Category: MIL-OSI

Source: United States Senator for South Dakota Mike Rounds

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Source: United States Senator for South Dakota Mike Rounds

04.29.22

WASHINGTON – Tamara St. John, archivist for the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and a member of the South Dakota State House of Representatives, testified in support of Senator Mike Rounds’ (R-S.D.) legislation that would repeal discriminatory federal laws targeting Native Americans.

During a legislative hearing of the United States House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indigenous Peoples of the United States, St. John testified on behalf of S. 789, the Repealing Existing Substandard Provisions Encouraging Conciliation with Tribes (RESPECT) Act which was introduced by Rounds in 2021. The bill unanimously passed the Senate and now awaits passage in the House of Representatives.

“It’s long past time to remove federal laws that are discriminatory to Native Americans from our books,” said Rounds. “In many cases, these laws are more than a century old and do nothing but continue the stigma of subjugation and paternalism from that time period. Clearly, there is no place in our legal code for such laws. I thank Tamara for her support and for providing testimony to the House subcommittee overseeing this legislation. As Tamara said in her opening statement, it’s time for the House to pass this bill and get it to the president’s desk.”

The RESPECT Act would repeal 11 outdated federal laws, including laws that stripped Native American children from their families for the purpose of placing them in cruel “Indian reform schools” like the now infamous Carlisle Indian Industrial School.

A full list of laws the RESPECT would repeal is available HERE.

The RESPECT Act is supported by the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Association and the National Congress of American Indians.

St. John’s Remarks as prepared for delivery:

“Good afternoon, Chairwoman Leger-Fernandez, Ranking Member Obernolte, and members of the subcommittee. Thank you for the opportunity to testify in support of Senate Bill 789, the Repealing Existing Substandard Provisions Encouraging Conciliation with Tribes Act, also known as the RESPECT Act.

I wish to thank Senator Rounds who represents my beloved state of South Dakota for providing the leadership on this important legislation. The RESPECT Act can be a base for further work to amend or change federal policies that limit the progress of Native Nations and indigenous people in the United States of America.

Many of us in the Great Plains, and across the country, are excited to see this RESPECT Act finally receive a hearing in the United States House of Representatives. My understanding is this legislation originated out of tribal consultations when Senator Rounds’ staff was working with Sioux Tribes, located in present-day South Dakota, on Carlisle Indian School repatriation efforts. I have often heard it described as being a rare, non-partisan, non-controversial, and no-cost piece of legislation. I thank all of you for giving this legislation the opportunity to be heard.

In 2018, I was elected to my first term in the South Dakota House of Representatives. The day that I stepped onto the floor of the State House, I looked up and saw a painting of the sort that is commonly found in many State Capitals, and done during a time when life was very different in South Dakota. It depicts the typical images of immigrants during the settlement of what was Native homelands for centuries. In the painting above my desk on the House floor, is a Native woman with braids covering her bare chest. There also exists a similar painting of non-tribal women in another location at the Capitol and neither would likely be chosen today to portray the women of South Dakota.

It was very clear to me that this place wasn’t built with me in mind. As a woman in the United States during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, I would not have been able to vote until the passing of the 19th amendment. As a Native American, I would not have been considered a United States Citizen until 1924. So as a society, we continue to grow and change as needed.

In America, when we know better, we do better.

Senate Bill 789 does just that. It represents the acknowledgement of a past that created hardship and even devastation for indigenous people in the United States.

As a historian, when I relay the history of Native Nations it corresponds directly with Federal Indian Policies such as the Indian Removal Act. My Dakota tribe was removed from the state of Minnesota in 1863 after the Dakota War where Governor Ramsey called for the extermination of the Dakota.

From that era of Genocide, we moved into a period known as Assimilation. It is from this era that some of the laws identified in the proposed legislation come from. The era of boarding schools where many Dakota children were forcibly removed from homes and families to be placed in schools as far away as Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The impacts of this policy are still found within our families today.

In 1889, one Indian Commissioner numbered several ways in which assimilation would be carried out. Things that separated children from communities and outlawed such things like traditional languages and spirituality. The last paragraph stated that “the autonomy of the individual will be enforced above all”, meaning that a person is stripped bare of all the things that identify them as a Native American or Indian person.

When these children returned home, they often were disconnected from their people and families. As one elder once told me, “I knew I did not belong with my people or with white people, I did not belong anywhere,” OR “how do you show love or connection when you’ve never experienced it?” AND “this affected my every relationship from marriage to parent.”

These are the same policies that resulted in a loss of spirituality or prayer. Due to the consequences of these antiquated and overtly racist laws against Native Americans, that are still on the federal books today mind you, you can imagine how much Native people have had to overcome in order to be here today.

