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• Defense Primer: Strategic Nuclear Forces [Updated March 29, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Since the early 1960s, the United States has maintained a 'triad' of strategic nuclear delivery vehicles. These include long-range land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), long-range submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and long-range heavy bombers equipped to carry nuclear-armed cruise missiles and gravity bombs. The number of nuclear warheads carried on these delivery vehicles peaked in the late 1980s, at around 14,000 warheads. It has been declining ever since, both as the United States complies with limits in U.S.-Russian arms control agreements and as it has changed requirements after the Cold War. As of February 2018, the United States had reduced its forces to comply with the New START Treaty, which entered into force in early 2011. [...] Early in the Cold War, the United States developed these three types of nuclear delivery vehicles, in large part because each of the military services wanted to play a role in the U.S. nuclear arsenal. However, during the 1960s and 1970s, analysts developed a more reasoned rationale for the nuclear 'triad.' They argued that these different basing modes had complementary strengths and weaknesses that would enhance deterrence and discourage a Soviet first strike. [...] The United States has reaffirmed the value of the nuclear triad. The Obama Administration noted, in the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review (NPR), that the unique characteristics of each leg of the triad were important to the goal of maintaining strategic stability at reduced numbers of warheads. It pointed out that strategic nuclear submarines (SSBNs) are the most survivable leg of the triad, that single-warhead ICBMs contribute to stability and are not vulnerable to air defenses, and that bombers can be deployed as a signal in crisis, to strengthen deterrence and provide assurances to allies and partners. It also noted that 'retaining sufficient force structure in each leg to allow the ability to hedge effectively by shifting weight from one Triad leg to another if necessary due to unexpected technological problems or operational vulnerabilities.' The Trump Administration also reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the nuclear triad and to the modernization programs for each of the components of that force structure."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Woolf, Amy F.

  2022-03-29
• Violence Against Journalists in Mexico: In Brief [Updated March 22, 2022]

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  From the Introduction: "An upsurge in lethal attacks against journalists in Mexico since the start of 2022 has renewed interest in Congress about violence against journalists and the state of media freedoms in Mexico. Since 2000, more than 150 journalists and media workers have been killed in Mexico, including seven in 2021 and eight in the first few months of 2022. Violence against journalists is occurring within the context of a broader security crisis in Mexico fueled by organized crime-related violence. Nevertheless, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) have asserted that 'impunity in attacks against [or murders of] journalists fosters further violence against reporters and may inhibit the exercise of freedom of expression.' In February 2022, Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that he joined 'those calling for greater accountability and protections for Mexican journalists.' [...] Congress has appropriated foreign assistance to help the Mexican government and civil society better protect journalists and reduce impunity in cases of crimes committed against them. An oversight issue for the 117th Congress may be the extent to which the protection of journalists and other vulnerable groups is prioritized under the new U.S.-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security Cooperation signed in October 2021. Congress also may examine whether other tools, such as conditions on foreign assistance, sanctions, or legislation, could be used to improve the situation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando; Davis-Castro, Carla Y.; Martin, Rachel L.

  2022-03-02
• FEMA Hazard Mitigation: A First Step Toward Climate Adaptation [Updated March 23, 2022]

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  From the Summary: "With the increasing severity and frequency of natural disasters, attributed at least in part to climate change, policymakers often view mitigation funding as a way to control disaster-related spending. The importance of federal mitigation funding is illustrated by a recent study that looked at the impacts of 23 years of federal mitigation grants and found that for every $1 invested by federal grant programs, society as a whole saved $6 due to reduced future losses. FEMA has a lead role in guiding nationwide mitigation of extreme weather events, including those resulting from the impacts of climate change. In particular, FEMA administers the federal government's most significant grant programs for pre-and post-disaster mitigation. FEMA has identified hazard mitigation as one of the main ways in which the agency will enhance resilience to the effects of climate change and lead federal climate change adaptation efforts. [...] This report gives an overview of FEMA funding for mitigation, including issues related to equity, and suggests considerations for Congress that may enhance FEMA's support for hazard mitigation and climate adaptation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Horn, Diane P.

