Legislative Update
Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – March 4, 2022
Last week, the world watched in disbelief as Russian forces ruthlessly launched an unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. While President Biden issued some economic sanctions against the Kremlin in response, as well as approved $350 million worth of military aid to Ukraine, we must continue to prod the Administration and the world community to stand strongly against this aggression. The Ukrainian people have shown tremendous resiliency and determination in their efforts to repel the invaders and defend their homeland. I am pleased that countries throughout Europe have condemned the actions of the Kremlin and are giving the Ukrainian resistance some of the tools needed to fight. As the situation unfolds, our thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people.
Russian Invasion:
For the first time since World War II, the world witnessed a major power invading a sovereign Nation last week. I stand with the American people in our solidarity against Russian aggression, and we pray for peace in Ukraine. This was an entirely unprovoked invasion, and every ounce of blood spilled throughout the conflict will be solely on Vladimir Putin’s hands. The international community must send a strong and clear message to Russia and our enemies that an attack on a sovereign country will be met with swift and devastating consequences. The United States must remain committed to crippling Russia’s ability to make war through crushing sanctions, export/import controls, and a complete cancelation of the United States’ support for the ill-advised Nord Stream 2 pipeline project. Although the Biden Administration and our allies took action to block Russia from accessing the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) system, the Russian energy transactions were not included in this sanction. The SWIFT system facilitates financial transactions and money transfers for banks located around the world, and thus cutting off Russian access would drastically limit their ability to participate in global trade and commerce. These sanctions must be unified and sustained by the international community in order to truly squeeze the Kremlin and drain them of their resources. I would also urge President Biden to place a far greater emphasis on domestic oil and gas production to combat the inevitable rising energy prices that will come from his previous decisions to cancel the Keystone Pipeline and other energy projects in the U.S.
While I oppose the entry of American troops into the conflict, I was pleased that the Biden Administration authorized $350 million in military aid to Ukraine to help the country defend itself. Countless reports of heroic actions from both civilians and soldiers show the unwavering resolve of the Ukrainian people to repel the Russian invasion. Hopefully, the influx of weapons, ammunition, air defense systems, and fuel that is now being provided by the international community to Ukraine will help aid the country in their efforts to fend off this violation of their sovereignty.
Opposing a Nuclear Iran:
In 2015, President Obama signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, more commonly known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, which claimed to stop the growth of Iran’s nuclear capabilities. In reality, this agreement harmed U.S. interests by enabling Iran to quietly begin developing nuclear weapons, imposed only temporary restrictions while offering permanent benefits, and further enriched an extremist, anti-American state. That is why President Trump rightfully withdrew the United States from the agreement in 2018. Unfortunately, in an attempt to resurrect his former boss’ agreement, President Biden restarted negotiations with Iran. Iran’s long history as a state-sponsor of terror exemplifies why the country cannot be trusted with nuclear weapons. Therefore, last week, I joined 164 of my colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden highlighting the flaws of the Obama-era Iran Agreement and informed him of the actions Members would take if the plan moves forward (listed below). The full letter can be found here.
• Oppose any agreement that lifts U.S. sanctions on the Iranian regime without first verifying Iran has accounted for its nuclear capabilities, dismantled its enrichment capabilities, halted its support for terrorists, and released all U.S. prisoners.
• View any agreement not ratified by the Senate as non-binding.
• Work to reimpose and strengthen any terrorism, missile, or human rights sanctions lifted, suspended, or otherwise weakened by such an agreement.
• Investigate whether President Biden’s dependency on the Russians to revive the Iranian nuclear deal is weakening our deterrence stance
Advocating for the Sixth District:
Governor Youngkin and his team are fighting hard for the people of the Commonwealth, and I was pleased to sit down with the Governor, Lt. Governor, and Attorney General last week to discuss the important issues facing the Sixth District. Transportation concerns like widening I-81, expanding economic development in the region, and protecting the rights of Virginians were among the many topics discussed. I look forward to continued conversations like these about how to move Virginia forward through a productive relationship between our state and federal partners.
