#NPS Service Centennial Award

[esprit-de-corps-magazine]

The Victoria Cross for animals: The Dickin Medal

By Jeff Pelletier, Army Public Affairs

Ottawa, Ontario — Throughout its history, the Canadian Army (CA) has relied on animals to take on various tasks, including communication, transportation and troop morale. No matter what job they did, thousands of dogs, pigeons, horses and other animals have played vital roles in the success of the CA.

The CA recognizes the significant contributions of thousands of animals, including many who died while serving Canada.

There are a number of ways military animal heroes are honoured. The Animals in War Dedication is a monument located in the heart of downtown Ottawa in Confederation Park. Visitors to the National Capital Region can go there to learn about the history of animals in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

Another way these animals are celebrated around the world is through the Dickin Medal. Often referred to as the “Victoria Cross for animals,” it is the highest honour that an animal can receive in military service.

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) is a U.K.-based veterinary charity responsible for presenting the medal, which is named after the organization’s founder, Maria Dickin.

Since it was first awarded in 1943, the Dickin Medal has been awarded to more than 70 animals, including dogs, horses, pigeons and a cat.

The medal, which continues to be awarded today, is international in scope. While several animals from Canada have received the medal, the majority of the recipients served with other nations, such as the United Kingdom, France and the United States.

The medal’s ribbon is green, brown and blue, to represent naval, land and air forces. The front of the bronze medallion has “For Gallantry” and “We Also Serve” inscribed on it. On the back, it has the name of the animal recipient, its branch of service or unit, and the date and location of the act of bravery that earned them the award.

Four animals have earned a Dickin medal for their service to the Canadian Army.

Beachcomber, the pigeon at Dieppe (1942)

On March 6, 1944, a Canadian pigeon, designated as Pigeon NPS.41.NS.4230 but named Beachcomber by the troops, was awarded the Dickin Medal for delivering an important message from Canadians at Dieppe in 1942. Flying across the foggy English Channel through treacherous conditions all the way to Britain, Beachcomber delivered the news about the landing. He is one of several Second World War carrier pigeons to be recognized by the Dickin Medal, but the only one to do so while serving Canada.

Sergeant Gander, a Newfoundland dog, mascot of the Royal Rifles of Canada (1941)

Of all recipients, dogs have been awarded the most Dickin Medals. Man’s best friends have often been unlikely heroes, doing everything from providing morale to troops to searching for mines in battlefields.

In 1941, a Newfoundland dog named Sergeant Gander was serving as the mascot for the Royal Rifles of Canada. He was given to the regiment by a civilian family and was loved by his fellow troops. As noted in the official citation when the medal was presented, twice he stopped the enemy’s advance and protected wounded troops. On a third occasion when Canadians were under attack in Hong Kong, Sgt Gander picked up a grenade and ran with it, but, tragically, it detonated and he never made it back to his troops.

Sgt Gander’s sacrifice saved many Canadian lives in Hong Kong. He was awarded a posthumous Dickin Medal on October 27, 2000, becoming the first recipient of the medal since 1949.

He has also been honoured in many other ways.

The Gander Heritage Memorial Park in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, was named in his honour to remember his sacrifice along with the human members of the Royal Rifles of Canada. His name appears with the names of 1,975 Fallen on the Hong Kong Veterans Memorial Wall in Ottawa. A statue of Gander appears as part of the Cobequid Veterans Memorial Park in Bass River, Nova Scotia.

Sam, a German Shepherd, served with The Royal Canadian Regiment in Eastern Europe (1998)

A second dog won the Dickin Medal for service to Canada. Sam was a German Shepherd with the British Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) on assignment with The Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR). During the breakup of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1991, the region was devastated by a series of conflicts. Canada and its United Nations and NATO allies went to the region to help create peace and stability.

While serving with the RCR in 1998, Sergeant Iain Carnegie, Sam’s RAVC handler, saw him perform two acts of bravery within only a few days of each other. On April 18, a gunman opened fire in the town of Drvar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After locating the suspect, Sam charged at him and helped bring him to the ground, allowing Sgt Carnegie to retrieve a loaded firearm.

On April 24, Sam and Sgt Carnegie were called in to help protect a group of civilians who had taken refuge in a warehouse. Ethnic tensions were high in the region, so when rioters came toward the warehouse, the two had to create a barricade to protect the civilians. They stood their ground until reinforcements arrived, and none of the civilians were harmed.

Two years later, Sam passed away from natural causes at the age of 10. In 2002, Sgt Carnegie accepted a posthumous Dickin Medal on Sam’s behalf.

In the book The Animal Victoria Cross: The Dickin Medal by Peter Hawthorne, Sgt Carnegie is quoted as follows: “Sam displayed outstanding courage and not once did he shy away from danger. I could never have carried out my duties without Sam at my side. He deserves the best.”

In addition to Sgt Carnegie, a Canadian soldier, then-Corporal, now Major, Michael (Scott) Moody of The RCR’s 4th Battalion, RCR served as Sam’s handler for about two months during his deployment to Bosnia in 1997.

Warrior, a Thoroughbred horse ‘the Germans couldn’t kill’ (1914-18)

The most recent animal to earn the Dickin Medal for serving in harm’s way for Canada was a First World War-era Thoroughbred horse named Warrior.

Born on the Isle of Wight in 1908, Warrior belonged to British Major-General John Seely (a Lieutenant-Colonel at the time). Warrior’s first appearance on the Western Front was in August 1914, a few weeks after the war started.

In December, MGen Seely was named Commander of the Canadian Cavalry Brigade (CCB). The following February, Warrior went back to Britain to take part in training with the CCB, before returning to the Western Front.

Warrior’s military career was outstanding. He led the CCB in charges at several battles, including Ypres, the Somme and Passchendaele. In March 1918, he led the charge at the Battle of Moreuil Wood, a crucial action that helped make way for the final days of the war. Even after MGen Seely suffered injuries from a gas attack, Warrior stayed with the CCB under its new commander, Brigadier-General R.W. Paterson.

Warrior became known as “The horse the Germans couldn’t kill.”

Warrior survived the First World War. In December 1918, he was shipped back to the Isle of Wight where he was born. MGen Seely published a book about him in 1934, and rode him in 1938 to commemorate the date that their combined age was 100. In April of 1941, Warrior died at the age of 32.

The centennial of the beginning of the First World War led to several commemorations in his honour, including the unveiling of a bronze statue of MGen Seely riding Warrior at Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight.

Another honour that Warrior received was the first-ever honorary Dickin Medal. Although the medal was given on behalf of all animals who served in the First World War, Warrior’s specific recognition is significant because he represents the resilience and strength of all animals in the war effort.

Animals serving the Canadian Army today

In the century since the end of the First World War, the use of animals in the CA has evolved.

