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Category Posts : Politics

Congressman Pittenger announces $1 million FEMA grant for Robeson

LUMBERTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today announced over $1 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency funding to assist with repairs to public buildings in Robeson County damaged by Hurricane Matthew. “Bureaucracy can move very slowly, as applications are checked and rechecked, but my office is in regular contact with FEMA to ensure Robeson County receives assistance as quickly as possible,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Today is just one more step in a process we started last October, and will continue until the job is done.” So far, FEMA has provided North Carolina with: * $100.8 million in Small Business Administration loans * $97.5 million in Individual Assistance * $195.4 million from the National …..

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Made in USA: Supporting American Jobs

By U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger North Carolina lost 400,000 manufacturing jobs between 2001 and 2015, or nearly 50 percent.  As I travel the 9th Congressional District, I regularly pass abandoned factories and the struggling communities left behind. Manufacturing is vital to North Carolina’s economy.  Yet overseas competition, unfair trade practices, and unnecessary regulations have caused a great loss in manufacturing and our overall economy.  This cannot continue. Surprisingly, some in the mainstream media chose to mock President Trump’s “Made in America Week.”  Apparently, the liberal elite doesn’t realize the heart and soul of America’s economy lies in America’s workers, American products, and the incredible American work ethic.  We should honor …..

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You Decide: Why Can’t We Get The Economy Just Right?

By Dr. Mike Walden My wife is a great cook, and she makes fabulous varieties of soups. My favorite is her lentil soup. It’s both tasty and healthy! Sometimes my wife and I disagree over the temperature of the soup. Remember the Goldilocks saying about the soup not being too hot or too cold, but instead being just right? Well, my wife and I don’t see eye-to-eye over what is the “just right” temperature for soup since she likes it hotter than me. There’s a parallel between the Goldilocks story, my wife’s soup and the economy. It’s that we’d like to get the economy “just right” for everyone but usually …..

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Tillis, Colleagues Move to Stop CFPB Arbitration Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, joined Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and his Republican colleagues to file a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Joint Resolution of Disapproval in the Senate against the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) arbitration rule. “Setting aside the looming questions surrounding the constitutionality, this CFPB rule is a boon to trial attorneys at the expense of American consumers,” said Senator Tillis. “The American people decided this past election that they were fed-up with decisions being made by unelected Washington bureaucrats, and I hope that my colleagues will stand up to this abuse of power by supporting …..

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Tillis Joins Colleagues Calling for Greater Retirement Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tom Cotton (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), Todd Young (R-IN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and David Perdue (R-GA) to urge Department of Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta clear the path for implementation of 401(k) auto portability that would make it easier for Americans to save for their future. Over the past four decades, Americans have cumulatively lost about $2 trillion in retirement savings due to not transferring their 401(k) retirement accounts when transitioning from one job to another. On average, approximately 14 million Americans change jobs each year, …..

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Congressman Pittenger Introduces Resolution To Block CFPB’S Effort To Benefit Trial Lawyers

WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and all 33 Republican colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee introduced a resolution of disapproval to nullify a controversial new rule benefitting trial lawyers at the expense of consumers. H.R. Res. 111, which Congressman Pittenger introduced in partnership with Congressman Keith Rothfus (PA-12), uses the Congressional Review Act to repeal the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new “anti-arbitration” rule. “According to CFPB’s own study, consumers recover 167 times more through arbitration than class action.  On average, consumers receive $32 in class action, while the attorney receives nearly $1 million,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Perhaps we should rename CFPB the ‘Trial Lawyers Protection Bureau,’ because this rule …..

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Tillis Co-Introduces Comprehensive G.I. Bill Reforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, co-introduced broad, bipartisan legislation that seeks to improve veterans’ education benefits and enhance the post-9/11 G.I. Bill. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 includes the following provisions originally introduced by Senator Tillis as standalone legislation: *The Veterans Education Experience Improvement Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation Tillis introduced with Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) that would improve veterans’ experience when using GI Bill education benefits and provide resources and training for the officials at educational institutions who serve student veterans, helping them achieve positive education outcomes. *The Veterans Education Relief and Reinstatement Act of 2017 , bipartisan legislation Tillis …..

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Tillis Co-Introduces Bill to Restore Regulatory Accountability

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) co-introduced the Separation of Powers Restoration Act (SOPRA), legislation that would restore accountability to the regulatory process and ensure proper judicial review, empowering the courts—not agencies—to interpret all questions of law, including both statutes and regulations. The Senate bill was also introduced by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Mike Lee (R-UT), James Lankford (R-OK), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kennedy (R-LA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Ben Sasse (R-NE). “One of the biggest challenges facing our nation is a large and cumbersome regulatory environment that negatively affects hardworking American families and business, and impedes our nation’s economic growth and potential,” Senator Tillis …..

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Tillis Senior Advisor Robert Wilkie Nominated as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, the White House announced that Robert Wilkie, senior advisor to Senator Thom Tillis, has been nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. Wilkie has served as Senator Tillis’ senior advisor since he took office in 2015, advising him on national security and military issues. Tillis currently serves as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, which handles all quality of life issues for servicemembers and military families. Wilkie previously served as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs under Robert Gates and Donald Rumsfeld. He also served as Special Assistant to President George W. Bush for National Security Affairs and …..

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Tillis Statement On Senator John McCain

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on his friend and colleague, Senator John McCain: “John McCain is an American hero and a fighter through and through. Courage and fearlessness have always defined his distinguished career of public service. Susan and I join all North Carolinians in praying for Senator McCain’s recovery and return to the United States Senate.” Share:

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Hester, Myers file for seats on Clarkton board

Incumbent Jerome Myers was one of two men who filed for seats on the Clarkton Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, joining incumbent Tim Tart in the race for the two seats available. Stephen Wayne Hester also filed for the Clarkton commissioners race Tuesday, according to Gina Ward, who is the deputy director for Bladen County Board of Elections. The filings bring the total to 17 candidates for municipal elections set Nov. 7. However, several races still lack candidates, don’t have enough candidates to fill available seats or have only the minimum amount of candidates to fill available seats. Deadline to file is noon Friday at the Bladen County Board of …..

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Congressman Pittenger announces $1.9 million Fayetteville airport grant

WASHINGTON – Fayetteville Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today announced a $1,925,763 grant for the Fayetteville Regional Airport terminal expansion project.  The grant will be used toward the demolition of the existing Concourse A and construction of the new Concourse A. “Fayetteville’s airport is vital to economic expansion throughout the region, as well as providing local families and the families of our soldiers at Fort Bragg with convenient travel options,” said Congressman Pittenger (NC-09).  “As Fayetteville’s Congressman, I am committed to advocating for local priorities in Washington, and listening closely to the concerns of residents and local leaders.” The U.S. Department of Transportation previously provided a $10 million grant to launch the airport upgrade …..

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Gov. Roy Cooper encourages EPA to set limits for GenX

The recent findings of GenX and other contaminates in the Cape Fear River between Fayetteville and Wilmington, have led to a request from state officials to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to tighten limits. Federal officials must set limits for GenX and other emerging contaminants so that North Carolina can permanently control its discharge and ensure the safety of its drinking water, Governor Roy Cooper today told the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. In a letter to EPA Administrator E. Scott Pruitt, Gov. Cooper asked the EPA to move more quickly to finalize its health assessment and set a maximum contaminant level for the unregulated chemical GenX. “When we turn on …..

