To: Subject: Date: Importance: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) Inman, Todd (OST) FW: Request for Sec. Chao Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:46:49 AM High Not sure if they should be meeting with you at USDOT or at the state level? What are your thoughts? Thanks. TC Terry Carmack State Director Senator Mitch McConnell 601 West Broadway, Room 630 Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (b) (6) From: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 10:25 AM To: Carmack, Terry (McConnell) <(b) (6) Subject: FW: Request for Sec. Chao Importance: High @mcconnell.senate.gov> Terry, A small delegation from the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce has sent an email (below) requesting to meet with Sec. Chao regarding the road project Kim Phelps describes below. They are open as to the date. Can you relay to our DOT contact? Thanks From: Kim Phelps [mailto (b) (6) @bgchamber.com] Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2017 7:59 AM To: Thomas, Tim (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Request for Sec. Chao - ---- We would plan around the Secretary's availability. There would like be 3-4. At most. Might just be 2. Thanks so much! Great to see you yesterday! From: Kim Phelps [mailto (b) (6) @bgchamber.com] DOT-Am.Oversight-001426 DOT-18-0010-C-000041 From: To: Subject: Date: Inman, Todd (OST) Carmack, Terry (McConnell) FW: Follow up Thursday, October 26, 2017 4:23:00 PM FYSA J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) - From: Kelli Pendleton [mailto:(b) (6) @christiancountychamber.com] Sent: Thursday, October 26, 2017 4:18 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Re: Follow up Heard from District Rep from KY Trans that they are working signs and trying to get the Gov. to come down for a ceremony. I spoke with him after the meeting and asked that he please provide us with details when that happens so that we may include comments regarding the Secretary as well as Sen. McConnell. Seems to be moving forward. Thank you so much!!!! Kelli Pendleton President/CEO Christian County Chamber of Commerce (b) (6) www.christiancountychamber.com From: Inman, Todd (OST) Sent: Friday, October 13, 2017 3:20 PM To: Kelli Pendleton Subject: Re: Follow up Thanks Kelli, I'm currently in China having discussions with their Ministry of Transport and don't get back until late Monday evening, but I will be back in the office on Tuesday. What time is your flight? DOT-Am.Oversight-001563 DOT-18-0010-C-000042 Hi Elle, Yes. I am available tomorrow afternoon and would be happy to come to DOT. Thanks, Tiffany From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2017 9:36 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany! Would you be available to meet with Secretary Chao here at DOT tomorrow afternoon? - ---- Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6) From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 4:02 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Thank you, Elle! From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 4:01 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany, I believe that the Secretary will be here in Washington, DC (b) (6) Once I fully confirm this I will be sure to see where a meeting time would work in her schedule. Thanks! - ---- Elle Basile Deputy Scheduler U.S. Secretary of Transportation (b) (6) DOT-Am.Oversight-001571 DOT-18-0010-C-000043 From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 3:59 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Elle, Sorry to bug you again, but wanted to check in periodically. Again, no rush or anything, just want to touch base. Happy Halloween. Thanks, Tiffany From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 3:23 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany! So sorry it has taken me this long to get back to you. I absolutely have not forgotten about your request to meet with Secretary Chao. The Secretary is doing a lot of traveling, but when I find a weekend that she is in Washington, DC I will be sure to let her know you are available. Thank you for being so flexible and patient. - ---- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Friday, October 06, 2017 1:25 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi Elle, Don't mean to rush you or anything. Just want to let you know that I will be back in Louisville starting Sunday morning for a week. I know that the Secretary sometimes spend time in Louisville on the weekends. So, just want to flag that and that I'd be happy to meet in Louisville if that works better with her schedule. Thanks, Tiffany From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] DOT-Am.Oversight-001572 DOT-18-0010-C-000044 - ---- ---- Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 2:54 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: Re: Introduction Not at all! It is definitely on my radar. Sent from my iPhone On Sep 20, 2017, at 2:52 PM, Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> wrote: Thank you, Elle. I don't mean to rush you; I completely understand. Just wanted to check in. Tiffany From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 2:49 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany, I