Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Report on Activities During 114th Congress (Part 3 of 8)

WASHINGTON, April 2 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 115-12) on the activities during 114th Congress. The report was advanced by Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., on March 28.

IRS Challenges in Implementing the Affordable Care Act. April 15, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-423)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the current state of Affordable Care Act implementation at the IRS, specifically the enforcement of the individual shared responsibility provisions and the advanced premium tax credits reconciliation process. Commissioner Koskinen provided an assessment of the past filing season, in light of the challenges faced by the IRS in implementing new provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

Witnesses: Hon. John A. Koskinen, Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of the Treasury.

2020 Census: Challenges Facing the Bureau for a Modern, Cost-Effective Survey. April 20, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-436)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the Census Bureau's preparation for the 2020 Census. Witness testimony focused on the major initiatives being undertaken for the 2020 Census, particularly in information technology, as well as potential opportunities for cost savings. The panel also discussed the American Community Survey, the Bureau's efforts to include hard-to-count and underserved populations in the 2020 Census, and actions Congress can take to ensure a cost-effective yet accurate 2020 Census.

Witnesses: Hon. John H. Thompson, Director, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce; Robert Goldenkoff, Director of Strategic Issues, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Carol R. Cha, Director of IT Acquisition Management Issues, U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Securing the Border: Understanding Threats and Strategies for the Northern Border. April 22, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine security challenges, including transnational criminal and national security threats, along the U.S.-- Canada border and the impact they have on border communities and the nation. Witness testimony focused on threats at the northern border and how agencies are working to investigate, identify and address these threats, as well as ways to increase cross-border law enforcement collaboration.

Witnesses: Michael J. Fisher, Chief, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; John Wagner, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; James Spero, Special Agent in Charge - Buffalo, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; David Rodriguez, Director, Northwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Office of National Drug Control Policy; Hon. Richard S. Hartunian, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, U.S. Attorney's Office, U.S. Department of Justice.

The Homeland Security Department's Budget Submission for Fiscal Year 2016. April 29, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-437)

The purpose of this annual, one-panel hearing was to discuss the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) budget request for fiscal year 2016. Specifically, it examined how the DHS budget request meets the current and future homeland security needs of the nation.

Witness: Hon. Jeh C. Johnson, Secretary, Department of Homeland Security.

Jihad 2.0: Social Media in the Next Evolution of Terrorist Recruitment. May 7, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-438)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to provide the public with an understanding of terrorists' evolving recruitment methods, especially through social media. Witness testimony provided an overview of the threat posed by those radicalized through social media in the United States and who subsequently travel to a foreign nation to fight with terrorist organizations, or remain in their country to conduct an attack. Witnesses gave expert testimony on their research into the use of social media as a recruitment tool by terrorist groups like ISIS, and recommendations on how to counter the messaging used by terrorist organizations.

Witnesses: Peter Bergen, Director, National Security Studies Program, New America Foundation; J.M. Berger, Nonresident Fellow, Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World, the Brookings Institution; Mubin Shaikh, Author, ``Undercover Jihadi"; Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

Securing the Border: Fencing, Infrastructure, and Technology Force Multipliers. May 13, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the current state of fencing, infrastructure, and technology along our borders and explore what additional resources may be necessary. Witnesses provided a general overview of what technology and tactical infrastructure is currently available along our borders and what new technologies and additional tactical infrastructure should be deployed. Discussion also focused on understanding the costs, timelines, and effectiveness of these resources and lessons learned from past investments.

Witnesses: Randolph D. Alles, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Air and Marine, U.S. Customs and Border Protections, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Mark S. Borkowski, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Technology Innovation and Acquisition, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Ronald D. Vitiello, Deputy Chief, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Anh N. Duong, Director, Borders and Maritime Security Division, Directorate of Science and Technology, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Rebecca Gambler, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Michael Garcia, Legislative Attorney, Congressional Research Service, U.S Library of Congress.

The IRS Data Breach: Steps to Protect Americans' Personal Information. June 2, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-428)

The purpose of this two-panel hearing was to examine the recently-announced unauthorized access of more than 100,000 taxpayer accounts at IRS.gov. Witnesses provided their thoughts on the IRS' use of knowledge-based authentication (KBA) to verify visitors' identities and any weaknesses in KBA; the pros and cons of alternatives to KBA, such as two-factor authentication; and what alternatives would look like in practice. Discussion also focused on the means attackers used to gain access to these accounts; when IRS first became aware of these attempts; what IRS did in response to these attempts; and future plans to improve security at IRS.gov.