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Tillis Statement on DHS’ H-2B Visa Interim Final Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced its intention to provide up to 15,000 additional H-2B visas under an interim final rule that it will submit to the Federal Register. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) has been leading bipartisan efforts in Congress to ensure American small businesses have access to temporary, seasonal workers they need to sustain their businesses and support American jobs. Tillis has been directly advocating the Department of Homeland Security to provide additional visas for FY2017. In May, Senators Tillis and Angus King (I-ME) led a bipartisan and bicameral letter to the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Labor urging them to take “swift and decisive …..

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Freeman named as director of Office of Staff Development and Training

RALEIGH – The Division of Adult Correction and Juvenile Justice has named Stephanie Freeman as the director of its Office of Staff Development and Training (OSDT). Freeman is returning to OSDT after serving as its curriculum manager from 2007 to 2014. Most recently, she worked for the North Carolina Judicial Branch as its organizational development manager. She has prior experience as a training specialist at the NC Department of Justice with both the Sheriffs’ Education & Training Standards Commission and the Criminal Justice Education & Training Standards Commission. Freeman has also instructed at NC Wesleyan College and Sandhills Community College. Currently, she serves as president of the North Carolina Law …..

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Tillis & Burr Welcome Nomination Of Bobby Higdon As U.S. Attorney

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at the recommendation of North Carolina Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, President Trump announced his intention to nominate Bobby Higdon to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Higdon has a long and decorated career as a federal prosecutor, handling many high profile cases. He also has significant management experience as former criminal chief in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Higdon earned his law degree from the Wake Forest School of Law. He is currently a partner at Williams Mullen and resides in Cary, North Carolina. “Bobby Higdon is an incredibly qualified choice for U.S. Attorney, holding decades of …..

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ROUZER STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF FY2018 NDAA

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer released the following statement following the passage of Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act, an authorization bill considered by Congress every year to set funding levels for the military to continue its operations and remain a global leader: “It is the duty of Congress to ensure our military and troops have the necessary funding and resources to defeat terrorism, combat the growing security threats we face in the world and keep our homeland safe.  During the past several years, our military has just been getting by – enduring major annual cuts to their budgets as our world becomes a much more dangerous place.  Our …..

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Senators Tillis & Coons Statement on the Passing of Liu Xiaobo

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Co-Chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, released the following joint statement in response to the death of Chinese dissident and recipient of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize Liu Xiaobo: “As chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, we mourn the passing of Nobel Peace laureate Liu Xiaobo, who dedicated his life to advancing democracy in China through non-violence.  We also call on the Chinese government to end the house arrest of Liu Xiaobo’s wife, Liu Xia, and to ensure her freedom of movement. We are reminded that in his final statement before being sentenced to 11 years …..

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Making America Safe Again

By U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger Did you know only 50 percent of U.S. Air Force planes are combat ready? That’s not all.  Only 50 percent of Marine Corps and Navy training equipment is functional, and only 3 of 58 Army brigades are ready for combat.  Today, our military’s readiness is at the lowest level since before World War Two. This is a security crisis. Defending America is my number one Constitutional duty.  Military budget cuts by former President Obama put our country at risk against increasing foreign threats including ISIS, North Korea, Iran, and cyberattacks.  We must appropriately increase defense spending to restore our military. That’s why this week, I …..

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Tillis Discusses FBI Director Nominee Wray, Election Meddling on Fox News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) appeared on Fox News Channel to discuss the hearing for Christopher Wray to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the importance of the FBI maintaining its independence, and the need to counter election meddling. Download video of Senator Tillis’ interview HERE. Tillis on the Judiciary Hearing for Christopher Wray on Wednesday: “I think he did an extraordinary job in the committee and will be confirmed. We have already heard Democrats have come out and said that they are going to support him and I think we will move fairly quickly. He’s held over until next week and then he will be moved …..

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U.S. HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER’S AMENDMENT TO PUNISH SUPPORTERS OF NORTH KOREAN CYBERATTACKS

WASHINGTON – This morning, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved Congressman Robert Pittenger’s amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2810) to crack down on international businesses that support North Korean cyberattacks. “My amendment is simple – it prohibits telecommunications companies that provide material support for North Korean cyberattacks from contracting with our Defense Department,” said Congressman Pittenger (NC-09) during floor debate.  “While my amendment is simple in nature, it strikes at the heart of what I believe to be the cornerstone of North Korea policy. “For far too long, China has enabled the North Korean government to pursue nuclear development, global provocation, and egregious human rights violations.  The Chinese government is simply …..

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Tillis on Fox Business: American Businesses and Workers Will Be Harmed If H-2B Program Isn’t Fixed

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) appeared on Fox Business Network to discuss the need to fix the temporary visa program to assist American businesses and workers. Download video of Senator Tillis’ interview HERE. Tillis on the consequences of not fixing the H-2B program: “The fact of the matter is, there are positions that aren’t going to be filled, businesses that are going to be harmed, and American workers that will be harmed if we don’t start getting these work visas right. Incidentally, when we go back to the administration, we should keep in mind now President Trump, then candidate Trump, pointed to this as being a problem. Temporary workers, …..

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Tillis & Kaine Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Education Experience and Outcomes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced bipartisan legislation that would improve veterans’ experience when using GI Bill education benefits. The Veterans Education Experience Improvement Act of 2017 would provide resources and training for the officials at educational institutions who serve student veterans, helping them achieve positive education outcomes. “For too long, Congress has tasked officials with ensuring that student veterans have successful outcomes when using their VA Education Benefit, but have not committed the necessary resources required to ensure success,” said Senator Tillis. “The bipartisan legislation I have introduced with Senator Kaine ensures that those who serve our veterans are properly trained, resourced, and have a manageable workload …..

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Tillis & Burr Welcome Nomination Of Thomas Farr As District Judge For Eastern District Of North Carolina

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at the recommendation of North Carolina Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, President Trump announced his intention to nominate Thomas Farr to fill the United States District Court vacancy for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Mr. Farr has extensive experience and is extremely qualified. He has tried cases in federal and state courts in North Carolina and has handled appeals at all levels of the North Carolina appellate courts, the Fourth and Sixth Circuit Courts of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. In 2006, Mr. Farr was nominated by President George W. Bush to fill the very same vacancy on the U.S. District Court, and the American …..

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Tillis Statement On Revised Version Of Better Care Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after text of the updated version of the Senate’s Better Care Act was released: “I look forward to carefully reviewing the changes made to the Better Care Act. From what I’ve already seen, major improvements have been made, including a significantly bigger investment to combat and treat opioid addiction, and more funding to help control the rising costs of premiums for individuals and families. “I’m pleased that Senate leaders have committed to an open amendment process, which will allow all senators – Republicans and Democrats alike – to propose additional improvements to the legislation. I hope my colleagues …..

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Congressman Pittenger Honors contributions Laurinburg-Maxton Air Base and Scotland County during WWII

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives in honor of Laurinburg-Maxton Army Air Base, which played a vital but little-known role in World War Two. C   “From 1942 to 1945, Scotland County helped prepare glider pilots for the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and Italy.  Generals Dwight Eisenhower and George Marshall visited the base during the war to observe glider training.   “On June 6, 1944, when more than 160,000 Allied troops landed during the invasion of Normandy, glider pilots trained in Scotland County were among the vanguard as American soldiers silently soared down the French coastline through thick fog, powered only by the …..

