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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations and Subcommittee on Defense – today released the following statement after voting in favor of the Yemen War Powers Resolution, S.J. Res 7:
“The war in Yemen began four years ago this month, furthering tensions in the region and creating the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. More than 14 million Yemenis are on the brink of famine, and Yemen is home to one of the world’s worst cholera outbreaks in history. The United States’ involvement in providing support to Saudi Arabia – which was never properly debated or approved by Congress in 2015 – has prolonged needless suffering, and our engagement in this war must come to an end.
“I voted today to reassert Congress’s constitutional responsibility to authorize involvement in overseas conflicts and to bring an end to America’s participation in the war in Yemen. With this vote, the Senate took an important step to promote peace and security on the Arabian Peninsula.”
Items to Note:
- Last December, Sen. Moran voted in favor of the Yemen War Powers Resolution, S.J. Res 54, which passed the Senate 56-41.
- Sen. Moran has joined letters to the Administration expressing concern regarding the humanitarian impact of the siege of Hudaydah, Yemen, as well as questioning the certification of Saudi compliance with American law.
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Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation to Provide Aviation Stability During a Government Shutdown
Mar 13 2019
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced the Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019. This legislation would protect Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs and personnel and would provide stability for the U.S. aviation industry in the event of a government shutdown. The Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019 has also been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“Aviation is fundamental to the success of the Kansas economy, employing tens of thousands in our state while strengthening the ability of local businesses to compete in a global marketplace,” said Sen. Moran. “Critical functions at the FAA can be suspended during a shutdown, causing significant issues for aircraft manufacturers and regional airports, and – importantly – passengers needing to get to their next destination quickly and safely. Previous shutdowns have affected every function of aviation and air travel and have specifically harmed regional airports and put a strain on air traffic controllers nationwide. While I’ve long said that we must avoid government shutdowns, it is necessary to pass this legislation that would provide much-needed certainty to those who rely on the FAA.”
The Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019 would authorize the FAA to continue to draw from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF) during a lapse in government funding, with no general fund contributions. The AATF generates enough revenue independently to sustain all of the agency’s programs without a general fund contribution. In the event of a government shutdown, this legislation would allow the entire agency to operate at current funding levels, with no Congressional action necessary.
The Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019 is supported by a number of organizations including Air Line Pilots Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Airlines for America, Airports, Council International-North America, American Association of Airport Executives, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, Delta Air Lines, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Helicopter Association International, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, National Air Traffic Controllers Association, National Business Aviation Association, Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, Regional Airline Association, Transport Workers Union of America, Travelers United, the U.S. Travel Association and numerous other organizations.
Full text of the legislation can be found here.
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Sen. Moran Cosponsors ARTICLE ONE Act
Legislation would restore Congressional authority over emergency declarations
Mar 13 2019
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the Senate Appropriations Committee – released the following statement after cosponsoring the Assuring that Robust, Thorough, and Informed Congressional Leadership is Exercised Over National Emergencies (ARTICLE ONE) Act:
“The National Emergencies Act of 1976 cedes too much of Congress’s legislative and appropriations authority to the president. The ARTICLE ONE Act appropriately rebalances the law to restore Congressional authority over taxpayer funds, while still giving the president the ability to act quickly when facing a national emergency.”
The ARTICLE ONE Act was introduced by U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) and is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).
This legislation would restore to Congress significant legislative powers that were improperly given to the executive branch by the National Emergencies Act (NEA) of 1976. Specifically, the ARTICLE ONE Act would automatically end all future emergency declarations made pursuant to the NEA after 30 days unless Congress votes affirmatively to extend the emergency. Currently, Congress can cancel an emergency declaration only by passing a resolution that can withstand a presidential veto.
Full text of the legislation can be found here.
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U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation – questioned industry representatives on the impact of broadband investments in rural America during a Commerce Committee hearing on Tuesday, March 12, 2019.
Sen. Moran Measure to Improve & Modify Fort Scott National Historic Site Signed into Law
Mar 12 2019
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the president’s signing of the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act, which was included in S. 47, the Natural Resources Management Act, a package of over 100 bills relating to public lands, natural resources and water projects.