Some units still keep horses for ceremonial purposes, such as The Lord Strathcona’s Horse and The Royal Canadian Dragoons.

Canadian Rangers and other units sometimes use horses to access remote locations, but the horses are privately owned and supplied when needed.

Dogs are not officially trained for military service by the Army, although they are sometimes obtained from outside agencies for sniffing out explosives or for search-and-rescue tasks.

Animals still contribute to many aspects of overall CA operations and culture. Dogs and other animals remain beloved as regimental mascots and are much valued to improve troop morale.

[deniseyallen]

Portman Visits Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, Sees Backlog of Long-Delayed Maintenance Needs Firsthand

Portman’s Bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act Would Help Address the $47.7 Million Backlog in Long-Delayed Maintenance Projects for the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial 

PUT-IN-BAY, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) visited and toured Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and saw firsthand the backlog of $47.7 million in long-delayed maintenance needs at the site, such as building renovations and infrastructure improvements to the marina and waterfront. 

Recently, Senator Portman introduced the Restore Our Parks Act, bipartisan legislation that would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog in long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill, which has been praised by key stakeholders, would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” from existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development to fund deferred maintenance projects at NPS sites across the country.  Notably, the measure would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park sites including the $47.7 million in unmet maintenance needs at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. 

“Today I visited an important Ohio landmark, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, and was able to see firsthand the unmet maintenance needs that need urgent attention.  This includes cracking in the concrete on seawall that can cause erosion and small sinkholes on the island, redoing the back porch of the visitors center to make it ADA accessible, and fixing cracking in the concrete beneath the upper plaza.” said Portman. “Whether biking, fishing, kayaking, or hiking with my family, I’m proud to be one of the 2.7 million visitors to Ohio’s national parks annually. I’m committed to protecting our parks and that’s why I recently introduced the bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act to help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service.  This includes more than $100 million in deferred maintenance at Ohio’s eight national parks. These parks are national treasures and we must do our part to ensure that these parks can be enjoyed for many generations to come.” 

Portman, a lifelong outdoorsman and a frequent visitor to Ohio’s national parks, has long been a leader in the U.S. Senate in efforts to protect our national parks. He is the author of the National Park Service Centennial Act, legislation signed into law in 2016 that authorizes the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund and the Second Century Endowment Fund, two public-private partnerships that are providing additional funding to help preserve our national parks for generations to come.  Last year, Portman received the National Park Foundation’s Centennial Champion Award for his work on the National Park Service Centennial Act. He has previously received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award, the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Centennial Leader Award. 

Photos from the event are below:

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  from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F5DAA5C6-B40C-4463-BBA5-DB4ADDC9A88A

[deniseyallen]

Rob’s Rundown: Week of July 16-20, 2018

This week, Senator Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor highlighting his bipartisan Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA), which is already making a significant difference in combatting the trafficking of women and children online. Portman visited with CHANGE Court participants and graduates in Cincinnati, which is designed to give those caught up in prostitution and victims of sex trafficking a chance to get clean, walk away with a clean record, and rebuild their lives. Portman also delivered remarks on the Senate floor discussing the opioid epidemic gripping Ohio—and our country—and how his bipartisan Synthetics Trafficking & Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act  will help give law enforcement the tools to identify and stop dangerous synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and carfentanil from being shipped through the Postal Service to drug traffickers here in the United States. In addition, Portman delivered remarks praising U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and urging the Senate to confirm him for the Supreme Court. Portman recently released a video highlighting his meeting with Justice Kavanaugh ahead of that speech. Later in the week, Portman praised the House for passing his Defending Economic Livelihoods and Threatened Animals (DELTA) Act, legislation that encourages the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in South Africa. Portman introduced the bipartisan Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act. Lastly, Portman announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration awarded a grant through the 2018 Small Shipyard Grant Program totaling $768,500 to Ironhead Marine, Inc. 

For a more detailed look at Senator Portman’s week, please see the following: 

Monday, July 16 

Portman Op-Ed in The Lima News Highlights Work on Behalf of Our Troops, Lima’s Joint Systems Manufacturing Center 

Senator Portman has consistently fought on behalf of Ohio’s defense installations, including Lima’s Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) that supports our troops all around the world.  The FY 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed the Senate last month and includes $1.53 billion in funding to upgrade 135, or 1.5 brigades worth, of Abrams tanks — increasing the rate of production of the newest upgraded Abrams tanks in Lima in order to ensure that our forward deployed tanks have the most cutting-edge capabilities. The bill also includes $171 million for upgrading Stryker Vehicles, a $150 million increase over the president’s budget request for these upgrades. Portman led a letter to Senate Armed Services Chairman John McCain (R-AZ) and Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI) urging them to increase funding for modernizing Stryker Vehicles in the NDAA. 

In a Lima News op-ed Portman wrote: “America remains a shining city on a hill and a beacon of democracy and freedom because of the bravery of the men and women of our armed forces. We owe them the best equipment and technology to conduct their critical mission in a dangerous world. With the passage of this new defense funding, the highly skilled and patriotic workers in Lima will be able to do more to help our troops keep the peace and protect all of us.”

Excerpts of the op-ed can be found here and the full op-ed can be found at this link.   

In Cincinnati, Portman Visits with CHANGE Court Participants, Graduates, and Judge Heather Russell 

Portman visited with CHANGE Court participants and graduates along with Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge Heather Russell. CHANGE Court, which stands for Changing Habits And Setting New Goals is Empowering, is designed to give those caught up in prostitution and victims of sex trafficking a chance to get clean, walk away with a clean record, and rebuild their lives. 

“I appreciated the opportunity to visit with CHANGE Court participants and graduates. CHANGE Court is an outstanding program dedicated to providing both support and opportunities for victims of sex trafficking and those recovering from prostitution,” said Portman. “In this country, in this century, our women and children should not be exposed to the trauma of being sold online. While I’m pleased that some of the sites hosting sex trafficking have shut down thanks to the positive impact of my bipartisan SESTA legislation, I will continue to work with my colleagues to combat this horrific crime in a bipartisan manner so that every man, woman, and child can reach their God-given potential.”   

Portman Statement on President Trump’s Remarks at Helsinki Summit 

Portman issued the following statement regarding the joint news conference by President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Helsinki summit: 

“The president’s comments in today’s press conference were troubling.  He failed to stand up to Vladimir Putin on some of the most critical security issues facing our country and our allies.  There is a consensus in the intelligence community that Russia meddled in our elections and continues to try to destabilize democracies around the world.  Both the House and Senate Intelligence Committees have concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 elections.  When given the opportunity, President Trump did not hold President Putin to task for election meddling, for the illegal annexation of Crimea, or for the continued aggression in Eastern Ukraine.  

“I believe the United States must be matter of fact and transparent.  We all want to see a better relationship between our two countries, but we must make clear directly to President Putin and to the world that Russia’s actions on the world stage are unacceptable and a change in their behavior is necessary in order to improve relations.  I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress and with this administration to do so.”  

