Tag Archives: Gary Peters

WKTV Government Report: Recent news from our federal and state officials

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By WKTV Staff

Peters Consumer Protection Provisions Pass the Senate

On March 16, the Senate passed two consumer protection provisions introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters that will help private student loan borrowers rehabilitate their credit and protect children from identity theft. The provisions were approved as part of a broader banking bill.

 

“Student debt is one of the biggest hurdles to financial success for young people,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense provision will help student loan borrowers in default fix their mistakes and get back on track, while increasing the likelihood of repayment for lenders.”

 

Under current law, federal loans may be rehabilitated one time, and borrowers can repair their credit by removing a default. However, private lenders currently do not have the ability to remove negative credit information on borrowers who participate in loan rehabilitation programs. Peters’ provision, based on the bipartisan Federal Adjustment in Reporting (FAIR) Student Credit Act, he introduced with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) would allow private student loan borrowers who have successfully completed a series of on-time payments to remove a default from their credit report. More here.

Peters Floor Remarks on Supporting Small Farmers

Peters’ Bipartisan Bill Would Strengthen Loan Program for Small Farmers

 

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), spoke on the Senate floor March 15 on the need to preserve access to capital for small and disadvantaged farmers to start and grow their operations. This week, Peters introduced the Farm Service Agency Loan Flexibility Act, which will provide greater flexibility for the FSA loan program to provide loan and loan guarantees to farmers during periods of high demand. More here.

 

Committee Approves Peters Bills to Support Small Businesses

Bipartisan Bills Improve Awareness of Employee Stock Ownership Plans and Help Small Businesses Access Patent Protections

 

On March 15, the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee approved two bipartisan bills introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that support small businesses. Peters’ bills will increase awareness of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and help small businesses protect their intellectual property through patents. Peters introduced both bills with U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID). More here.

Peters Statement on Bipartisan Bill to Boost Consumer Protections and Support Economic Growth

On March 14, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) issued the following statement on Senate passage of the bipartisan Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act:

 

“Commonsense financial regulation is essential to supporting Michigan families, growing our economy, and creating jobs. I am proud to have served on the House Financial Services Committee and the conference committee that wrote and finalized Dodd-Frank. This important law cracked down on risky trading and created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to protect American families. I am committed to defending these critical consumer protections and ensuring our financial regulators have the necessary tools to keep our economy stable and growing…” More here.

Peters, Colleagues Tell FCC That Mobility Fund Map Has ‘Gaps’

On March 12, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), joined a bipartisan group of Senators in sending a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai expressing serious concerns about the agency’s recently released Mobility Fund Phase II (MF II) map. The purpose of this fund is to allocate $4.53 billion over the next 10 years to preserve and expand mobile coverage to rural areas. More here.

Huizenga: Pregnancy Resource Centers Should Be Treasured, Not Targeted By Government

On March 14, Congressman Bill Huizenga spoke in support of pregnancy resource centers, the important role they play in communities across West Michigan, and the freedom of conscience. More here.

The Senate Financial Reform Legislation Should Be The Floor, Not The Ceiling

On March 14, Capital Markets, Securities, and Investment Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to reform Dodd-Frank and provide much needed relief to community and regional financial institutions.

 

“For years we have seen the one-size fits all regulatory structure of Dodd-Frank slow economic growth and reduce the ability of community financial institutions to lend to hardworking families and small business job creators across the nation. The bipartisan Senate legislation to reform Dodd-Frank is a good start; however it should be viewed as the floor, not the ceiling. Currently, there are dozens of noncontroversial, bipartisan bills that have passed the House dealing with additional issues that negatively impact consumers. I look forward to taking this opportunity to work with my colleagues to strengthen the Senate reform package and include some of the bipartisan measures passed by the House to make the final legislation even more effective.”

 

 

Government Matters: Week in review

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By Victoria Mullen, WKTV

Peters Honored as Legislator of the Year by Vietnam Veterans of America

Peters Recognized for Fairness for Veterans Provision to Help Service members with PTSD

 

By Allison Green and Zade Alsawah

 

Senator Gary Peters

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) was recognized by the Vietnam Veterans of America as a Legislator of the Year and delivered remarks at the organization’s annual national convention. Peters was recognized for his efforts to pass bipartisan legislation to help veterans who may have been erroneously given a less than honorable discharge from the military due to negative behavior resulting from mental traumas such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the Fairness for Veterans legislation in 2015, and it was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act in December 2016.