Promoting the Importance of Reading:
“Fishburn Park Families Read Together” is a biannual program that invites Fishburn Park Elementary School families in Roanoke to share in developing a love of and appreciation for reading. During the month of February, the elementary school provides every family with selected books and a reading schedule. Families are asked to read the assigned pages on the designated night and talk about the book with their children. Then, each day in school, students can win prizes for answering trivia questions based on the previous evening’s reading. I was pleased to participate in this initiative last week when I visited the school. I enjoyed the opportunity to read “House Mouse, Senate Mouse” to kindergarten and fifth-grade students to both foster the importance of reading and teach them about the legislative process.
Touring Graphic Packaging:
Graphic Packaging International is one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging in the world with more than 130 facilities across the globe and 24,000 employees. Last Wednesday, I had the pleasure of touring one of the company’s facilities in Staunton, which employs 198 people in our community. Aside from seeing the company’s impressive manufacturing operation, we discussed several topics relating to the forest products industry, which is one of the most heavily regulated in the country. While there, we spoke about several legislative solutions to help cut bureaucratic red tape and other ways to support the industry.
COVID-19 Update:
Last week in Virginia there was an average of 28.2 daily cases of COVID-19 per every 100,000 residents. This is down from an average of 43.0 cases from one week prior. This week’s positivity rate was 11.7%, down from 16.3% from last week. For more information, click here.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates.
Washington D.C.
2443 Rayburn HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-5431
Harrisonburg Office
70 N Mason St
Suite 110
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Phone: (540) 432-2391
Lynchburg Office
916 Main St
Suite 300
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Phone: (434) 845-8306
Roanoke Office
10 Franklin Rd SE
Suite 510
Roanoke, VA 24011
Phone: (540) 857-2672
Staunton Office
117 S Lewis St
Suite 215
Staunton, VA 24401
Phone: (540) 885-3861
Legislative Update
Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – November 23, 2022
Last week, voters decided on Election Day that one-party rule should come to an end in Washington, D.C., as Republicans won a majority of seats in Congress and will control the House of Representatives for the next two years. Congressional Democrats and President Biden will no longer be able to jam partisan legislation through with impunity. We promised the American people through our Commitment to America that we would work as a majority to make our cities and neighborhoods safer, rebuild our economy, bring accountability to government, and secure our borders. Additionally, last week, I highlighted the pain of rising prices as the holiday season approaches, and outlined solutions Republicans will offer to improve the economy. Finally, I honored the Harrisonburg Police Department for 150 years of service, and I spoke with government students from Northside High School. From my family to yours, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.
Bidenflation is on the Thanksgiving Menu
The American people are getting the short end of the wishbone this Thanksgiving, as inflated grocery prices will make gathering around the table more expensive this year. Up and down the menu, prices have risen – a 23% increase in turkeys, eggs are up 43%, butter is up 27%, and milk is up 15%. For those traveling far to see their families and loved ones, airline fares are up 43% from last year. While everyone is having to tighten their budgets, those working two jobs or on fixed incomes are getting hit hardest – forcing roughly one in four Americans to forgo Thanksgiving dinner altogether. To get America back on track, Congress needs to cut spending, unleash energy independence, and push pro-growth economic policies.
Click here to watch my House floor speech on rising costs during the holiday season.
The Biden Border Crisis Continues
Gas and grocery prices are not the only things skyrocketing. The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) statistics tell us that there has been over a 221% increase in encounters at the border since President Biden took office, and in the last year, the number has risen by 40%. In October alone, there were 230,678 illegal migrant encounters at the southern border. Biden must end his open border & amnesty policies now. Unsurprisingly, just last week, DHS Secretary Mayorkas again told Congress that the border was secure, but the numbers don’t lie. As Republicans take control of the House of Representatives come January, Secretary Mayorkas will be held accountable for his dereliction of duty to secure the homeland and reckless disregard for U.S. immigration law. I’ve been to the border, and I’ve seen how understaffed, under-resourced, and unsupported the CBP is. Republicans will ensure accountability in the 118th Congress.
Happy 150th Birthday, Harrisonburg Police Department!