“I am pleased that the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act is law of the land, making certain that our state’s history will be kept alive for future generations,” said Sen. Moran. “I have enjoyed working with Fort Scott community leaders over the past several years to secure this boundary modification – it is because of their continued dedication and enthusiasm that this bill has finally crossed the finish line. I know that the Fort Scott National Historic Site will remain a point of pride for Kansans, and safe and enjoyable for visitors.”
“The Fort Scott National Historic Site is the heart of our community,” said City Manager Dave Martin. “We appreciate the support of President Trump, Senator Moran, Congressman Watkins, former Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, and the many other people that have worked on this expansion over the years. It’s a proud moment for the City of Fort Scott to see this accomplished and we look forward to the growth of the Fort created by this legislation.”
“The Fort Scott community acknowledges the diligence executed by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran to author legislation as the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act, included in S. 47, and see it through to passing and the signature of President Trump,” said Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lindsay Madison. “This is a great milestone for our site to protect and preserve the adjacent Lunette Blair Civil War Block House, and to acquire additional property to shelter staff and visitors in emergency weather conditions. The National Historic Site hosts over 25,000 visitors annually of all ages that will benefit from these improvements. Our community values the Fort as the cornerstone of our city, and it is impressive for the site to gain recognition on a national level.”
“We greatly appreciate the fulfillment of this milestone, as our Friends group continues to support the mission and programs at the National Historic Site,” said Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site’s Reed Hartford.
The Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act will improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site in Fort Scott, Kan. by allowing the care of the Lunette Blair Civil War Block House to be transferred to the National Park Service (NPS). Additionally, it will modify the site’s boundaries so future improvements can be made to enrich the quality of visitors’ experiences. Site managers indicated the location lacks an adequate public emergency shelter. Specifically, a shelter is needed in the event of severe weather to protect volunteers and regular visitors, such as local school children. The potential buildings in the site’s new boundaries could be used for other functions, such as an on-site storage area for artifacts currently stored outside the community due to space limitations, or as an educational center for visitors and local schools.
Items to note:
- On September 29, 2015, Sen. Moran introduced legislation to improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
- On January 23, 2017, Sen. Moran reintroduced legislation to improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
- Last month, the Senate passed the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act as part of the Natural Resources Management Act on a 92-8 vote.
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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement on the passing of Wichita State University President John Bardo:
“Working with President Bardo to advance the interests of students in Kansas and across the country has been a distinct pleasure, and his impact on Wichita State will be felt for generations to come. President Bardo was a public servant, believing wholeheartedly that as president of WSU, his job was to help students transform their lives and build meaningful careers that would have an impact on the Wichita region, Kansas and the country. Please join Robba and me in praying for the Bardo family and the entire Wichita family as we celebrate and reflect on President Bardo’s life.”
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Sens. Moran, Smith Reintroduce Bill to Make Life-Saving Orally Administered Cancer Medications More Affordable
Legislation Makes Certain Oral Drugs are Covered in Same Way as Traditional IV Chemotherapy
Mar 12 2019
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) today reintroduced the Cancer Drug Parity Act to bring down healthcare costs for cancer patients by making certain insurance companies cover orally administered cancer drugs in the same way as traditional intravenous (IV) chemotherapy.
“As the number of orally administered cancer drugs increase each year, patients ought to be able to immediately benefit from these medical advancements,” said Sen. Moran. “This sensible legislation would keep health insurance on pace with the latest cancer treatments, build on laws already implemented in 43 states and expand access to orally administered cancer drugs for 100 million individuals covered through group and individual health plans. I am a strong supporter of medical research to find new treatments, therapies and cures, and I will work to make certain these cutting-edge treatments can reach cancer patients and ultimately save lives.”
“Advances in cancer treatment have made it possible for Americans to get life-saving oral cancer medication. This means people can now take the life-saving medicine they need without having to leave their homes, and in a far less intrusive way than traditional IV chemotherapy,” said Sen. Smith. “But since oral cancer medications are self-administered, many people are having to shell out more dollars because this medication isn’t covered the same way as IV treatments. I’m reintroducing my bipartisan bill with Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas to put a stop to charging more for oral cancer drugs because we should be doing all we can to make life-saving cancer treatment more affordable for all Americans.”