  2022-03-23
• Violence Against Journalists in Mexico: In Brief [May 17, 2018]

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  From the Introduction: "Over the past decade, at least 74 journalists have been killed in Mexico and many more have been threatened or attacked. Although violence against journalists is occurring within the context of a broader security crisis, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) Rapporteurs for Freedom of Expression have asserted that such crimes 'attack the roots of democratic life in Mexico.' Perhaps partially as a result of international pressure, the Mexican government recently has reported progress in resolving some cases of journalists who were killed in 2017. Although some observers are skeptical of this reported progress, others remain hopeful that Mexico will take more decisive action to investigate and prosecute unsolved murders and to prevent future crimes against journalists."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2018-05-17
• Women in National Governments Around the Globe: Fact Sheet [Updated April 6, 2022]

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  From the Introduction: "Women and girls make up half of the world's population; however, in most countries, women are underrepresented in the political process at the national level. Possible causes include discriminatory laws and practices, gender stereotypes, low levels of education, lack of access to health care, and the disproportionate effect of poverty on women. Many experts, including some U.S. policymakers and Members of Congress, have found that women's political participation, including representation in elected governments, contributes to the overall well-being of women and their communities. [...] This report provides a global snapshot of women's political participation in national governments worldwide by compiling statistics and other information from a variety of sources, including the annual 'Global Gender Gap Report' issued by the World Economic Forum, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, the CIA 'World Factbook', news reports, and other sources."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Chesser, Susan G.

  2022-04-06
• Expedited Removal of Aliens: An Introduction [Updated March 25, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Non-U.S. nationals (aliens) who do not meet requirements governing their entry or continued presence in the United States may be subject to removal. The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) establishes different removal processes for different categories of aliens. Most removable aliens apprehended within the interior of the United States are subject to 'formal' removal proceedings under INA § 240. Aliens in these proceedings are given certain procedural guarantees including the rights to counsel, to appear at a hearing before an immigration judge (IJ), to present evidence, and to appeal an adverse decision. The INA, however, sets forth a streamlined 'expedited removal' process for certain arriving aliens and aliens who recently entered the United States without inspection. This In Focus provides a brief introduction to the expedited removal framework."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Smith, Hillel R.

  2022-03-25
• Federal Reserve and Inflation [Updated March 21, 2022]

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  From the Document: "On March 16, 2022, the Federal Reserve [hyperlink] (Fed) raised the federal funds rate [hyperlink] (FFR), its main monetary policy tool, by 0.25 percentage points. This was the first time that rates were raised above zero since the onset of the COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic, when the Fed set rates near zero in response to the large decline in employment. As the economy has recovered, it maintained that target, even as unemployment fell to 3.8% and inflation--as measured by the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index--rose to 6.1%, the highest it has been since 1982. By statute [hyperlink], the Fed has been tasked with setting monetary policy to maintain maximum employment and stable prices. The two goals can involve a tradeoff--Fed actions that can boost employment can spur inflation, and actions that fight inflation may also reduce employment. The Fed has defined stable prices as an inflation rate of 2% [hyperlink] since 2012. The Fed raised rates--and indicated that it intends to continue raising rates [hyperlink]--primarily because inflation was above its target. This Insight provides historical context on whether these plans will be sufficient to restore price stability."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Labonte, Marc

  2022-03-21
• Foreign Leaders Addressing Congress [Updated March 25, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Foreign leaders are periodically invited to address Congress. The first address by a foreign dignitary occurred on December 10, 1824, when Revolutionary War hero the Marquis de Lafayette addressed the House. The most recent address took place on April 3, 2019, when His Excellency Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), addressed a joint meeting of Congress. [...] When a foreign leader formally visits the United States he or she is sometimes invited to address Congress. The decision to invite a foreign leader to address Congress has historically been made by the congressional leadership, often in consultation and conjunction with the executive branch. No formal procedure, however, on when or how to issue invitations is codified in law or in House or Senate rules. Additionally, not all foreign leaders who visit the United States are invited to address Congress. When a foreign leader is invited to address Congress, the invitation is formally extended by the Speaker of the House on behalf of the House and Senate leadership."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Straus, Jacob R.

