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South Carolina Congressman Jeff Duncan Releases Statement Celebrating a Historic Win for the Right to Life

Press Release

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August 23, 2023

South Carolina Congressman Jeff Duncan Releases Statement Celebrating a Historic Win for the Right to Life

Below is a press release from Congressman Jeff Duncan.

Washington, D.C. — Following the ruling of the S.C. Supreme Court on Planned Parenthood South Atlantic v. State of South Carolina, Congressman Jeff Duncan (R-SC) released the following statement:

“Today’s ruling from the S.C. Supreme Court is a monumental win for the right to life. I commend the South Carolina General Assembly for ensuring the passage of a Constitutionally sound bill that will stop the killing of babies once a heartbeat is detected. I’m grateful for all the South Carolinians who devoted years of work that culminated with this ruling to save innumerable lives from the ruthless practice of abortion.”

North Carolina Congresswoman Deborah Ross Co-Introduces the Protection and Advocacy for Criminal Legal Services Act

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August 23, 2023

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North Carolina Congresswoman Deborah Ross Co-Introduces the Protection and Advocacy for Criminal Legal Services Act

Below is a press release from North Carolina Congresswoman Deborah Ross.

Congresswomen Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), members of the House Judiciary Committee, introduced the Protection and Advocacy for Criminal Legal Services Act. This legislation would create a grant program to help Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&As) address the needs of people with disabilities who become involved in the criminal justice system. Currently, P&As lack funding and resources to properly support people with disabilities who need assistance navigating the legal system. People with disabilities are highly overrepresented in the criminal justice system – making up 15% of the U.S. population but 40% of state prison populations.

“People with disabilities are far too often mistreated and neglected by our nation’s criminal justice system, and we must do more to ensure they have the resources and support needed to access justice,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Our Protection and Advocacy for Criminal Legal Services Act will ensure that Protection and Advocacy Systems have the funding they need to effectively protect individuals with disabilities navigating our complex legal system. Every American is entitled to equal justice under the law, and I thank Congresswoman Scanlon for joining me in fighting for this fundamental promise for people with disabilities.”

“People with disabilities are grossly overrepresented in our state and federal prison populations, so it is essential that agencies with the knowledge and authority to advocate on their behalf have the resources they need to help meet the high demand for assistance,” said Congresswoman Scanlon. “I’m proud to join Rep. Ross in introducing legislation to provide dedicated funding for every Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agency to invest in the hiring of advocates and staff to provide this needed advocacy.”

The Protection and Advocacy for Criminal Legal Services Act is endorsed by the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN).

“People in contact with the criminal legal system should not face additional punishment for having a disability,” said NDRN Executive Director Marlene Sallo. “But in jails and prisons across the country, they face discrimination, access barriers, and law enforcement with no disability training. We thank Representative Ross for introducing this important legislation that would begin to address the inequities experienced by people with disabilities.”

Bill text is available here.

Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz Tours Front Lines in Fight to Protect Children from Internet Predators

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August 23, 2023

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Below is a press release from Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz.

U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) took abehind-the-scenes look at the latest in child exploitation investigation protocols and assessed the work and needs of a front-line Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which protects our children from internet predators.

Schultz, Moskowitz and a staff member for U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) joined various Florida ICAC commanders and frontline investigators on site to see how predator investigations unfold and the types of technologies and resources that are deployed.

“I am proud to have authored the Protect Our Children Act that embedded the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force into federal law,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz, after Tuesday’s visit. “Seeing up close the work they do, it’s heartbreaking to see the unfathomable and horrific crimes these teams help prevent and prosecute, but I also see the unmet needs that must be tackled as the perpetrators become even more tech savvy. After seeing the ICAC Task Force’s latest efforts, I remain committed to fortifying these vital child protection teams, and I’ll fight for the record funding that I helped secure in the FY 2024 House appropriations bill.”

“The exploitation of children on the internet has hit record highs. There is nothing more disturbing than an individual exploiting a child. These unfathomable actions taken by sick individuals not only destroy the lives of young children, but they destroy families and communities,” said Congressman Moskowitz. “Working alongside Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz, we will renew our efforts to ensure law enforcement has every tool available to help protect our children from individuals who wish to destroy a child’s life.”

“With the advent of the internet, reprehensible predators have been able to lurk in the online shadows and target children from behind a screen,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. “Law enforcement officials must be fully equipped to identify and arrest these bad actors before children find themselves in harm’s way. In Congress, I will fight so that local, state, and federal authorities have the resources necessary to prevent exploitation online and can keep the most vulnerable members of our society safe.”