Peters Statement on Release of Brandon Road Study to Limit Spread of Asian Carp

Study Outlines U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Plan to Prevent Invasive Asian Carp from Reaching the Great Lakes

 

By Zade Alsawah and Allison Green

 

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) has issued the following statement on the release of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Brandon Road Draft Integrated Feasibility Study and Environmental Impact Statement, which seeks to prevent the spread of invasive Asian carp into the Great Lakes:

“The Great Lakes power Michigan’s economy, supporting our multi-billion dollar commercial shipping, fishing, tourism and agricultural industries, and we must move quickly to ensure the Great Lakes are protected against invasive Asian carp that can disrupt this important ecosystem. I urged the Trump Administration to swiftly release this long awaited report, and I’m pleased we can now move forward with the public comment period and work with stakeholders to determine the next actions needed to prevent the spread of this harmful invasive species and keep our economy growing.”

Earlier this year, Peters introduced legislation with U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow to require the Trump Administration to immediately release the Brandon Road Study. Peters also joined with Stabenow and other Great Lakes Senators in a letter calling on President Trump to release the study and expedite potential measures to stop Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. In June, a silver carp was discovered within nine miles of Lake Michigan and beyond an electric barrier designed to prevent invasive species from entering the Great Lakes.

Senator Stabenow Highlights Great Lakes Restoration Success Stories Across Michigan, Importance of Federal Funding

By Miranda Margowsky

 

Senator Debbie Stabenow

This month, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow is highlighting Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) success stories throughout Michigan and the importance of federal funding to protect our lakes and waterways.

 

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative provided $196,000 in federal funding to the Kalamazoo Nature Center to restore wetlands and prevent erosion and runoff into the Kalamazoo River. The GLRI funding has led to increased economic activity in the area, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, and boating on the river. Arcadia Ales, a locally owned brewery, opened a new location on the Kalamazoo River, allowing patrons to take advantage of the riverfront.

 

According to the University Research Corridor, more than 700,000 Michigan jobs, one in five in the state, are tied to water. GLRI is critical to cleaning up our Great Lakes, beaches, and waterways for swimming, boating, and fishing; fighting invasive species like Asian carp, and protecting our Michigan way of life. Michigan projects have received more than $400 million in funding from the GLRI since its establishment. Michigan has an estimated 2,850 miles of coastal water trails as well as an estimated 1,280 miles of inland water trails. Our canoe and kayak industry annually contributes $140 million to our state’s economy.

Senator Stabenow Announces More Than $3.5 Million to Expand Double Up Food Bucks throughout Michigan

By Miranda Margowsky

 

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry, has announced more than $3.5 million in new federal funding to expand the successful Double Up Food Bucks program in Michigan. The funds come from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive grant program, which Stabenow authored in the 2014 Farm Bill. The grant will be matched by private funding, totaling to $7 million in new investments.

 

Double Up Food Bucks makes it easier for low-income families in Michigan to eat healthy by doubling the value of food assistance dollars spent on fresh, regionally grown produce. This has helped families stretch their food budget while supporting Michigan farmers and rural communities.

 

Fair Food Network will utilize the new funds to expand the Double Up Food Bucks program to more farmers market and grocery stores throughout Michigan. Additionally, funding will be used to expand new technology to make purchases easier for families and farmers, and expand year-round rather than seasonal programming at farmers markets and groceries.

Senator Stabenow Announces Medicare at 55 Act

By Miranda Margowsky

 

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) has introduced the Medicare at 55 Act, which provides an option for people between the ages of 55 and 64 to buy into Medicare. There are 1.4 million people in Michigan between the ages of 55 and 64, and many of them are burdened by high insurance premiums, unaffordable deductibles and limited options.

 

People in the 55-64 age group face unique health challenges and especially high health care costs. The average person in this age group pays more than $1,200 in annual out-of-pocket costs and is at a greater risk of suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes or arthritis and medical emergencies such as heart attack and stroke.

 

Under the Medicare at 55 Act, an individual between the ages of 55 and 64 who buys into Medicare would receive the same benefits and protections as an individual enrolled under Medicare parts A, B, and D.

Senate Commerce Committee Approves Peters-Young Legislation to Update Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps for Great Lakes

Maps Help Assess Ecological Risks of Oil Spill & Natural Disasters; Great Lakes Maps Have Not Been Updated in Over 20 Years

 

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee has approved bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Todd Young (R-IN) to update the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps in the Great Lakes. ESI maps are used to assess coastal resources that could be at risk in the event of an oil spill or natural disaster, including endangered and threatened species, sensitive shoreline habitats, and human-use resources like beaches, parks and boat ramps. The Great Lakes region ESI maps have not been updated since between 1985 and 1994, though maps for the East coast, West coast, and Gulf coast have seen updates within the last five years.