Tuesday, July 17 

VIDEO: Senator Portman & Judge Kavanaugh, Longtime Friends 

President Trump nominated Judge Brett Kavanaugh to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) met with Judge Kavanaugh and later delivered remarks on the Senate floor praising him, his impressive background and exceptional qualifications, as well as his character, compassion, and humility. Portman has known Judge Kavanaugh for more than 15 years, since they worked together in the George W. Bush administration. 

Portman states in the video: “I have known him for over 15 years. I worked with him in the George W. Bush White House. Brett Kavanaugh is a person I have gotten to know, not so much as a legal scholar and judge but as a friend and watched him as a father and as a husband. He’s a guy with great compassion, great humility, and a big heart. I can’t think of anybody better qualified to be on the United States Supreme Court.” 

To watch the video, click here. 

Portman’s Bipartisan Bill Will Help Fund Long-Delayed Maintenance at Ohio’s National Parks

Senator Portman introduced the Restore Our Parks Act, bipartisan legislation that would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill, which has been praised by key stakeholders, would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development.  Notably, the measure would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park sites.

Portman, a lifelong outdoorsman and a frequent visitor to Ohio’s national parks, has long been a leader in the U.S. Senate in efforts to protect our national parks. He is the author of the National Park Service Centennial Act, legislation signed into law in 2016 that authorizes the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund and the Second Century Endowment Fund, two public-private partnerships that are already making a difference to provide more resources to maintain our parks.  Last year, Portman received the National Park Foundation’s Centennial Champion Award for his work on the National Park Service Centennial Act. He has previously received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award, the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Centennial Leader Award.

Senator Portman Joins Ohio Colleagues in Supporting Ohio’s Preeminent Vehicle Testing Facility, Urging Transportation Secretary to Change Automated Vehicle Policy

Portman joined his Ohio colleagues of both parties in the House and Senate to send a letter urging the U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to change the previous administration’s automated vehicle policy, which excludes Ohio’s Transportation Research Center (TRC) – the largest and most sophisticated independent vehicle proving ground in North America – from certain partnership and funding opportunities that are important to the development of safe and effective regulations for this emerging technology.   

In January 2017, on the final day of the Obama administration, then-Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx designated 10 automated vehicle (AV) proving grounds to serve as the department’s preferred partners for developing future AV-related policy.  The previous administration purportedly set out to designate these proving grounds in order to advance shared, national goals concerning the safe deployment of automated vehicles.  However, Senator Portman and his Ohio colleagues were and remain critical of this last-minute policy announcement because Ohio’s Transportation Research Center, the largest and most sophisticated independent vehicle proving ground on the continent, was notably omitted from this group.   

Upon joining his colleagues on this bipartisan letter urging Secretary Chao to reconsider the previous administration’s policy, Senator Portman released the following statement: 

“In the interest of creating the safest, most effective AV policies, the Department of Transportation should be able to determine its partners for testing this new technology based on merit, not favoritism.  As events in the past year have made tragically clear, our policies for the development, testing, and deployment of automated vehicle technology can have a direct impact on the health and security of our fellow Americans, both behind the wheel and on the street.  That is why my colleagues and I believe that the Department of Transportation ought not to have its capacity to partner with organizations like TRC – whose decades of vehicle testing and wealth of relevant expertise are second-to-none – restricted for arbitrary or political reasons.  We should work together toward policies for automated vehicle technology that, in equal measure, promote American industry and protect human life.  I am confident that there is no better place to find a partner in this mission than the Transportation Research Center in East Liberty.” 

The Ohio delegation letter to Secretary Chao can be found here. 

On Senate Floor, Portman Again Urges Senate to Confirm Brett Kavanaugh to Supreme Court 

Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor praising U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and urging the Senate to approve him as the next Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. Portman spoke on the Senate floor in support of Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination last week and recently released a video highlighting his meeting with Justice Kavanaugh ahead of that speech. 

Portman said: “I think Judge Kavanaugh is the kind of judge the American people want: someone who will fairly and impartially apply the law, not legislate from the bench. He’s got an outstanding judicial record from his 12 years on the bench. He’s a thought-leader among his peers on the appellate courts and has the respect of the judges on the Supreme Court as well because they have picked up his decisions and used them in later cases. Just as importantly to me, again, he is a good person.”

 A transcript of his remarks can be found below and a video can be found here: 

On Fox News, Portman Discusses Congressional Efforts to Hold Russia Accountable 

In an interview with Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto, Senator Portman discussed President Trump’s remarks at the U.S.-Russia summit and highlighted what Congress has done to hold Russia accountable for its efforts to intervene in our election and destabilize other democracies.  He also highlighted the fact that the Intelligence Community and both House and Senate Intelligence Committees concluded that Russia intervened in the U.S. elections, contrary to the president’s initial remarks.                                                                           

Excerpts of his interview can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Wednesday, July 18 

Portman, Brown, Murkowski Provision to Give States More Time, Flexibility to Comply with Federal Law Sent to President’s Desk 

U.S. Senators Portman, Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) announced that legislation based on their proposal to give states more flexibility and time to implement electronic verification systems to better serve patients was passed by the House of Representatives. Their proposal now heads to the president’s desk to become law. 

Earlier this year Portman, Brown, and Murkowski introduced a bipartisan bill to delay the implementation of a provision contained in the 21st Century Cures Act law that requires states implement Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) systems for personal care services and ensure individuals who receive these services have a voice in the implementation process. The Senate took up and unanimously passed a House version of the bill that was based heavily on the Portman, Brown, and Murkowski legislation. The bill now awaits President Trump’s signature.   

The EVV system requires healthcare providers to use an electronic system to confirm that personal care services are delivered and billed accurately. The Senators’ proposal sought to delay this new Medicaid requirement for one year in order to give states the proper time to set up effective EVV systems, and emphasize the need for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to solicit stakeholder comments prior to finalizing regulations related to implementation to ensure the concerns of the patient and provider communities are taken into account. 

“Electronic Visit Verification systems are key to ensuring that the most vulnerable Ohioans receive the care that they need.  However, these systems can be complex, and it’s important that Ohioans can engage in the development of these systems and that states have the flexibility to effectively implement these requirements,” said Senator Portman. 

Portman, Brown, and Murkowski’s proposal sought to delay the required implementation of EVV systems from January 1, 2019 to January 1, 2020 and urge CMS to hold at least one stakeholder meeting as a part of implementation. The 21st Century Cures Act was passed in 2016. In addition to requiring EVV for personal care services, the 21st Century Cures Act included several other provisions, particularly aimed at fighting the opioid epidemic. 