Witnesses: Panel I: Michael Kasper, Poughkeepsie, New York; Kevin Fu, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Michigan; Jeffrey E. Greene, Director, Government Affairs North America, Symantec Corporation. Panel II: Hon. John A. Koskinen, Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of the Treasury; Terence V. Millholland, Chief Technology Officer, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Watchdogs Needed: Top Government Investigator Positions Left Unfilled for Years. June 3, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-486)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the need for permanent Inspectors General (IGs), including through case-studies of the experiences with previous acting IGs, and explore why many of these critical positions remain unfilled. Witness testimony focused on the seven presidentially-appointed IG vacancies, with particular attention to the Department of Veterans' Affairs IG vacancy, reasons why they remain unfilled, and the importance of swiftly taking action to address the vacancies.

Witnesses: Hon. Michael E. Horowitz, Chair, Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency and Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice; Danielle Brian, Executive Director, Project on Government Oversight; Daniel Z. Epstein, Executive Director, Cause of Action. Two other witnesses were invited but declined to appear: Valerie Green, Director of the Office of Presidential Personnel, and Jonathan McBride, former director of the Office of Presidential Personnel.

Oversight of the Transportation Security Administration: First-Hand and Government Watchdog Accounts of Agency Challenges. June 9, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-439)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the operations and effectiveness of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) through first-hand accounts of current and former TSA employees. Witnesses discussed the fact that despite developing efficiencies in the passenger screening process, recent reports issued by the Government Accountability Office and the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General have identified shortcomings within the agency that raise questions about how effectively TSA is fulfilling its mission. Witnesses specifically reported allegations about mismanagement, wasteful procedures, retaliations against whistleblowers, low morale, and security gaps within the agency.

Witnesses: Hon. John Roth, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Jennifer Grover, Director, Transportation and Coast Guard Issues, Homeland Security and Justice Team, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Robert J. MacLean, Federal Air Marshal, Los Angeles Field Office, Federal Air Marshal Service; Rebecca Roering, Assistant Federal Security Director, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, U.S. Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Nomination of Peter V. Neffenger to be Assistant Secretary (Transportation Security Administration), U.S. Department of Homeland Security and David S. Shapira to be a Governor, United States Postal Service Board of Governors. June 10, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-332)

This two-panel hearing considered the nomination of Peter V. Neffenger to be Assistant Secretary (Transportation Security Administration), U.S. Department of Homeland Security and David S. Shapira to be a Governor, United States Postal Service Board of Governors. Mr. Shapira was introduced by Sens. Robert P. Casey, Jr. and Patrick J. Toomey.

Blowing the Whistle on Retaliation: Accounts of Current and Former Federal Agency Whistleblowers. June 11, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-447)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to highlight the stories of whistleblowers from different agencies who allege they faced retaliation because they brought attention to government wrongdoing. Witnesses discussed the difficulties whistleblowers face after a disclosure, the laws and procedures in place to protect and assist whistleblowers, and recommendations on further improvements.

Witnesses: Jason Luke Amerine, Lieutenant Colonel, United States Army; Taylor Johnson, Senior Special Agent, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Michael Keegan, Former Associate Commissioner for Facilities and Supply Management at the U.S. Social Security Administration; Jose R. Ducos-Bello, Chief Officer, U.S. Customs and Border Protections, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Thomas M. Devine, Legal Director, Government Accountability Project.

Federal Real Property Reform: How Cutting Red Tape and Better Management Could Achieve Billions in Savings. June 16, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-440)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the reasons why federal real property management remains a high- risk issue and discuss the ways Congress can help eliminate the real property portfolio of excess, surplus, or unused properties and ensure better management of the federal real estate portfolio. Witnesses focused on data management issues as well as highlighted agencies who have succeeded in property disposals through more disciplined management and the incentive provided by the retention of property sale proceeds.

Witnesses: Hon. David Mader, Controller, Office of Management and Budget; Norman Dong, Commissioner, Public Buildings Service, U.S. General Services Administration; David J. Wise, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Governing Through Goal Setting: Enhancing the Economic and National Security of America. June 17, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-448)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to identify problems facing the nation and to identify bipartisan goals to address them. This hearing provided an opportunity for lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to discuss long and short term solutions to the nation's biggest problems. Witnesses from the private sector and state leaders provided valuable insight by sharing their own experiences in problem solving. The hearing served to reaffirm the Committee's commitment to finding common ground among Republicans and Democrats, and hopefully create a better working relationship between members of Congress and the Administration.

Witnesses: Hon. Joseph I. Lieberman, Co-Chair, No Labels; Hon. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Co-Chair, No Labels; Andrew H. Tisch, Co-Chairman of the Board, Loews Corporation; Andrea Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Merchant Metals, Inc.

Nomination of Carol F. Ochoa to be Inspector General, U.S. General Services Administration. June 17, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-402)

This one-panel hearing considered the nomination of Carol F. Ochoa to be Inspector General, U.S. General Services Administration. Senator James Lankford, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, presided.