 

ESI maps, which are administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are used to document the potential ecological impacts to natural and human-use resources from risks such as oil spills, natural disasters, and resource damage assessments. The maps are also used in disaster planning and recovery, research and restoration efforts. ESI maps must be regularly updated to ensure they are providing an accurate representation of vulnerable locations and areas that require protection in the event of a disaster. Updates would also improve the accessibility of the ESI maps by making them available in searchable formats.

Peters, Grassley & Feinstein Call for Increased Transparency in Administration Ethics Disclosures

Letter Urges Administration to Make Ethics Waivers Immediately Publicly Available

 

By Allison Green

 

U.S. Senators Gary Peters, Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) sent a letter urging Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney to ensure that any executive branch ethics pledge waivers granted by the Trump Administration are immediately provided to the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) and made publicly available.

 

On January 28, 2017, President Trump signed Executive Order 13770 requiring all incoming political appointees to sign an ethics pledge as a condition of their employment in the federal government. The Administration’s ethics pledge places certain restrictions on appointees’ participation in matters directly related to their former employers, clients, or matters on which the appointee lobbied prior to their appointment.

 

The executive order also includes a provision allowing the President or his designee to issue a waiver to any individual appointee from any of the ethics pledge’s requirements, though there is no specific requirement that the waiver be issued prior to an appointee’s first day of employment.

 

Government Matters: Week in review, June 26-30

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By Victoria Mullen, WKTV

Huizenga-led Subcommittee Examines State of U.S. Equity Markets

The Capital Markets, Securities and Investment Subcommittee held a hearing to examine the current state of the U.S. equity markets—specifically what is working well in today’s markets, as well as areas that need improvement or are impacting the optimal functioning of the markets. Watch Rep. Bill Huizenga’s remarks, below.


Key Takeaways from the Hearing:

  • Despite significant technological advancements and constantly evolving industry practices in today’s market, the statutory framework that governs equity market structure remains largely unchanged
  • In order to determine what is the appropriate statutory framework to represent today’s markets and – more importantly – to build in sufficient flexibility that will allow our markets to continue to evolve and allow innovation, we must first analyze how the equity markets have evolved, what is working, and what needs to be improved.

Huizenga Supports Kate’s Law, Votes to Hold Sanctuary Cities Accountable

Congressman Bill Huizenga released the following statement after voting in favor of Kate’s Law and the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act, legislation that will strengthen immigration enforcement, protect Americans, and hold sanctuary cities accountable.

“The safety of our citizens should be a priority that is shared by government at the local, state, and federal level. If a state or municipality chooses to ignore federal law and harbor dangerous criminals, they should be ineligible to received federal grants funded by hardworking taxpayers.”

The No Sanctuary for Criminals Act prohibits state and local government entities from mandating noncompliance with properly issued immigration detainers and includes the detainer mandates of Grant’s Law and Sarah’s Law.

Senators Peters and Stabenow introduce legislation, make statements on Silver Carp discovery near Lake Michigan

By Zade Alsawah, Allison Green and Miranda Margowsky

U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow (MI) helped introduce the Stop Asian Carp Now Act this week. The Act will require the Trump Administration to release the Brandon Road Study within seven days of the bill’s enactment. The Brandon Road control point was identified in the GLMRIS (Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study) analyses as the only single location that can address upstream transfer of Mississippi River species through all CAWS pathways. The study has already been delayed by the Trump Administration from its expected release in February of this year.

The Senators also released the following statements regarding an announcement from the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee that a silver carp has been discovered in Illinois, within nine miles from Lake Michigan and beyond an electric barrier designed to prevent invasive species from entering the Great Lakes basin. This is the first live Silver Carp discovered above the electric barrier in the Illinois River

Said Peters, “We know how serious of a threat invasive species like Asian carp are to the Great Lakes ecosystem and economy. This discovery reaffirms that we must do everything we can to prevent Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes basin — starting with the swift release of the Brandon Road Study to evaluate the next steps needed to protect our waterways from this harmful invasive species.”

Senator Stabenow said, “Today’s news is a wakeup call. It is deeply alarming that a live Silver carp was found only nine miles from Lake Michigan — the fact remains that we need a permanent solution at Brandon Road. We need to know how the Silver carp came so close to Lake Michigan and whether there are any additional carp in the area.”

The eight-pound Silver carp was found by a commercial fishing vessel whose activities to combat Asian carp are funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). GLRI funding is also providing resources for emergency monitoring and response actions that will be taken over the next two weeks by the Fish and Wildlife Service, Army Corps of Engineers, and the State of Illinois to detect and stop any additional Silver carp in these waters near Lake Michigan.