I was glad to recognize the Harrisonburg Police Department (HPD) for passing a major milestone and joining the Harrisonburg community in celebrating the 150th anniversary of HPD’s founding in 1872. Current HPD Captain Jason Kidd said of the anniversary, ‘‘It is so important to reach this milestone because the city has grown tremendously and developed tremendously during these past 150 years.” The growth of the department, personnel, added positions, and technological improvements have allowed the department “to police better and police smarter and just do the best job they can for the community.’’
Engaging with High School Students
Our young people are the future leaders of our great country. I enjoyed speaking to Government students at Northside High School in Roanoke about the value of public service. I appreciated their thoughtful questions and informative insights about current events.
COVID-19 Update
Last week in Virginia, there was an average of 10 daily cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents, down from 12 last week. This week’s COVID-19 test positivity rate remained at 8%. For more information, click here.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates.
Legislative Update
U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on vote terminating COVID-19 National Emergency
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement after voting in favor of a resolution terminating the COVID-19 national emergency under the National Emergencies Act originally declared by President Trump in March 2020:
“When COVID-19 hit, Congress acted with urgency under a number of emergency declarations to provide the flexibilities and funding needed to save lives, roll out a vaccine, and keep our economy afloat. We’ve come a long way since then, and while it might be easier to kick the can down the road, I think it’s time to have a bipartisan conversation about how we unwind from these emergency actions and move forward with the valuable lessons we’ve learned.
Today’s resolution won’t affect critical flexibilities, such as the ones facilitating access to telehealth. Rather, this vote should serve as the beginning of a productive and bipartisan effort to examine which mitigation efforts and flexibilities are worth embedding permanently into our lives, and which are no longer relevant or necessary.”
Legislative Update
Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – October 28, 2022
It was another beautiful fall week here in Virginia’s Sixth District. I enjoyed being home and having the opportunity to meet with constituents and listen to their thoughts and concerns. In Hot Springs, I met with members of the Brick Industry Association, and in Edinburg and Mount Jackson, I spoke to Vietnam-era Veterans and then toured a local food processing facility. Further, the latest data from Customs and Border Protection shows that the situation at our border is only getting worse, with no solution in sight by the Biden Administration. Additionally, the CDC is continuing its interference with parents’ roles in their children’s health regarding child COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. And finally, as the deadline for applications to the Congressional App Challenge approaches, be sure to find more information below if you or someone you know is interested in applying. As the House continues its District Work Period, I look forward to another week of meeting folks across the District.
Biden’s Border Crisis Rages On
Since taking office, President Biden has halted border wall construction, stopped the “Remain in Mexico” policy, reinstated ‘catch-and-release,’ canceled asylum cooperative agreements, and requested amnesty for millions. These actions have had disastrous consequences and resulted in a humanitarian, economic, and national security crisis. Just last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported more than 227,000 border apprehensions, which marks the highest number in 22 years. Further, these numbers make September the seventh straight month in which illegal border crossings have surpassed 170,000. Worse, more than 2.3 million illegal crossings have occurred this year alone – the highest in American history. The illegal immigration crisis is only getting worse, and this Administration must take corrective action immediately.
The CDC Continues to Interfere With Parents’ Roles in Their Children’s Health
The benefit of childhood vaccination against COVID-19 is questionable and, in some cases, has been deadly. Despite multiple studies showing that children face minimal risk from COVID-19, an advisory board of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently recommended that a COVID-19 vaccine be added to the CDC’s immunization schedule for childhood vaccines beginning as early as six months of age. While the CDC has no authority to mandate the vaccine as a condition for school attendance, there will be some states that will likely begin making the shot mandatory. The CDC has misserved the American people multiple steps of the way throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and should prioritize vaccination against COVID-19 among those most at risk: those 65 and older, as well as those who may carry certain health risks. As Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has made clear, we must support parents being the drivers behind not only their children’s education but also whether their children receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Advocating for Brick Producers
The Sixth District is home to one of the largest brick producers in the Nation, and it was a pleasure to join them at the Brick Industry Association’s fall meeting in Hot Springs. Americans rely on our hardworking brick producers to build and maintain beautiful homes. Unfortunately, burdensome regulations from Washington bureaucrats and a one-size-fits-all government approach hurts our brick producers’ ability to thrive and compete in the marketplace, especially small businesses. I have worked to push legislation that cuts government red tape, like the Lessening Regulatory Costs and Establishing a Federal Regulatory Budget Act (HR 968) that I cosponsored, which establishes procedures and provides statutory authority to reduce the number of federal regulations.