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Governor Cooper Signs Domestic Violence Prevention Bills Into Law

RALEIGH: Joined by members of Britny Puryear’s family, Governor Roy Cooper signed several domestic violence prevention bills into law today. Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 600: Britny’s Law: IPV Homicide, House Bill 343: Enforcement of Domestic Violence Protection Order on Appeal, and House Bill 399: Stop Images Taken Without Consent From Dissemination into law. In 2014, Britny Puryear was shot and killed by her boyfriend who was her child’s father. Puryear’s family worked with members of the General Assembly and domestic violence prevention community to get Britny’s Law passed. “Domestic violence is a crime that destroys families and lives,” said Gov. Cooper. “These new laws give survivors of domestic violence more ways to protect …..

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Tillis Questions FBI Nominee Wray On Russian Meddling, Equitable Sharing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, attended the nomination hearing for Christopher Wray to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During the hearing, Senator Tillis stated his intention to support Wray’s confirmation. Senator Tillis questions Wray on the FBI’s role in countering Russian meddling: “I don’t think there’s anyone in Congress who would doubt that Russia meddles in elections, they have been meddling in elections for a long time. The emergence of the cyber domain has amplified their ability to do it more quickly and on a broader basis. Beyond what is already under investigation, do you have any sense of …..

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Bladen County, Local mayor election has three candidates

Last Friday, July 7th, 2017, Bladen County Board of Elections opened its doors to local citizens wanting to file for candidacy during the up coming municipal election. This election one local Bladen County town will have at least three candidates to choose from for Mayor. According to the Bladen Board of Elections Candidate Detail List Bladenboro has three citizens filed to run for Bladenboro Mayor. The first to file for the seat of Bladenboro Mayor was Kenneth Charles Kelly. Next to file for the seat was the incumbent Mayor, Rufus Ralph Duckworth III. The coveted seat gained another candidate by the name of Larry Waitus Simmons as of Tuesday, July …..

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HURRICANE MATTHEW FUNDING UPDATE

WASHINGTON – Today Congressman Robert Pittenger sent the following update to local leaders regarding the latest on Hurricane Matthew funding, along with assurances from Appropriations Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen that more help is on the way: Thus far from FEMA, North Carolina has received: $100.8 million in Small Business Administration loans $97.5 million in Individual Assistance $195.4 million from the National Flood Insurance Program $104.7 million in Public Assistance projects   With additional projects in the pipeline, we anticipate approximately: $200 million in Public Assistance  $75 million in Hazard Mitigation Grants The above amount will total more than $750 million from FEMA. In addition, Congress specifically appropriated $334 million for North Carolina last …..

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Dublin voters to decide on malt beverages, unfortified wine sales 

Voters in the town of Dublin will not only voting to elect who will represent them on the town board, they will also be deciding whether to allow the sale of malt beverages and unfortified wine.  The town submitted a resolution to the Bladen County Board of Elections requesting the item be added to the November 7, 2017, ballot.  Mayor Horace Wyatt said if the measure is approved, the town would receive some tax revenue from the measure, but it would be, “very little.” The resolution reads: Malt Beverage Election To permit the “on-premises” sale only of malt beverages. For or Against To permit the “off-premises” sale only of malt beverages. For …..

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New Tory Hole Park Playground Approved by Elizabethtown Town Council

By Joy Warren Elizabethtown Town Council conducted general business matters during the rescheduled Town Board meeting on Monday night. Rod Fritz, Parks and Recreation Director presented bids for the playground equipment at Tory Hole Park. The low bid was for $82,421.55 from Cunningham Recreation. Council approved the low bid award. The equipment is part of an ongoing renovation project at Tory Hole and the playground equipment is funded through the NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. A parcel of property that stands vacant on West Broad Street located beside Southern Professional Counseling was declared surplus property and will be advertised by sealed bids. Jay Leatherman, Finance Director recommended a Merit …..

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Bladenboro Board rejects proposed change to utility policy

The Bladenboro Town Board met on Monday and voted 4-1 not to change the town’s utility policy with regards to water leaks. Town Commissioner Sarah Benson introduced the topic to the board when she asked Town Administrator John O’Daniel how many water adjustments the town issues in a year. “We don’t keep track of water. I was able to find some numbers on how many sewer adjustments we do,” said O’Daniel. “How many of those have we done?” asked Benson. O’Daniel said in the past year, the town has issued 38 sewer adjustments.  Town Commissioner Benson asked O’Daniel how many of those were water adjustments. O’Daniel replied none of the …..

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Bladen County GOP meeting

By: Jane Pait, GOP Secretary The July planning meeting will be held Monday, July 17, 6:00 pm, San Jose Restaurant, Elizabethtown, NC.  Please plan to join us.  We look forward to seeing you on the 17th. Share:

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Bladen County Elections coming, Candidates file

UPDATE Candidates for the upcoming municipal elections are making their intentions known by filing for candidacy with the Bladen County Board of Elections. As of 4:45 p.m. Monday, three more candidates have added their names to those who have already filed. They are: BLADENBORO MAYOR: LARRY WAITUS SIMMONS, 509 4TH STREET, BLADENBORO, 910-874-0778 BLADENBORO TOWN COMMISSIONER: KENNETH RODNEY HESTER, 116 LEE STREET, BLADENBORO, 910-876-7329 CLARKTON TOWN COMMISSIONER: JAMES TIM TART, 34 S. ELM STREET, CLARKTON, 910-640-8530 Candidates have until 12 noon on Friday, July 21, to file for elected office. Friday, July 7 If the weather on the first day of election filing is any indication of how the election …..

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105 bills passed and Bladen and other counties affected

Contributed National newscasts seem obsessed with drama and intrigue.  While Americans are being fed a steady diet of overdone outrage, my House Republican colleagues and I have been hard at work, turning in a busy and productive first six months of 2017.  Let’s take a look. Did you know the U.S. House of Representatives has passed more than 150 bills this year?  No, I didn’t hear that on the news, either.  Did you know that President Trump has signed 43 bills into law? Just before July 4th, we took action to crack down on “sanctuary cities” by passing the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act, which withholds certain federal grants from …..

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To all Bladen County Democrats and other concerned voters

Submitted by Ben Snyder, Bladen County Democrat Party Chair This Saturday, July 8, Christian Cano, a democrat and a candidate for US Congress House of Representatives, will be at the Farmer’s Market Complex in Elizabethtown beginning around10:00 a.m.   Christian will not be there to deliver a political speech.  He will be there to meet and listen to any and all potential voters and/or concerned citizens.  Christian is running for the District 9 Seat in the US Congress and, if successful in the Democratic Primary in 2018, will run against the incumbent Robert Pittenger or whomever wins the GOP Primary. For those who have concerns about the thousands of North Carolinians …..

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NC09 Christian Cano (D) Releases 2017 Summer Neighbor Town Hall Tour

Charlotte, NC, 06Jul2017- The North Carolina Congressional District 09 Candidate (D) Christian Cano releases an updated 2017 summer event tour schedule:   Fri        07Jul17  TBA                      Supporting MeckDem Progressive Candidate BOE filing                              Mecklenburg County Fri        07Jul17 No Media              *Private Event “53K impacted by AHCA”                                                                    Union County Fri        07Jul17 No Media              *Private Event “Radical Religious Fundamentalist and National Security Fri        07Jul17 1800-2000             The Main Table, Laurinburg                                                                                                 Scotland County Sat       08Jul17 1000-1200             106 M.L.K. Jr. Drive, Elizabethtown                                                                          Bladen County Sat       08Jul17 No Media              Hurricane Matthew neighborhood update Sat       08Jul17  1500-1700            Starbucks                                                                                                                   Robeson County Sat       08Jul17  No Media             …..