Accounting for the True Cost of Regulation: Exploring the Possibility of a Regulatory Budget. June 23, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-443) The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to provide perspectives from regulatory experts on regulatory budget mechanisms as a means to better take control of and account for the flow of regulatory costs. Witnesses discussed different innovative regulatory systems that measure the costs of regulations and reduce burdens that slow the growth of economies.

Witnesses: Hon. Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, Government of Canada; Hon. Susan E. Dudley, Director, Regulatory Studies Center and Distinguished Professor of Practice, George Washington University; Richard J. Pierce, Jr., Lyle T. Alverson Professor of Law, George Washington University Law School.

Under Attack: Federal Cybersecurity and the OPM Data Breach. June 25, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-449)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the recent data breaches involving the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the state of information security at OPM now and before the breaches. Witnesses walked the Committee through the timeline of events, detailing when OPM learned about the breaches, how and when they were remediated, and what data the attackers may have accessed. Further discussion centered on the programs and activities that are available to help other agencies increase their defenses and ensure compliance with relevant security requirements, as well as new information security changes that are being implemented at OPM as a result of the breaches.

Witnesses: Hon. Katherine Archuleta, Director, Office of Personnel Management; Tony Scott, U.S. Chief Information Officer, Office of Management and Budget; Andy Ozment, Ph.D., Assistant Secretary, Office of Cybersecurity and Communications, National Protection and Programs Directorate, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. Patrick E. McFarland, Inspector General, Office of Personnel Management.

The 2014 Humanitarian Crisis at our Border: A Review of the Government's Response to Unaccompanied Minors One Year Later. July 7, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the Federal Government's response to the 2014 surge of Central American Unaccompanied Alien Children (UACs). Particularly, the Committee examined how the responsibilities of caring for the minors and resolving their immigration status is divided and coordinated among different federal agencies. Witnesses discussed their agency's involvement in processing UACs and how they manage the child's information during and after the case passes through their agency.

Witnesses: Juan P. Osuna, Director, Executive Office of Immigration Review, U.S. Department of Justice; Mark H. Greenberg, Acting Assistant Secretary, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Philip T. Miller, Assistant Director of Field Operations, Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Joseph E. Langlois, Associate Director, Refugee, Asylum, and International Operations, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Stopping an Avian Influenza Threat to Animal and Public Health. July 8, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-452)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the current outbreak of H5N2 and other highly pathogenic avian influenza strains nationwide, including the response of federal and industry stakeholders. Witnesses discussed the devastating impact of this highly pathogenic avian influenza strain on American farms and the broader economic disruption it has caused. Discussion focused on the broader threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza to the poultry industry going forward, steps being taken to prepare for and mitigate any impact of this pathogen, and recommendations for how the federal response to this outbreak could be improved.

Witnesses: John R. Clifford, DVM, Chief Veterinary Officer, U.S. Department of Agriculture; Anne Schuchat, M.D., Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Assistant Surgeon General, U.S. Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Christopher P. Currie, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability, accompanied by Steve D. Morris, Director, Natural Resources and Environment; Jack Gelb, Jr., Ph.D., Director, Avian Biosciences Center, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Delaware; Scott Schneider, Owner, Nature Link Farm, Jefferson, Wisconsin and President, Wisconsin Poultry and Egg Industries Association.

Understanding America's Long-Term Fiscal Picture. July 9, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-459)

This one-panel hearing focused on ways to better understand the country's often complex ``balance sheet", the uncertainty involved in projecting the budget out 30 years or more, and reconciling the policy choices necessary to address long-term imbalances to what is politically possible. The director of the Congressional Budget Office discussed the fact that without major policy changes, the amount of federal debt held by the public would be larger than the entire economy by 2039, and would only increase from there. Dr. Hall and members of the committee discussed what this actually means for taxpayers and the sustainability of the major entitlements.

Witnesses: Hon. Keith Hall, Ph.D., Director, Congressional Budget Office.

Securing the Border: Understanding Threats and Strategies for the Maritime Border. July 15, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the security challenges, including transnational crime and national security threats, along the United States' maritime borders. Witnesses discussed how agencies use air and marine technologies to protect the maritime borders of the United States, efforts to disrupt dug and human trafficking, and steps being taken to prevent illegal immigration. Testimony also focused on how agencies such as CBP, the U.S. Coast Guard, and ICE are better coordinating to stop the trafficking of narcotics and other illicit substances through our nation's coastlines, waterways, and ports.