Portman, Udall, Burr, Coons, and Whitehouse Praise House Passage of DELTA Act to Protect the Okavango River Delta 

U.S. Senators Portman, Tom Udall (D-NM), Richard Burr (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) praised the House passage of the Defending Economic Livelihoods and Threatened Animals (DELTA) Act, legislation that encourages the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in South Africa. The House legislation was introduced by Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY). The legislation awaits action in the Senate. 

“As a co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, I believe we must confront the threats to wildlife and natural resources around the world, and I’m pleased the House has passed this legislation to encourage the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in South Africa,” said Portman.  “The Okavango Delta is a precious water resource and serves as a critical habitat to some of the world’s most endangered species that continue to face a variety of threats from wildlife traffickers, poachers, and others. I am proud to protect this important resource and the people, wildlife, and ecosystems that depend on it, and I urge the Senate to pass this legislation as soon as possible.” 

At Hearing, Portman Urges U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Use ENFORCE Act Tools to Crack Down on Illegal Trade 

At a Senate Finance Committee hearing, Portman urged the Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Kevin McAleenan, to use the tools available through the ENFORCE Act to help crack down on countries that illegally import goods by transshipping them through other countries. Portman expressed concern about how Section 232 has been used and stressed that its misuse could result in a trade war with our allies. Instead, he urged the administration to vigorously use the tools at their disposal, such as the ENFORCE Act, which is working to crack down on foreign competitors that launder products through other countries to evade our trade laws. 

The ENFORCE Act helps stop efforts by foreign countries to illegally import goods by setting up a process that gives domestic producers an opportunity to formally petition Customs and Border Protection to investigate possible antidumping and countervailing duty evasions.  

A transcript of his remarks can be seen here and a video can be found here. 

Thursday, July 19 

Senators Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Protect Surviving Military Spouses

U.S. Senators Portman, Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Doug Jones (D-AL) introduced the bipartisan Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act. The legislation, which was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Cheri Bustos (D-IL), would modify the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to allow a widow or widower of a servicemember who died while in military service (i.e., a Gold Star spouse) to terminate a jointly held residential lease, without penalty, within one year of the servicemember’s death.

“A grieving military spouse dealing with the death of their loved one on active duty should be able to end their lease without paying high termination fees,” said Senator Portman.  “This bill, with the support of numerous veterans groups and the Department of Defense, is a commonsense fix for Gold Star spouses. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to join me in supporting this legislation to provide relief for our Gold Star spouses.”

When a servicemember receives military orders, his or her spouse is often required to relocate and then sign a lease for a house, apartment, or other dwelling. But when the servicemember dies during military service, the surviving spouse may be forced to pay off the remainder of that residential lease even though the couple only entered into that contract to accommodate the servicemember’s assignment. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), active duty servicemembers may cancel agreements such as home or apartment rental contracts when they are deployed or relocated. However, these protections do not explicitly apply to Gold Star spouses who are in these agreements jointly with a servicemember who died while in military service. 

The Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act is also supported by The American Legion, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and the National Military Family Association (NMFA). 

Portman Announces Federal Grant to Boost Toledo Shipyard, Lucas County Economy 

Portman announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration awarded a grant through the 2018 Small Shipyard Grant Program totaling $768,500 to Ironhead Marine, Inc., operator of the Toledo Shipyard: 

“I’m pleased to see this grant awarded to Ironhead, and I’m happy that I could help support Toledo in this competitive grant process. By increasing the capacity of the Toledo Shipyard, this grant will boost the local economy of Toledo and Lucas County,” said Portman.  

Portman on the Senate Floor: SESTA Already Making A Significant Difference in Combating Online Sex Trafficking 

Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor highlighting his bipartisan Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) law which is already making a significant difference in combatting online sex trafficking of women and children, resulting in the shutdown of several websites that knowingly facilitated sex trafficking. 

The enactment of Senator Portman’s bipartisan SESTA law was a big victory for trafficking victims and survivors who, for too long, have been denied the opportunity to get the justice they deserve. The measure was the culmination of a three-year effort – which included a victory at the Supreme Court – to hold accountable Backpage.com and other websites that knowingly facilitate online sex trafficking of women and children.  The nearly two-year investigation by Portman’s Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) culminated in a shocking report which detailed how Backpage facilitated criminal sex trafficking and then covered up evidence of these crimes in order to increase its own profits.

 A full transcript of his remarks can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Portman on the Senate Floor: Bipartisan STOP Act Will Help Combat Opioid Epidemic, Save Lives

Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor discussing the opioid epidemic gripping Ohio—and our country—and his bipartisan bill that will give law enforcement the tools they need to help identify and stop synthetic opioids from being shipped into the U.S. The Synthetics Trafficking & Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act is Portman-authored legislation designed to help combat addiction on the front end by giving law enforcement the tools to identify and stop dangerous synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and carfentanil from being shipped through the Postal Service to drug traffickers here in the United States.

A full transcript of his remarks can be found here and a video can be found here.

Friday, July 20 

Portman: Land Transfer Will Encourage Economic Development in Piketon 

Portman issued the following statement on the transfer of an 80-acre parcel of land from the Department of Energy to the Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative (SODI): 

“This 80-acre land transfer from the Department of Energy to SODI is a major milestone and hopefully the first of many. I’m appreciative to all who have worked hard to make this transfer possible. I look forward to the development that will take place on this location and to the positive economic impact it will have on the region. As we move forward, I will continue to fight for funding to fully clean up the Piketon site so it can be redeveloped.” 

Portman has worked every year to secure the funding necessary to continue the cleanup efforts at the Portsmouth site. Portman worked to secure an additional $30 million in the FY 2018 bipartisan funding agreement to fully fund cleanup at the Portsmouth plant, which was needed after Energy Secretary Rick Perry announced last spring that he would suspend the Department of Energy’s uranium barter program. Portman repeatedly called on the Obama Administration to uphold their promises to the Piketon community to provide adequate funding to avoid layoffs. 

In addition, after securing a commitment from Secretary Perry during his confirmation hearing to visit the Piketon site, Portman joined Secretary Perry in a visit to the site and the former American Centrifuge Project facility last September. Perry has committed to getting the site cleaned up and agreed to a request by Portman to re-evaluate the Obama Administration’s decision to end the domestic uranium enrichment demonstration program, acknowledging that having a domestic capability to enrich uranium is a national security issue. 

After Secretary Perry’s visit to the Portsmouth site last year and Senator Portman’s discussions with the Secretary about the importance of cleaning up the landfills and plumes at the site, the Department of Energy sent a letter (attached here) to Ohio EPA Director Butler guaranteeing that it would clean up the landfills and plumes at the site.  