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Candidate Filing Begins Friday for 2017 Elections

RALEIGH, N.C. – Candidate filing for local elections across North Carolina begins at noon Friday (July 7) and runs through noon Friday, July 21. Local elections are held between September and November, depending on the rules governing particular types of election contests. This year, more than 1,000 contests will be held across the state. “We hope that many candidates sign up to run for local office over the next two weeks and that voters across the state make sure they are registered to cast ballots in their hometown elections,” said Kim Westbrook Strach, executive director of the Bipartisan State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement. Candidates for local office must file notices of candidacy with the proper …..

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STRIKING BACK: CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO PUNISH FIRMS THAT SUPPORT NORTH KOREAN CYBERATTACKS

CHARLOTTE – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) introduced legislation to crack down on international businesses that support North Korean cyberattacks.    “If you have willingly provided essential services to North Korea in support of their malicious cyberattacks, then you should not be allowed to do business with the Defense Department.  This is simple and straightforward, but also necessary because of countries such as China who attempt to play both sides,” said Congressman Pittenger.   Congressman Pittenger’s amendment to the FY2018 National Defense Authorization Act:   ·       Directs the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) to create a list of telecom firms who provide essential services or who have been otherwise complicit …..

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Governor Cooper Continues Fight Against Opioid Crisis, Signs STOP Act into Law

Gov. Cooper joined by bipartisan group of state officials, legislators for signing ceremony at State Capitol Governor Roy Cooper today signed House Bill 243, the STOP Act, into law in a ceremony at the North Carolina State Capitol. “Opioid addiction and overdose have ravaged the physical and mental health of thousands of North Carolinians, hurting our people and our economy, and we’re taking action to fight it,” Cooper said. “With this legislation and the new State Opioid Action Plan, we’re taking important first steps to stem the opioid epidemic.” The STOP Act, which stands for the Strengthen Opioid Misuse Prevention Act, seeks to help curb epidemic levels of opioid drug …..

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Tillis & Blumenthal Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Protect Veterans’ Education Benefits

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), along with U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-MT), Todd Young (R-IN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Dean Heller (R-NV) introduced bipartisan legislation that would provide relief to veterans whose Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits are affected by the permanent closure of certain educational institutions.   In 2016, ITT Technical Institutes filed for bankruptcy and closed all 136 campuses in 38 states – after receiving $917 million in Post-9/11 GI Bill funds – leaving student veterans stranded and unable to reallocate education benefits elsewhere. The Veterans Education Relief and Reinstatement Act (VERRA) would expand the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER SPEAKS TO OVER 100,000 AT PRO-DEMOCRACY #FreeIran RALLY

  CHARLOTTE – Earlier today, Congressman Robert Pittenger spoke to over 100,000 people at the pro-democracy “Grand Gathering of Iranians for #FreeIran” rally in Villepinte, France.    Click here for full video of Congressman Pittenger’s speech to over 100,000 people at an Iranian pro-democracy rally in France.    “When our forefathers met 241 years ago, they pledged their lives, their fortune, their sacred honor, for a Declaration of Independence, for a new America.  Yes, from that, we found Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, and that’s what we want for Iran today,” said Congressman Pittenger (NC-09), who serves as Chairman of the Congressional Task Force on Terrorism and Unconventional …..

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Tillis Joins Group Of Senators Calling For Senate To Cancel August Recess To Make Progress On Major Issues

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) today joined Senators David Perdue (R-GA), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Luther Strange (R-AL), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in asking Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to cancel the Senate’s scheduled August state work period if meaningful progress has not been made on fixing health care, funding the government, dealing with the debt ceiling, passing a budget resolution, and improving our tax code.  The senators outlined their request in a letter sent to Leader McConnell, which included a countdown of the remaining scheduled work days until the end of the fiscal …..

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Tillis Co-Sponsored Bill to Ease Requirements on Military Members Seeking Commercial Driver’s Licenses Passes Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) that streamlines and eases the burden on the process whereby active-duty military, reservists and veterans apply for their commercial driver’s license passed out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. “The brave men and women that serve in the U.S. military learn a wide-range of skills applicable to jobs once they enter the civilian workforce, but too often face unnecessary barriers that makes it harder for them to find jobs,” said Senator Tillis. “I applaud my colleagues for advancing this legislation that allows our active-duty military, reservists, and …..

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Congressman Pittenger recognizes 250th anniversary of Providence Presbyterian

WASHINGTON – Wednesday, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives in recognition of the 250th anniversary of Charlotte’s Providence Presbyterian Church.   “Founded by Ulster Scots in 1767, the church was named ‘Providence’ to express the founders’ firm trust in the faithfulness of God to work all things for His purpose. “Members of Providence Presbyterian were part of the combative North Carolina militia, the ‘Hornet’s Nest,’ which courageously opposed Lord Cornwallis during the Revolutionary War.  For over 140 years, the church sponsored all schools in the community, and in the 1850s, established Providence Female Academy, which was one of the few schools for women in the South.  The church …..

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Hurricane Disaster Relief Funds On the Way

Raleigh, N.C. – The North Carolina House of Representatives voted to send Senate Bill 338 – Disaster Recovery Act of 2017 – to Governor Roy Cooper’s desk with a vote of 116 – 0. This legislation appropriates $100 million for disaster relief efforts across the state, primarily to address remaining Hurricane Matthew damages but also includes damages caused by western wildfires. “Since the moment Hurricane Matthew devastated much of eastern North Carolina late last year, it has been my top priority as a representative of District 10 and eastern North Carolina to work with other state and local officials to provide relief to those communities that were hit the hardest, …..

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Tillis Secures NDAA Provisions To Fund Upgrades To NC Military Installations And Improve Quality of Life For Servicemembers and Military Families

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced that he has secured several key provisions in the FY2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that will make critical improvements to Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, provide an across the board pay raise for servicemembers, and implement important reforms that will make life easier for military families. Senator Tillis chairs the Personnel Subcommittee, which has oversight over half of the Pentagon’s budget. On a bipartisan basis, Senator Tillis and his subcommittee colleagues pushed through an across the board 2.1% pay raise for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines. The subcommittee also championed major changes in TRICARE that would benefit …..

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REALITY CHECK:  Analysis Of CBO Score Shows Only 2 Million Fewer In Individual Market By 2026

  CBO score based on last year’s projections WASHINGTON – Much of the current debate on the American Health Care Act and Better Care Reconciliation Act focuses on a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) score showing 22 million more Americans without health coverage by 2026. However, a new analysis by Forbes contributor Josh Archambault reveals a surprising omission. “The House and Senate were given a CBO score based on old numbers,” said Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09).  “The CBO score is based on an inaccurate 2016 estimate of how many Americans will purchase Obamacare.  If you use their January 2017 update, Republican legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare would result in only …..