The ICAC task forces aid local and state law enforcement in the creation and implementation of effective responses to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. ICAC Task Forces were originally authorized in the PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008, and this legislation was first introduced in the House of Representatives by Wasserman Schultz and Lamar Smith (TX-21), and co-led by then Senator Joe Biden. It was re-authorized in 2022, and that bill also reauthorized the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction.

Today, ICAC is comprised of a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, from over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. They are dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children. At least one ICAC task force exists in all 50 states, with three of them in Florida.

“Reports of internet facilitated child exploitation have grown to their highest recorded levels. The number of reports reflects not only activity that must be countered, but the cases are increasingly complicated by encryption, capacity, and virtualization. This leaves law enforcement unable to field a necessary response to reported crimes and preparation for future threats,” said John Pizzuro, CEO, Raven, a nationwide advocacy non-profit dedicated to combating child exploitation. “Our nation’s response to the threat against our children must be one of resolve, urgency, and commitment. Raven applauds Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, and Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick for their commitment to passing much needed legislation to increase resources to law enforcement so they can rescue the victims of today and prevent the victims of tomorrow.”

Kentucky Congressman Andy Barr Introduces Bill to Strengthen Oversight on U.S.-China Science and Technology Agreement

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August 23, 2023

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Kentucky Congressman Andy Barr Introduces Bill to Strengthen Oversight on U.S.-China Science and Technology Agreement

Below is a press release from Kentucky Congressman Andy Barr.

Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) introduced the “Science and Technology Agreement Enhanced Congressional Notification Act of 2023”. The legislation seeks to establish a new era of rigorous transparency and accountability in United States and People’s Republic of China relations by enforcing congressional supervision on any scientific and technological partnership agreements between the two nations. If passed, the Secretary of State would be required to provide comprehensive details to Congress about any new agreement and wait for at least 30 days post-submission before proceeding. Notably, this new provision encompasses thorough risk assessments, human rights considerations, and consistent monitoring mechanisms.

“America’s collaborations, especially with nations like the PRC, should prioritize our national security, human rights, and technological leadership,” said Congressman Andy Barr. “This legislation ensures that Congress has a significant say in any science and technology agreements with the Chinese Communist Party. It’s about safeguarding American innovation and assessing risks diligently. With this bill, we aim to establish a clear framework for transparent and responsible international collaborations which will safeguard American interests, values, and global leadership.”

“For years, thanks to its strategy of military-civil fusion, the Chinese Communist Party has abused the openness of the American scientific community to steal American research and coopt it for its own malign purposes, including to surveil the Chinese public and strengthen its military-industrial complex. Amid rumors that the Biden admin will try to quietly extend the Science and Technology Agreement between the US and China, this bill would require any administration to notify Congress if it plans to further jeopardize our research and intellectual property by entering, renewing, or extending this deal.” –Chairman Mike Gallagher (WI-08)

“Under no circumstances should we enable the Chinese Communist Party’s exploitation of diplomatic agreements to advance their malign agenda to undermine the United States,” said Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01). “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this critical piece of legislation to alert Congress of any future potential science and technology agreements with the People’s Republic of China that could threaten U.S. sovereignty and security – we must stand united in countering the CCP’s insidious military objectives and global ambitions.”

Bilateral collaborations are vital for scientific progress, but not at the cost of our national security and intellectual property. I have strong concerns with the U.S. government entering into any technology sharing compacts with the CCP. It is critical to establish a framework for transparent and responsible collaborations that prioritize American interests and values and promote U.S. competitiveness with the CCP. –Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02)

Florida Congressman Vern Buchanan Highlights Local Small Business’s Effort to Improve Water Quality on the Suncoast

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August 23, 2023

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Below is a press release from Florida Congressman Vern Buchanan.

PALMETTO, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today toured Two Dock Shellfish, a local business specializing in growing clams and oysters. Two Docks Shellfish is also deeply engaged in research to mitigate red tide and improve water quality on the Gulf Coast. Buchanan was joined by Manatee County Commission Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge on the tour.

“Red tide has wreaked havoc on marine life, our waters and the many businesses that rely on Florida’s tourism-based economy,” said Buchanan. “Two Docks Shellfish is not only putting fresh, local seafood on area residents’ dinner tables, but they are also helping filter and clean our water in the process. It’s encouraging to see a small business in our area working to make such a big difference in people’s everyday lives.”