 

Government Matters: Week in review, June 12-16

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By Victoria Mullen, WKTV

 

Next Stop the President’s Desk: Huizenga Supports Bill to Put Veterans First, Restore Accountability at the VA

Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) issued the following statement after voting in support of the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act:

Rep. Bill Huizenga

“For too long, a culture that protects bad employees, punishes whistleblowers, and fails to put veterans first, has been allowed to fester within the VA,” said Congressman Huizenga. “The Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act provides Secretary Shulkin with the tools necessary to fire bad employees, strengthens whistleblower protections, and restores accountability to the VA. This legislation is a major step forward in the effort to ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve at VA facilities and I look forward to seeing President Trump sign this bipartisan measure into law.”

 

The Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act has already passed the Senate and will now head to President Trump’s desk. President Trump is expected to sign the legislation into law.

Peters Highlights Michigan Innovation & Leadership on Self-Driving Vehicles at Senate Hearing

Peters Introduces American Center for Mobility’s John Maddox to Share Expertise at Senate Commerce Committee Hearing

 

Sen. Gary Peters

U.S. Senator Gary Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and co-founder of the bipartisan Smart Transportation Caucus, today introduced John Maddox, President and CEO of the American Center for Mobility (ACM) in Ypsilanti, Michigan, at a Commerce Committee hearing on self-driving vehicle technology. Earlier this year, Peters announced a joint, bipartisan effort with Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune to craft legislation to advance the development and deployment of lifesaving advanced vehicle technologies. ACM will play a critical role in testing and validating connected and self-driving vehicle technology, and was designated by the U.S. Department of Transportation as an Automated Vehicle Proving Ground in January.

 

“As the heart of the American auto industry, Michigan’s automakers, suppliers and engineers will solidify our nation’s position as the global leader in transportation innovation,” said Senator Peters.

 

Senator Stabenow Praises New Investments to Connect Michigan Schools with Locally Grown Food

By Jess McCarron

 

Sen. Debbie Stabenow

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement to award new funds to support two innovative initiatives that will bring locally grown food to Michigan school cafeterias. The grant funding was made available through USDA’s Farm to School Program, which helps schools source fresh and healthy local foods. The Farm to School Program also educates students about how food grows through school garden programs and farm visits.

 

“Farm to School projects provide our children with fresh, nutritious food, while also teaching them healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime,” said Stabenow. “Connecting Michigan farms with our classrooms and cafeterias also provides new economic opportunities for local farmers, helping to create jobs and grow our state’s diverse agricultural sector.”

 

USDA’s Farm to School Grants help schools respond to the growing demand for locally sourced foods and increase market opportunities for producers and food businesses, including food processors, manufacturers, and distributors. These grants will also be used to support agriculture and nutrition education efforts such as school gardens, field trips to local farms, and cooking classes across the country.

Stabenow, Peters, Upton Announce that President Will Award Medal of Honor to Vietnam War Veteran James C. McCloughan

By Miranda Margowsky and Allison Green

 

Vietnam War Veteran James C. McCloughan

U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters and Congressman Fred Upton announced that President Trump will award the Medal of Honor to Vietnam War Veteran James C. McCloughan on July 31, 2017. This follows legislation passed by Senators Stabenow and Peters and Congressman Upton to make then-Private First Class McCloughan eligible for our nation’s highest military honor. Their legislation passed the Senate as part of the National Defense Authorization Act and was signed into law by President Obama in December of 2016.

 

Then-Private First Class McCloughan, a native and current resident of South Haven, served as a medic and saved the lives of 10 members of his platoon who were wounded during the Battle of Nui Yon Hill on May 13-15, 1969. McCloughan was discharged with the rank of Specialist (SP5).

 

Medal of Honor recipients must be honored within five years of the act of heroism justifying the award. The legislation passed by Senators Stabenow and Peters and Congressman Upton waived the five-year requirement and made it possible for the President to award the Medal of Honor to him.

Stabenow, Peters Introduce Legislation to Protect and Restore Recreational Fisheries

By Allison Green

 

As Free Fishing Weekend kicks off across Michigan, U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters introduced two bills to protect and restore fisheries across the state. Fishing is critical to tourism and our Michigan way of life. Millions of anglers visit the State of Michigan every year, contributing more than $4 billion to our economy. U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) also introduced both bills today.

 

The Great Lakes Aquatic Connectivity and Infrastructure Program Act (S. 1332) will improve Great Lakes fisheries and encourage habitat restoration by repairing and replacing aging dams, culverts, and roads. There are thousands of these structures across the Great Lakes Basin that currently inhibit the movement of fish populations.  Great Lakes states and tribal governments will be able to recommend grant projects to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to either expand fish access to waterways or prevent the spread of invasive species.