Supporting Our Vietnam Veterans
I was honored to join Chapter 936 of the Vietnam Veterans of America in Edinburg at their monthly meeting. I appreciated the opportunity to thank the Veterans in attendance for their service, as well as highlight how Congress is continuing its work to address issues related to their time serving overseas. For example, I cosponsored and had a bipartisan measure included in the new PACT Act, which expands health care and benefits for Vietnam-era Veterans. As always, I will continue fighting for legislation that works to create a VA that provides quality health care in a timely
manner and one that meets the increasing needs of Veterans from all eras of service.
Bowman Andros Products
Bowman Andros Products is one of the largest fruit processing companies located right here in VA-06. They are providing fruit-based products, including apple sauce made from Virginia-grown apples, and good-paying jobs for Virginians. I had the pleasure of touring their facility and hearing more about their work getting products on our shelves.
Reminder: 2022 Congressional App Challenge Application Deadline Approaching
We are pleased to announce that the Congressional App Challenge (CAC), a competition designed to encourage student participation in computer science and coding, will be hosting our annual coding competition this year. It is a great opportunity for students interested in STEM to showcase their coding skills.
Middle and high school students are encouraged to register online and submit their app by November 1st. For more information, visit the official Congressional App Challenge website or email questions directly to StudentSupport@CongressionalAppChallenge.us.
COVID-19 Update
Last week in Virginia, there was an average of 12 daily cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents, down from 15 last week. This week’s COVID-19 positivity rate was 9%, down from 10% last week. For more information, click here.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates.
Legislative Update
Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – October 18, 2022
Americans continued to face another month of Democrat-controlled Washington not working for them. Prices rose 8.2% in September compared to last year, proving what we all knew: President Biden and the Democrats ‘Inflation Expansion Act’ did not reduce inflation. Americans are in for a winter with higher heating bills, and their savings and paychecks are worth less. Families on a fixed or low income are suffering the most. That’s why Republicans offer a brighter future, and this week I’ll focus on our Commitment to America’s fourth pillar, a Future Built on Freedom. Additionally, deadlines to apply for my office’s Service Academy nominations and the Congressional App Challenge are approaching. Finally, I was pleased to visit a local Boys & Girls Club and a new restaurant in Waynesboro as the Sixth District enjoys the fall weather and better days ahead.
A Commitment to America, Pillar IIII: A Future That’s Built on Freedom
After previously sharing House Republicans’ Commitment to America plan for an economy that’s strong, a Nation that’s safe, and a government that’s accountable, our focus this week will be on our commitment to a freer future. A future built on freedom means putting students’ futures first, achieving longer, healthier lives for Americans, and confronting Big Tech’s censorship of free speech.
Ronald Reagan said in his First Inaugural Address as Governor of California, “Freedom is a fragile thing, and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction.” Building on this, Republicans propose to provide parents with the freedom to be involved in their children’s education, to champion free speech over Big Tech censorship, and foster a health care system that provides quality and timely care rather than a top-down, one-size-fits-all government approach.
Over the last four weeks, I have highlighted our plan to lead America if given the opportunity. Our Nation faces many challenges, and its families are hurting. Inflation is eating away at their paychecks and savings, the scourge of drugs is killing a record number of citizens, crime is rampant, and the skyrocketing costs of food, gas, and just about everything else have lowered the standard of living. We can do better, and we will. That is Republicans’ commitment to you.
Prices Rise, Paychecks Shrink, Biden Vows More of the Same
We all knew that the Democrat-passed ‘Inflation Expansion Act’ would not reduce inflation. In fact, prices rose 8.2% in September compared to last year. From the grocery store to the gas pump to everything in between, American families are still paying more for everyday goods and services:
X Fuel oil is up 58.1%
X Airline fares are up 42.9%
X Eggs are up 30.5%
X Gas is up 18.2%
X Electricity is up 15.5%
X Milk is up 15.2%
I’ve heard from families across the Commonwealth, and they are struggling. Biden, Pelosi, and the Democrats’ self-inflicted inflation crisis, fueled by massive government spending and failed Green New Deal policies, has pushed costs higher, and it’s not getting any better. Families want to see real change in this country and keep more of their hard-earned money, not have their savings wiped away. If House Republicans are given a chance, we will cut wasteful spending and taxes, unleash American energy to drive down prices across the board, and restore fiscal responsibility in Washington.