Over the last several years, the Gulf Coast has experienced severe levels of red tide. Red tide is caused by toxin-producing algae that is extremely deadly to fish and other marine life and adversely affects tourism in the Suncoast region. In the 2022-2023 season, Manatee County cleared nearly 5 tons of dead fish and debris from area beaches due to the red tide outbreak.

Situated on the grounds of a former junkyard, Two Docks Shellfish has undergone extensive cleanup efforts and has established itself as an innovate oyster, clam and shellfish hatchery and aquaculture facility. Shellfish help with water filtration and nutrient reduction in our waters. Each middle neck clam grown at Two Docks Shellfish can filter up to 10 gallons of water per day and oysters can filter up to 50 gallons each.

Georgia Congressman Hank Johnson Leads Letter Urging Speaker, Judiciary Chair for Hearing, Floor Vote on SCOTUS Ethics BillGeorgia Congressman Hank Johnson

Matt OHern

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August 23, 2023

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Below is a press release from Georgia Congressman Hank Johnson.

Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee that oversees the courts, and 32 House colleagues sent a letter today calling for immediate hearings and floor vote on H.R. 926, the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act.

In the wake of still more troubling reports in ProPublica of unethical behavior by Clarence Thomas, who as a Supreme Court justice holds a uniquely powerful and important position in our third branch of government, the members are calling on their colleagues to act.

“. … ProPublica reported that Justice Thomas has accepted at least 38 destination vacations, 26 private jet flights, eight helicopter flights, VIP passes to sporting events, stays at luxury resorts, and an invitation to an exclusive golf club — gifts which he failed to disclose to the public. The total value of these undisclosed trips is estimated at several million dollars, according to ProPublica. The gifts came from a range of secret benefactors, including Harlan Crow, David Sokol, H. Wayne Huizenga, and Paul “Tony” Novelly. In addition, recent reporting in the New York Times documented how Justice Thomas purchased a $267,230 luxury recreational vehicle with custom detailing and plush leather seating, financed through a secret private loan. The loan terms are not public, and there is no documentation that Justice Thomas ever repaid the loan in full.”

SCERT brings accountability to the Supreme Court. Under the SCERT Act, among other things, there will be:

•   A code of conduct for Supreme Court justices.
•   Minimum lobbying, gift, travel, and income disclosure rules.
•   Disclosure of funding sources for amicus briefs.
•   An investigative board composed of Circuit Court judges to review complaints submitted against Supreme Court justices, and public posting of their decisions.
•   Circumstances that require recusals.

Read the full letter here.

Co-signers of the letter: Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY), Rep. Mike Quigley (IL), Rep. Adam Schiff (CA), Rep. Deborah Ross (NC), Rep. Cori Bush (MO), Rep. Becca Balint (VT), Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD), Rep. Nikema Williams (GA), Rep. David Trone (MD), Rep. Jasmine Crockett (TX), Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Betty McCollum (MN), Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL), Rep. André Carson (IN), Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI), Rep. Dwight Evans (PA), Rep. Danny K. Davis (IL), Rep. Katie Porter (CA), Rep. Mark Takano (CA), Rep. Barbara Lee (CA), Rep. Julia Brownley (CA), Rep. Dan Goldman (NY), Rep. Mike Levin (CA), Rep. Lori Trahan (MA), Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (VA), Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (MA), Rep. Mark Pocan (WI), Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ), Rep. Sean Casten (IL), Rep. Tony Cárdenas (CA).

The letter below

August 22, 2023

Dear Speaker McCarthy and Chairman Jordan:

We are writing to follow up on our request from April 17, 2023, that you hold hearings and bring H.R. 926, the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act, to the House floor as soon as possible. In the months since our letter, there has been a cavalcade of concerning revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas’s receipt of millions of dollars’ worth of secret gifts from billionaires. Congressional oversight and action provide some of the few forms of accountability for Supreme Court justices. The public’s faith in the Court is plummeting, and we would be derelict in our oversight responsibilities if we fail to address these repeated and blatant ethical lapses in the third branch of government. To protect the integrity of the Court, we must act now.

Earlier this month, ProPublica reported that Justice Thomas has accepted at least 38 destination vacations, 26 private jet flights, eight helicopter flights, VIP passes to sporting events, stays at luxury resorts, and an invitation to an exclusive golf club—gifts which he failed to disclose to the public. The total value of these undisclosed trips is estimated at several million dollars, according to ProPublica. The gifts came from a range of secret benefactors, including Harlan Crow, David Sokol, H. Wayne Huizenga, and Paul “Tony” Novelly. In addition, recent reporting in the New York Times documented how Justice Thomas purchased a $267,230 luxury recreational vehicle with custom detailing and plush leather seating, financed through a secret private loan. The loan terms are not public, and there is no documentation that Justice Thomas ever repaid the loan in full.

