Presidential Cabinet Briefing Updates by Kilbert Baez-Arias and Raenah Lindsey

Presidential Cabinet Briefing Updates By Kilbert Baez-Arias and Raenah Lindsey

The issues faced by the Presidential Cabinet evolve on a daily — if not hourly — basis. Please use these updates as references to learn more about what has happened since the Presidential Cabinet briefings were written. You are not expected to read this fully or know every detail contained in it. Use it in whatever ways you find helpful as you read the assigned briefings. Also note that although the document is 17 pages, a little less than half of it is taken up by sources.

PIRACY IN THE GULF OF GUINEA

Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea is effectively terrorizing multiple countries throughout 2020. Some of the targeted West African nations include, but are not limited to Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, and other international countries targeted recently include Panama and the U.S. The piracy refers to attacks of other ships and also the abduction and kidnapping of crew members. In 2020, there have been 27 kidnappings with 138 people being kidnapped. The high amount of piracy and crime in these waters are due to the lack of security and law enforcement from the West African nations along the Gulf. The criminal activity comes from multiple coastal West African nations, and those same nations are often victims of the piracy. There is a cycle that poverty is both the reason people go into pirating, but the same criminal actions worsens the circumstances attracting them to piracy. Pirating poses not only a huge security and economic risk. Piracy is damaging for the environment, since many of the attacks are on oil tankers. It increases the chances of oil spills, harming the wildlife in the waters and the health of people living on the coast. In 2011 and 2012, the United Nations Security Council passed two resolutions that called on West African countries to strengthen regulations and to establish an information-sharing system and report incidents. The Yaounde Code of Conduct in 2013 had a similar approach, this time among more regional organizations and countries in Africa. In 2016, the European Union joined the fray by launching their initiative to improve information sharing in the region. The U.S. has not taken any legislative action on this issue, but the Maritime Administration under the Department of Transportation did issue an advisory regarding the piracy and kidnapping in the Gulf of Guinea. The advisory describes the current uptake in piracy and also who to contact to report activity, such as the Coast Guard. The advisory is set to end January 8th, 2021.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Department of Transportation. “MSCI Advisory”. Maritime Administration. Web. Accessed 18 Dec 2020. https://www.maritime.dot.gov/msci/2020-012-gulf-guinea- piracyarmed-robberykidnapping-ransom

Moss, Kelly and Maisie Pigeon. “Why Piracy Is a Growing Threat in West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea”. World Politics Review. 9 June 2020. Web. Accessed 18 Dec 2020. https://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/articles/28824/in-west-africa-s-gulf- of-guinea-piracy-is-a-growing-threat

Salau, Sulaimon. “Concerns over rising pirate attacks at Gulf of Guinea”. The Guardian. 18 December 2020. Web. Accessed 18 Dec 2020. https://guardian.ng/business- services/concerns-over-rising-pirate-attacks-at-gulf-of-guinea/

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

There is national agreement that the country’s infrastructure is undergoing a crisis, yet there has been little relief. Recently, there has been greater acknowledgement towards the need to improve infrastructure, particularly rural infrastructure, and both Republicans and Democrats are on board. Last year, the Department of Transportation launched Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (ROUTES), which is meant to address both economic and safety concerns. Along with that, new bills have been introduced to aid rural communities. Representative Carol Miller (R-W.VA) introduced the Reinvesting in Essential Partnerships And Infrastructure for Rural America Act, also known as REPAIR. Gaining support from other Republicans, the act wants to increase mobility and access, relocate funds to rural communities, and reduce rural regulations. Other legislation propositions include calling for easier high-speed Internet access and giving rural municipalities the means to utilize the Department of Transportation’s tools. As these