  2022-03-25
• Kenya [Updated March 22, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Successive U.S. Administrations have viewed Kenya as a strategic partner and critical to counterterrorism efforts in East Africa. It is sub-Saharan Africa's third largest economy, a regional finance and transportation hub, and a top tourism destination known for its biodiversity. Kenya holds a nonpermanent seat on the U.N. Security Council until 2023, and is home to one of four major U.N. offices worldwide. It hosts the largest U.S. embassy in Africa and U.S. forces supporting regional counterterrorism efforts. Kenya ranks among the top U.S. aid recipients globally. The country's reputation as an anchor state in a volatile region has been threatened by periodic domestic turmoil, including ethnic tensions and election violence. Economic frustrations, corruption, and other abuses of power have fueled grievances among the diverse population. Perceived impunity has also been a source of tension with donors."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Blanchard, Lauren Ploch

  2022-03-22
• Venezuela: Political Crisis and U.S. Policy [Updated April 1, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Venezuela, under the authoritarian rule of Nicolás Maduro, remains in a deep economic and humanitarian crisis worsened by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Maduro has consolidated power over all of Venezuela's institutions since his 2013 election after the death of President Hugo Chávez (1999-2013). Maduro's United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) took control of the National Assembly, the last independent branch of government, in January 2021. The PSUV and allies won 19 of 23 gubernatorial elections in flawed November elections. Maduro has quashed dissent and resisted international pressure to step down since his reelection in a 2018 presidential vote that was widely condemned as fraudulent. Support for opposition leader Juan Guaidó, the former National Assembly president once regarded as interim president by nearly 60 other countries, has dissipated, although the Biden Administration continues to recognize Guaidó's government, partially to prevent Venezuelan assets abroad from coming under Maduro's control. Administration officials nevertheless met with Maduro in early March 2022, reportedly to discuss U.S. citizens illegally detained in Venezuela, restarting stalled negotiations with the opposition, and energy issues."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando

  2022-04-01
• Illicit Fentanyl and Weapons of Mass Destruction: International Controls and Policy Options [March 28, 2022]

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  From the Document: "As synthetic opioid overdose deaths in the United States reach historic [hyperlink] levels, some policy stakeholders have sought U.S. action in designating [hyperlink] fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction (WMD). Such calls [hyperlink] have also prompted congressional interest [hyperlink]. Although a statutory designation of fentanyl as a WMD does not appear necessary for additional executive branch action to address fentanyl as an illicit drug or chemical weapon, Congress may consider developing legislation to improve upon perceived shortcomings in the U.S. government's approach to addressing fentanyl. [...] Various observers draw rhetorical comparisons between fentanyl abuse and WMDs. For example, the congressionally mandated [hyperlink] Commission on Combating Synthetic Opioid Trafficking assessed [hyperlink] in February 2022 that '[i]n terms of loss of life and damage to the economy, illicit synthetic opioids have the effect of a slow-motion weapon of mass destruction.' Others, including some Members of Congress [hyperlink], note the possible use of fentanyl as a weapon; in media reports [hyperlink], observers [hyperlink] have speculated that fentanyl's increasing availability may prompt U.S. adversaries and nonstate actors to weaponize the drug. Governments have also recently committed to restricting the use of central nervous system-acting (CNS) chemicals, including fentanyl, in law enforcement and other security operations. (In 2002, the Russian military reportedly [hyperlink] deployed an aerosolized form of fentanyl to incapacitate terrorists holding hostages in a Moscow theater; the gas also killed [hyperlink] more than 120 of the hostages.)"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kerr, Paul K.; Rosen, Liana W.

  2022-03-28
• United States European Command: Theater Strategy

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  From the Document: "Since the end of World War II, European allies and partners have worked with the United States around the globe to achieve security and stability, and Europe continues to be critical to U.S. national security interests. Currently, United States European Command (USEUCOM) is confronting the most profound negative change in the European security environment since the end of the Cold War. A revanchist Russia, mass migration from other regions, foreign terrorist fighters (FTF) transiting through Europe, cyber-attacks, the lingering effects from a global financial crisis, and underfunded defense budgets all jeopardize European security, endanger the U.S. homeland, and threaten global security and stability. Addressing these challenges and preparing for an uncertain future requires agility; capable, ready, and postured forces; close partnerships with European allies and partners; a fully enabled North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO); and a dedicated whole of government approach. Together, the United States and Europe constitute a closely linked community of democracies with shared interests and close economic and security relationships; USEUCOM is the enabling defense link to NATO and to ensuring trans-Atlantic security and prosperity. This theater strategy broadly outlines the way USEUCOM will adapt to meet the challenges of the new European security environment to ensure a whole, free, peaceful, and prosperous Europe."