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Congressman Pittenger Meets with Speaker Ryan to Discuss Pro-Life Provisions of Health Care Reform

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and other leaders of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus met with House Speaker Paul Ryan (WI-01) to discuss key pro-life provisions in proposed legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare.   “Both the American Health Care Act and the Senate’s proposed health care reform include major victories for the pro-life community, defunding Planned Parenthood and keeping your tax dollars from being used to support abortion,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “We are grateful for Speaker Ryan’s pro-life leadership, and met today to discuss the importance of retaining these provisions in the final bill.  As a committed pro-life leader, I will keep this issue at the forefront.” Share:

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Congressman Pittenger on Travel Ban Reinstatement

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) had this statement following the Supreme Court’s decision to reinstate key parts of President Trump’s travel ban in the name of national security: “The Supreme Court today performed a solemn duty too often ignored by lower courts.  They issued a ruling based on the law, not on political activism.  Ordinary Americans already knew what the Supreme Court today reminded the lower courts:  The federal government and the President have responsibility for national security, and a thorough vetting of refugees is part of that responsibility.” Congressman Pittenger serves as Chairman on the Congressional Task Force on Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare and Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee …..

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Tillis Co-Sponsored Legislation Strengthening VA Accountability Signed Into Law

Friday, June 23, 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, applauded the President for signing the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act into law. The bipartisan legislation co-sponsored by Senator Tillis will reform the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by allowing the secretary to dismiss bad employees and ensure appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers. “This bipartisan legislation will give the VA the long-overdue authority to remove bad actors and put the people in place we need to give veterans the care they need and deserve,” said Senator Tillis. “While the majority of employees at …..

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JOBS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

Did you know there are currently more than 6 million job openings nationwide? That’s the highest level since Washington started tracking this data in 2000. Unfortunately, many of these jobs remain unfilled because of the current “skills gap” in our labor force. With a rapidly-changing economy, too many otherwise capable students and workers haven’t received the right training for in-demand, 21st century jobs. Part of the problem is that in Washington’s swamp, federal job training programs haven’t been updated in over a decade. This week, we took steps to help drain the swamp by passing multiple, bipartisan pieces of legislation to address the skills gap and equip local workers to …..

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Tillis Statement On The Senate Health Care Discussion Draft

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after the text of the Senate’s health care discussion draft was released: “Health care is a critically important issue that affects every single American, and I’ve heard countless stories from North Carolinians who have had their lives upended by Obamacare, from hardworking parents unable to afford skyrocketing premiums to insure their families to small business owners who have been forced to cut hours or even let go of employees because of the law’s costly mandates. As I’ve said repeatedly, any replacement plan must be a net improvement over Obamacare, and I look forward to carefully reviewing the …..

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Governor Cooper signs bill which could help counties with infrastructure needs

A bill recently signed by Governor Roy Cooper could help counties like Bladen County to pay for certain types of infrastructure projects. NC House Bill 158 gives counties the authority to issue special assessments to benefitted properties to help pay for infrastructure needs. The bill will benefit counties like Bladen County as it authorizes counties use private funds and issue the special assessment to repay those funds. Governor Cooper signed the following bills this week: House Bill 59: An Act to Make Technical Changes to the Revenue Laws House Bill 158: An Act Authorizing Cities and Counties to Provide for the Payment of All or a Portion of the Cost …..

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Congressman Pittenger Votes To Increase Funding For Job Training In Rural Communities

WASHINGTON – As part of continuing efforts to increase economic opportunity in rural North Carolina communities, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) today voted to increase federal funding for Career and Technical Education in rural areas. The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 2353): ·        Increases from 10% to 15% the amount of federal funds states can set aside to assist eligible students in rural communities. ·        Provides states more flexibility to focus training programs on in-demand jobs. ·        Focuses federal Career and Technical Education funding on local needs by incorporating input from local educators, parents, students, workforce development boards, community leaders, and local businesses in the …..

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Tillis: We Need To Tune Out Far Left and Far Right on Border Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, attended a hearing regarding the MS-13 gang and its role in illegal immigration along the southern border. Senator Tillis on need to effectively secure the border: “I think if we, up here, listen to what the Border Patrol are saying, there’s a way to secure the border. And there’s a way to do it that will make the officers operate in a safer environment. And I think that we need to dispense with the ‘we don’t need borders, we need bridges’ discussion at one end of the spectrum, and the other end of the spectrum …..

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Strong Debate at the Bladen County GOP Club Monthly Meeting

Monday evening’s Bladen County GOP Club meeting offered area Republicans an opportunity to review and contrast the differences between the secular-socialist agenda of Barack Obama, with that of the accomplishment-driven presidency of Donald Trump. Nationwide, it is clear that conservatives are energized by the Trump approach to national security, education, health care, economic growth, and realistic government reform. Equally clear, it is apparent that there are divisive forces within the Washington establishment, the mainstream media, and an entrenched, liberal/progressive bureaucracy that will stop at nothing to oppose the president at every turn.   Club members agree—it is time for Republicans nationwide to better understand what constitutional conservativism really means, and …..

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Bladen County pay raises hold up budget approval

By: Charlotte Smith The Bladen County Board of Commissioners have examined a pay study and found employees need raises. A special meeting was called on June 19th to discuss the proposed budget for the new fiscal year, 2017-18. Most of the discussion at the special meeting about the new fiscal year budget was about county employees’ salaries being increased. Commissioner Michael Cogdell voiced concerns about some people getting 10% to 11% salary increases and then others only receiving a one percent cost of living raise. “I would like to see what a two percent cost of living raise across the board would look like, and I’ve asked for that,” Cogdell …..

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Congressman Pittenger hosts 28 nations for terrorism financing, cybersecurity forum

RIGA, Latvia – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) hosted more than 100 Members of Parliament and other officials from 28 nations for the 8th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum in Riga, Latvia. “Our 8th forum brought together a diverse group of nations – including Egypt, Israel, and the Vatican – to discuss joint efforts to fight radical Islamic terrorism,” said Congressman Pittenger.   “In total, 28 countries heard from top financial crimes, cyber, Intelligence, and other experts regarding collaborative efforts to help defeat Islamic jihad.  We are grateful for our partners in government, financial institutions, and data security who participated in this important forum.” Speakers at the 8th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum included Ināra Mūrniece …..

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Congressman Pittenger: Governor Cooper Should Not Play Politics With Opioid Crisis

CHARLOTTE – After attending the first meeting of President Trump’s opioid crisis commission, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper attempted to score political points by claiming Republican efforts to reform America’s broken healthcare system would exacerbate the opioid crisis. “Over the past year, I have worked in bipartisan fashion to help pass 18 bills addressing the opioid epidemic, including new tools for law enforcement, a pilot program to help babies born with complications, and $1 billion in state grants.  78 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose, and yet Governor Cooper wants to use their tragedy to try and score political points. “The Governor’s tactic is parallel to his incorrect …..

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Pittenger’s Weekly Column

In Isaiah 1:18, the LORD says, “Come now, and let us reason together.”  Unfortunately, we’ve seen far too little of this wisdom applied recently in the public square. Wednesday’s attack on the GOP Congressional baseball team was an attack on our way of governing, but also a symptom of the breakdown in our civil discourse. This year we’ve seen dozens of town halls erupt into uncontrollable mobs, resulting in Members of Congress needing police escorts out of the venue.  We’ve seen Hollywood push the boundary of what’s acceptable, to the point of a comedian posing in a disturbingly graphic photo depicting a beheaded President Trump, a Central Park play with …..