Portman Welcomes DoD Release of $200 Million in Security Assistance for Ukraine 

Portman, co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, praised the Department of Defense’s release of $200 million in security assistance to fund additional training, equipment, and advisory efforts for Ukraine’s forces. Portman has led efforts in the Senate to ensure these Ukraine security assistance funds were authorized and obligated pending critical defense reforms at the Ukrainian parliament. This aid was contingent upon reforms including instituting civilian control of the military, cooperation and coordination with Ukrainian parliamentary efforts to exercise oversight of the Ministry of Defense and military forces, and improvements in sustainment capabilities, inventory management, and security of sensitive foreign technologies.  Portman visited Ukraine in April to see firsthand evidence of Russian aggression on the Eastern border, and pressed the Ukrainian parliament to pass these reforms.  In June of this year he met with Andriy Parubiy, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian parliament, to congratulate him on passing these important reforms. 

“This is good news, and it sends a clear message that America stands with the Ukrainian people in their struggle to secure a democratic, prosperous, and independent future in the face of Russian aggression,” said Portman.  “When I was in Ukraine in April, I pressed the Ukrainian parliament to pass these defense reforms, and the release of these funds marks another important milestone toward fulfilling America’s promise to stand with Ukraine. As co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, I have worked to author several provisions authorizing expanded U.S. military assistance — including lethal aid — and establishing the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.  I look forward to the full implementation of this bipartisan legislation to help the Ukrainians defend themselves against Russian aggression.”

  On Social Media

    Ohio’s national parks could get more than $100M in additional funding

Ohio’s national parks could get more than $100 million in additional funding for much needed renovations if a proposal introduced in the U.S. Senate in June is eventually signed into law by President Donald Trump.

Republican Sen. Rob Portman’s Restore Our Parks Act would alleviate a $12-billion backlog of deferred maintenance at areas overseen by the National Park Service. The billions in repair jobs that have been put off because of a lack of funding includes parks in every state, according to a listing of deferred maintenance.

It makes sense to try to address park maintenance now before it worsens and in turn costs taxpayers even more to repair, Portman told this news organization.

“I have had a long time concern about this,” Portman said. “I just never thought it was fair to let the infrastructure around these parks deteriorate like they are.”

The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park at 16 S. Williams St., would get more than $1.8 million if the proposal becomes law, according to Portman’s office. Repairs to the building that houses The Wright Cycle Co. is one of the “highest priorities” on the National Park Service’s list of deferred maintenance, meaning it would almost certainly get funding if some form of the bill becomes law, Portman.

…

  The William Howard Taft National Historic site in Cincinnati would get more than $2 million from Portman’s bill and the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe, 75 minutes from Dayton, would receive more than $2.1 million from Portman’s bill.

…

Ohio Cuyahoga Valley National Park would receive more than $45.8 million, the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument could get $1.9 million, the First Ladies National Historic Site may get $1.1 million and the James A. Garfield National Historic Site may be given nearly $719,000, according to Portman’s office.

Though there are still several legislative hoops for Portman’s parks bill to jump through, but the senator said he’s “hopeful” it’ll become law as it currently has the support of Democrats, Republicans and the White House.

“I’m really interested in getting funding for those kind of purposes,” Portman said. “With the exception to the Department of Defense, the parks have the most assets and a lot of them are falling apart.”

(Ohio’s national parks could get more than $100M in additional funding. Max Filby. Dayton Daily News. July, 15, 2018.)

  Toledo Shipyard receives grant

Ironhead Marine, the operator of Toledo’s Shipyard, received a nearly $800,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration, Sen. Rob Portman announced Thursday.

With the grant money, Ironhead intends to purchase a 150-ton off-road crane that will increase efficiency at the shipyard.

Senator Portman wrote a letter of support for Ironhead that helped it secure the grant.

“I’m pleased to see this grant awarded to Ironhead, and I’m happy that I could help support Toledo in this competitive grant process. By increasing the capacity of the Toledo Shipyard, this grant will boost the local economy of Toledo and Lucas County,” Senator Portman said.

(Toledo Shipyard receives grant. Blade Staff. Toledo Blade. July 19, 2018.)

  ###

from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/rob-s-rundown?ContentRecord_id=E0CC540D-96C6-423E-99A1-1BCA13D7F3FB

[deniseyallen]

Portman’s Bipartisan Bill Will Help Fund Long-Delayed Maintenance at Ohio’s National Parks

Recently, Senator Portman introduced the Restore Our Parks Act, bipartisan legislation that would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill, which has been praised by key stakeholders, would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development.  Notably, the measure would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park sites. Following are key excerpts from several Ohio media outlets:

“A bill backed by Ohio Sen. Rob Portman would bring more than $700,000 to Mentor’s James A Garfield National Historic Site. The Restore Our Parks Act aims at addressing the $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog at the National Park Service. Ohio would see nearly $103 million for its eight national parks, including $718,946 for the Garfield site.” – The News-Herald, July 15, 2018 

“Republican Sen. Rob Portman’s restore Our Parks Act would alleviate a $12-billion backlog of deferred maintenance at areas overseen by the National Park Service. The billions in repair jobs that have been put off because of a lack of funding includes parks in every state, according to a listing of deferred maintenance. ‘Just in general terms, deferred maintenance covers HVAC systems, sidewalk repairs, roofing repairs,’ said Kendell Thompson, new superintendent for Dayton’s historical park. ‘It’s stuff that just needs to be done as a part of a regular maintenance program. As projects are prioritized some will get funded and some will not.’” – Dayton Daily News, July 15, 2018 

“Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is on the list to benefit from a bi-partisan bill that help the National Parks make improvements….The bill would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog … Notably, the measure would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park site.” – Xenia Daily Gazette, July 13, 2018 

“The U.S. Senate Subcommittee on National Parks held a hearing Wednesday to consider a bill introduced by Sen. Rob Portman, R-Cincinnati, that could provide $1.17 million to the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton to cover the cost of backlogged maintenance projects.” – The Canton Repository, July 11, 2018 

“Portman introduced the Restore Our Parks Act in the U.S. Senate last week, according to his office. If passed by both houses of congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump, the bipartisan bill would address a long backlog of deferred maintenance at the country’s National Parks.” – Springfield News-Sun, July 11, 2018 

“As Hopewell Culture National Historical Park continues its march toward World Heritage designation, it may be in line for more than $2 million to tackle some backlogged park maintenance needs. On Wednesday, the National Parks Subcommittee of the U.S. Senate's Energy and Natural Resources Committee conducted a hearing on the Restore Our Parks Act. The legislation was introduced June 28 by Republican Sens. Rob Portman and Lamar Alexander, Democratic Senator Mark Warner and Independent Senator Angus King to address issues with overdue maintenance issues in national parks.”—Chillicothe Gazette, July 11, 2018

Portman, a lifelong outdoorsman and a frequent visitor to Ohio’s national parks, has long been a leader in the U.S. Senate in efforts to protect our national parks. He is the author of the National Park Service Centennial Act, legislation signed into law in 2016 that authorizes the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund and the Second Century Endowment Fund, two public-private partnerships that are already making a difference to provide more resources to maintain our parks.  Last year, Portman received the National Park Foundation’s Centennial Champion Award for his work on the National Park Service Centennial Act. He has previously received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award, the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Centennial Leader Award.