  United States. European Command

  Breedlove, Philip M. (Philip Mark), 1955-

  2015-10
• Fourth Amendment and the Internet: Legal Limits on Digital Searches for Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) [March 24, 2022]

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  From the Document: "Various federal statutes criminalize [hyperlink] the production, distribution, solicitation, and possession of 'child pornography,' defined [hyperlink] in part as 'any visual depiction' of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. Over time, Congress has sought to augment the enforcement of these provisions and limit the dissemination of such material online in several ways. Among other things, federal law requires [hyperlink] covered interactive computer service (ICS) providers, such as companies like Google and Meta, to report 'apparent violation[s]' of the statutes that involve child pornography to the CyberTipline operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), a private, nonprofit organization that receives [hyperlink] government funding. NCMEC refers [hyperlink] to the material subject to reporting under the statute as Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), a term it views as 'most accurately reflect[ing] what is depicted-- the sexual abuse and exploitation of children.' NCMEC is required [hyperlink] by federal law to make these provider reports available to law enforcement agencies, and NCMEC receives legal protection [hyperlink] from any claims arising from the performance of its CyberTipline responsibilities and other actions, with certain exceptions. Currently, nothing in federal law requires providers to monitor their services or content for CSAM in the first instance. [...] Although CSAM is both [hyperlink] illegal by statute and unprotected under the First Amendment's Free Speech Clause, identifying and reporting CSAM nonetheless poses policy and legal hurdles. At least one major player in the effort to remove online CSAM, Apple, has faced [hyperlink] backlash from privacy advocates over a reportedly delayed plan to scan iCloud-stored photos on a user's device for CSAM. [...] This Sidebar provides an overview of the Fourth Amendment's application to the existing CSAM reporting regime, including points of divergence in recent federal caselaw that could impact congressional efforts to further encourage private ICS providers to search for and report CSAM or other evidence of criminality."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Foster, Michael A. (Legislative attorney)

  2022-03-24
• Mexico: Background and U.S. Relations [Updated March 21, 2022]

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  From the Summary: "Mexico, the 10th most populous country and 15th largest economy in the world, is bound to the United States by geography and strong economic, cultural, and historical ties. In addition to sharing a nearly 2,000-mile border with the United States, Mexico is among the top U.S. trade partners and a major U.S. energy supplier. These ties frequently manifest themselves in legislative activity and interest across a wide spectrum of issues in Congress. Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the populist leader of the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) party, which he created in 2014, took office for a six-year term in December 2018. President López Obrador has remained popular (54% approval in February 2022), likely as a result of his delivery on social programs and ability to connect with voters, even as his government has struggled to address organized crime-related violence, corruption, and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Mexico's economy contracted by 8.2% in 2020. The economy expanded 5.3% in 2021, but the IMF predicts 2.8% growth this year."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seelke, Clare Ribando; Klein, Joshua

  2022-03-21
• Military Response to Omicron and COVID-19: Federal Armed Forces and National Guard [Updated March 28, 2022]

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  From the Document: "On November 26, 2021, the World Health Organization designated the Omicron mutation [hyperlink] of the SARS-CoV-2 [severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2] virus a 'variant of concern.' Since then, Omicron has become the dominant strain [hyperlink] of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United States. After a case surge from December 2021 through mid-January 2022, COVID-19 cases in the United States have dropped, with hospitalizations and deaths following the same trend after a short delay. The deployment of military and National Guard personnel remains an issue for Congress given the role they both played in responding to the Omicron COVID-19 surge and the role that they might play in the event of a future surge of a new variant. [...] The U.S. Army North [hyperlink], U.S. Northern Command's Joint Force Land Component Command, manages the Department of Defense's COVID-19 response operation in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services. Since August 2021 [hyperlink], 'approximately 1,275 military medical personnel from the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy are continuing to work alongside civilian healthcare providers in civilian hospitals, helping treat COVID-19 patients in a total of 30 states and the Navajo Nation.'"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Fischer, Hannah