“Science is dramatically changing the way cancer is treated. Even with these breakthroughs, too many cancer patients can’t access their treatments because insurance rules have not kept pace with innovation,” said Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., President and CEO of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. “The Cancer Drug Parity Act will eliminate the financial barriers that stand between many cancer patients and the breakthrough treatments that could save their lives. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society applauds Senator Smith and Senator Moran for their leadership on behalf of cancer patients and stands ready to work with Congress to move this important bill forward.”
Currently, over 40 states – including Kansas and Minnesota – and the District of Columbia have passed “oral parity” laws that stop insurers from charging more for prescribed orally administered cancer medicine than traditional (IV) chemotherapy. The Cancer Drug Parity Act would build on this work by expanding these protections at the federal level.
The Cancer Drug Parity Act would prevent insurers from covering oral and self-administered medicines at different cost sharing rates than traditional IV chemotherapy. It would not mandate that healthcare plans provide chemotherapy coverage, but rather only apply to plans already covering chemotherapy.
This bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).
The Cancer Drug Parity Act has broad support from a number of organizations, including AIM at Melanoma, American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network, American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation, Association of Community Cancer Centers, Association of American Cancer Institutes, Astellas Pharma US, CancerCare, Cancer Support Community, Celgene, Community Oncology Alliance, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer, Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE), Fight Colorectal Cancer, Genentech, Inc., Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association, International Myeloma Foundation, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, LUNGevity, Lymphoma Research Foundation, Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Co., Medical College of Wisconsin, National Brain Tumor Society, National Patient Advocate Foundation, Oncology Nursing Society, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, Patient Services, Incorporated, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Susan G. Komen, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-James Cancer Hospital and Richard J Solove Institute, WVU Medicine and Zero – The End of Prostate Cancer.
Items to note:
- A summary of the legislation can be found here, and full text of the bill can be found here.
- On December 12, 2018, Sens. Moran and Smith first introduced this legislation.
- On December 14, 2018, numerous organizations and individuals expressed their support for the Cancer Drug Parity Act.
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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – member of the Senate Appropriations Committee – today issued the following statement after President Trump released his budget request for FY2020:
“I am encouraged the president’s budget outline fully supports the implementation of the VA MISSION Act, includes a significant and well-deserved pay raise for our troops and bolsters border security and immigration enforcement at our ports of entry. I remain committed to working with President Trump to restore fiscal responsibility in Washington while keeping our country safe and secure.
“I am still assessing the president’s outline and I look forward to seeing his full budget next week – specifically as it pertains to programs under my Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies’ funding jurisdiction. As we gather more details and conduct oversight hearings with department and agency heads over the next several months, I will work with my colleagues and the administration in a bipartisan manner to fund the priorities most important to Kansans and Americans.”
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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jon Tester (Mont.) – members of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – today introduced their bipartisan Care and Readiness Enhancement (CARE) for Reservists Act to improve Guardsmen and Reservists’ access to consistent mental health services, regardless of their deployment status. Currently, members of the National Guard and Reserves undergo annual health assessments to identify medical issues that could impact their ability to deploy, but any follow-up care must almost always be pursued at their own expense.
“It is critical we provide our servicemembers every opportunity to access mental healthcare” said Sen. Moran. “Unfortunately, many National Guardsmen and Reservists struggle to receive mental healthcare when they are not deployed or drilling. This legislation will remove existing barriers to care for National Guardsmen and Reservists by allowing them to access readjustment counseling at VA Medical Centers and through VA mental health services. We have a duty to care for the men and women who bravely serve our nation, especially as it relates to mental illness and thoughts of suicide. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation that moves us closer toward delivering on this promise.”
"We’ve got to do everything we can to improve access to mental health care services for every man and woman who serves in uniform," said Sen. Tester. "Our bill will go a long way toward expanding mental health options for our citizen soldiers and airmen, particularly those in rural areas, and shows them we are serious about treating the invisible wounds of war."
The CARE for Reservists Act allows the Department of Defense to fund needed behavioral or mental healthcare, regardless of whether that reservist is within his or her pre-deployment window or has never deployed at all. Their bill also allows members of the Guard and Reserve to access Vet Centers for mental health screening and counseling, employment assessments, education training and other services to help them return to civilian life.
The CARE For Reservists Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
Full text of the legislation can be found here.
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