Witnesses: Rear Admiral Peter J. Brown, Assistant Commandant for Response Policy, U.S. Coast Guard; Randolph D. Alles, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Air and Marine, U.S. Customs and Border Protections, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Peter Edge, Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The Milwaukee Parental Choice Program: A Pioneer for School Choice Programs Nationwide. July 20, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-460)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program as an educational option for Milwaukee families and as a guide for school choice programs nationwide. Established in 1990, the Milwaukee Parental Choice program is the oldest and largest urban school choice program in the nation. There are over 21 school choice programs across the country as of the 2013-2014 school year, including the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program. Witnesses discussed their experience with the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program and challenges the program faces in its administration and from involvement by the Department of Justice.

Witnesses: Justice Shorter, Former MPCP Student and Graduate of Messmer High School, Washington, District of Columbia; Diana Lopez, Former MPCP Student and Graduate of St. Anthony High School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Brother Robert Smith, Former Principal, Messmer High School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; John Witte, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Richard Komer, Senior Attorney, Institute for Justice; Henry Tyson, Superintendent, St. Marcus Lutheran School.

Protecting the Electric Grid from the Potential Threats of Solar Storms and Electromagnetic Pulse. July 22, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-483)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the extent to which electromagnetic pulses and severe solar storms may pose a threat to the electric gird in the United States, the U.S. grid's readiness for such events, and potential opportunities for mitigation. Witnesses gave their perspectives on the relative likelihood, and anticipated impact, of a geomagnetic disturbance (GMD) to the U.S. electric grid, compared with that of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack. Further discussion focused on the EMP Commission's recommendations to address the risks from potential EMP and solar storms events, the costs and benefits of mitigating against these threats, and recommendations for next steps the government and industry can take to increase the U.S. grid's readiness for such events.

Witnesses: Hon. R. James Woolsey, Former Director of Central Intelligence and Chairman, Foundation for Defense of Democracies; Joseph H. McClelland, Director, Office of Energy Infrastructure Security, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Richard L. Garwin, Ph.D., Fellow Emeritus, IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center (testifying in a personal capacity); Christopher P. Currie, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Bridgette L. Bourge, Senior Principal, Legislative Affairs, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Nomination of Denise T. Roth to be Administrator, U.S. General Services Administration. July 23, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-405)

This one-panel hearing considered the nomination of Denise T. Roth to be Administrator, U.S. General Services Administration.

Avoiding Duplication: An Examination of the State Department's Proposal to Construct a New Diplomatic Security Training Facility. July 28, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-461)

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the State Department's reduced scope proposal for the Foreign Affairs Security Training Center and the process for its selection. Witness testimony focused on what specific or unique infrastructure requirements the State Department needs to provide appropriate training to Diplomatic Security agents and other State Department personnel. Further discussion focused on the specific costs associated with the existing facility and its training capacity in comparison to the proposals presented by the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security.

Witnesses: Hon. Gregory B. Starr, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, U.S. Department of State; Hon. David Mader, Acting Deputy Director for Management and Controller, Office of Federal Financial Management, Office of Management and Budget; Connie L. Patrick, Director, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Oversight of the Bureau of Prisons: First-Hand Accounts of Challenges Facing the Federal Prison System. August 4, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114- 475)

The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has experienced a significant increase in population since the 1980s and as a result, the BOP's budget has grown significantly. In FY 1980, Congress appropriated $330 million for the BOP, while for FY2014 Congress appropriated $6.859 billion. Recent reports issued by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General have identified shortcomings within the Bureau that include, shortfalls in inmate programming, the safety and security of inmates, and a lack of support after reentry. The purpose of this two-panel hearing was to examine how effectively the BOP is fulfilling its core mission and to discuss what reforms are necessary to improve the criminal justice system. Witnesses shared their personal experiences with the criminal justice system and dialogue focused on the need to eliminate the practice of solitary confinement and to drastically improve rehabilitation programming and reentry programs.

Witnesses: Panel I: Piper Kerman, Author, Orange is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison; Jerome Dillard, Reentry Coordinator, Dane County, Wisconsin; Udi Ofer, Executive Director, American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey. Panel II: Charles E. Samuels, Jr., Director, Federal Bureau of Prisons, U.S. Department of Justice; Hon. Michael E. Horowitz, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice.

Field Hearing: All Hands on Deck: Working Together to End the Trafficking and Abuse of Prescription Opioids, Heroin, and Fentanyl. September 14, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this hearing was to examine the illicit trafficking and abuse of prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl and their adverse and enduring effects on lives, families, communities, and our national security. This hearing also examined efforts to prevent and treat those suffering from addiction to these substances. Witnesses discussed trends observed in New Hampshire with regard to the availability of prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl; trends in overdoses and fatal overdoses related to these substances; and trafficking routes specific to New England. Further testimony focused on the importance of effective treatment options for those struggling with substance use disorders and law enforcement efforts to prevent and treat those suffering from addiction to these substances.

Witnesses: Panel I: Enoch ``Nick" Willard, Chief, Manchester Police Department; Doug Griffin, Father of Courtney Griffin, Newton, NH; Heidi Moran, Clinical Administrator, Southeastern New Hampshire Services, Dover, NH. Panel II: Hon. Michael P. Botticelli, Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy; Hon. R. Gil Kerlikowske, Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; John ``Jack" Riley, Acting Deputy Administrator, Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Department of Justice.

A Review of Regulatory Reform Proposals. September 16, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-480)

This hearing was held as part of the Committee's ongoing efforts to examine the federal regulatory process and explore ways to improve it. Specifically, this hearing focused on existing legislative reform proposals under consideration by the Committee. Members were given an opportunity to discuss their own proposals, developed based on information gathered through prior hearings, roundtables, and expert consultation, and heard from experts on ways to further improve these proposals before proceeding on to formal legislative consideration by the Committee.

Witnesses: Hon. Susan E. Dudley, Director, Regulatory Studies Center and Distinguished Professor of Practice, George Washington University; Sidney A. Shapiro, Frank U. Fletcher Chair in Administrative Law, Wake Forest University and Vice President, Center for Progressive Reform.

Improving VA Accountability: Examining First-Hand Accounts of Department of Veterans Affairs Whistleblowers. September 22, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-484)

Although whistleblower protections have been in place for decades, an alarming number of employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have reported facing hardships after exposing wrongdoing that threatens the care and well-being of our nation's veterans. This hearing highlighted the stories of VA employees who reported experiencing difficulties for bringing to light issues that compromised patient care and exposed official misconduct. Testimony focused on ways that Congress and relevant agencies can further encourage federal employees to come forward with allegations of waste, fraud, and abuse.

Witnesses: Panel I: Sean Kirkpatrick, Chicago, IL; Brandon Coleman, Ph.D. (c), LISAC, Addiction Therapist, Phoenix VA Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ; Joseph Colon, Credentialing Program Support, VA Caribbean Healthcare System, San Juan, PR; Shea Wilkes, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, Shreveport, LA. Panel II: Hon. Carolyn N. Lerner, Special Counsel, Office of Special Counsel; Linda Halliday, Deputy Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Carolyn Clancy, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Veterans Health Administration; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Clancy was accompanied by Mr. Michael Culpepper, Acting Director, Office of Accountability Review.

A Review of the Department of Education and Student Achievement. September 30, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-530)

This hearing took a macro look at the country's education system and reviewed the Department of Education's role in determining outcomes for America's students. In particular, the committee examined the longitudinal measures of student achievement and determined areas where the Department of Education has succeeded as well as fallen short in accomplishing key priorities.

Witnesses: Panel I: Richard K. Vedder, Ph.D., Director, Center for College Affordability and Productivity; Kevin Carey, Director, Education Policy Program, New America Foundation. Panel II: Hon. Theodore R. Mitchell, Under Secretary, U.S. Department of Education.

Threats to the Homeland. October 8, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-487) The purpose of this hearing was to provide the public with an understanding of the prevailing threats to the security of the United States of America. The witnesses discussed, to the extent applicable, threats as they relate to the Committee's stated priorities: border security, critical infrastructure protection, cyber security, and countering violent extremism.

Witnesses: Hon. Jeh C. Johnson, Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. James B. Comey, Jr., Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice; and Hon. Nicholas J. Rasmussen, Director, National Counterterrorism Center, Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Ongoing Migration from Central America: An Examination of FY2015 Apprehensions. October 21, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this hearing was to examine the causes behind the ongoing migration from Central America, including the recent influx of family units and unaccompanied minors arriving at the southwest border outside the usual seasonal pattern. Witnesses discussed their visits to Central America, experiences with migrants at the U.S. border, and other relevant experiences. The discussion examined DHS's public announcement efforts in the sending countries, as well as U.S. programming in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras aimed at deterring future migration surges.

Witnesses: Kimberly M. Gianopoulos, Director, International Affairs and Trade, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Chris Cabrera, Border Patrol Agent, Rio Grande Valley Sector, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, on behalf of the National Border Patrol Council; Kevin Casas-Zamora, D.Phil., Senior Fellow and Program Director, Peter D. Bell Rule of Law Program, Inter- American Dialogue; Duncan Wood, Ph.D., Director, Mexico Institute, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; The Most Reverend Mark J. Seitz, Bishop, Diocese of El Paso, Texas, on behalf of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Assessing the State of Our Nation's Biodefense. October 28, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-515)

This hearing examined the findings of a report published by the Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense, co-chaired by former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge and former Senator Joseph Lieberman. The hearing covered the Blue Ribbon Panel's investigation of our nation's biodefense capabilities and strategies, particularly as it pertains to the conclusions and recommendations reached by the Panel. The witnesses also discussed how Congress, the Administration, and stakeholders can work together to better address biological threats facing our nation.

Witnesses: Hon. Thomas J. Ridge, Co-Chair, Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense; Hon. Joseph I. Lieberman, Co-Chair, Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense.

The Value of Education Choices for Low-Income Families: Reauthorizing the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program. November 4, 2015. (S. Hrg. 144-525)

This two-panel hearing examined the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program as an educational option for low-income families in the District of Columbia. Witnesses discussed the history of the program, the different educational opportunities available to students in the District of Columbia, and student achievement in the program. The hearing also touched on recommendations for improving the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program through the SOAR Reauthorization Act of 2015.

Witnesses: Panel I: Hon. Dianne Feinstein; Hon. Tim Scott; Hon. Eleanor Holmes Norton. Panel II: Hon. Kevin Chavous; Mary Elizabeth Blaufuss; Gary Jones; Linda Cruz Catalan; Christopher Lubienski, Ph.D.

The Impact of ISIS on the Homeland and Refugee Resettlement. November 19, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-543)

The purpose of this two-panel hearing was to provide the public with an understanding of the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) to the U.S. homeland. It examined how the terrorist attacks in Paris and across the globe impact the United States' Syrian refugee resettlement program and current vulnerabilities in the program. Witnesses also discussed other vulnerabilities the U.S. faces, such as the Visa Waiver Program, student visas, and threats along the northern and southwest borders.

Witnesses: Panel I: Hon. Anne C. Richard, Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration, U.S. Department of State; Hon. Leon Rodriguez, Director, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Panel II: Peter Bergen, Director, National Security Studies Program, New America Foundation; Brian Michael Jenkins, Senior Advisor to the President, RAND Corporation; Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies; Hon. Eric P. Schwartz, Dean, Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota and Former Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State (2009-2011); Lavinia Lim"n, President and Chief Executive Officer, U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants.

America's Heroin Epidemic at the Border: Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Efforts to Combat Illicit Narcotic Trafficking. November 23, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-516)

The purpose of this two-panel field hearing was to examine the illicit trafficking of narcotics crossing the Arizona border, particularly heroin, prescription opioids, and methamphetamine, and their adverse and enduring effects on lives, families, communities, and our national security. The witnesses also discussed the threats posed to Arizonans by transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) smuggling heroin and other illicit narcotics across the Arizona border, the level of federal funding available to prosecute drug cases, and how coordination between state, local, and federal law enforcement to combat illicit narcotic trafficking can be improved.

Witnesses: Panel I: Hon. Douglas A. Ducey, Governor, State of Arizona, Accompanied by Colonel Frank Milstead, Director, Arizona Department of Public Safety; Hon. R. Gil Kerlikowske, Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Panel II: Hon. Bill Montgomery, County Attorney, Maricopa County; Hon. Mark J. Dannels, Sheriff, Cochise County; Dawn Mertz, Executive Director, Arizona HIDTA, Office of National Drug Control Policy; Brandon Judd, President, National Border Control Council; Jeff Taylor, Member, Public Advisory Board/Public Policy, The Salvation Army.

Nomination of Hon. Carol Waller Pope to be a Member, Federal Labor Relations Authority, and Robert A. Salerno and Darlene M. Soltys to be Associate Judges, Superior Court of the District of Columbia. December 3, 2015. (S. Hrg. 114-411)

This one-panel hearing considered the nominations of the Honorable Carol Waller Pope to be a Member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority and Robert A. Salerno and Darlene M. Soltys to be Associate Judges of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Ms. Pope, Mr. Salerno, and Ms. Soltys were introduced by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. Senator James Lankford, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, presided.

Nomination of Michael J. Missal to be Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Honorable Carolyn N. Lerner to be Special Counsel, Office of Special Counsel. January 12, 2016.

This one-panel hearing considered the nominations of Michael J. Missal to be Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Honorable Carolyn N. Lerner to be Special Counsel, Office of Special Counsel. Mr. Missal was introduced by Senator Jon Tester. Ms. Lerner was introduced by Senator Benjamin L. Cardin.

Inside the Mind of ISIS: Understanding Its Goals and Ideology to Better Protect the Homeland. January 20, 2016. (S. Hrg. 114-566)

The purpose of this one panel hearing was to provide the public with an understanding of how ISIS sets its goals, derives its strategy, and motivates its followers. Witnesses testified about why ISIS's ideology resonates with its followers and supporters, what motivates ISIS-inspired mobilization in America, and how religious extremism influences ISIS's goals, strategy, and cultivation of supporters. The hearing also provided a broad overview of ISIS's ideology and discussed what the United States Government can do to discourage homegrown violent extremists that might be vulnerable to the group's ideological message.