  2022-03-28
• Members' Representational Allowance: History and Usage [Updated March 24, 2022]

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  From the Introduction: "Congressional office spending has been a regular topic of interest to academics, interest groups, newspapers, and constituents for many years. It is a topic frequently mentioned in newspaper articles that address individual Member spending or generally discuss financial accountability among elected officials, and it has been examined by watchdog organizations and interest groups covering congressional spending on internal operations generally. A few scholars have also examined how Members typically spend their office allowances, analyzing spending within broader theories of representation. Individual office spending may be as varied as the districts Members represent. Factors affecting spending include the tenure or interests of the Member, levels of casework, geography, unexpected events, and even the congressional calendar. While Representatives have a high degree of flexibility to operate their offices in a way that supports their congressional duties and responsibilities, they must operate within a number of restrictions and regulations. The Members' Representational Allowance (MRA), the allowance provided to Members of the House of Representatives to operate their DC and district offices, may only support Members in their official and representational duties. It may not be used for personal or campaign purposes. [...] This report provides a history of the MRA and overview of recent developments. It also demonstrates actual MRA spending patterns in recent years for all voting Members who served for a defined period. Spending and practices across offices and across time vary, and an examination of additional Congresses would be required for a more complete picture of congressional office spending patterns."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Brudnick, Ida A.

  2022-03-24
• U.S.-Japan Relations [Updated March 30, 2022]

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  From the Overview: "Japan, a U.S. treaty ally since 1951, is a significant partner of the United States in several foreign policy areas, particularly security and trade. Shared security goals range from meeting the challenge of an increasingly powerful China to countering threats from North Korea. The U.S.-Japan mutual defense treaty grants the United States the right to base U.S. troops--currently numbering around 54,000--and other military assets on Japanese territory in return for a U.S. pledge to protect Japan's security. The two countries collaborate through bilateral and multilateral institutions on issues such as science and technology, global health, energy, and agriculture. Japan is the fourth-largest overall U.S. trading partner and largest source of foreign direct investment into the United States, and its investors are the largest foreign holders of U.S. Treasury securities. The Biden Administration has emphasized the importance of restoring U.S. alliances in Asia. Former Japan Prime Minister Suga was the first in-person visitor to the White House, signaling the importance of allied cooperation. Further reinforcing Japan's central role in the U.S. approach to the Indo-Pacific, the Biden Administration has boosted the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue--or 'Quad'--convening the first-ever (virtual) leader-level meeting with Japan, Australia, and India."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Chanlett-Avery, Emma; Manyin, Mark E.; Williams, Brock R. . . .

  2022-03-30
• Members of the House of Representatives Lying in State in the U.S. Capitol [Updated March 24, 2022]

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  From the Document: "On March 29, 2022, Representative Donald E. Young [hyperlink], who died on March 18, 2022, will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol. In a press release [hyperlink], House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced that Representative Young 'will lie in state in National Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol on Tuesday, March 29.' There have been 37 individuals (not including Representative Young) who have lain in state or honor [hyperlink] in the Capitol Rotunda or National Statuary Hall. The most recent individual to lie in state was Senator Harry M. Reid [hyperlink] on January 12, 2022. The most recent individual to lie in honor[.] was United States Capitol Police Officer William 'Billy' F. Evans on April 13, 2021. Prior to Representative Young lying in state, a total of 18 individuals who had been a Member of the House of Representatives had received that honor[.]"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Straus, Jacob R.

  2022-03-24
• Clean Water Restoration Act of 2007, Hearing Before the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure House of Representatives, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Second Session, April 16, 2008

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  This is the April 16, 2008 hearing on "The Clean Water Restoration Act of 2007," held before the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure House of Representatives. "This memorandum briefly summarizes the authorities of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, commonly known as the Clean Water Act, 'to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters,' including wetlands. It also briefly summarizes the actions of the judicial and executive branches of government related to the jurisdictional reach of the Clean Water Act, including recent Supreme Court decisions affecting the Act. Finally, the memorandum highlights several uncertainties that have arisen since the two recent Supreme Court decisions with respect to the Act's ability to comprehensively and consistently meet the goals of fishable and swimmable waters. The memorandum describes in greater detail several uncertainties that have been raised by individual states, legal scholars, and the regulated community, resulting from the 'SWANCC' and 'Rapanos' decisions, and the Corps and EPA [Environmental Protection Agency] implementation guidance."