bills have recently been introduced, they likely will not gain traction within Congress until 2021 and how far they get is uncertain. The uncertainty comes from the mix of support towards infrastructure rebuilding, and the fact that for two years major legislation did not pass when Republicans controlled both chambers of Congress from 2017 to 2019. An earlier infrastructure proposal from President Trump even had local and state governments doing most of the work to rebuild infrastructure, which is how the country already operates, and his administration was generally unfriendly to large infrastructure projects. The Moving America Forward Act, recently passed by the House in July, is an exemplary step in giving rural America the redesign it needs, but it is not deemed bipartisan enough to gain full support of rural citizens. Currently, the bill will increase travel costs for farmers and truckers. Other popular components of the bill is strengthening broadband, providing grants, and most importantly, addressing the poor conditions of rural roads. The best chances for infrastructure legislation to pass are for it to be heavily bipartisan, and that includes support from and for rural America. The Biden-Harris administration has announced plans for new infrastructure, and if recent legislation succeeds in Congress, rural states may get the infrastructure cleanup.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Duncan, Ian, et. al. “Biden to name former rival Buttigieg to lead Transportation Dept., former Mich. governor Granholm to Energy Dept.”. The Washington Post. 15 December 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/biden- transportation-secretary/2020/12/15/cf1b7456-3a41-11eb-98c4- 25dc9f4987e8_story.html

McClain, Sierra. “How the $1.5 trillion infrastructure bill would impact rural America”. Capital Press. 25 June 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.capitalpress.com/ag_sectors/rurallife/how-the-1-5-trillion- infrastructure-bill-would-impact-rural-america/article_e6ace322-b6fa-11ea-936c- df62cc567f61.html

Mulero, Eugene. “House Lawmaker Introduces Rural Infrastructure Bill”. Transport Topics. 11 December 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.ttnews.com/articles/house-lawmaker-introduces-rural- infrastructure-bill

“Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (ROUTES)”. Department of Transportation. 3 November 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020.

NATIONAL PARKS PROTECTION

One priority of the Trump Administration has been to roll back regulations on environmental protections and agencies, among those the protections helping National Parks. The biggest blow came recently with the neglect of the Great American Outdoors Act. Passed over the summer with bipartisan support in Congress, the legislation was signed into law by the president. Some of its purposes include guaranteeing funds for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, improving maintenance, and fund projects. The LWCF was originally created in 1965 and is supposed to receive $900 million every year to dedicate to parks and conservation. Only twice it has ever received full funding, and Republicans removed its funding in 2018. A renewed interest from citizens calling for more conservation played a role in the upcoming 2020 elections, and the LWCF was reauthorized in 2019, receiving full funding through the Outdoors Act. One of the successes of the LWCF in 2020 was the purchase of private land in Grand Teton National Park. In fact, another problem surrounding the protection of national parks is the ownership of the land and whether they’re public or not. The Trump administration has been giving public land away for private services, which is dangerous for the conservation effort. National parks and other conservation efforts are currently stalled given the Trump’s administration’s neglect towards the Outdoors Act. The act, which has the intention of repairing parks, needed lists from the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service of which projects will be completed and which projects and land purchases will improve national parks and other public spaces. The Trump administration handed in the lists one week after the November 2nd deadline, and the list was subpar to what conservationists expected. The lack of intention is suspected to be how Republicans actually feel about conservation, with the Outdoors Act being solely an effort to secure re- election for two senators from Colorado and Montana. Whether that is true or not, the strength of conservation still lies within the Great Outdoors Act. Under the Trump administration, national parks were ignored and threatened. Public lands as a whole underwent a large shift in their ownership and overall use. Protecting national parks is connected with conserving both land and the environment. If the executive branch fully works with the Great American Outdoors Act and conservationists, then national parks can be protected and repaired.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Fahys, Judy. “Congress Passed a Bipartisan Conservation Law. Then the Trump Administration Got in its Way”. Inside Climate News. 16 December 2020. Web. Accessed 17 Dec 2020. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/16122020/great- american-outdoors-act-congress-climate-election/

“While national parks decay, the Trump administration squabbles”. NRDC. 9 Nov 2020. Web. Accessed 17 Dec 2020. https://www.nrdc.org/trump-watch/while-national- parks-decay-trump-administration-squabbles