 

The Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act (S. 1331) will make scientific technology available to track and monitor the health of fisheries in the Great Lakes. The will be used to make decisions to support and rehabilitate sport fish populations in the basin. This program was initiated in the Great Lakes on a limited scale in 2010, and will be fully established in statute under this legislation.

 

 

Government Matters: Week in review, April 10-14

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Peters announces bill to help small businesses applying for federal contracts

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) is introducing bipartisan legislation with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) to help protect small businesses from falling victim to fraud when they register to procure federal contracts. The Procurement Fraud Prevention Act would require small businesses to be notified that free assistance is available for help in procuring government contracts through federal programs, including Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs), the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). Many business owners are unaware these resources exist and fall victim to scams that mislead them into paying high sums of money for contract procurement assistance.

 

All small businesses applying for federal contracting opportunities must register in the General Services Administration’s (GSA) System for Award Management (SAM). Unfortunately, bad actors disguised as vendors or government officials obtain businesses’ contacts from this public database and email business owners directly after they have registered asking for high sums of money in return for registration and contracting assistance. As a result, many small businesses unwittingly sign up for services they were not seeking at the cost of hundreds or thousands of dollars.

 

The Procurement Fraud Prevention Act requires GSA and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to ensure that any direct communication to a small business about its registration in a procurement system, including SAM, contains information about cost-free federal procurement technical assistance services available through PTACs, SBA, MBDA and other programs.

 

Michigan is home to ten PTACs and over 850,000 small businesses that account for half of the state’s private workforce.

 

Peters, Stabenow urge Trump Administration to release Army Corps Brandon Road Study to stop spread of Asian carp

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) together with 10 other Great Lakes Senators have called on the Trump Administration to release a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study that recommends specific measures to prevent Asian Carp from getting beyond the Brandon Road Lock and Dam, a crucial chokepoint in the Chicago waterway system. The study, which is critical to stopping the flow of Asian Carp and other invasive species, was supposed to be released at the end of February but was delayed by the Trump Administration.

 

“We request the Administration release the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ draft proposal to prevent Asian carp from reaching and severely harming the Great Lakes,” wrote the lawmakers. “We are concerned by what we understand to be a White House decision to delay and potentially modify this report that has been under development for years. When taken together with the proposal to eliminate all funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in the fiscal year 2018 budget, delaying the release of this plan to address Asian carp only raises further questions about the Administration’s commitment to protecting our Great Lakes.”

 

Peters, Gardner call for increase in U.S. science funding

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Cory Gardner (R-CO), members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee urging the Committee to support a substantial increase in federal funding for science, research, and development at the National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

 

“Ongoing federal initiatives in research and development are already responsible for billions of dollars in economic output and tens of thousands of jobs in our home states of Colorado and Michigan,” wrote the Senators.

 

“The United States is facing fierce international competition: China invests more than $335 billion annually on research and development initiatives, making them the second largest investor in the world and putting them on track to eclipse U.S. investments soon,” continued the Senators. “Without a substantial increase in research and development appropriations, the United States risks losing its role as the global leader in innovation.”

 

Peters, Gardner introduce resolution to eliminate duplicative government programs

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Cory Gardner (R-CO) have introduced the Congressional Oversight to Start Taxpayer Savings Resolution (COST Savings Resolution), bipartisan legislation that would require Congressional committees to hold oversight hearings on the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) Annual Report of Opportunities to Reduce Fragmentation, Overlap and Duplication and the GAO High Risk List.

 

“Congress is responsible for ensuring taxpayer dollars are being used effectively and efficiently, and this annual report provides a roadmap to help Congress streamline government and cut wasteful spending,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management. “By reducing programs that overlap or duplicate efforts, we can cut costs for taxpayers and help ensure that government is serving the American people more productively.”

 

The COST Savings Resolution directs Congressional committees to take into account recommendations on how to improve the effectiveness of government programs and eliminate unnecessary costs caused by duplicative federal programs, as well as vulnerabilities for waste, fraud, and abuse and the need for transformation of government programs.

 

The 2016 GAO annual report identified 37 areas across the federal government where Congress could eliminate duplicative programs and improve efficiency and effectiveness, as well as 25 areas where Congress could reduce the cost of government operations.

 

Government Matters: The week in review

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Congressman Bill Huizenga’s Listening Tour is March 6 in Grand Haven

Congressman Bill Huizenga announced that the second stop on his listening tour will take place on Monday, March 6th in Grand Haven. The town hall style listening session will be held in the auditorium of Lakeshore Middle School and begin at 7 pm. This event is open to all residents of Michigan’s Second Congressional District. Media is asked to RSVP to Brian.Patrick@Mail.House.Gov.