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2008
• Post-Katrina Disaster Response and Recovery: Evaluating Federal Emergency Management Agency's Continuing Efforts in the Gulf Coast and Response to Recent Disasters, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, First Session, February 25, 2009

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  From the opening statement of Eleanor Holmes Norton: "We are pleased to welcome our witnesses to this second hearing devoted to our post-Katrina evaluation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, to assess FEMA's progress as the Nation's only disaster response agency. We will examine progress not only in Louisiana and Mississippi, where FEMA's failings have been documented by our Subcommittee and many others, but also in Texas, which recently saw major damage from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, and in Grayson County, Kentucky, declared a major disaster county by President Obama after recent ice storms devastated the midsection of our Country. Hurricane Katrina was a disaster of mammoth proportions, but its major lesson went well beyond its scope and uniqueness and the failures of FEMA in 2006. Katrina teaches that FEMA must be nimble enough to move quickly before and after any Stafford Act emergency or disaster. The Country cannot be assured that FEMA is always prepared without frequent oversight by our Subcommittee which began in the 110th Congress. Gustav, Ike and this year's ice storms all provide markers by which to measure FEMA's progress and disaster response and recovery agencies." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Eleanor Holmes Norton, David Garratt, Gary Logsdon, James W. Stark, H. Rodger Wilder, Paul Rainwater, Russ Carnahan, Betsy Markey, Eleanor Norton, James L. Oberstar, and Steve Scalise.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009
• Snow Disasters for Local, State, and Federal Governments in the National Capitol Region: Hearing Before the U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, Second Session, March 23, 2010

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  From the opening statement of James L. Oberstar's opening statement: "Today, the Subcommittee will receive testimony on the status of recovery efforts from the snow storms that struck the National Capital Region this winter. I commend Chair Norton for holding this hearing, which will probe what we can learn from the response to and recovery from these events, in order to better prepare for the next disaster or emergency to strike the region, whether it is snow-related or not." Statements, letters, and documents submitted for the record include those of the following: Committee Chairman James L. Oberstar, Subcommittee Chair Eleanor Holmes Norton, Patricia Arcuri, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region III; Steward Beckham, Director, Office of National Capital Region Coordination; John Berry, Director, U.S. Office of Personnel Management; Errol R. Schwartz, Commanding General, District of Columbia Army National Guard; Millicent Williams, Director, District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency; David Kubicek, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; Richard Muth, Director, Maryland Emergency Management Agency; Carter Kimsey, President, American Federation of Government Employees Local 3034, National Science Foundation; R. Eric Petersen, Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress, and James K. Hartmann, City Manager, City of Alexandria, Virginia.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2010
• Impact of Foreign Ownership and Foreign Investment on the Security of Our Nation's Critical Infrastruture, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Transportation Security and Infrastructure Protection of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundres Tenth Congress, May 16, 2007

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  From the opening statement of Sheila Jackson Lee: "Today, we are exploring the vulnerabilities of critical infrastructure owned by U.S. companies that have a significant number of foreign investors and how it may compromise homeland security preparedness, as well as the question of investment and access and control. I think we all understand that when a foreign entity establishes a lasting financial interest in a country, it is able to exert influence on that country. According to 2005 CEA data, foreign investors own over 9 trillion in stock in U.S. assets. These assets are composed of four basic types and the largest portion is foreign direct investment. This type of investment goes directly into companies and infrastructures. The other three types of foreign investment are corporate stocks, private bonds and the U.S. Treasury bonds and bills. Each of these types comprises about 2 trillion of the total investment stocks. It is also important to note that these investments have accumulated over decades, even centuries. [...].As the chairwoman of this subcommittee which bears the term 'infrastructure protection' in its title, I intend to do just that, evaluate how infrastructure is being protected to ensure it is here and available when America needs it most in a time of crisis. As we all know, terrorists do not signal or call ahead before they attack." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Sheila Jackson Lee, Daniel E. Lungren, Yvette D. Clarke, Richard T. Garcia, Michael Pfister, and David Marchick.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009
• Broadband: Deploying America's 21st Century Infrastructure, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, United States House of Representatives, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, March 21, 2017

