United States Senator Dean Heller

Heller: Nevada, Yucca Mountain Should Not be Fallout from the “Nuclear Option”

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Inside-the-beltway talk about removing 60-vote threshold could have consequences for Nevada

(Washington, D.C.) – Senator Heller issued the following statement about the importance of avoiding the “nuclear option” for the sake of protecting Yucca Mountain:

“I will do everything in my power as a United States Senator to ensure the safety and well-being of Nevadans. For years, members of the entire Nevada delegation have put aside our political jerseys and worked together to ensure that the Yucca Mountain waste site would never open. It is important that Nevadans know that the inside-the-beltway debate about Senate rules could have very serious ramifications for Nevada and the opening of Yucca Mountain.

“The Nevada delegation needs every arrow in our quiver to keep the nation’s nuclear waste out of our state. Nevada shouldn’t be the fallout from the battle of the nuclear option,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Senators raised the issue on the Senate floor today, noting that if minority rights of the Senate are changed or the 60–vote threshold for nominations is removed, then the same principle could apply elsewhere with legislation. Without a 60-vote threshold, the current policies towards Yucca Mountain could be revisited. In fact, Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) raised it as his third priority just this morning.

###

Heller Applauds Committee Passage of Yerington Lands Bill

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Legislation adds nearly 1,300 jobs in Lyon County

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted to move forward legislation that would create nearly 1,300 jobs in Lyon County, Nevada. The Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act (S. 159) conveys federal land for fair market value to the City of Yerington for responsible mineral development and long-term sustainable planning.

“This is a balanced proposal that creates jobs and conserves important lands for future generations. It enjoys the support of the entire Nevada Delegation and will create over 1,300 jobs in one of the Silver State’s most distressed counties, all while conserving important habitat for generations to come. I am pleased the Energy Committee has recognized the importance of this legislation because Nevadans deserve jobs and the Lyon County jobs bill is vital in order for our state’s economy to grow.”

“I am hopeful that Representatives Amodei and Horsford are able to move this bill through the House of Representatives to ensure the momentum on this important legislation is not lost,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Bill Summary:

The Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act will allow the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to develop roughly 12,500 acres of land surrounding the Nevada Copper Pumpkin Hollow project site. The land purchased by the city will be used for mining activities, industrial and renewable energy development, recreation, and open space. The bill also establishes the Wovoka Wilderness to protect cultural resources and important habitat for generations to come. The legislation will facilitate the creation of approximately 500 construction jobs in the next year and nearly 800 jobs when the property is fully utilized as expected.

###

Heller Remembers Former NV Congresswoman Barbara Vucanovich on Senate Floor

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) made the following speech on the Senate floor in honor of the late Barbara Vucanovich, former Congresswoman for Nevada’s Second District:

Senator Heller’s Remarks as Prepared:

“Monday was a sad day for my home state of Nevada. This week we learned that Congresswoman Barbara Vucanovich passed away in Reno, just a few weeks before her 92nd birthday.

“As the first woman elected to represent Nevada in Congress, Barbara was a dedicated and effective legislator admired by her colleagues on both sides of the aisle. And as the first person to represent Nevada’s Second Congressional District - a district I was privileged to represent in the House of Representatives - Barbara was a role model to countless Nevadans. She exemplified the highest standards of public service.

“And moreover, Barbara was a dear friend.

“When I came to Washington for the very first time, Barbara invited me to join her for lunch, even though I was a total stranger. It was a kind, and considerate gesture that I will never forget. Even today, when constituents come to Washington to visit, I tell them the story about Barbara and how I aspire to the high standard she set.

“During her seven terms in Congress, she was a vigorous advocate for important issues, including breast cancer research, and was herself a breast cancer survivor. As Chairwoman of the House Subcommittee on Military Construction, at the time one of only two women ever to serve as Chair of an Appropriations Subcommittee, she was a strong and effective voice for America’s men and women in uniform. And she played a pivotal role protecting Nevada’s vast resources while serving on the House Interior Committee, helping to create the Great Basin National Park.

“Barbara served in Congress at a time when members of different parties could come together and find solutions for the American people. She served at a time when compromise and common sense guided decision-making, when results were more important than petty partisanship. And the same was certainly true of Barbara.

“Barbara was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was an admired and beloved public servant, a patriot, a proud Nevadan, and a dear friend.

“My heart goes out to her family and friends during this difficult time. My wife, Lynne, and I join our fellow Nevadans in remembering the inspirational life and legacy of Barbara Vucanovich.”

###

Heller, Reid Introduce Legislation to Open Up Land for Motocross Park and Elko Indian Colony

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Harry Reid (D-NV) introduced the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act. This legislation conveys 275 acres of Bureau of Land Management Land (BLM) to Elko County, Nevada, and requires the land be used only as a motocross, bicycle, off-highway vehicle, or stock car racing area.

Additionally, the legislation directs roughly 370 acres of land to be held in trust by the Secretary of the Interior for the Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians. This tribal land will be used for housing and cultural activities, among other important purposes, while protecting rights-of-way held by the City of Elko.