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Electric vehicles are receiving a renewed lease on life as the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, “the leading lobbying group for the U.S. auto industry” calls for supporting electric vehicles. With the COVID-19 pandemic slowing purchases of cars, automakers have not asked for government assistance, but lobbyists are now hoping policymakers will now push for incentives, infrastructure, and other forms of regulation for electric vehicles. One incentive that already exists is a tax-credit that reduces one’s federal income tax liability by $7,500. This and other tax extenders are set to expire at the end of 2020 unless Congress decides to renew them. The fate of EV progress resides largely in Congress in the numerous bills that have been introduced. The Moving America Forward Act, HR 2, was recently passed over the summer by the House and the Senate still needs to vote, and chances of the Senate passing it are low. HR 2 is particularly enticing since it wants to upgrade the electric grid to handle EVs, increase manufacturing, and also has initiatives like making 75% of new Post Office vehicles electric. Other legislation hasn’t had much luck, like the Driving America Forward Act which was introduced in the Senate over a year ago in 2019 but has yet to be voted on. At this moment, it seems that electric vehicles are in a stalemate, with legislation not going far and an administration that is not receptive to large infrastructure changes. EVs may receive more support under the upcoming Biden-Harris administration, one that has already stated desires for EV expansion.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Blanco, Sebastian. “Moving Forward Act Is A $1.5 Trillion Congressional Bill That Loves Electric Vehicles”. Forbes. 20 June 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.forbes.com/sites/sebastianblanco/2020/06/30/moving-forward-act- is-a-15-trillion-bill-that-loves-electric-vehicles/?sh=5636a8b633f6

Mercado, Darla. “These green energy tax credits are set to expire, unless Congress renews them”. CNBC. 15 Dec 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.cnbc.com/2020/12/15/these-green-tax-credits-are-set-to-expire- unless-congress-renews-them.html

Walton, Robert. “EV industry optimistic for expanded tax credits, other policy wins under 'car guy' Biden”. Utility Drive. 20 Nov 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020. https://www.utilitydive.com/news/ev-industry-optimistic-for-expanded-tax-credits- other-policy-wins-under-c/589437/

Wayland, Michael. “Auto industry wants more government support for electric vehicles”. CNBC. 15 Dec 2020. Web. Accessed 16 Dec 2020.

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/12/15/auto-industry-wants-more-government- support-for-electric-vehicles.html

GOVERNMENT-MANDATED CONTRACEPTIVE COVERAGE

The Affordable Care Act in 2010 mandates that all women have access to preventative care, which includes access to contraceptives. Nevertheless, two rules, which were originally applied only to churches, exempt employers from providing contraceptives if they have conflicting “moral convictions” or “sincerely held religious beliefs”. In 2017, Health and Human Services expanded those rules to cover family-led corporations whose owners believe contraceptive coverage violates their religious beliefs. Those who aren’t providing coverage also do not need certification to stop paying for contraceptives and have no obligation to notify the federal government either. U.S. District Judge Haywood Gilliam granted an injunction that stopped the rules from being enforced in 13 states and Washington D.C. One day later a nationwide injunction was issued by U.S. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone. In 2019, the Ninth Circuit upheld Gilliam’s injunction, with the Third Circuit upholding the nationwide injunction. In July, the Supreme Court reversed the Third Circuit, holding that, under the Affordable Care Act, the religious exemptions can be extended beyond churches. The matter is not entirely settled with the Supreme Court’s holding, The current issue at hand is whether Judge Gilliam will allow the rules and exemptions to exist or not. The situation is complicated with the start of a new administration in late January, which could provide better insight on the decision Judge Gilliam will take. Judge Gilliam has announced that he is uncertain on when he will make a decision, stating he may decide soon or later. However, there’s pressure for him to act now, since one can likely predict what the new administration’s stance will be, and there are currently 127,000 women affected by the rules.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Dinzeo, Maria. “Judge Questions Birth Control Mandate Likely to Change With Biden Administration”. Courthouse News Service. 16 December 16 2020. Web. Accessed 19 December 2020. https://www.courthousenews.com/judge-questions- birth-control-mandate-likely-to-change-with-biden-administration/