would like to try and schedule a meeting between you and the Secretary when she will be in town one weekend in the near future. However, I am currently trying to work out when that weekend will be. When I know more about her travel in the future, I will be sure to reach out to you. I appreciate your patience! - ---- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 12:36 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Elle, I just want to check in and see where things stand. Thanks. From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [mailto:gabrielle.basile@dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:42 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction I will be sure to let you know of a date in the near future when she is in town! - ---- From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:38 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) @mcconnell.senate.gov] DOT-Am.Oversight-001573 DOT-18-0010-C-000045 Subject: RE: I ntroduct ion Hi Elle, Absolu t ely. I'm happy to meet over th e weekend . And thank you for your help on t his. Thanks, Tiffa ny From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [ma ilto:gab rielle .basile@dot.gov ] Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:33 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (M cConnell) 4>< 16 5 > !@mccon nell.senate .gov> Subject: RE: Introd uction Hi Tiffa ny, I am chec king w ith our sen ior t eam on the Secretary's availabili ty fo r the near futu re. This may need t o be set for some t ime on th e weekend bH5> if that is ok? That way, she can d evote more t ime to t he meet ing. 5 From: Ge,Tiffa ny (McConnell) [mailto itb>< > @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Tuesday, September 12, 2017 10:15 AM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Intr oduction Hi Elle, I just wa nt to t ouch base and check on t he st at us of this . Thanks, Tiffa ny From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [ma ilto:gab rielle .basile@dot.gov ] Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2017 2:22 PM 5 To: Ge,Tiffany (M cConnell) < > @mccon nell.senate .gov> Subject: RE: Introd uction Ok - back soon! Elle Basile Office of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo1tation tl>)( 6) E:Ga6 nelle .Basile@dot.gov DOT-Am.Oversight-001574 DOT-18-0010-C-000046 From: Ge,Tiffa ny (McConnell) [ma.ilmtbH5> Sent: Thursday, Septem ber 07, 2017 2:20 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: Introduct ion @mcconneU.senate.gov ] Hi Elle, It willj ust be an introduct ion meetin g; no ot her specific topics . Thanks, Tiffa ny Chongyang (Tiffany) Ge Counsel Senator Mitch McConne ll 317 Russell Senate Offi ce Build ing Washington, DC 20510 tl>)( 6) From: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [ma ilto:gab rielle .basile@dot.gov ] Sent: Th ursday, Septembe r 7, 20 17 2:11 PM 5> To: Ge,Tiffany (McCon nell) ~b>< !@mccon nell.senate .gov> Subject: RE: Introd ucti on Tiffany , Could you p leas e give me some info1mation on the topic of this mee ting? Elle Basile Offi ce of the Secretaiy U.S. Department of Transpo 1tat ion 5> From: Ge,Tiffa ny (McConnell) [ma.ilmtb>< @mcconneU,senate,goy ] Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 12:11 PM To: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: I ntroduct ion Thank you, Elle. Tiffa ny From : Basile, Gabrielle (OST) [ma ilto:gab rielle .basile@dot.gov ] DOT-Am.Oversight-001575 DOT-18-0010-C-000047 Sent: Wednes day, September 6, 2017 12:07 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) ; Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) @mcco nnell.senate. gov> Subject: RE: Introd uct ion Tiffany, I will get back to you sho1t ly on the Secreta1y's availability. Many Thanks Elle Basile Office of the Secretary U.S . Depa1tment of Transp o1ta tion tl>)( 6) E:Ga6 n elle .Basile@dot. gov From: I nman, Todd (OST) Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 12:05 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST) Subject: RE: I ntr oduction Thanks Tiff any and t hat's good t o know . Hopefully we are doi ng some good wo rk and I hope yo u enjoyed t he t rip home . Neil Chatter jee was by the office yesterday and we had a goo d chat w ith him and the Secretary. I've cc'd Elle in our scheduli ng t eam t o see what she can do. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90 -321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC20590 ) (Please direct scheduling requests to secreta01scheduler@dot.gov From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto itbHS> @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 20f7 11:34 AM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: I ntr oduction Hi Todd, DOT-Am.Overs ight-001576 DOT-18-0010-C-000048 Hope you enjoyed your Labor Day weekend. I was back in Kentucky doing some state visits in August and your name came up during some of my meetings. Everyone is very appreciative of the great work you are doing up here. I also want to circle back and see if I can get on the Secretary's schedule for a brief meeting some time this month. Happy to work with the scheduler, if that's easier. Many thanks, Tiffany From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2017 3:51 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany, it was a pleasure as well. I'll try and see what I can do, but it looks like she may be pushed into some other meetings for Friday for sure and possibly out on travel on Monday. Anything I can do in the future please let me know. - ---- J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2017 2:48 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi Todd, It was such a pleasure to meet you and chat today. Thank you so much for showing me around and for lunch. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need anything. And like we discussed, I'd be more than happy to come by tomorrow or Monday to meet the Secretary briefly. I have a lunch on Friday and a 10:30am on Monday, but DOT-Am.Oversight-001577 DOT-18-0010-C-000049 otherwise flexible. Thanks much, Tiffany From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Friday, August 04, 2017 7:31 AM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction Would 12:30 on Thursday work. I'll treat for lunch in our dining room. 1200 New Jersey Ave SE - ---- J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:38 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: RE: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov] Great. I'm pretty open next Thursday all day and Friday afternoon. Just let me know what works best for you. Thanks, Tiffany From: Inman, Todd (OST) [mailto:todd.inman@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:33 PM To: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Subject: RE: Introduction Hi Tiffany and thanks for reaching out. You've got some big shoes to fill but I'm certain with the recommendation of Russell - ---- DOT-Am.Oversight-001578 DOT-18-0010-C-000050 and Daniel your already on your way. I would love to get together. I'm on travel with the Secretary starting tomorrow through Wednesday. Is Thursday or Friday of next week open for you? I would love to show you around here. J. Todd Inman Director Of Operations Office of the Secretary United States Department of Transportation West Building Secretary Suite W90-321 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington DC 20590 (Please direct scheduling requests to secretaryscheduler@dot.gov) From: Ge,Tiffany (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:08 PM To: Inman, Todd (OST) Subject: Introduction @mcconnell.senate.gov] Hi Todd, I want to introduce myself. I recently took over Daniel Cameron's old role in Senator McConnell's personal office. Both Russell and Daniel suggested that I reach out and introduce myself to you. I would love an opportunity to meet you and introduce myself in person. I'm fairly open the next couple of weeks, as we are in recess. If your schedule allows, I'm happy to walk over to your office and meet you. Please let me know. Thanks, Tiffany Chongyang (Tiffany) Ge Counsel Senator Mitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (b) (6) DOT-Am.Oversight-001579 DOT-18-0010-C-000051 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Gehring, Wendy (OST) Vincent, Laura (McConnell); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) RE: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm Monday, November 06, 2017 5:36:48 PM Correct, for now. - From: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) [mailto:(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 5:36 PM To: Gehring, Wendy (OST); Muchow, Stefanie (McConnell) Cc: Basile, Gabrielle (OST); Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: RE: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm Ok, dinner tomorrow at 701 and (b) (6) From: Gehring, Wendy (OST) [mailto:wendy.gehring@dot.gov] Sent: Monday, November 06, 2017 5:35 PM To: Vincent, Laura (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov>; Muchow, Stefanie (b) (6) (McConnell) < @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Gehring, Wendy (OST) ; Basile, Gabrielle (OST) ; Tucker, Deva (OST) Subject: Dinner Tues Nov 7 7:30pm Now at 701 Penn not the Mnunchin Residence. Wendy M Gehring Director of Scheduling Office of the Secretary US Department of Transportation E: wendy.gehring@dot.gov (b) (6) DOT-Am.Oversight-001583 DOT-18-0010-C-000052 From: To: Subject: Date: Thank you! Fulton, Finch (OST) Suares, Erica (McConnell); Smith, Loren (OST) RE: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list? Thursday, November 30, 2017 12:15:37 PM - From: Suares, Erica (McConnell) [mailto (b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:33 AM To: Smith, Loren (OST) Cc: Fulton, Finch (OST) Subject: RE: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list? Of course! From: Smith, Loren (OST) [mailto:Loren.Smith@dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2017 11:31 AM To: Suares, Erica (McConnell) <(b) (6) @mcconnell.senate.gov> Cc: Fulton, Finch (OST) Subject: Hi Erica! Can you pls add Finch Fulton to your list? Finch is a colleague here at DOT (Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Policy office) and also a former Senate staffer. You will love him. ~~~~ Loren A. Smith, Jr. Senior Advisor - Office of the Under Secretary for Policy U.S. Department of Transportation W82-326 | loren.smith@dot.gov | (b) (6) - ---- DOT-Am.Oversight-001615 DOT-18-0010-C-000053