  • Who: Congressman Bill Huizenga
  • What: A Town Hall Listening Session
  • Where: Lakeshore Middle School Auditorium – Lakeshore Middle School is located at 900 Cutler Street in Grand Haven
  • When: Monday, March 6th Doors at 6:15 PM, Town Hall from 7-9 pm

Signs will not be permitted in the auditorium. Those who would like to display signs are welcome to do so outside the middle school prior to the event.

Congressman Huizenga’s first listening tour stop took place in Baldwin on February 25th and was attended by over 300 people.


The State and Local Cyber Protection Act

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and David Perdue (R-GA) have introduced bipartisan legislation to help state and local governments combat cyber threats by increasing coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The State and Local Cyber Protection Act requires DHS’s National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) to provide assistance and training for state, local and tribal governments in preventing, preparing for and responding to cyber threats.

According to the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO), state governments have identified improving cybersecurity as a top information technology priority. However, state and local governments often lack the resources or technical expertise to defend their networks from cyberattacks. Analysis from the Brookings Institute found that state and local governments vary widely in their abilities to budget sufficient resources and field the technical expertise necessary to respond to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. The State of Michigan estimates that they detect over 600,000 attempted intrusions to their information systems every day.

“This bipartisan legislation will help ensure every level of government has the necessary tools to protect their networks and respond to cyber attacks,” said Sen. Peters.


Self-driving vehicles

U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Representatives Fred Upton and Debbie Dingell called on the Trump Administration to prioritize the development and testing of connected and self-driving vehicles in the President’s proposed budget for 2018. The Members of Congress sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney and Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao urging them to include $200 million in their 2018 federal budget request for facilities designated by DOT as proving grounds for automated vehicle testing. In January, DOT designated ten sites across the country as national proving grounds, including the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti.

The letter calls for federal funding to help support the development of automated vehicle proving grounds and promote safe testing to validate these self-driving technologies and ensure they are ready for use on American roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 35,000 people are killed on our roads and highways annually. Connected and self-driving vehicle technologies have the potential to reduce accidents and save thousands of lives.

Full text of letter here.


Preparing youth and adults for high-skill, high-demand jobs

U.S. Senator Gary Peters has joined the Senate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, a bipartisan caucus focused on improving and strengthening access to career and technical education. CTE programs help prepare youth and adults for high-skill, high-demand jobs in fields ranging from health care, advanced manufacturing, hospitality, information technology, marketing and sales, public safety and more. Each year, over 100,000 Michigan students enroll in CTE programs across 16 different career pathways.

“In an increasingly dynamic economy, we must invest in education and workforce development to equip workers with skills they need to compete in the 21st century,” said Senator Peters. “Career and technical education helps prepare America’s workforce for the jobs of the future in high-demand, good-paying career fields. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the Senate Career and Technical Education Caucus to continue supporting CTE programs.”

U.S. Senator Peters helps launch Ford Museum’s newest exhibit

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U.S. Senator Gary Peters
U.S. Senator Gary Peters

U.S. Senator Gary Peters will join the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum for the opening of its new interactive exhibit, “Space: A Journey to Our Future” on Thursday, Nov. 10.

 

At noon Peters will hold a forum with Grand Rapids-area students, who are focused on science, technology, engineering and math to discuss future career and education opportunities related to the space program. At 7 p.m., Peters will deliver the opening lecture for the exhibit, where he will discuss the future of NASA and Michigan’s role in its missions.

 

Peters serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Space, Science and Competitiveness, which oversees agencies such as NASA, the National Science Foundation and is responsible for science, technology, engineering and math research and development. In his role as Ranking Member, he is working to pass bipartisan legislation to increase investments in basic science and research; expand opportunities for science, technology, engineering, and math education; and further NASA’s missions in science, space technology, aeronautics, exploration and education.

 

The new exhibit focuses on the past, present and future of the U.S. space program and will be on display at the Museum until May 29. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is located at 303 Pearl St. NW.

Senator Gary Peters announces new legislation to make college more affordable and accessible

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Kendall College Ferris StateU.S. Senator Gary Peters payed a visit to the Kendall College of Art and Design at Ferris State University campus on February 22 to announce the Making Education Affordable and Accessible Act (MEAA). The MEAA is a new bipartisan legislation intended to expand options for high school students to obtain college credit, making higher education more affordable and accessible while improving high school and college graduation rates.

 

“The escalating cost of higher education should not deter hardworking, motivated students from obtaining a quality higher education,” said Senator Peters. “I am pleased to introduce this bipartisan bill to help reduce the price tag for higher learning by allowing students to complete college-level courses while they are still in high school. Students will save time and money as they kick-start their careers through a personalized curriculum.”

 

The MEAA would expand access to dual and concurrent enrollment programs and early/middle college programs by providing grants to institutions of higher education. The National Alliance on Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships estimates 1.9 million high school students enrolled in a college course during the 2014-2015 school year.

 

Peters was joined by Ferris State University President David Eisler, Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Michael Shibler, and students enrolled in Rockford High School’s concurrent enrollment program with Ferris State University.

 

Currently, Ferris State has partnered with 20 schools across Michigan to give high school students a jump on their college requirements.

Ferris State president David Eisier
Ferris State president David Eisier

 

“We can help make college more affordable and more accessible by offering expanded opportunities for students to earn college credit while in high school in a cost-effective manner,” said Ferris State University President David Eisler. “I thank Senator Peters for his efforts to support dual and concurrent enrollment and early college programs that will give students in Michigan more opportunities to start their college careers.”

 

Concurrent enrollment provides high school students the opportunity to take college-credit bearing courses taught by college-approved high school teacher, while dual enrollment involves students being enrolled in two separate institutions. These high schools and programs are located on college campuses or within schools, and they allow students to begin working towards an associate’s degree while they complete coursework for a high school diploma. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, early college students on average earn 36 college credits, and 30% of early college students earn an associate’s degree. There are 23 early/middle college high schools and 67 early/middle college programs in Michigan alone.

 

“Earning college credit in high school prior to graduation is a life changing experience for our students,” said Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Michael Shibler. “The opportunity to experience the rigor of college coursework, as well as prepare students to make more informed decisions about their postsecondary path, is invaluable.”

Senator Peters
Senator Peters

 

The Making Education Affordable and Accessible Act allows for money to be used to provide grants to institutions of higher education. These grants can be used to:

 

•    Carry out dual and concurrent enrollment programs as well as early/middle college programming
•    Provide teachers in concurrent enrollment programs with professional development
•    Support activities such as course design, course approval processes, community outreach, student counseling and support services

 

Senator Peters introduced the legislation alongside Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, Colorado Congressman Jared Polis, and New York Congressmen Tom Reed.

 

“This legislation will help motivated students customize their coursework to create the learning environment that works best for them,” said Steven Ender, President of Grand Rapids Community College. “By introducing students to the academic expectations of college while still in high school, we can dramatically improve college preparedness and significantly boost graduation rates.”

Bipartisan Bill Would Eliminate Outdated Paperwork for Michigan Small Businesses

Local Business, Our Cities, Politics, , ,

USSenateU.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, today cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would reduce burdensome paperwork and cut red tape for small businesses. The Microloan Act of 2015 eliminates three outdated provisions in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Microloan Program that have been unchanged since the program’s establishment in 1991 and only create unnecessary paperwork for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

“Small businesses and startups are the engines of economic growth in Michigan, and it is critical that the SBA’s Microloan Program is up to date and streamlined to help small businesses compete and succeed,” said Senator Peters. “I’m glad to cosponsor this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that eliminates unnecessary bureaucratic red tape for small businesses and allows them to focus more on innovating and serving consumers.”

“There are many organizations like Northern Initiatives who for over twenty years, have partnered with the Small Business Administration in building the microlending program,” said Dennis West, President, Northern Initiatives. “The bill that Senator Peters is cosponsoring will give Northern Initiatives and experienced microlenders more flexibility to use our gained knowledge and judgement to work on the technical assistance needs identified by our customers. The bill will enable Northern Initiatives to help more people in rural Michigan achieve their dream of starting and growing a business.”

The legislation eliminates three provisions of the Small Business Act. In doing so, the bill:

  • Provides greater flexibility to microloan intermediaries in providing technical assistance and underwriting to current and prospective borrowers
  • Promotes local decision-making by intermediaries by addressing the current law’s approach to third party contractors, permitting smaller intermediaries with smaller grants to secure part time assistance for essential services such as bookkeeping and accounting
  • Streamlines SBA grant and loan making process by removing a provision in current law that requires SBA to limit assistance during the first six months of the fiscal year

The SBA’s Microloan Program was initially established as a pilot program in 1991. Since then, the program has grown to 137 active intermediary lenders who made more than $55 million in loans totaling $670 million to almost 4,000 small businesses across the country. In fiscal year 2014 alone, the Microloan Program made 95 microloans to Michigan small businesses totaling over $1.6 million, and helped retain or create over 300 jobs.