Justice Thomas also appears to have used his position as a public officer to fundraise for an outside organization. As the New York Times reported, Justice Thomas has routinely given access to the U.S. Supreme Court building for Horatio Alger Association events, which ProPublica confirmed cost $1,500 or more in donations per person.

It is untenable that the Supreme Court lacks an enforceable ethics code like we do, and that it lacks an ethics office to monitor compliance—unlike the other two branches of government. The Court has had ample time to address these serious breaches in conduct but has failed to do so. The Chief Justice’s April release of a non-binding “Statement on Ethics Principles and Practices” is wholly insufficient. We must install legislative guardrails on the Court immediately to restore public trust.

SCERT will fix this problem and bring accountability to the Supreme Court. Under the SCERT Act, among other things, there will be:

•   A code of conduct for Supreme Court justices;
•   Minimum lobbying, gift, travel, and income disclosure rules;
•   Disclosure of funding sources for amicus briefs;
•   An investigative board composed of Circuit Court judges to review complaints submitted against Supreme Court justices, and public posting of their decisions;
•   Circumstances that require recusals.

A vibrant democracy requires that the public believe the Supreme Court is acting in their best interests, rather than just using their position for financial gain. A strong democracy also requires that the American public see Congress using our power to rein in a branch that seems to have forgotten what it means to be a public servant. We look forward to hearings and floor action as soon as possible on this vital issue.

Sincerely,

MEMBERS OF CONGRESS

FERGUSON, SÁNCHEZ INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO ALLOW TAX DEDUCTIONS FOR EXPENSES RELATED TO FUNERAL AND CEMETERY TRUSTS

Press Release

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August 23, 2023

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Below is a press release from Georgia Congressman Drew Ferguson.

Congressman Drew Ferguson (R-GA) and Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) recently introduced legislation that would restore appropriate tax deductions for advisory expenses related to funeral and cemetery trusts.

“From my time as a mayor, I understand firsthand the financial responsibility that goes along with maintaining community cemeteries,” said Congressman Drew Ferguson. “During a time of immeasurable loss, families shouldn’t be burdened with their loved ones’ final resting place which is why the solvency of funeral trusts is immensely important. Families, funeral homes, and local governments deserve our support when making financial decisions to preserve our local cemeteries.”

“When families lay their loved ones to rest, memorials offer a place to remember those they’ve lost, and should be properly cared for from generation to generation. The inability to deduct certain expenses related for burial costs has threatened the financial solvency of the trusts that must fulfill that sacred obligation to families,” said Congresswoman Linda Sánchez. “When trusts are no longer able to cover needed upkeep, cash-strapped state and local governments are often ultimately on the hook for their fiduciary responsibility. This bill would enable the trusts to retain more income, so cemetery authorities and funeral homes can carry out their duties and meet the needs of those already struggling with grief.”

The loss of the deduction option has been particularly impactful to the deathcare industry because funeral homes and cemeteries utilize trusts uniquely from traditional trusts where funds are provided to a beneficiary. Despite the lower tax rates authorized for trusts under the TCJA, many cemetery and funeral trusts are now paying more in taxes because the taxable income of many trusts is now higher without the deduction.

Additionally, this bill would finally increase the distribution deduction for care and maintenance and index that figure for inflation. Internal Revenue Code Section 642(I) allows such trusts a $5 per gravesite distribution deduction for each gravesite purchased prior to the start of the taxable year for which care and maintenance are provided. However, since its creation in 1976, the $5 distribution deduction has never been increased in value or indexed for inflation. As a result, the value is greatly diminished from what it was 45 years ago, and in today’s dollar, would be nearly five times higher.

This bill would enable the trusts to retain more income, so cemetery authorities and funeral homes can carry out their duties and meet their contractual obligations.

You can view the full bill text here.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on S.C. Supreme Court’s Ruling on Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act

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August 23, 2023

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South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on S.C. Supreme Court’s Ruling on Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act

Below is an official statement from the office of South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today released the following statement in response to the South Carolina Supreme Court’s ruling on the state’s Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act:

“The Supreme Court’s ruling marks a historic moment in our state’s history and is the culmination of years of hard work and determination by so many in our state to ensure that the sanctity of life is protected,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “With this victory, we protect the lives of countless unborn children and reaffirm South Carolina’s place as one of the most pro-life states in America.”