###

from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F8705EC7-95EB-48C7-87EC-3911E05AA306

[deniseyallen]

Rob’s Rundown: Week of July 9-13, 2018

This week, Senator Portman met with U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and praised his impressive background and exceptional qualifications as well as his character, compassion, and humility. Portman highlighted Judge Kavanaugh’s experience & qualifications for the Supreme Court on both the Senate floor and on Fox News. In addition, at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks hearing, Portman delivered opening remarks thanking his Senate colleagues for their support of his Restore Our Parks Act. Portman’s bipartisan legislation would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). Later in the week, U.S. Senators Portman, co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, and Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led a group of eight of their Senate colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution condemning the Russian Federation’s ongoing illegal occupation of Crimea. On Friday, Portman and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) hosted a field hearing on the looming multiemployer pension crisis in Columbus to hear directly from current workers and retirees who will be affected by the pension crisis if nothing is done. 

For a more detailed look at Senator Portman’s week, please see the following: 

Monday, July 9 

Portman Statement on the Nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to Serve on the U.S. Supreme Court 

Portman issued the following statement on the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court: 

“I look forward to considering the nomination of Judge Kavanaugh to serve as the next Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. The job of a Supreme Court justice is to fairly and impartially apply the law and to protect the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, not to advance public policy goals by legislating from the bench.  Judge Kavanaugh has an impressive background.  He is highly regarded as a fair-minded and independent judge and is clearly qualified to serve on the Supreme Court.  I look forward to meeting with him in the coming weeks as he goes through a fair and thorough evaluation process.”  

Tuesday, July 10 

In Advance of NATO and Trump-Putin Summits, Bipartisan Group of Senators Reiterate Importance of Continuing Sanctions on Russia for Invading Crimea 

U.S. Senators Portman, co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, and Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led a group of eight of their Senate colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution condemning the Russian Federation’s ongoing illegal occupation of Crimea. The bipartisan resolution comes ahead of President Trump’s scheduled trip to Europe, where he will attend a NATO Summit in Brussels as well as meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki. 

Affirming the Senate’s full support for the sanctions the United States and the European Union have imposed against Russia for its illegal occupation of Ukrainian territory, the senators’ resolution calls on the Trump administration to formalize a policy of non-recognition of Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. The United States adopted a firm non-recognition policy during the Cold War with the Welles Declaration, which condemned the forced annexation of the Baltic States by the Soviet Union.   

“The United States continues to stand with Ukraine against Russian aggression,” said Portman. “Crimea was illegally seized from Ukraine by Russia, and the United States must never recognize this illegitimate occupation. This violates not just the rights of the Ukrainian people, but also the fundamental principles of the international order that America has proudly led for more than 70 years. Crimea is part of Ukraine. Until Russia recognizes that fact and returns Crimea to Ukrainian control, the United States must maintain sanctions on Russia.” 

The Portman-Menendez resolution was co-sponsored by Senators Pat Toomey (R-PA); Dick Durbin (D-IL.); Marco Rubio (R-FL); Chris Coons (D-DE); Johnny Isakson (R-GA); Ed Markey (D-MA.); Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). 

A copy of the Senator’s resolution can be found HERE. 

On Fox News, Portman Discusses Judge Kavanaugh’s SCOTUS Nomination, Trade With China, and NATO Funding 

In an interview with Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto, Senator Portman discussed Judge Kavanaugh’s experience and qualifications for the Supreme Court. He also highlighted China’s unfair trade practices and expressed the need to hold them accountable for violating our trade laws. He also voiced his agreement with the administration that Europe should step up and contribute more to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).                                                                           

Excerpts of his interview can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Wednesday, July 11 

On Fox Business, Portman Highlights Judge Kavanaugh’s Experience & Qualifications for the Supreme Court 

In an interview with Fox Business, Senator Portman highlighted Judge Kavanaugh’s experience and qualifications for the Supreme Court. Portman worked with Judge Kavanaugh during service as a cabinet member in the Bush administration and has said he is clearly qualified to serve on the Supreme Court.                                                                            

Excerpts of his interview can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Portman, Udall, Burr, Coons, and Whitehouse Introduce DELTA Act to Protect the Okavango River Delta 

U.S. Senators Portman and Tom Udall (D-NM) introduced the Defending Economic Livelihoods and Threatened Animals (DELTA) Act, legislation that encourages the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in South Africa. Senators Richard Burr (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are also original cosponsors of this legislation. A similar bill in the House – introduced by Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY) – was recently approved by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and awaits action on the House floor. 

“As a co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, I believe we must confront the threats to wildlife and natural resources around the world, and I’m pleased to introduce this legislation to encourage the U.S. to develop a strategy to protect the Okavango River Delta in South Africa,” said Portman.  “The Okavango Delta is a precious water resource and serves as a critical habitat to some of the world’s most endangered species that continue to face a variety of threats from wildlife traffickers, poachers, and others. I am proud to protect this important resource and the people, wildlife, and ecosystems that depend on it, and I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to join me.” 

At Senate Hearing, Portman’s Bipartisan National Parks Bill Praised by Key Stakeholders 

At a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks hearing, Senator Portman’s bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act was widely praised by key stakeholders. Portman’s bipartisan legislation would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill would do so by establishing the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating half of the existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development up to $1.3 billion per year for the next five years.

This bipartisan legislation would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park sites listed below:

Ohio National Park Sites

Cost of Deferred Maintenance

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

$1,959,471

Ohio Cuyahoga Valley National Park

$45,813,356

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

$1,822,996

First Ladies National Historic Site

$1,170,601

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

$2,113,766

James A Garfield National Historic Site

$718,946

Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial

$47,747,223

William Howard Taft National Historic Site

$2,081,154

TOTAL

$103,427,512

Portman, a lifelong outdoorsman and a frequent visitor to Ohio’s national parks, has long been a leader in the U.S. Senate in efforts to protect our national parks. He is the author of the National Park Service Centennial Act, legislation signed into law in 2016 that authorizes the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund and the Second Century Endowment Fund, two public-private partnerships that are already making a difference to provide more resources to maintain our parks.  Last year, Portman received the National Park Foundation’s Centennial Champion Award for his work on the National Park Service Centennial Act. He has previously received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award, the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Centennial Leader Award.

At Meeting, Portman Offers Praise for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh 

Portman met with U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and praised his impressive background and exceptional qualifications as well as his character, compassion, and humility. Portman has known Judge Kavanaugh for more than 15 years, since they worked together in the George W. Bush administration. A transcript of his remarks at the beginning of the meeting can be found below and a video can be found here. 