RESOURCE INSECURITY FACED BY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Recent legislation confronting childhood resource insecurity has been attached to the Omnibus Spending Bill passed by Congress in December of 2020. With a $900 billion Covid-19 stimulus and relief package, the bill will provide families in need of additional support with increased nutrition benefits. Specifically, the bill allots $13 billion for food assistance and increases SNAP [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits by 15% for six months. In addition to delivering funding to food banks, the legislation will provide households with direct payments of up to $600 (per adult and per child). Another notable piece of legislation seeking to confront childhood resource insecurity is The STRONG Support for Children Act of 2020, which was introduced to the House by Rep. Ayanna Pressley in October. It calls for amending the Public Health Service Act to “support the development and implementation of programs using data analysis to identify and facilitate strategies to improve outcomes for children in geographic areas with a high prevalence of trauma from exposure to adverse childhood experiences.” While the legislation itself is broad, measures within the body of the bill aim to address resource insecurity more specifically. It is currently under consideration by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Similarly, The Improving Data Collection for Adverse Childhood Experiences Act was introduced in the House by Rep. Lucy McBath in July of 2020. Another piece aiming to amend the Public Health Service Act, the bill seeks to address “adverse” childhood experiences, such as food insecurity, through research and “programmatic efforts” undertaken by Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bill is currently under consideration by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce The last piece of notable legislation is the Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act. Introduced by Rep. Susan Davis in October, it aims to guarantee children of active duty service members access to free and reduced-price school meals. It authorizes the Department of Defense to “to alert the state agencies overseeing school meal programs to directly certify that children in eligible, active military families are enrolled in free and reduced-cost lunch programs.” This Act is currently under consideration by the Committee on Education and Labor. In conclusion, President-elect Biden’s platform has committed to ensuring food security by increasing SNAP benefits by 15% (this mirrors the provisions in the stimulus package mentioned above) while also temporarily providing low-income families with extra financial and nutritional support monthly. He has also committed to working with FEMA [Federal Emergency Management Agency] in lead states to increase shelter options that provide both shelter and prepared food for families.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Csreinicke. “The $900 Billion Covid Relief Package Will Extend Nutrition Benefits for Families.” CNBC, CNBC, 21 Dec. 2020, www.cnbc.com/2020/12/21/the- stimulus-package-will-extend-nutrition-benefits-for-families-.html.

Davis, Susan A. “H.R.8534 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 6 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/8534.

“Highlights of Joe Biden's Plans to Support Women During the COVID-19 Crisis.” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 29 July 2020, joebiden.com/plans-to-support-women-duringcovid19/.

“House Democrats File Omnibus Spending Bill.” House Committee on Appropriations, 21 Dec. 2020, appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-democrats- file-omnibus-spending-bill.

McBath, Lucy. “Text - H.R.7689 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Improving Data Collection for Adverse Childhood Experiences Act.” Congress.gov, 20 July 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house- bill/7689/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22resource+insecurity%22%5D %7D.

Pressley, Ayanna. “Text - H.R.8544 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): STRONG Support for Children Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 6 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house- bill/8544/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22resource+insecurity%22%5D %7D.

“Reps. Davis and Levin Unveil Legislation to Provide Free or Reduced-Cost School Meals to Eligible Military Children.” Representative Mike Levin, 7 Oct. 2020, mikelevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-davis-and-levin-unveil- legislation-provide-free-or-reduced-cost-school.

Schumer, Charles E. “S.4800 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): The Heroes Act.” Congress.gov, 9 Nov. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate- bill/4800.

“Welcome to Benefits.gov.” Welcome to Benefits.gov | Benefits.gov, www.benefits.gov/benefit/361.

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Increased pressures in the workplace have taken a great toll on the mental health of workers. In light of this issue, Congress has taken on efforts to promote and support mental health initiatives in the workplace. In October of 2020, House Representatives Katie Porter, Ayanna Pressley, and Mary Scanlon introduced the Mental Health Justice Act of 2020. While it does not specifically target the workforce, the legislation aims to “reduce violence against individuals with mental illness and disabilities,” and, “support the creation of mental health first responder units that would be deployed in lieu of law enforcement when 911 is called.” This legislation aims to destigmatize mental health while treating it more appropriately. These efforts would be reflected in the workplace upon passage. Since introduction, this piece has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce for consideration. In the wake of COVID, Rep. Bryan Steil introduced the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support During COVID-19 Act in July. The Act calls upon the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to “award grants to states and territories for outreach, treatment, and other activities to address increased mental health and substance abuse issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.” While this bill has not left the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, legislation with similar aims will be implemented soon. Within the COVID-19 relief package attached to the omnibus spending bill passed in December, Senators Susan Collins and Shelley Capito introduced an amendment that would provide an additional $4.5 billion in emergency funds for SAMHSA programming. At the executive level, President-elect Biden has committed to “achieving mental health parity, expanding access to mental health care, and eliminating the stigma around mental health.” In pursuit of these efforts, his administration will seek to extend the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, mandating parity between mental health disorder benefits and other “general” medical or surgical benefits. Internationally, the US can learn from actions taken and attitudes adopted by other countries such as Finland. The Finnish government takes a broad and comprehensive approach to mental health care and operates an online Mental Health Hub that provides therapies (for low-threshold disorders) for all residents. Finland is also known for its “progressive stance” towards mental health in the workplace and beyond. A brief and concluding note on the advocacy front: the Kennedy forum has demanded a “robust federal response” to the mental health and addiction implications of isolation, job loss, grief, stress, and other conditions occurring during the pandemic.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

“Final Rules Under the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008; Technical Amendment to External Review for Multi-State Plan Program.” Federal Register, 13 Nov. 2013, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/11/13/2013-27086/final-rules-under- the-paul-wellstone-and-pete-domenici-mental-health-parity-and-addiction- equity-act.

“Finland's Mental Health Challenge.” OECD Observer, oecdobserver.org/news/fullstory.php/aid/6164/Finland_92s_mental_health_ch allenge.html.

“Health Care and Communities of Color: Joe Biden.” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 29 July 2020, joebiden.com/health-care-communities-of- color/.

Porter, Katie. “Text - H.R.8639 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Mental Health Justice Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 20 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house-bill/8639/text.

“Reps. Pressley, Porter, Cárdenas and Scanlon Introduce Bill to Protect Individuals with Mental Illness, Disabilities from Police Violence.” Representative Ayanna Pressley, 20 Oct. 2020, pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-pressley- porter-c-rdenas-and-scanlon-introduce-bill-protect-individuals.

“Senate Must Act After House Passes $8.5 Billion for Mental Health Response.” The Kennedy Forum, 5 Oct. 2020, www.thekennedyforum.org/blog/senate-must-act- after-house-passes-8-5-billion-for-mental-health-response/.

“Senator Susan Collins.” Senators Collins, Capito Introduce Measure to Provide $4.5 Billion in Additional Funding for Substance Use, Mental Health Programs in COVID-19 Relief Bill | Senator Susan Collins, www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-capito-introduce-measure- provide-45-billion-additional-funding-substance.

Steil, Bryan. “H.R.7893 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support During COVID-19 Act.” Congress.gov, 31 July 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house- bill/7893?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22mental+health%22%5D%7D.

Väänänen, Heikki. “Why Finland Is Such A Great Place For Business.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 23 Nov. 2020, www.forbes.com/sites/heikkivaananen/2020/11/23/why-finland-is-such-a- great-place-for-business/?sh=77b90ef07067.

GERRYMANDERING

With 2020 being a consensus year, gerrymandering has been a heated issue of late. The Census Bureau conducts the census every ten years, determining how many seats each state will receive in the House of Representatives. In the recent district court case, Alabama v. US Department of Commerce, the State of Alabama sued the Dept. of Commerce in hopes of limiting the census count to citizens only. While these sentiments contradict the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution, the case is still pending in a district court as of October. In what may have been retaliation, the case Useche v. Trump struck back when registered voters challenged President Trump’s attempt to exclude undocumented immigrants from the 2020 Census. Since the census’ numbers are used for apportioning seats in the U.S. House of Representatives (and votes in the Electoral College), this conflict reflects a greater issue related to gerrymandering and redistricting. When regional populations shift and when states lose or gain seats, districts must be redrawn. If some individuals are excluded from the census count, districts may be drawn in ways that are inaccurate and/or unrepresentative. Because many sitting congress members may have certain incentives to maintain the geographics and demographics of their constituencies, Congress has not taken substantial recent action. There has been some movement, however. In October of 2020, Rep. Alcee Hastings introduced the Congress Commission Act to “establish a commission to make recommendations on the appropriate size of membership of the House of Representatives and the method by which Members are elected.” The commission would also be tasked with examining the use of gerrymandering in the redrawing of districts. Since introduction, the Act has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for consideration. Additionally, the Senate agreed upon S.Res.695, A resolution designating September 2020 as "National Voting Rights Month". The resolution’s twin, H.Res.1114, was agreed upon in the house shortly after. While only a resolution, the piece encourages the passage of the For the People Act of 2019 which aims to “increase voters’ access to the ballot, end gerrymandering, implement automatic voter registration, as well as make critical investments in election infrastructure and technology aimed at addressing corruption in campaign finance and ethics.” President-elect Biden has yet to address any efforts his administration will take in response to gerrymandering. However, many states have created and continue to create independent commissions tasked with the redrawing of district lines.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

“We're Suing to Stop the Trump Administration from Rushing the Census.” Brennan Center for Justice, 18 Dec. 2020, www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis- opinion/were-suing-stop-trump-administration-rushing-census.