“Economic development and job creation should be a top priority and I am pleased that this bill tackles both issues,” said Senator Dean Heller. “Considering outdoor recreation is such an important part of life in Nevada, opening up this land will benefit the residents of Northern Nevada and Elko County for years to come. I appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in collaborating on this legislation and am pleased to partner with Senator Reid in an effort to make additional lands available to our communities and the Tribe,” said Senator Dean Heller.

“This bill will bolster Elko’s economy through tourism and new economic development in the region and expand the lands of the Elko Band,” said Senator Harry Reid. “Motorized recreation is an important part of life in the Silver State and throughout the West and people will travel from all over to Elko to enjoy these new facilities. In addition, after a steadily growing population, expanding the colony lands will improve housing and community development opportunities for the members of the Elko Band. I am happy to join Senator Heller in this important effort for Nevada.”

###

Heller and Heinrich Introduce Bill To Reduce Veterans Disability Claims Backlog

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act, a cost-neutral, bipartisan bill to help reduce the veterans disability claims backlog. The bill would require the Veterans Benefits Administration, an agency under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), to provide veterans with accurate information for faster filing options.

Specifically, the bill would require the VA to track and post the average turnaround time for veterans when they are filing their claims. Filing claims online through the Fully Developed Claims (FDC) program, instead of filing a paper claim, accelerates turnaround times and makes processing more efficient. The bill would require the VA to inform veterans that under current law, when they file a FDC, they are eligible to receive up to an extra year of benefits.

"It has taken years for the veterans’ claims backlog to reach critical levels, but as 10,000 Nevadans are waiting for their claims, we clearly do not have years to fix it. While there is no single bill that will magically reduce the backlog, it is legislation like this that takes another positive step forward. Providing accurate information to veterans at the point they submit a claim will save time for both the veteran and the Veterans Administration, and ultimately help the VA adjudicate the claim efficiently. I appreciate the opportunity to work with Senator Heinrich on this issue, and will continue to focus on ending the VA backlog," said Senator Dean Heller.

"Too many veterans are waiting far too long to receive the benefits they have earned," said Senator Martin Heinrich. "This commonsense approach will help accelerate the claims process while reducing the number of backlog claims. We have an obligation to keep America's promise to our veterans by providing them, without delay, the best care and benefits our country has to offer. Answering the call of duty runs deep throughout New Mexico's history, and I will continue to fight for our veterans just as they have heroically fought for us."

Claims pending for more than 125 days are characterized as "backlog." The VA's goal is to eliminate the backlog of compensation claims by the end of 2015. This bill would help achieve that goal.

The Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act is endorsed by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). "IAVA is proud to offer our support for Senators Heinrich and Heller's Faster Filing Act," said Tom Tarantino, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Chief Policy Officer. "This legislation would shorten the time that veterans must wait for their claims to be decided. Providing veterans with concrete information about quicker filing options will encourage veterans to initiate the claims process by crafting fully developed claims online. Providing critical information to veterans regarding the claims process helps ensure that VA is a veteran's strongest advocate, not a veteran's biggest obstacle."

The Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act closely corresponds with the Fully Developed Claims Community of Practice initiative, a program announced by the VA on May 21, 2013 to end the backlog by 2015 and process claims within 125 days at 98 percent accuracy. The VA can process FDCs in half the time it takes for a traditionally filed paper claim.

Currently, 82 percent of VA disability claims are still on paper. The bill helps ensure a veteran's claim never reaches the backlog. Currently, the average number of days it takes to process disability claims nationally is 330 days, and in New Mexico the average is 271 days.

The legislation is a companion bill to H.R. 1809 introduced by U.S. Representative Beto O'Rourke (TX-16).

###

Heller Files Amendments to S. 744 to Safeguard Nevada Tourism

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) filed two additional amendments to the Immigration bill, S. 744, to protect Nevada’s recovering tourism industry.

Amendment #1234: Requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to submit a report on how DHS intends to implement a biometric entry/exit system for ten highest-volume airports.

“For the sake of border security, it’s important that we understand who is entering the country and who is leaving it. At the same time, Nevada cannot afford to lose ground on its recovering tourism industry while the kinks of the biometric system are being worked out. This amendment allows airports to fully understand the demands and costs of the mandates included in the underlying bill,” said Senator Dean Heller.

S. 744 requires airports with the greatest volume of international travelers to implement a biometric entry/exit system four years before any other ports of entry, including land and sea ports.

To date, DHS has implemented a biometric exit system on a pilot program basis at a select number of airports. This amendment simply ensures that airports, which will be required to comply with this mandate before any other port of entry, know how this system will be implemented, what resources may be necessary to ensure its success and how it will affect the flow of travelers.

Amendment #1235: Requires DHS to develop a plan to reduce wait times at airports with the highest volume of international travelers. This amendment provides resources through travel fees in the bill to increase the number of Customs and Border Protection officers deemed necessary.