We can’t change the past, but we can recognize that today we as a nation know better, and can do better. With these things in mind, I ask you to please vote in support Senate Bill 789 and let’s get this legislation to the President’s desk. Thank you.”

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Source: United States Senator for South Dakota Mike Rounds

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Source: United States Senator for South Dakota Mike Rounds

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Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse

05.10.22

Washington, DC – Today, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA) introduced the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Modernization Act, bicameral legislation that would update the CALM Act, a law enacted in 2010 to limit the loudness of TV ads.  Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) is an original cosponsor of the legislation in the Senate and Congressman Jerry McNerney (D-CA) is an original cosponsor of the legislation in the House.

The CALM Modernization Act extends the CALM Act’s prohibitions to streaming services; strengthens the ability of the FCC to investigate and enforce violations of the CALM Act by broadcast, cable, and satellite TV operators; and requires a study analyzing the effectiveness of the CALM Act in moderating ad loudness.

“New ways to watch TV shouldn’t mean new ways for corporations to blare ads at outrageously high volumes.  It’s time to update our CALM Act to address the uptick in streaming, and to boost enforcement of existing rules against loud commercials,” said Whitehouse.  “I’m glad to partner with Congresswoman Eshoo to help annoyed TV watchers everywhere.  We’ve all had enough.”

“I authored the CALM Act in 2010 with Senator Whitehouse to put an end to the booming ads on TV that were highly annoying for consumers.  Since the law was enacted, streaming services have recreated the problem of loud ads because the old law doesn’t apply to them, and consumers continue to complain about loud ads on broadcast, cable, and satellite TV.  Today, we’re updating the legislation for the benefit of consumers who are tired of diving for the mute button at every commercial break,” said Eshoo.  “Our bill is simple: the volume of commercials on streaming services cannot be louder than regular programming, as is the case with traditional TV, and the bill gives the FCC increased authority to investigate violations of the law by traditional TV operators.”

“Loud commercials can be incessant, annoying and unnecessary,” Duckworth said.  “The CALM Modernization Act is a common-sense, easy solution to build upon a law that’s already been established for more than a decade and improve the lives of everyday Americans.  I’m glad to join Congresswoman Eshoo and Senator Whitehouse to introduce this legislation.”

“Consumers don’t like loud commercials any more than they did in 2010, when the original CALM Act authored by Congresswoman Eshoo and Senator Whitehouse was signed into law.  And they don’t distinguish between high volume commercials aired on traditional television platforms versus the many streaming video services accessed by consumers in 2022.  Consumer Reports strongly supports the introduction of the CALM Modernization Act as a necessary update to the statute, and we urge Congress to act on it this year,” said Jonathan Schwantes, Senior Policy Counsel of Consumer Reports.

The bill text can be found HERE and a one page summary can be found HERE.

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse

05.06.22

Sens. Reed, Whitehouse join Mayor Picozzi and Warwick leaders to announce $5 million federal grant to advance plans to transform under-utilized city property into a more vibrant downtown core that will serve as a community gathering space and attract more residents, visitors, and investment

WARWICK, RI – In an effort to assist the City of Warwick’s economic development priorities, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse secured $5 million in federal funding to help Warwick advance plans to create a pedestrian plaza, community gathering and event space that can improve quality of life attributes for the community and promote healthy, active lifestyles.

The Senators, who included an earmark for the project in the Fiscal Year 2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act, say the federal funds will help the city build new infrastructure and community assets around Warwick City Hall designed to attract people, stimulate private investment, create jobs, and increase local and regional tourism to the area.

Today, Senators Reed and Whitehouse met with Mayor Frank J. Picozzi, Rhode Island House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, and Warwick leaders to discuss the City’s plans, which call for a new City Hall Plaza offering year-round activities and amenities in Warwick’s downtown core, including, among other things, a major dual-purpose skating rink/roller rink/splash pad that can also be used for performances and exhibits, farmers markets, and other public gatherings, as well as new walking paths, green landscaping features, and parking.

“Senator Whitehouse and I are proud to make this $5 million infusion of federal funding available to help the City advance its economic development priorities,” said Senator Reed. “When it’s completed, this amenity-filled space will give residents and visitors alike another reason to enjoy Warwick and spend some time and money right here in the neighborhood. This plaza will be a place to bring the community together for celebrations, family outings, performances, and more. It will help promote a healthy, active, walkable lifestyle. And in addition to offering opportunities for leisure, recreation, and event space all year round, this new plaza has the potential to be a catalyst for further economic development, increasing foot traffic to the area with the goal of attracting additional private investment and smart growth.”