“Alabama v. United States Department of Commerce.” Brennan Center for Justice, www.brennancenter.org/our-work/court-cases/alabama-v-united-states- department-commerce.

FairVote.org. “How Proportional Representation Would Finally Solve Our Redistricting and Gerrymandering Problems.” FairVote, www.fairvote.org/how_proportional_representation_would_finally.

Hastings, Alcee L. “Actions - H.R.8587 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Congress Commission Act.” Congress.gov, 16 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house-bill/8587/all-actions-without-amendments.

Hastings, Alcee L. “Text - H.R.8587 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Congress Commission Act.” Congress.gov, 16 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house- bill/8587/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22gerrymandering%22%5D%7.

Madiba Dennie Brianna Cea, et al. “Useche v. Trump.” Brennan Center for Justice, 19 Nov. 2020, www.brennancenter.org/our-work/court-cases/useche-v-trump.

Sarbanes, John P. “Text - H.R.1 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): For the People Act of 2019.” Congress.gov, 14 Mar. 2019, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house-bill/1/text.

Underhill, Wendy. Redistricting Commissions: State Legislative Plans, www.ncsl.org/research/redistricting/2009-redistricting-commissions-table.aspx.

Veasey, Marc A. “Actions - H.Res.1114 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Expressing Support for the Designation of the Month of September as ‘National Voting Rights Month’.” Congress.gov, 24 Sept. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house-resolution/1114/all-actions-without-amendments.

Wyden, Ron. “Text - S.Res.695 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): A Resolution Designating September 2020 as ‘National Voting Rights Month’.” Congress.gov, 15 Sept. 2020,www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate- resolution/695/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22gerrymandering%22%5 D%7D.

THE ECONOMICS OF OUR CLIMATE CRISIS

While the Trump Administration formally withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement [an agreement among countries designed to limit global warming and support climate change response efforts] in the fall of 2020, Congress has presented various pieces of legislation to confront the issue of climate change. Most recently, the 116th Congress has attached climate change legislation to its coronavirus relief package that currently awaits President Trump’s signature. The bill provisions $35 billion in spending dedicated to developing clean power sources and eliminating the use of greenhouse gases. While not an exhaustive list, there are additional pieces of current legislation that are particularly notable in the fight against climate change (further legislation can be found on congress.gov). Introduced on Aug. 6, 2020 by Sen. Kamala Harris, The Climate Equity Act of 2020 mandates that any “new legislation, regulation, or federal investments that are related to environmental or climate change must be reviewed to determine the impacts of the legislation, its regulations, or any investments on frontline communities [communities that have experienced environmental injustice or are particularly vulnerable to climate injustice].” The bill is currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and its twin bill, H.R.8019 introduced by Rep. Alexandria O. Cortez in August, is awaiting consideration from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. Introduced in July of 2020 by Rep. Matt Cartwright, The Climate-Resilient International Development Optimization Act, calls for “the [requirement] and integration of climate-resilience considerations into all development work of the United States, and for other purposes.” It has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for further consideration. In September of 2020, Sen. Robert Menendez introduced another international-focused bill: The Prioritizing Clean Energy and Climate Cooperation with India Act of 2020 seeks to establish the U.S.-India Clean Energy and Power Transmission Partnership, which shall, “serve as the primary forum and funding mechanism for U.S.-India cooperation on clean energy and energy transmission technology matters.” The bill has been read twice and is currently under consideration by the Committee on Foreign Relations. Additionally, both the House and Senate adopted a concurrent resolution [a measure that is “not binding law (and hence not presented to the President for action or signature), but expresses the collective sentiment of the House on a particular issue, person, or event”] in September of 2020. S.Con.Res.47 recognizes that “the climate crisis is disproportionately affecting the health, economic opportunity, and fundamental rights of children,” and aims to, “[recognize] the need of the United States to develop a national, comprehensive, and science-based climate recovery plan to phase out fossil fuel emissions and put the United States on a path toward stabilizing the climate system.” In sum, members of Congress have acknowledged the current and impending crises resulting from climate negligence. The examples provided brief and non-exhaustive insight into recent action that has been taken to combat climate change. In addition to these pieces of legislation, the incoming administration has pledged to create “clean energy jobs” while making environmental protection a “cornerstone” of

economic planning. In his climate plan, President-elect Biden has committed to: “ensuring that the U.S. achieves a 100% clean energy economy and reaches net-zero emissions no later than 2050; building a more resilient nation through investments in environmental infrastructure; recommitting the United States to the Paris Agreement; confronting polluters who disproportionately harm low-income, minority communities; and fulfilling obligations to workers and communities responsible for industrial and economic growth.”

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anonymous. “Paris Agreement.” Climate Action - European Commission, 15 Nov. 2019, ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/international/negotiations/paris_en.

Brady Dennis, Juliet Eilperin. “As U.S. Leaves Paris Accord, Climate Policy Hangs on Election Outcome.” The Washington Post, 5 Nov. 2020, www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2020/11/04/climate-change- election-paris-agreement/.

Cartwright, Matt. “Text - H.R.7738 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Climate-Resilient International Development Optimization Act.” Congress.gov, 23 July 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house- bill/7738/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22climate%22%5D%7D.

Davenport, Coral. “Climate Change Legislation Included in Coronavirus Relief Deal.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 21 Dec. 2020, www.nytimes.com/2020/12/21/climate/climate-change-stimulus.html.

Harris, Kamala D. “S.4513 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Climate Equity Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 6 Aug. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate- bill/4513.

“Plan for Climate Change and Environmental Justice: Joe Biden.” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 29 Oct. 2020, joebiden.com/climate- plan/.

“A Guide to Legislative Votes.” Congressman Bill Keating, 12 Sept. 2016, keating.house.gov/policy-work/guide-legislative-votes.

Schakowsky, Janice D. “H.Con.Res.119 - 116th Congress (2019-2020).” Congress.gov, 23 Sept. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-concurrent- resolution/119?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22climate%22%5D%7D.

Friedman, Lisa. “Biden Introduces His Climate Team.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 19 Dec. 2020, www.nytimes.com/2020/12/19/climate/biden- climate-team.html.

Menendez, Robert. “S.4759 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Prioritizing Clean Energy and Climate Cooperation with India Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 30 Sept. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate- bill/4759?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22climate%22%5D%7D.

Merkley, Jeff. “S.Con.Res.47 - 116th Congress (2019-2020).” Congress.gov, 23 Sept. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-concurrent- resolution/47?s=1.

Ocasio-Cortez, Alexandria. “H.R.8019 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Climate Equity Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 11 Aug. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house- bill/8019?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22climate%22%5D%7D.

Tlaib, Rashida. “H.R.8806 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): RISE Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 20 Nov. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house- bill/8806?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22climate%22%5D%7D.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM AND SOCIAL MEDIA

While social media can be used to advance positive initiatives, it has often been used as a breeding ground for domestic terrorism and political violence. According to a publication from the CSIS, “Digital platforms are a major battlefield [for extremists and domestic terrorists], with both far-left and far-right extremists using various social media platforms to release propaganda and instigate violence.” Fears stemming from political divisions have led many to consider force and violence in protection of their interests. President Trump has been known to deliver divisive rhetoric through his Twitter account, oftentimes encouraging violent, extremist behavior. This type of behavior reflects social media’s ability to rally people behind common causes that may have dangerous consequences. Notably, in October of 2020, a mobilized group of individuals was charged for plotting to kidnap two sitting governors – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Gov. Ralph Northam of Virginia. In response to this issue, Congress has taken action. In November of 2020, Rep. Bennie Thompson introduced the DHS [Department of Homeland Security] Reform Act of 2020. The legislation calls for broad Homeland Security reforms and mandates that the DHS, “update or replace the strategic framework to counter terrorism and targeted violence,” while ensuring that, “the Department’s strategic framework and implementation plans address the current threat environment for domestic terrorism, international terrorism, targeted violence, and emerging threats, including violent white supremacist extremism.” The Act has been referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management for consideration. In July of 2020, Rep. Michael McCaul introduced the Protecting America through Information Sharing Act, which aims to create a program capable of