“I’m delighted to have Judge Kavanaugh here in our office. I can’t think of anybody better qualified to be on the United States Supreme Court. He obviously has had a distinguished record. He now sits on the second highest court in the land and has earned the respect of judges across the spectrum. As important to me as his judicial philosophy and his incredible record and experience is that I know Brett Kavanaugh as a person. I’ve had the honor of getting to know him over the last 15 years or so. I worked with him in the second Bush White House. I got to see him in action. And I’ve seen a person with compassion, humility, he’s got a big heart. He talked about coaching his daughter’s basketball team, which, of course, a lot of us can relate to, but he also talked about delivering meals through his church to the homeless. And I talked to your priest, by the way. He also talked about the fact that he tutors underprivileged kids in elementary school. This is the Brett Kavanaugh I know. And as America gets to know him better through this process, people will be very impressed because he’s the kind of person you would want to have on the United States Supreme Court dealing with the tough issues the court will face. Thank you all for being here. Congratulations.” 

At Senate Hearing, Portman Highlights Strong Bipartisan Support for the Restore Our Parks Act 

At a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks hearing, Portman delivered opening remarks thanking his Senate colleagues for their support of his Restore Our Parks Act. Portman’s bipartisan legislation would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill would do so by establishing the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating half of the existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development up to $1.3 billion per year for the next five years. 

A transcript of his remarks can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Thursday, July 12 

At Hearing, Portman Expresses Concern Over the Lack of Clear Objectives in the Administration’s Trade Policy

At a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) expressed concern about the lack of clarity in the administration’s trade policy, urging the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs, Manisha Singh, to be clear and realistic about the United States’ objectives with our foreign trading partners. Portman also cautioned about the use of Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to enforce trade infractions from foreign countries like China. Section 232 is a measure used in conditions of national security, and Portman stressed the fact that misuse could result in trade wars with America’s allies, or loss of the tool entirely.

A transcript of his remarks can be seen here and a video can be found here. 

On Senate Floor, Portman Says SCOTUS Nominee Judge Kavanaugh Has “Great Compassion, Great Humility, and a Big Heart” 

Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor praising U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh and his impressive background and exceptional qualifications as well as his character, compassion, and humility. Portman has known Judge Kavanaugh for more than 15 years, since they worked together in the George W. Bush administration. He urged his colleagues on both sides of the aisle keep an open mind before making their final decisions. 

A transcript of his remarks can be found here and a video can be found here. 

On Senate Floor, Portman Urges Senate to Take Action on the Bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act 

Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor highlighting his Restore Our Parks Act. Portman’s bipartisan legislation would help address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill would do so by establishing the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating half of the existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development up to $1.3 billion per year for the next five years. 

A transcript of his remarks can be found here and a video can be found here. 

Friday, July 13

  In Columbus, Portman Hosts Field Hearing on Pensions Crisis

 Portman hosted a House and Senate Joint Select Committee on Solvency of Multiemployer Pensions Plans field hearing at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus. The hearing, “Understanding What’s at Stake for Current Workers and Retirees,” allowed members of the committee to hear directly from current workers and retirees who will be affected by the pension crisis if nothing is done. It follows a hearing in Washington, D.C., where the committee heard from contributing employers about the potential consequences to small businesses and the national economy if no action is taken. 

The bipartisan, bicameral committee has been tasked with finding a solution to the pension crisis immediately threatening 1.3 million Americans and thousands of small businesses around the country. Any solution the committee produces would be guaranteed an expedited vote in the Senate without amendments. 

Numerous Ohio pension plans, including the massive Central States Teamsters Pension Plan, the United Mine Workers Pension Plan, the Southwest Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters Pension Plan and the Bakery and Confectionary Union and Industry Pension Fund are currently considered in “critical status” and are projected to become insolvent. Absent proactive reforms from Congress, they will almost certainly fail, leaving millions of retirees with deep pension cuts from the levels they earned over decades of work. 

Following is Portman’s opening remarks as prepared for delivery and a video can be found here. 

On Social Media

    Portman lobbies for funding for First Ladies Historic Site

Sen. Rob Portman is seeking $1.17 million in federal park funding to cover the cost of maintainance projects at the First Ladies National Historic Site.

The U.S. Senate Subcommittee on National Parks held a hearing Wednesday to consider a bill introduced by Sen. Rob Portman, R-Cincinnati, that could provide $1.17 million to the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton to cover the cost of backlogged maintenance projects.

A National Park Service official and three representatives of nonprofit group testified in support of the bill in an afternoon meeting of the subcommittee that lasted less than two hours. The subcommittee is part of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Portman introduced the legislation on June 28. Six Republicans, three Democrats and independent Sen. Augus King of Maine, who caucuses with Democrats, are listed as co-sponsors.

  …

Portman’s office said the National Park Service has a backlog of $12 billion worth of deferred maintenance projects, including the First Ladies National Historic Site, which is a Park Service property.

A statement from Portman’s office said the legislation could help address the $103.43 million needed to fund maintenance projects at Ohio’s eight national park sites, which along with First Ladies also include the Ohio Cuyahoga National Park, the William Howard Taft National Historic Site, the James A. Garfield National Historic Site and the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

“I introduced the bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act because it’s critically important that we address the nearly $12 billion backlog of long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service,” Portman said in a statement. “Today’s hearing is a good first step in getting this bill through the Senate and ultimately to the President’s desk for his signature so that we properly maintain and protect our national parks for generations to come.”

(Portman lobbies for funding for First Ladies Historic Site. Robert Wang. Canton Repository. July, 11, 2018.)

Senate Takes Symbolic Step to Assert Power on Trade

With the Trump administration announcing a new round of tariffs on China, the Senate took a symbolic step Wednesday toward asserting its power over levies that President Donald Trump has already imposed.

The vote was viewed as a gauge of whether the GOP-controlled chamber had the appetite to try to rein in the party’s leader.

Mr. Trump has often sought to placate congressional critics by framing his trade measures as helpful to the Farm Belt, a GOP stronghold, tweeting from Europe on Wednesday that U.S. “farmers have done poorly for 15 years. Other countries’ trade barriers and tariffs have been destroying their businesses. I will open things up.”

Senators voted Wednesday, 88-11, to instruct the lawmakers appointed to iron out differences with the House over a spending bill to also insert a provision giving a role to Congress when the executive branch decides to impose tariffs on the basis of national-security concerns. The measure doesn’t offer any specifics about that role. 

… 

While the language adopted Wednesday is nonbinding, the vote—which was held the day after the U.S. announced planned tariffs of 10% on another $200 billion in Chinese goods—gave senators the ability to send a signal to the White House that a majority of senators are uncomfortable with the president’s path on tariffs.