Witnesses: Bernard Haykel, D.Phil., Director, The Institute Of Transregional Studies and Professor of Near Eastern Studies, Princeton University; Jessica Stern, Ph.D., Research Professor, Pardee School for Global Studies, Boston University; Lorenzo G. Vidino, Ph.D., Director, Program on Extremism, Center for Cyber And Homeland Security, George Washington University; Hedieh Mirahmadi, President, World Organization for Resource Development and Education.

Laying Out the Reality of the United States Postal Service. January 21, 2016. (S, Hrg. 114-579)

This two-panel hearing examined the state of the USPS, including USPS finances, changes to USPS business in the past 5 years, and the impact of the legislative and regulatory burdens placed on the USPS, including the Universal Service Obligation, the mandate to prefund the Retiree Health Benefits Fund, rate caps and requirements, and limits to new businesses. Witnesses also discussed how companies have adapted to the problems facing the USPS, and restructuring opportunities within the USPS.

Witnesses: Panel I: Megan J. Brennan, Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer, U.S. Postal Service; Hon. Robert G. Taub, Acting Chairman, Postal Regulatory Commission; Lori Rectanus, Director, Physical Infrastructure, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Hon. David C. Williams, Inspector General, U.S. Postal Service; James E. Millstein, Former Chief Restructuring Officer at the U.S. Department Of The Treasuryand Founder And Chief Executive Officer, Millstein & Co. Panel II: Fredric V. Rolando, President, National Association Of Letter Carriers, John ``Chip" Hutcheson III, President, National Newspaper Association; Kathy Collins, General Manager, Rothschild Mill Domtar Paper Company.

Frontline Response to Terrorism in America. February 2, 2016. The purpose of this single-panel hearing was to examine the state and local response to the recent terror attacks in the United States, as well as explore how first responders across the country are preparing for the next attack. The hearing also highlighted the successes, failures, and areas that need improvement when coordinating with federal agencies during emergencies.

Witnesses: Wally Sparks, Chief of Police, Everest Metro Police Department, Weston, Wisconsin; Hon. William J. Bratton, Police Commissioner, New York City Police Department, New York, New York; Rhoda Mae Kerr, President and Chair of the Board, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Austin, Texas; Edward F. Davis III, Chief Executive Officer, Edward Davis, LLC, and Former Commissioner of the Boston Police Department, Boston, Massachusetts; Mark S. Ghilarducci, Director, California Office of Emergency Services and the Governor's Homeland Security Advisor, Mather, California.

Canada's Fast-Track Refugee Plan: Unanswered Questions and Implications for U.S. National Security. February 3, 2016.

The purpose of this single-panel hearing was to examine Canada's plan to resettle 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of February 2016. Witnesses discussed the Canadian Government's progress in meeting its deadline and provided a description of how Canada currently vets its refugees to verify their identity, nationality, and whether they pose a security risk. The hearing also examined the tools the U.S. Border Patrol currently has to prevent illegal crossings along our northern border, as well as issues of information sharing between the U.S. and Canada.

Witnesses: Guidy Mamann, Senior Partner, Mamann, Sandaluk & Kingwell, LLP, Toronto, Canada; David B. Harris, Director, International Intelligence Program, Insignis Strategic Research, Inc., Ottawa, Canada; Dean Mandel, Border Patrol Agent, Buffalo Sector, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Testifying On Behalf Of The National Border Patrol Council); Laura Dawson, Ph.D., Director, Canada Institute, Woodrow Wilson International Center For Scholars.

Nomination of the Honorable Beth F. Cobert to be Director, Office of Personnel Management. February 4, 2016. This one-panel hearing considered the nomination of the Honorable Beth F. Cobert to be Director, Office of Personnel Management.

Connecting Patients to New and Potential Life Saving Treatments. February 25, 2016.

This one-panel hearing focused on identifying possible barriers that prevent patients from accessing new and potentially lifesaving therapies, often in the face of terminal or debilitating conditions. Patients and experts discussed the steps Congress can take to reduce impediments and help connect willing patients and potential medical innovations.

Witnesses: Darcy Olsen, President and Chief Executive Officer, Goldwater Institute; Laura McLinn, Indianapolis, IN; Diego Morris, Phoenix, AZ; Joseph V. Gulfo, M.D., Executive Director, Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Fairleigh Dickinson University; Nancy Goodman, Executive Director, Kids v Cancer.

Nomination of the Honorable Patrick Pizzella to be a Member, Federal Labor Relations Authority, and Julie H. Becker, Steven N. Berk, and Elizabeth C. Wingo to be Associate Judges, Superior Court of the District of Columbia. March 2, 2016.