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Tillis & Burr Emphasize Importance of Military Caregivers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Burr (R-NC), members of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, attended a hearing about supporting military caregivers and introduced former North Carolina Senator Elizabeth Dole and Wilmington, NC residents Tom Ward, a veteran diagnosed with ALS, and Mary Ward, his wife and military caregiver, as panelists.   Watch the introductions HERE.   Share:

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Tillis: New Sanctions Will Hold Russian and Iranian Regimes Accountable

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement after voting in favor of bipartisan legislation to impose new sanctions on Iran and Russia.   “Putin has meddled in the elections of the United States and other democracies and has repeatedly violated the sovereignty of Russia’s neighbors. The Iranian regime remains the chief state sponsor of global terrorism and continues to develop their ballistic missile capabilities, which threatens the security of America and our allies,” said Senator Tillis. “These sanctions send a clear and unified message to the Russian and Iranian regimes that America will hold them accountable for their …..

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Congressman Pittenger on shooting of Whip Scalise, Capitol Police Officers and Congressional Aide

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09), who works closely with Majority Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01) as a Member of the Republican Whip Team, had these comments following today’s shooting: “Steve Scalise is a wonderful person, a close friend, and a great leader.  Most mornings, I am in the gym with Steve.  This is incredibly sad, but I am also so grateful for the extraordinarily brave Capitol Police officers who put themselves in harm’s way to prevent a massacre.  Without their valor, today could have been much worse. “Please join me in praying for quick healing for Steve, the police officers, and the Congressional aide who were injured.  Today’s news was …..

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More than 8 ways to use 1500 dollars in Bladen County

I want to applaud, commend, and give my heart felt admiration to four of the Bladen County Commissioners in standing up and doing their job in defending the Bladen County Taxpayers. They are Mr. Charles Ray Peterson, Mr. Daniel Dowless, Ms. Ashley Trivette, and Mr. David Gooden. They showed integrity, leadership, fiscal responsibility, and respect for the tax paying citizens by voting against a nearly $1500 photo shoot of themselves (and their ego). As far as the other commissioners, who should remain nameless (but if their vanity is so large… Cogdell, Bullock, Britt, Priest, and Munn-Goins) they should be ashamed of themselves for wasting tax payer’s money on such meaningless …..

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Board of Education Meets for June Session

The Board of Education met this Monday for their monthly session where they began by recognizing East Bladen High School’s History Club as they have been selected by the National History Club Organization as a National Chapter of the Year. East Bladen’s club is only one of 8 clubs in the nation to be given this honor. The club consisted of the following students and are advised by their teacher, Sunday Allen: Ross Johnson, Dylan Melvin, James Nance, Olivia Hollingsworth, Mariah Smith, Nekia Nixon, Hannah Allison, and Kate Bockover. Emily Scott, an East Bladen High School senior, was recognized for being nominated as a top finalist for the Pro Football …..

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Economic Opportunity For All.  Bailouts For None.

Obamacare for your community bank and credit union.  That’s the easiest way to explain President Obama’s financial regulation legislation known as Dodd-Frank.  Both include complex webs of laws and regulations while operating from the assumption that Washington knows best. Unfortunately, this top-down, bureaucratic approach has directly resulted in fewer choices and limited opportunity for hardworking American families.  Similar to how Obamacare took away your doctor, Dodd-Frank took away your community bank. But this week, House Republicans joined me in passing the Financial CHOICE Act, which I co-sponsored and helped introduce, to properly regulate the financial industry while ending taxpayer bailouts, increasing accountability, and supporting economic growth. Ironically, Dodd-Frank exacerbated the …..

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Wayne Woodard named interim director of NC Private Protective Services

RALEIGH— Department of Public Safety Secretary Erik A. Hooks has named Wayne Woodard to be interim director of Private Protective Services. Woodard, a former director of both the Criminal Justice Standards Commission and Private Protective Services, assumed his new duties June 5. Private Protective Services is the agency within the Department of Public Safety that supports the Private Protective Services and Alarms Systems Licensing Boards. The Boards are charged with administering the licensing, education and training requirements of the persons, firms, associations and corporations engaged in private protective services and alarms systems professions within North Carolina. “Mr. Woodard has a wealth of experience with licensing boards and specifically with Private …..

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ROUZER SUPPORTS FINANCIAL CHOICE ACT TO REPEAL MOST ONEROUS COMPONENTS OF DODD-FRANK, REDUCE DEFICIT BY $24B

ROUZER SUPPORTS FINANCIAL CHOICE ACT TO REPEAL MOST ONEROUS COMPONENTS OF DODD-FRANK, REDUCE DEFICIT BY $24B Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rouzer voted in support of H.R. 10, the Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 to end taxpayer-funded bailouts, reduce the size of the government, repeal the most onerous components of Dodd-Frank and cut the deficit by $24 billion over the next 10 years. “For far too long, consumers and small businesses have been forced to comply with costly and burdensome regulations stemming from the Dodd-Frank Act.  Under a unified Republican government, Congress is working to reverse the mentality of ‘government knows best’ with policies that will jumpstart our economy, provide much-needed …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER SUPPORTS FINANCIAL CHOICE ACT: “MAINTAINING THE STATUS QUO IS NOT ACCEPTABLE”

WASHINGTON – This afternoon, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) participated in formal U.S. House debate on the Financial CHOICE Act (H.R. 10), which would repeal and replace the failed Obama-era Dodd-Frank financial reform legislation.   “Under Dodd-Frank, North Carolina has lost 50 percent of our banks since 2010, while 3 community banks have consolidated just in the last few months.  Monthly banking fees have increased 111 percent. “As well, Dodd-Frank created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which even the liberal D.C. Court of Appeals calls ‘unconstitutional’ and a ‘threat to individual liberty.’ “Dodd-Frank has made the Wall Street banks even bigger and more powerful.  And Dodd-Frank has contributed to the slowest, …..

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SBE: Statement on Election Security

RALEIGH, N.C. — The following is a statement from Kim Westbrook Strach, executive director of the N.C. State Board of Elections & Ethics Enforcement: The agency’s cyber partnership with the Department of Homeland Security and post-election audits by the state and county boards of elections are among the many ways North Carolina protects election data and ensures accurate results. This agency takes any reports of possible interference with our election processes very seriously. We are actively investigating reported attempts to compromise VR Systems’ electronic poll book software, which is used on Election Day in 21 of North Carolina’s 100 counties to help check in voters who show up to cast …..

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NC09 Christian Cano (D) On Trump Terror Tweets

NC09 Christian Cano (D) On Trump Terror Tweets Charlotte, NC- “We share the outrage of our neighbors and the international community regarding President 45’s continued irresponsible remarks about our British allies via Twitter. Americans understand the need to unite when tragedies happen, which is an act of patriotism that goes back to the founding of our republic. We have led the world by example and have shown them why democracy will always trump fascism and tyranny. It would have been considered an “act of war” against the American people had another nation’s leader made the same remarks about former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani after our 9/11 tragedy. As our …..

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Tillis Co-Sponsored Legislation Strengthening VA Accountability Passes Senate Unanimously

  WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, applauded the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Jon Tester (D-MT) that would reform the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by allowing the secretary to dismiss bad employees and ensure appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers. “This bipartisan legislation will give the VA the long-overdue authority to remove bad actors and put the people in place we need to give veterans the care they need and deserve,” said Senator Tillis. “While …..