“Senator Reed and I secured $5 million in federal funds to realize Warwick leaders’ vision for a new plaza that will serve as the cultural and economic centerpiece of the city,” said Senator Whitehouse. “With an ice skating rink and event space, this area will be transformed into a destination city center for Warwick residents to enjoy. Congratulations to Mayor Picozzi and his team on making it happen.”

“The City of Warwick is extremely grateful to have Senators Reed and Whitehouse in our corner, helping to secure this grant to soon make City Hall Plaza a reality. It will not only be the central gathering place for residents, but it will also create jobs, and help boost our city’s economy. This project has been a vision of mine since I was sworn into office. I’m confident it will greatly enhance the quality of life for all residents here in Warwick,” said Mayor Frank J. Picozzi.

Close to Narragansett Bay, in an area steeped in history that has local, regional and national importance, the 12,000 square foot rink and multi-use year-round plaza is part of a master plan that has numerous elements, including revitalization of historic Apponaug Village, and development of the Apponaug Heritage Trail with connections to the famed Civil War Hero George Sears Greene’s cemetery.

The Warwick Center for the Arts, located adjacent to the proposed plaza, hosts regional art exhibits and events that would be readily supported by a new outdoor event area. Additionally, the plaza and associated programming will support local businesses by promoting foot traffic and attracting residents and visitors that will frequent local restaurants, retail shops and associated services.

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse

05.10.22

Funding will support facility and IT upgrades at sexual assault trauma center

Providence, RI – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today announced that he has secured $500,000 in federal funding to allow the nonprofit Day One to upgrade its facility and information technology infrastructure with the goal of improving trauma-informed advocacy and clinical treatment services for victims of sexual assault, abuse, and exploitation. Located in Providence, Day One provides treatment, intervention, education, advocacy, and prevention services to Rhode Islanders of all ages.

“The staff at Day One provide compassionate treatment and advocacy to every person who walks through their doors – many of whom are in the darkest moment of their lives,” said Whitehouse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former Rhode Island Attorney General. “I am glad to deliver a half million dollars in federal funding to better equip the agency to carry out its important mission.”

The Congressionally Directed Spending request submitted by Whitehouse was included in the omnibus bill that President Biden signed into law in March. Investments made with the funding will create energy, cost, and work efficiencies that will allow for smoother administration of Day One’s services.

The agency will replace all of its windows, an aging boiler, and all building entry points and restrooms to make the facility fully accessible. Day One will also invest in upgrades to its key software platforms, phone and video conferencing technology, email security, and key pass system. IT professionals will be hired to administer the new systems.

“Rhode Island’s congressional delegation has always been tremendously supportive of the critical issues and needs of Day One and the community it serves. Day One is so grateful to Senator Whitehouse for providing this funding,” said Peg Langhammer, Executive Director of Day One. “This support will help address our critical building needs in Providence, ensuring our facility is fully ADA-compliant and accessible, energy efficient, and provide vital IT infrastructure upgrades, which will in turn allow us to continue to provide comprehensive victim support to the thousands of Rhode Islanders we serve each year.”

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse

05.06.22

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Oceans Caucus, released the following statements after their legislation, the Bolstering Long-Term Understanding and Exploration of the Great Lakes, Oceans, Bays, and Estuaries Act, or the BLUE GLOBE Act, advanced one step closer to becoming law. This week the Senate passed by voice vote Senators Whitehouse and Murkowski’s motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 4521, the United States Innovation and Competition Act, to include their BLUE Globe Act in the final conference report. Their legislation accelerates technology innovation, promotes a stronger maritime workforce, and bolsters the blue economy.

“I’m pleased our motion passed with broad support last night, continuing the Senate’s strong bipartisan tradition of caring for the oceans,” said Senator Whitehouse. “The oceans cover seventy percent of the planet, yet there’s much left to be learned about them. New high-quality research and data will help guide the future of the Blue Economy and support maritime jobs.”

“The BLUE GLOBE Act is one step closer to becoming law, which is great news for Alaska’s fisheries and coastal communities. I am proud of our unanimous voice vote last night, which reflects the bipartisan support for this initiative, and look forward to working with the conferees to get this one to the President’s desk,” said Senator Murkowski. “This legislation will improve the health of our fisheries, strengthen the competitiveness of the industry’s workforce, protect against China’s illegal fishing, and diversify our blue economy. I am excited for the opportunities that our fishing communities have and will continue to fight for this critical industry.”