Supporters expect that the vote Wednesday will lay the groundwork for stronger future action. Republican leaders such as Sen. John Cornyn (R., Texas) have said that Mr. Corker will receive a vote on a measure with more teeth to give Congress a say over national-security tariffs. Among the senators who plan to offer their own approaches is Sen. Rob Portman (R., Ohio). 

(Senate Takes Symbolic Step to Assert Power on Trade. Siobhan Hughes and Vivian Salama. Wall Street Journal. July 11, 2018.) 

  ###

from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/rob-s-rundown?ContentRecord_id=CA1685D7-B0E9-4015-822B-435780FD9297

[deniseyallen]

How Portman’s Bipartisan National Parks Bill Will Benefit Ohio

Last week, Senator Portman introduced the Restore Our Parks Act, bipartisan legislation that would address the nearly $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill, which has been praised by key stakeholders, would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating existing unobligated revenues the government receives from on and offshore energy development.  Notably, the measure would help tackle the more than $100 million maintenance backlog at Ohio’s eight national park sites, which is highlighted below: 

Ohio National Park Sites

Cost of Deferred Maintenance

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

$1,959,471

Ohio Cuyahoga Valley National Park

$45,813,356

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

$1,822,996

First Ladies National Historic Site

$1,170,601

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

$2,113,766

James A Garfield National Historic Site

$718,946

Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial

$47,747,223

William Howard Taft National Historic Site

$2,081,154

TOTAL

$103,427,512

  Portman, a lifelong outdoorsman and a frequent visitor to Ohio’s National Parks, has long been a leader in the U.S. Senate in efforts to protect our national parks. He is the author of the National Park Service Centennial Act, legislation signed into law in 2016 that authorizes the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund and the Second Century Endowment Fund, two public-private partnerships that will help preserve our national parks for generations to come.  Last year, Portman received the National Park Foundation’s Centennial Champion Award for his work on the National Park Service Centennial Act. He has previously received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award, the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Centennial Leader Award. 

###

  from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5BAB22A0-11E8-4F83-A8F1-105E422614EC

[deniseyallen]

Portman, Warner Introduce Legislation to Address National Park Service Backlog

NPS Has a $12 Billion Backlog in Deferred and Overdue Maintenance, New Legislation Builds on NPS Centennial Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the National Park Service Legacy Act, bipartisan legislation which would address the $12 billion maintenance backlog at the National Park Service (NPS). The bill has been endorsed by the National Parks Conservation Association, Pew Charitable Trusts, the Conservancy for Cuyahoga National Park, and many of Ohio’s leading chambers of commerce and tourism organizations.  Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association, the Lake Erie Shores & Islands, and Visit Canton.

“For more than a century, the National Park Service has been keeping America beautiful," Portman said. "But in order to keep that work going, we need to ensure that they have the right resources. Last year President Obama signed into law my National Park Service Centennial Act, which created two new public-private partnerships that will partially reduce the National Park Service's $12 billion maintenance backlog. This bill will create the Legacy Restoration Fund to provide the National Park Service with funds for deferred maintenance projects, including $75 million of deferred maintenance in Ohio’s eight national park sites. This legislation will set up the National Park Service for a second century of preserving American treasures like Cuyahoga Valley National Park."

“More than 100 years after the founding of the National Park Service, our park system remains in a critical state of disrepair. In fact, Virginia ranks 5th in the list of states with the greatest need for maintenance, with a backlog of nearly $1 billion,” said Sen. Warner. “While we’ve heard much talk here in Washington about infrastructure spending, a great way to begin this work is by helping in the revitalization of our public lands and the repair of critical roads and bridges, an investment which can generate $10 in economic activity for every public dollar invested. Our bipartisan legislation provides this needed investment by helping ensure that these historically diverse assets are preserved for future generations to enjoy. It also makes needed investments in NPS infrastructure, roads and bridges, like the Arlington Memorial Bridge, many of which are badly in need of repair.”

“Thanks to Senators Warner and Portman, we have a bill to address desperately needed repair projects in national parks from Yellowstone to Shenandoah to Cuyahoga Valley. The $12 billion maintenance backlog is an ever-growing challenge for our national parks, which welcomed a record-breaking 331 million visitors last year. This proposal will put our national parks on the right track. By investing in our national parks, we will not only start to tackle this backlog, but we will make our parks more resilient and prepared to continue welcoming visitors eager to explore our nation’s most important natural and historic places. Last year, the National Park Service celebrated its centennial. We can think of no better way for Congress to help our parks as they begin their second century than to approve this legislation,” said Theresa Pierno, President and CEO, National Parks Conservation Association.

“National parks continue to be our common ground. Senators Warner and Portman demonstrated leadership and foresight today by introducing legislation to ensure that our nation’s most significant historical and natural resources will be protected and that communities dependent on park tourism will continue to flourish,” said Marcia Argust, Director of Pew Charitable Trusts’ Restore America’s Parks project.

"Our national parks are highly valued by the American public and addressing their maintenance needs through this funding is important. The bill also supports the work of National Park Service friends groups by leveraging gifts from the public to accomplish even more improvements in parks. This investment in park infrastructure by the federal government and the public will make a difference in stewardship of park resources and in serving park visitors. I appreciate seeing the federal government fulfill its role as the owner of our national parks through the actions in this bill. It is also helpful to make it easier for the American public to support important projects in their national parks,” said Deb Yandala, Chief Executive Officer, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

NOTE: The National Park Service Legacy Act would establish the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating $500 million annually from existing revenues the government receives for oil and natural gas royalties until the maintenance backlog reaches zero.

For more information on this legislation, click here. Full text of the bill can be found here.

Some 2.6 million people visit the 12 Ohio national park service sites every year.

The $12.5 billion maintenance backlog includes $73 million for eight sites in Ohio.

Charles Young Buffalo Soldier National Monument (CHYO)

  $ 1,958,949

Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CUVA)

$ 40,824,920

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park (DAAV)

$ 565,274

First Ladies National Historic Site (FILA)

$ 222,440

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park (HOCU)

$ 491,998

James A Garfield National Historic Site (JAGA)

$ 687,276

Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial (PEVI)

$ 28,948,894

William Howard Taft National Historic Site (WIHO)

  $ 113,669

    Total ?

$ 73,813,420

In December, former President Obama signed into law Portman’s National Park Service Centennial Act – legislation that would provide the National Park Service with additional resources to help protect America’s national parks into its second century.  Portman’s work to preserve our national parks in the Senate continues his work as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, when he launched the National Parks Centennial Initiative in 2006. This initiative provided new public and private investment to prepare for the Centennial in 2016.

For his work to protect our national parks, Portman has received the 2012 NPCA Centennial Award and the 2015 Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award. Most recently, he received the National Parks Service Centennial Champion Award from Cuyahoga Valley National Park in July.

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from Rob Portman http://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6E78BB01-161A-475B-84F3-9B308D69A853