This one-panel hearing considered the nominations of the Honorable Patrick Pizzella to be a Member, Federal Labor Relations Authority, and Julie H. Becker, Steven N. Berk, and Elizabeth C. Wingo to be Associate Judges, Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

How Canine Programs Contribute to Homeland Security. March 3, 2016. The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to understand how the Department of Homeland Security utilizes canine units to execute its security operations. Witnesses described TSA's and CBP's training programs and how the agencies deploy their canine units as part of airport and border security operations. The hearing also covered the conditions necessary to provide suitable dogs for security programs, and future demand for additional canine units. Witnesses from DHS were accompanied by three canines and their handles who conducted a demonstration of their specialized skills.

Witnesses: Kimberly S. Hutchinson, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Training and, Development, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Damian Montes, Director, Canine Program, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Jennifer Grover, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Cindy Otto, D.V.M., Ph.D., Executive Director, Penn Vet Working Dog Center, University of Pennsylvania.

The Homeland Security Department's Budget Submission for Fiscal Year 2017. March 8, 2016.

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to discuss the Department of Homeland Security's budget request for fiscal year 2017. The witness discussed how the DHS budget request meets the current and future homeland security needs of the nation.

Witness: Hon. Jeh C. Johnson, Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The Security of U.S. Visa Programs. March 15, 2016. The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to understand the security of U.S. visa programs, including policies and procedures for screening visa applicants, adjudicating and overseeing visa benefits, and enforcing immigration laws. Witnesses discussed opportunities for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to strengthen programs related to visa screening, immigration benefits management, and immigration law enforcement, including the status of the Inspector General's recommendations regarding visa security. The hearing also covered efforts to increase collaboration between the State Department, USCIS, and ICE.

Witnesses: David Donahue, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State; Hon. Leon Rodriguez, Director, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. Sarah R. Saldana, Director, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. John Roth, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

DHS Management and Acquisition Reform. March 16, 2016. The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine critical management and acquisition functions at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The hearing will highlight management and acquisition challenges historically faced by the Department, progress made in addressing these challenges, and potential reforms to address outstanding challenges.

Witnesses: Hon. Russell C. Deyo, Under Secretary for Management, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. Charles H. Fulghum, Deputy Under Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Hon. John Roth, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Rebecca Gambler, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability Office; Michele Mackin, Director, Acquisition and Sourcing Management, U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Terror in Europe: Safeguarding U.S. Citizens at Home and Abroad. April 5, 2016.

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the current terrorism threat environment in Europe, to understand its causes and the challenges facing European nations, and to understand the security implications for the United States. Witnesses discussed how the European counterterrorism efforts differ from the United States' counterterrorism system and how those differences impact both European and American security.

Witnesses: Hon. Juan C. Zarate, Senior Advisor, Center for Strategic and International Studies; Julianne Smith, Senior Fellow and Director of the Strategy and Statecraft Program, Center for a New American Security; Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies; Clinton Watts, Robert A. Fox Fellow, Foreign Policy Research Institute. America's Insatiable Demand for Drugs. April 13, 2016.

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine how America's insatiable demand for drugs affects U.S. border security and local communities across the nation, and to assess strategies to reduce that demand. Witnesses discussed the public health challenge of reducing demand for illegal drugs, how treatment reduces the demand for drugs, and the value of media and peer-to-peer campaigns to combat drug use. The hearing also covered the path various drugs take to reach the United States, how these smuggling routes impact the regions that are transited, and how a reduction in demand may impact the illegal trafficking of narcotics across the United States' borders.

Witnesses: General John F. Kelly, USMC (Ret.), Former Commander of the United States Southern Command (2012-2016); Jonathan P. Caulkins, Stever Professor of Operations Research & Public Policy, Heinz College, Carnegie Mellon University; Cheryl Healton, Dean, College of Global Public Health, New York University; Tony Sgro, Chief Executive Officer, EdVenture Partners; Robert Budsock, President and Chief Executive Officer, Integrity House, Inc.

The Federal Perspective on the State of Our Nation's Biodefense. April 14, 2016.

The purpose of this one-panel hearing was to examine the current capabilities of key federal departments and agencies to assist the nation in preventing, detecting, responding to, and recovering from major biological incidents, both natural and intentional. Witnesses discussed how their organizations assess the nation's current preparedness and biosurveillance capabilities, and what opportunities may exist for improvement in coordination among federal partners. Witnesses also discussed the October 2015 report issued by the Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense, and the federal government's response to the Zika virus.

Witnesses: Richard J. Hatchett, M.D., Acting Director, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Stephen C. Redd, M.D., Director, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Kevin Shea, Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; Aaron M. Firoved, Ph.D., Director, National Biosurveillance Integration Center, Office of Health Affairs, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Christopher P. Currie, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Continues with Part 4 of 8

Myron Struck, editor, Targeted News Service, Springfield, Va., 703/304-1897; editor@targetednews.com; http://www.targetednews.com