Background: The BLUE GLOBE Act directs existing federal ocean-focused interagency committees to improve domestic and international coordination, enhance data management and accessibility, and accelerate ocean data and monitoring innovation by giving NOAA Cooperative Institutes a stronger focus on technology advancement. The bill creates a new ocean innovation prize, and tasks the National Academy of Sciences with assessing the need for an Advanced Research Project Agency–Oceans. The legislation also prioritizes the use of innovative technology to better address Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. This measure follows successful work by the Oceans Caucus to support the passage of four international agreements aimed at combatting IUU fishing and the related legislation.

Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

Life-Saving Drug Invented in 1920’s Shouldn’t Put People in Poverty Today

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — As a part of their continued effort to lower out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Rhode Island seniors and families, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today visited the East Providence Senior Center to outline plans to deliver price relief to consumers who depend on life-saving medications.

Reed and Whitehouse were joined by East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva; East Bay Community Action Program CEO Dennis Roy; and seniors and patient advocates to highlight efforts to lower prescription drug costs and create a $35 per month federal cap on out-of-pocket insulin costs. 

Reed and Whitehouse are calling for the U.S. Senate to vote on their proposals to bring down costs for consumers, hold large pharmaceutical companies accountable for high prices, and increase transparency in the health marketplace.

“We can’t let the cost of prescription drugs continue to be a barrier to good health.  For too long the pharmaceutical industry has overcharged Americans and dictated sky-high prices for life-saving prescription drugs that people rely on,” said Senator Reed.  “The federal government must take needed steps – including capping out-of-pocket insulin costs and granting Medicare the authority to negotiate prescription drug prices – in order to put more money back into the pockets of hardworking American families, seniors, and businesses.  We have put forth a series of measures that will hold drug companies accountable for skyrocketing drug prices and lower the cost of health care for everyone.”

“Pharmaceutical companies are hiking insulin prices just because they know people with diabetes will go to lengths to find a way to pay for the lifesaving drug.  The current trajectory is not sustainable for seniors living on fixed incomes,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “We can fix this once and for all by capping out-of-pocket monthly insulin costs at $35.  While we’re at it, we need to get seniors the best possible drug prices across the board by enabling Medicare to negotiate with pharmaceutical manufacturers.” 

Reed and Whitehouse are cosponsors of the Affordable Insulin Now Act (S. 3700), which would cap insulin costs at $35 a month and applies to both Medicare and private plans, helping ensure Rhode Islanders living with diabetes can afford insulin. 

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 93,000 Rhode Islanders have been diagnosed with diabetes and an additional 23,000 Rhode Islanders  are living with undiagnosed diabetes. For people with diabetes, their medical expenses are approximately 2.3 times higher than people without diabetes, with many families paying hundreds of dollars every month for life-sustaining insulin medications.

The Health Care Costs Institute notes that insulin prices nearly doubled from 2012 to 2016, with the average price for a 40-day supply of insulin increasing from $344 to $666 during that span. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), medical costs and lost work and wages for people with diagnosed diabetes total $327 billion yearly, and the American Diabetes Association has asserted that diabetics account for $1 of every $4 spent on health care in the U.S.  At the same time, a 2021 bipartisan staff report from the Senate Finance Committee found that “[insulin] manufacturers are retaining more revenue from insulin than in the 2000s,” and that “the amount of revenue pharmaceutical manufacturers are retaining from insulin has risen.”

Indeed, the sale of insulin is one example of how drug companies are gaming the system, charging inflated prices, and putting profits over people.

Insulin is not a novel or new treatment that drug companies have invested millions of dollars in discovering.  Scientists developed it in 1923, almost one hundred years ago.  And the scientists who created insulin sold the patent for $1 in an attempt to make the drug widely available.   

The major recent price spikes are purely for the profit of executives and shareholders, not recouping capital investments in research and development.

Reed and Whitehouse have also teamed up on a slate of key bills this year that would make expensive prescription medications more affordable for Rhode Island families, including:

• The Empowering Medicare Seniors to Negotiate Drug Prices Act (S. 833) would allow Medicare to directly negotiate the best possible price of prescription drugs to cut costs for nearly 43 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D.  Current law prohibits Medicare from doing so.

• The End Taxpayer Subsidies for Drug Ads Act (S. 141) would prohibit pharmaceutical drug manufacturers from claiming tax deductions for consumer advertising expenses, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not used to subsidize billions of dollars in drug advertisements.

• The Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act (S. 920) would allow Rhode Islanders to safely import FDA-approved prescription drugs from Canada.

• The Affordable Medications Act (S. 1898) would promote transparency by requiring pharmaceutical companies to disclose just how much money is going toward research and development, as well as marketing and pay for executives. It would also end the restriction that prevents the federal Medicare program from using its buying power to negotiate lower drug prices for its beneficiaries, and curb drug company monopoly practices that keep prices high and prevent less expensive generics from coming to the market.