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ISIS IN THE CAROLINAS? CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER CO-SPONSORS LEGISLATION TO MAKE IT HARDER FOR TERRORISTS TO RECEIVE TRAINING AND RETURN HOME

WASHINGTON – In response to several terrorist attacks carried out by European citizens who had traveled to Syria or Libya for training, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) has co-sponsored the Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act (H.R. 1196). “A teenager from York County has twice been arrested for attempting to join ISIS.  A teenager from Morganton was arrested after plotting to kill hundreds of innocent people in support of ISIS.  Both men could have traveled to Syria or Libya for training and then returned home to carry out a terrorist attack,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “The threat is real, and we must enhance capabilities for monitoring and intercepting terrorists attempting to travel to …..

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Bladen County GOP meeting for May

When the growing and reinvigorated Bladen County Republican Club recently met for their monthly meeting, it was clear that Bladen County Republicans are not content to rest on the laurels of recent election victories. Several members noted that, while it is heartening that Republicans are renewing their outreach within Bladen County, it was observed that national polls which generally reflect this area as a Democrat stronghold are likely incorrect, and that Republicans are putting themselves and their party at a disadvantage by not specifically registering as Republican. In fact, many residents in the county are only registered as ‘Unaffiliated’, which means that when it comes to voting on issues that …..

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Tillis Names Ted Lehman His New Chief of Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced that Ted Lehman will serve as his next Chief of Staff. Lehman is currently the Chief Counsel for Nominations and Senior Counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee under Chairman Chuck Grassley. Lehman, who has been a counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee since 2009, most recently played a leading role on behalf of the Chairman in the successful effort to confirm Judge Neil Gorsuch as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, and has been extensively involved in several other Supreme Court nominations and numerous senior Executive nominations, including the Attorney General and Solicitor General. In addition to his nominations related responsibilities, …..

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Tillis Statement on Integration of VA, DoD Electronic Health Record Systems

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chairman of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel and member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, issued the following statement after U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary David Shulkin announced that the VA will adopt the same Electronic Health Record (EHR) system as the Department of Defense for veterans’ medical records: “I applaud the VA for taking action to directly address the longstanding electronic records issue that has plagued the VA to the detriment of our veterans. This decision will present an opportunity to achieve a stronger partnership between DOD & VA health information systems, moving us one step …..

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Photos of the Board of County Commissioners in county-owned facilities

More effort is being made for the Bladen County Board of County Commissioners to be recognized. In a past board meeting, Commissioner Michael Cogdell suggested the Board of County Commissioners’ photos and names be framed and mounted in all county-owned facilities. Monday, June 5th, Greg Martin, Bladen County Manager provided an update regarding the potential project to display photos of the Board of County Commissioners in county-owned facilities. The first time investment will be about $1,400 with an additional $700 investment every two years as new commissioners are elected according to the update. After the update was given, Cogdell made the motion to have the project to display photos of the …..

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Bladen Democratic Party to meet

There will be a Bladen County Democratic meeting on Saturday, June 10th at 10:00 a.m. at the Powell-Melvin Agricultural Service Center, 450 Smith Center Drive in Elizabethtown. This very important meeting will feature two officials from the North Carolina Democratic Party Executive Committee. Our special guest speakers will be 7th Congressional District Democratic Party Chair Francisco Rivas-Diaz and 9th Congressional District Democratic Chair Cynthia Wallace. Mr. Diaz is a resident of Duplin County. Prior to becoming chair of the 7th district, he was elected as Vice Chair for the Duplin County Democratic Party and Vice Chair for the 7th District Democratic Party. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Information Systems …..

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Tillis Co-Sponsors Legislation to Expand Research into Medical Benefits of Cannabidiol

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) recently co-sponsored the Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act, a bill to support research initiatives on the potential benefits of substances such as cannabidiol (CBD) that are derived from marijuana. “When it comes to our nation’s efforts to cure diseases, we shouldn’t let regulations be a roadblock to legitimate and responsible medical research,” said Senator Tillis. “The Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act is a commonsense, bipartisan effort to remove unnecessary barriers to give researchers an improved ability to study the potential benefits and risks of cannabidiol and other components that are derived from the marijuana plant.” The bill was introduced by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) …..

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HHS vs. CBO: Proven History vs. Guesswork

By; Congressman Pittenger As the media trumpeted news recently of the Congressional Budget Office score on the American Health Care Act, they largely ignored data released by the Department of Health and Human Services outlining the damage done by Obamacare. Here in North Carolina, average premiums on the individual market have gone up by $422 per month, or more than $5,000 a year, since 2013. Consider the impact on a family making $50,000. Making matters worse, 95 out of 100 counties in North Carolina have only one carrier – Blue Cross & Blue Shield, and even BCBS seriously considered pulling out last year. Aetna, Humana, and United Healthcare have also …..

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Pittenger statement on President Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris Accord

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) released this statement on President Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris Accord:   “President Trump knows a good deal from a bad deal.  The Paris climate accord would have had an onerous impact on our economy.  This agreement was additional evidence that President Obama was President of the World, not President of the United States.”   Share:

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Tillis Hosts Military Roundtable; Announces Integrated Military–Civilian Trauma System At Camp Lejeune

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, hosted a roundtable discussion at Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, N.C., on developing an integrated military-civilian trauma system in Eastern North Carolina. During the roundtable, Senator Tillis announced that Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune will become the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, upgrading the trauma system designation which will pave the way for the establishment of a joint military-civilian trauma system to provide trauma care for DOD beneficiaries, veterans, and civilians. Following the roundtable discussion, Senator Tillis toured Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune. The joint military-civilian trauma system will be the first pilot program …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER TOURS HURRICANE MATTHEW DAMAGE IN FAYETTEVILLE, HOPE MILLS, AND BLADEN COUNTY

  FAYETTEVILLE – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) toured neighborhoods in Fayetteville, Hope Mills, and Bladen County which are still recovering from Hurricane Matthew. This latest tour is part of his ongoing efforts to secure additional disaster recovery funding, including regular communication with FEMA, HUD, and House Appropriations. Congressman Pittenger inspecting damage at Cross Creek Park in Fayetteville (left). Congressman Pittenger and Mayor Warner in Hope Mills (right). Click here to view and download high-res photos from today’s visit. “Today I spent several hours touring Fayetteville and Hope Mills with their Mayors, Nat Robertson and Jackie Warner, and touring portions of Bladen County with Emergency Management. The devastation remains, with …..

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State Board of Elections’ proposed rules released for public comment

RALEIGH – The State Board of Elections is seeking public comments from June 1 through July 31 on proposed changes to the administrative code regarding various aspects of elections administration. Among the proposed changes are rules that: ** Establish standards for the executive director’s emergency authority to change election schedules. The need for a clearly defined process became clear in Hurricane Matthew’s wake. ** Clarify that county elections officials should not delay election certification, unless post-election protests involve the tabulation of ballots or the qualifications of voters sufficient in number to change an election outcome. ** Largely rewrite the election protest form, requiring the protestor to certify that the facts …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER SHARES LETTERS TO EDITOR LEFT UNPUBLISHED BY CHARLOTTE OBSERVER EDITORIAL BOARD

CHARLOTTE – Two recently published articles in the Charlotte Observer omitted relevant facts and did not provide readers with a thorough account of Congressman Pittenger’s policy positions.  In response, Congressman Pittenger wrote two separate Letters to the Editor to provide clarification for his constituents. As the Charlotte Observer Editorial Board never published these letters, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is now making them publicly available via this press release and social media. In response to “GOP health plan could be particularly painful in N.C.” (published on the front page, May 18th): “And now, the rest of the story.  Regular readers will not be surprised to learn recent Charlotte Observer coverage of …..