facilitating “voluntary information sharing between State, local, and regional fusion centers and certain technology companies related to threats of imminent violence, and for other purposes.” The legislation also calls for the development of a “clearinghouse” that informs law enforcement of threats of imminent violence found on social media. As of Aug. 1, 2020, the legislation has been referred to the Subcommittee on Intelligence and Counterterrorism for consideration. Additionally, a house resolution [a measure that is not “not binding law (and hence not presented to the President for action or signature), but expresses the collective sentiment of the House on a particular issue, person, or event” ] was adopted in response to behaviors associated with QAnon. Introduced by Rep. Tom Malinowski on Sep. 25, 2020, H.Res.1154 stands in rejection and condemnation of QAnon correspondences and conspiracy theories. Rep. Malinowksi claims that this resolution also serves to condemn all other far-left and far-right ideologies that contribute to unfound conspiracy theories or that insight violence or destruction. This resolution was agreed upon by the House on October 2, 2020. Moreover, President-elect Joe Biden has made his opposition to domestic terrorism clear and he plans to prioritize legislation confronting the issue during his administration. He has reportedly been encouraged to create a White House post that oversees efforts to combat ideological and extremist violence. Whether or not he will create such a post is uncertain for now.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Allam, Hannah. “Right-Wing Embrace Of Conspiracy Is 'Mass Radicalization,' Experts Warn.” NPR, NPR, 15 Dec. 2020, www.npr.org/2020/12/15/946381523/right- wing-embrace-of-conspiracy-is-mass-radicalization-experts-warn.

Bump, Philip. “Analysis | Once Again, Trump's Rhetoric Overlaps with Arguments Used to Rationalize Violence.” The Washington Post, WP Company, 9 Oct. 2020, www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2020/10/08/once-again-trumps-rhetoric- overlaps-with-arguments-used-rationalize-violence/.

“Congressman Riggleman's Resolution to Condemn QAnon Passes House.” Representative Denver Riggleman, 2 Oct. 2020, riggleman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-riggleman-s- resolution-condemn-qanon-passes-house.

“A Guide to Legislative Votes.” Congressman Bill Keating, 12 Sept. 2016, keating.house.gov/policy-work/guide-legislative-votes.

Kayla Ruble, Laura Vozzella. “Whitmer Plotters Also Discussed Kidnapping Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, FBI Agent Testifies.” The Washington Post, WP Company,

14 Oct. 2020, www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/ralph-northam- gretchen-witmer-kidnapping-plot/2020/10/13/26b4e31a-0d5f-11eb-b1e8- 16b59b92b36d_story.html.

Levy, Rachael. “Biden Administration Urged to Take Fresh Look at Domestic Terrorism.” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 13 Nov. 2020, www.wsj.com/articles/biden-administration-urged-to-take-fresh-look-at- domestic-terrorism-11605279834.

Malinowski, Tom. “H.Res.1154 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): Condemning QAnon and Rejecting the Conspiracy Theories It Promotes.” Congress.gov, 2 Oct. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house- resolution/1154?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22domestic+terrorism%22%5 D%7D.

Phillips, Michael M., et al. “Trump Supporters Protest Biden Election Win; Violence Erupts at Night.” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 13 Dec. 2020, www.wsj.com/articles/pro-trump-demonstrators-call-to-overturn-bidens- presidential-election-win-11607806033.

Thompson, Bennie G. “Titles - H.R.8791 - 116th Congress (2019-2020): DHS Reform Act of 2020.” Congress.gov, 20 Nov. 2020, www.congress.gov/bill/116th- congress/house- bill/8791/titles?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22domestic+terrorism%22%5D %7D.

“The War Comes Home: The Evolution of Domestic Terrorism in the United States.” The War Comes Home: The Evolution of Domestic Terrorism in the United States | Center for Strategic and International Studies, 9 Dec. 2020, www.csis.org/analysis/war-comes-home-evolution-domestic-terrorism-united- states.