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  This testimony compilation made by the HSDL staff is from the March 21, 2017 hearing, "Broadband: Deploying America's 21st Century Infrastructure," before the United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Communications and Technology of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The purpose of this hearing was to discuss high speed internet access, which, "has made communications and commerce easier than ever before [...] the importance of broadband in America's economy cannot be understated. In order to guarantee that all Americans [...] have access to the tools they need to succeed in the 21st century economy, our policies must reflect our commitment to deploying the physical infrastructure of broadband. Last Congress, this subcommittee took a thoughtful approach to identify barriers to broadband infrastructure deployment and examined proposals that would eliminate them. [...] As we look to expanding our national investment in broadband we cannot do so without reliable data. Unfortunately, too often our data is insufficient and investments are not targeted where they can do the most good. Until we know where broadband is and where it is not, we will continue to make the same mistakes that have slowed rural buildout for years." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Steven Berry, LeRoy T. Carlson Jr., Michael Conners, Bryan Darr, Joanne S. Hovis, Thomas A. Murray, and James W. Stegeman.

  United States. Congress. House. Committee on Energy and Commerce

  2017-03-21
• Computer Assisted Passenger Prescreening System (CAPPS II), Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Aviation of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, One Hundred Eighth Congress, Second Session, March 17, 2004

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  This is the March 17, 2004 hearing on "CAPPS II" held before the House Subcommittee on Aviation. From the opening statement of John L. Mica: "First of all this morning, let me say that I personally strongly favor developing a passenger profiling system. However, with one big caveat, of course, that that profiling system does not discriminate unfairly or invade or abuse privacy. […] There is something very seriously wrong when we have a passenger profiling system that confiscates wedding cake knives and takes sewing scissors away from little old ladies and harasses children and Medal of Honor veterans. […] There is no question that this system that we have in place now clearly needs to be changed. It must be altered to be effective and it must be altered to also narrow the focus to identify people who pose an actual threat to aviation. We urgently need a passenger profiling system that identifies terrorists or bad people and at the same time does not discriminate or violate personal privacy. I believe that can be done." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: John L. Mica, James C. May, Kevin Mitchell, Robert W. Ney, Norman J. Rabkin, Paul Rosenzweig, David Sobel, David M. Stone, Shelley Berkley, Jerry F. Costello, Eddie Bernice Johnson, James L. Oberstar, and Stevan Pearce.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2005
• Identifying 6G Focus Areas for DHS [infographic]

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  From the Document: "A proactive focus on emerging opportunities and threats associated with 6G [sixth generation] development and deployment can enable DHS to prepare the homeland security enterprise to safely transition to the next generation of connectivity."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2022-02
• Reauthorization of the Department of Transportation's Hazardous Materials Safety Program, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, First Session, May 14, 2009

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  From the opening statement of Corrine Brown: "The Subcommittee is meeting today to hear testimony on the reauthorization of the Department of Transportation's [DOT] Hazardous Materials Safety Program. The program was last reauthorized in SAFETEA-LU [Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act]. It expired in September 2008. Today's hearing will review the implementation of the SAFETEA-LU amendments and issues that we may want to consider addressing in a reauthorization bill. [...] In addition, I think it is important that we consider the level of training that we provide to emergency responders. [...] We also need to look closely at the exemption that DOT has been issued from hazardous material regulations. According to the inspector general, the DOT has issued more than 4,500 special permits and 125 approvals since they started the program. Concerns have been raised about the safety review that DOT conducted prior to approving those exemptions, whether there is appropriate coordination with the operating administrators, such as the FAA, before an application is approved and how well the administration is doing in enforcing the terms of the exemption. These are a few issues that I believe we need to address in the legislation." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Corrine Brown, Lamont Byrd, Gerald A. Donaldson, Cynthia Douglass, Elizabeth Harman, Deborah A.P. Hersman, Cynthia Hilton, Jeffrey D. Johnson, Robert Petrancosta, Mark Rogers, Jerry F. Costello, Elijah E. Cummings, James L. Oberstar, Stephen A. Alterman, and Edward Wytkind.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009
• Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP): Threat to Critical Infrastructure, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, May 8, 2014