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Tillis & Klobuchar Lead Bipartisan Letter Calling for Pentagon Funding and Research of Burn Pit Exposure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have led a bipartisan group of senators in calling for Pentagon funding and research of burn bit exposure. More than 100,000 military personnel who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have signed up for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) burn pit exposure registry. In a letter to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, Tillis, Klobuchar, and a group of senators requested that burn pit exposure be included as a congressionally directed Department of Defense research topic and that robust funding for research on burn pit exposure and related illnesses be provided in the FY 2018 defense appropriations …..

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Unaffiliated Voters Gain In Bladen County

According to the Bladen Board of Elections, as of August 5, 2016, the second largest voter registration party in Bladen County is not a party at all……but is made up of unaffiliated voters. Democrats have 60 percent of the registered voters in the county with 13,627. Coming in second is the unaffiliated voters with 25 percent (5,646). Third place goes to the Republicans with 14 percent (3,215). Taking last place is the Libertarians with 1 percent (28). Share:

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER’S STATEMENT ON HEINOUS ATTACK AGAINST COPTIC CHRISTIANS

  CHARLOTTE – Earlier today, gunmen attacked a bus carrying Coptic Christians south of Cairo, Egypt, killing at least 20 innocent civilians. Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09), who advocates on behalf of persecuted Christians worldwide, issued this statement: “The heinous attack on Coptic Christians, killing over 20 innocent people on a bus, again reveals the dreadful reality of the ominous threat of Islamic terrorists on all who do not subscribe to this diabolical cult. We must be vigilant and unified to eliminate this enemy.” As part of a Congressional delegation in February, Congressman Pittenger met with Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II and Rev. Dr. Andrea Zaki Stephanous, President of the Protestant …..

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Republican Response to Gov. Cooper Challenging NC

Raleigh, NC — Today Governor Cooper announced a new lawsuit in which he is suing Republicans for supposedly limiting his power. “Headed into the Memorial Day weekend, Governor Cooper is once again flooding our courts with more partisan warfare, rather than working with the legislature to find solutions to our common problems. It is clear that he wants to take every minor legislative disagreement to the courts and ask them to serve as legislators instead of judges.” – NCGOP Chairman Robin Hayes Carolina Journal reported that earlier this year in Governor Cooper’s State of the State speech he said, “In Raleigh, partisan battles, power struggles, and lawsuits might grab the …..

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NCUC Responds to De Luca Declaratory Ruling Request

RALEIGH – The North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) has put on its docket a petition to declare that a solar facility is in fact a public utility under NC law. This action is the result of a filing on May 18th asking the NCUC to issue a “…declaratory ruling that Fresh Air Energy, LLC is a public utility pursuant to G.S 62-3(23) for the purposes of the public utilities act.” Civitas President Francis X. De Luca said, “The key here is transparency. In order to protect families and keep North Carolina competitive, we need to keep the cost of electricity as low as possible. This is why the initial request …..

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Poll: Majority of NC Voters Believe Tax Cuts Will Help Their Financial Situation

RALEIGH – The latest Civitas poll has found that by a 2-1 margin, likely North Carolina voters think “cutting state taxes” will help their current financial situation more than “increasing state spending” to boost the economy. The full text of the question is below. Which of the following options would be MOST beneficial to your current financial situation? (RANDOMIZE) 47% Cutting state taxes to boost the economy 24% Increasing state spending to boost the economy. 18% Leaving the state’s economy as it is right now. 11% Don’t Know/ Need more info * Refused Civitas President Francis De Luca said, “While Governor Cooper and his leftist allies are pushing for even …..

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New Poll: NC Voters Voice Strong Support for Voter ID Laws

RALEIGH – The latest Civitas poll has found that an overwhelming majority of likely North Carolina voters support legislation requiring voters to show a photo ID. The full text of the question is below. Would you support or oppose an election law that would require voters to show a valid photo ID before casting their ballot? 68% Total Support 31% Total Oppose 58% Strongly Support 9% Somewhat Support 7% Somewhat Oppose 24% Strongly Oppose 1% Don’t Know/ Unsure — Refused Shortly after the 2016 election, the state board of elections identified over 25,000 people as inactive voters as a result of mailings being returned undeliverable and another 500 who voted …..

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Tillis Co-Sponsored Legislation Strengthening VA Accountability Headed to Senate Floor

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, applauded the committee passage of the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Jon Tester (R-MT) to improve accountability at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). “We applaud today’s bipartisan committee vote to advance this critical legislation that will help change the culture and improve accountability at the VA,” said the senators following today’s committee vote. “We hope the Senate will follow suit and take up this bipartisan legislation without delay so that VA Secretary Shulkin has the …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER ON MEMORIAL DAY:  RESPECT FOR THE FALLEN, GRATITUDE FOR THOSE WHO TAKE THEIR PLACE

CHARLOTTE – This Memorial Day weekend, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is paying respects to the brave Americans who died to defend our freedom, and expressing gratitude to the next generation of American heroes. On Wednesday, Congressman Pittenger addressed the U.S. House of Representatives: “This weekend, America pauses to honor the patriotic men and women who sacrificed their lives in support of our liberty.  For more than 11,000 families in North Carolina, Memorial Day is very real.  Their son or daughter or spouse or parent is among the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during World War Two, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. “Remembering the price of freedom makes me all the …..

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Proposed raises questioned at Eastpointe meeting

The Eastpointe Managed Care Organization (MCO) Board of Directors met on Tuesday, May 23rd at Mount Olive College and discussed budget matters. This was the first board meeting since March 2017. The board did not hold their regularly scheduled meeting on April 25th, 2017. Catherine Dalton, Eastpointe Chief of Business Operations, gave the board an overview of the company’s operating expenses and revenues as well as presenting the proposed budget. The budget carries a four (4) percent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for employees according to Dalton. Board member from Bladen County, Emery White, questioned the increase. “The United States of America has averaged two (2) percent for the last 10 years. Where did we …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER:  N.C. INDIVIDUAL MARKET PREMIUMS UP $422 PER MONTH SINCE OBAMACARE

WASHINGTON – Using Obama Administration criteria, the Department of Health and Human Services on Wednesday released a report finding premiums on the individual health insurance market have more than doubled since Obamacare took effect in 2013. “Yesterday, the Department of Health and Human Services released a report outlining the damage done by Obamacare,” explained Congressman Pittenger.  “In North Carolina, average premiums on the individual market have gone up by $422 per month, or more than $5,000 a year, since 2013.  Making matters worse, 95 out of 100 counties in North Carolina only have one carrier, and we know Blue Cross seriously considered pulling out this year.  These are the facts …..

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER SPEAKS WITH SECRETARY CARSON ON HURRICANE MATTHEW FUNDING

WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) spoke with Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson regarding additional funding to help eastern North Carolina recover from Hurricane Matthew.   Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), other Members of the North Carolina Congressional delegation, and Governor Roy Cooper (D-NC) also participated in the conference call.   “Previous estimates for Hurricane Matthew funding were not based on the most current data,” said Congressman Pittenger.  “Thanks to our efforts, Secretary Carson gave me assurance HUD would use the most updated data from FEMA to calculate the remaining needs in North Carolina.   “As we move forward in a bipartisan …..

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