Legislation Helps Protect Domestic Violence Victims and Their Pets

Pets/Animals, Politics, , , ,

Dogs and Cats in a RowU.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) today introduced the Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act, to protect victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and dating violence from emotional and psychological trauma caused by acts or threats of violence against their pets. Multiple studies have shown that domestic abusers often seek to manipulate or intimidate their victims by threatening or harming their pets.

“Pets are treasured members of our families, and victims of domestic violence can often get caught in a cycle of abuse because they cannot take their pets with them when they try to leave their abusers,” said Senator Peters. “This legislation provides important support to better empower victims of domestic violence to leave abusive situations, recover the cost of veterinary bills if an abuser harms their pet, and find shelter and housing that allows them to keep their pets as companions.”

“Domestic violence victims should not have to choose between their own personal safety and that of their pet,” said Senator Ayotte. “Domestic violence is about power and control, and all too often we see abusers harming or threatening to harm pets in an attempt to exercise control over their victims. The PAWS Act provides important authorities and resources to help empower victims of domestic and sexual violence and stalking to leave abusive situations and seek help.”

The PAWS Act would amend the federal criminal code to prohibit threats or acts of violence against a person’s pet under the offenses of stalking and interstate violation of a protection order. The bill also requires the full amount of the victim’s losses for purposes of restitution in domestic violence and stalking offenses to include any costs incurred for veterinary services relating to physical care for the victim’s pet. The legislation further directs the Department of Agriculture to award grants to eligible entities to carry out programs to provide specified housing assistance, support services, and training of relevant stakeholders to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking and their pets.

“No one should have to make the impossible choice between leaving an abusive situation or protecting their pet,” said Nancy Perry, senior vice president of American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Government Relations. “Studies demonstrate that abusers often intentionally target pets to exert control over their partners, and as many as 25 percent of domestic violence survivors have reported returning to an abusive partner out of concern for the safety of their animal. The federal protections offered by the PAWS Act will provide valuable resources to give victims and their pets the security they need to escape a dangerous environment, which is why the ASPCA is grateful to Senators Ayotte and Peters for introducing this legislation.”

“Many states allow pets to be included in restraining orders, but what happens when a domestic violence victim must go live with family in another state where pets are not covered?” said Michael Markarian, chief program and policy officer for The Humane Society of the United States. “We must have a national policy that safeguards the pets of abuse victims, and recognizes that domestic violence impacts all members of the family—including the four-legged. We are grateful to Senator Peters for working to provide victims and their families with the help they need.”

The ASPCA reported that a study in Wisconsin found that “68% of battered women revealed that abusive partners had also been violent toward pets or livestock; more than three-quarters of these cases occurred in the presence of women and/or children to intimidate or control them.” Moreover, a 2014 New York Police Department study found that 71 percent of pet-owning women entering domestic violence shelters reported that their abusers threatened, harmed or killed family pets. Yet, only a small number of domestic violence shelters permit pets.

The PAWS Act has been endorsed by the Humane Society, National Sheriff’s Association, the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Peters Cosponsors Anti-Bullying Legislation

Politics, ,

BullyingU.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today cosponsored bipartisan legislation to help schools end bullying and harassment and ensure no child is afraid to go to school for fear of unchecked bullying. The Safe Schools Improvement Act would require school districts across the country to develop and implement locally driven anti-bullying policies. A Department of Education study found that 1 in 3 children between the ages of 12 and 18 will be impacted by bullying, and research shows that bullying and harassment have adverse long-term consequences like decreased concentration at school, increased school absenteeism, damage to the victim’s self-esteem, and increased social anxiety.

“No student should ever wake up afraid of going to school in the morning because of fear of being bullied, but unfortunately that is the case for too many students in Michigan and across the country,” said Senator Peters. “The impacts of bullying on our children can last for years even beyond school, and I’m proud to cosponsor this legislation that will help schools confront bullying through a more comprehensive approach.”

The Safe Schools Improvement Act would:

  • Require schools and districts receiving federal funding to specifically prohibit bullying and harassment, including conduct based on a student’s actual or perceived race, color, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion.
  • Ensure that schools and school districts focus on effective prevention programs in order to better prevent and respond to incidents of bullying and harassment both in school and online.
  • Require that states report data on incidents of bullying and harassment to the Department of Education

The legislation has wide support from a number of advocacy groups, including: The American Federation of Teachers; American School Health Association; Learning Disabilities Association of America; National Association of School Psychologists; National Down Syndrome Society, National Education Association; National Parent Teacher Association; American Association of University Women; Asian American Justice Center; The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network; Human Rights Campaign; Trevor Project; and National Council of La Raza.

Peters previously cosponsored similar legislation as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. In February, Peters cosponsored the Student Non-discrimination Act that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in schools and provides legal recourse to address bullying and discrimination of LGBT youth.