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  This is the May 8, 2014 hearing, "Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP): Threat to Critical Infrastructure" before the House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies. From the opening statement of Scott Perry: "EMP is simply a burst of electromagnetic radiation that results from certain types of high energy explosions or from a suddenly fluctuating magnetic field. A frightening point is that EMP can be generated by nuclear weapons, from naturally-occurring sources such as solar storms, or specialized non-nuclear EMP weapons. Nuclear weapon EMPs are most catastrophic when a nuclear weapon is detonated at high altitude, at approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles), above the intended target. The consequences of such an attack could be catastrophic; all electronics, power systems, and information systems could be shut down. This could then cascade into interdependent infrastructures such as water, gas, and telecommunications. While we understand this is an extreme case, we must always be prepared in case a rouge state decides to utilize this technology. Currently, the nations of Russia and China have the technology to launch an EMP attack, and we have speculated that Iran and North Korea may be developing EMP weapon technology. This is why we must remain vigilant in our efforts to mitigate the effects of an EMP attack." Statements, letters, and materials submitted from the record include those of the following: Scott Perry, Michael McCaul, Trent Franks, Peter Vincent Pry, Michael J. Frankel, and Chris Beck

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2014
• Clearing the Air: Science-Based Strategies to Protect Workers from COVID-19 Infections, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections of the Committee on Education and Labor, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Seventeenth Congress, First Session, March 11, 2021

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  This is the March 11, 2021 hearing on "Clearing the Air: Science-based Strategies to Protect Workers from COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] Infections," held before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections of the Committee on Education and Labor. From the opening statement of Alma S. Adams: "Today we will discuss the imperative to protect worker's health and safety. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed one of the most significant threats to worker's health and safety in a century. Across the country tens of thousands of workers have been infected by COVID-19 on the job, and many thousands have died. [...] And while some of us have the luxury of working from home, these workers who are disproportionately low-income and people of color are risking their lives to keep our communities afloat." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Linsey Marr, David Michaels, Pascaline Muhindura, and Manesh Rath.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2022
• Oversight Hearing - Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure: Hearing Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Homeland Security, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, First Session, March 20, 2013

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  This testimony compilation is from the March 20, 2013 hearing, "Oversight Hearing - Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure," before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of John Carter: "This morning we welcome Under Secretary Rand Beers and Deputy Under Secretary Suzanne Spaulding to explain how DHS is mitigating cybersecurity threats and protecting our Nation's critical infrastructure. Thank you for joining us today. As discussed in our briefing with DHS last month, the U.S. is the target of a massive cyber-espionage campaign that threatens the country's economic competitiveness. More disturbing, are recent reports detailing how the Chinese army is hacking into a wide range of U.S. industries. Our cybersecurity is an issue of national significance. We don't have an endless pocket book to draw from, so we have to make every penny count. In addition to answering our questions today, it is my understanding that you will also be updating us on the threat of these evolving cyber-attacks. A few administrative items for the Members and staff in attendance: (1) This briefing is classified at the Top Secret / SCI level -- the highly sensitive material that we discuss today is not to be discussed in an unauthorized setting, and (2) Members and staff should have already divested themselves of all electronic devices before entering the room." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: John Carter and Rand Beers.

  United States. Congress. House. Committee on Appropriations

  2013-03-20
• Ukraine: New U.S. Deployments to Europe Might Raise War Powers Resolution Questions [March 15, 2022]

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  From the Document: "In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and in coordination with NATO allies, President Biden has announced the deployment of U.S. armed forces to Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Greece, and the Czech Republic, as well as Germany, to defend the eastern flank of NATO. These deployments might raise questions about the role of Congress under the War Powers Resolution (WPR) concerning the use of U.S. armed forces in connection with the Ukraine conflict."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Weed, Matthew C.

  2022-03-15