Reminder: Service Academy Nominations Deadline Approaching
One of the greatest honors I have serving as the Representative for Virginia’s Sixth District is the privilege of nominating individuals to one of four United States Service Academies. Applicants to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy require a recommendation from a Member of Congress or another nominating authority.
Those interested in a nomination must have their application postmarked by October 21st. For more information and to find the required application packet, please visit my website here.
2022 Congressional App Challenge Available to VA-06 Students
We are pleased to announce that the Congressional App Challenge (CAC), a competition designed to encourage student participation in computer science and coding, will be hosting our annual coding competition this year. It is a great opportunity for students interested in STEM to showcase their coding skills.
Middle and high school students are encouraged to register online and submit their app by November 1st. For more information, you can visit the official Congressional App Challenge website or email questions directly to StudentSupport@CongressionalAppChallenge.us.
Meetings with Constituents
It was great visiting the Boys & Girls Club in Waynesboro and shooting hoops with the kids!
I stopped by “The Barn” in Waynesboro, that serves up delicious fried chicken and coconut pie.
COVID-19 Update
Last week in Virginia, there was an average of 15 daily cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents, up from 13 last week. This week’s COVID-19 test positivity rate remained at 10%. For more information, click here.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates.
Legislative Update
Senator Warner applauds FCC decision to ban sale of new Huawei and ZTE devices
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decision to ban new sales of Chinese-based Huawei and ZTE technologies on the bases of national security:
“Several years ago, a bipartisan group of senators on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence began raising the alarm about the threat that Huawei and ZTE posed to our national security. I’m proud of the steps that Congress has since taken to confront this challenge, including passing the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 – which I co-wrote to incentivize carriers to replace Huawei and ZTE equipment in their networks. I’m glad to see the Federal Communications Commission finally take this step to protect our networks and national security.”
Senator Warner, a former telecommunications entrepreneur, has long been outspoken about the dangers of allowing the use of Huawei equipment in U.S. telecommunications infrastructure and that of U.S. allies.
Last year, Sen. Warner, joined by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), introduced legislation to prohibit federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act from being used to purchase Chinese telecommunications equipment, including from Huawei and ZTE. In 2020, Sen. Warner and a bipartisan group of leading national security Senators introduced legislation to encourage and support U.S. innovation in the race for 5G, providing over $1 billion to invest in Western-based alternatives to Chinese equipment providers Huawei and ZTE.
Legislative Update
Senator Warner applauds release of additional H-2B visas
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement in response to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) announcement making available the maximum amount of H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas:
“Earlier this month, I talked with Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas and learned that the Biden Administration planned to make additional H-2B visas available. I thanked Secretary Mayorkas and told him how critical the H-2B program is for Virginia’s seafood businesses. Without access to H-2B workers, many of Virginia’s seafood businesses would simply have to close up shop. It’s critical that we help these businesses meet their labor needs so that we don’t lose these businesses forever.
“I thank the Biden administration for making these additional visas available, but a permanent solution is needed. I look forward to working with my colleagues to reform the H-2B visa program to ensure our seafood processors have the labor certainty they need for their businesses to grow and thrive.”
The H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Visa Program allows U.S. employers to hire seasonal, non-immigrant workers during peak seasons to supplement the existing American workforce. In order to be eligible for the program, employers are required to declare that there are not enough U.S. workers available to do the temporary work, as is the case with the seafood industry, which relies on H-2B workers for tough jobs such as shucking oysters and processing crabs.
Sen. Warner has long advocated for the expansion of H-2B visas in order to ensure that seafood processors in Virginia have the seasonal workforce they need. In his most recent effort in February of this year, Sen. Warner, joined by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), urged the Biden administration to make these additional H-2B visas available in order to ensure that seafood processors and other businesses in Virginia have the workforce they need.
Thank You to our Local Business Participants:
