Press Releases

"The executive order President Trump signed today allows for discrimination under the guise of religious freedom. I respect the fundamental right of free exercise of religion, but not at the expense of women's personal health decisions that should be left between them, their doctor, and their family. Freedom of religion does not include the right to impose those beliefs on others.

"House Republicans voted today to eliminate essential health benefits and protections for Americans. No one'especially not those Republicans who voted to pass it'bothered to consider the costs or the actual impacts of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) on working Americans, those with pre-existing conditions, and people who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was by no means a cure to all of our healthcare challenges, but today's bill ignores any opportunity for meaningful changes, and instead represents a dangerous leap backwards.

"It is my honor to recognize the Odle Middle School team from Bellevue, Washington, for winning their regional competition in this year's National Science Bowl. They have advanced to represent Washington state in the National Science Bowl's National Finals, which will be held in Washington, D.C. this weekend.

"Our current tax code is overly-complex; there is no question it needs reexamination and overhaul. The tax proposal released today by President Trump would be disastrous. Its almost singular focus on cutting taxes for wealthy people and companies will harm working people and undermine a healthy economy.

"Protecting the planet and defending the environment must be a key priority for all of us. I am proud to represent a Congressional District where we care deeply about protecting our environment for generations to come. Earth Day has a strong history in our region, with community leader Denis Hayes serving as the coordinator for the first Earth Day in 1970. Today, those that call the Pacific Northwest home aspire to have a sustainable relationship with nature.

"Today is Equal Pay Day, 94 days after the new year, and the day when women's wages finally catch up to what men were paid in the previous year. It is unacceptable that 53 years after passing the Equal Pay Act, women still make 79 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts. We cannot afford to wait any longer. Congress must act now to make equal pay for equal work a reality and close the gender pay gap.

"A primary duty of the United States Government is to protect its citizens, but it is critical that in doing so we do not forget our obligation to protect the privacy and rights of Americans," said Congressman Smith. "This legislation will provide clear and commonsense legal avenues for the Department of Homeland Security to pursue those who commit crime and wish to do our country harm without infringing on the rights of American citizens. Importantly, it will ensure that American citizens and legal residents returning to the U.S.

The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act would recognize a scenic byway and historic transportation corridor through 2,400 square miles that includes the Cascade peaks, wilderness lakes and forests, as well as a network of roads, rails and trails. It includes farms and forests, historic sites, lakes, campgrounds, rivers and wildlife habitat. The area is home to 1.4 million residents in 28 cities and 1,600 miles of trails.