“Airports are already experiencing delays due to inadequate staffing of Customs and Border Protection officers. At the same time, it’s important that we process those visiting the country in a timely and secure manner. This amendment helps lessen prohibitive wait times by forcing DHS to identify and tackle problem areas before wait times get any longer,” said Senator Dean Heller.

International visitors traveling to and from Las Vegas’ McCarran airport have been experiencing significant wait times, largely due to the lack of Customs and Border Protection officers.

The report mandated by this amendment will increase transparency about how CBP plans to staff these airports so that, ultimately, passengers are processed efficiently and officers are allocated appropriately at ports of entry.

Earlier today, Senator Heller introduced amendment #1227, which expands the Southern Border Security Commission to include the southwestern state of Nevada. Click here to read more about that amendment.

###

Heller’s First Amendment to S. 744: Give Nevada a Seat at the Table

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington DC) – Today U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) filed his first amendment to the immigration reform legislation, S. 744. The amendment (#1227) expands the Southern Border Security Commission to include the southwestern state of Nevada.

“Nevada’s unique location and position as a world-class travel destination leave it highly vulnerable to our nation’s flawed immigration system. As a state that faces many of the same problems of other southern and southwestern border states like Arizona, Texas and California, Nevada deserves a seat at the table and should have a voice on the Southern Border Security Commission,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Heller’s amendment ensures that the Southern Border Security Commission, which is created in the underlying bill, is fully representative of issues affecting southern border and southwestern states. Although Nevada is not contiguous to the southern border, its current demographics and state issues are reflective of other southern border states.

###

Heller: Immigration Reform Legislation is Promising, but More Work Needed

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Votes to open debate on bipartisan proposal

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) voted in favor of moving debate forward on immigration reform legislation, S. 744. Following the vote, Senator Heller issued this statement:

"Our nation has been coping with a broken immigration system for too long, which is why it is so important that both Democrats and Republicans approach the upcoming debate seriously, and with an eye towards getting something done. So far, Democrats and Republicans have been working together in a good faith effort to create a bipartisan proposal that just may be able to solve this problem. But while this is a promising piece of legislation, there are certain areas of the bill that must be addressed.

“As I introduce amendments in coming days to address these concerns, I will continue to work with my colleagues to improve the bill, protect the portions of it that are already good, and hopefully help shape it into legislation that can pass the Senate and the House. In the meantime, Senate Leadership must continue to allow for open, transparent debate and an inclusive amendment process so that the final product is the best that it can be,” said Senator Dean Heller.

###

Senators: End Secret Law

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Bill to Declassify FISA Court Opinions

Washington, DC - Today, Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley and Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), accompanied by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Dean Heller (R-NV), Mark Begich (D-AK), Al Franken (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), introduced a bill that would put an end to the “secret law” governing controversial government surveillance programs. This bill would require the Attorney General to declassify significant Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) opinions, allowing Americans to know how broad of a legal authority the government is claiming to spy on Americans under the PATRIOT Act and Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

“Of course, ensuring Americans’ safety is one of our government’s most important responsibilities, but there is a careful balance between protecting Americans and honoring the Fourth Amendment,” Heller said. “This legislation is a measured approach that will bring more transparency to the FISA court and respect the American people’s right to know how and when the government may be accessing their personal information.”

“Americans deserve to know how much information about their private communications the government believes it’s allowed to take under the law,” Merkley said. “There is plenty of room to have this debate without compromising our surveillance sources or methods or tipping our hand to our enemies. We can’t have a serious debate about how much surveillance of Americans’ communications should be permitted without ending secret law.”

“This bipartisan amendment establishes a cautious and reasonable process for declassification consistent with the rule of law,” Lee said. “It will help ensure that the government makes sensitive decisions related to surveillance by applying legal standards that are known to the public. Particularly where our civil liberties are at stake, we must demand no less of our government.”

"For years, I have pressed for information about the business records program authorized by the PATRIOT Act to be declassified,” Leahy said. “I am proud to join in this bipartisan legislative effort to increase openness and transparency so that we can shed further light on the business records program authorized by this law."

"I remain deeply concerned over the reports of the government obtaining millions of Americans phone records. I’m pleased to co-sponsor this bill because we need greater transparency and accountability in our government to prevent overreach and to protect against an invasion of Americans’ privacy,” Begich said. “In the coming weeks I will continue to push for a better balance between protecting our safety and protecting our Constitutional rights.”

“There needs to be a balance between Americans’ right to privacy and the government’s responsibility to keep Americans safe,” Franken said. “And ensuring that the court overseeing surveillance programs is as transparent as possible is a key step toward reaching that balance. This legislation will help make the process more open to the American people and to the people of Minnesota.”

“We must find the right balance between protecting our nation and protecting the civil liberties that make America the greatest country in the world,” Tester said. “This bill will help Congress do a better job securing that balance, while maintaining the rights guaranteed to all Americans in the Fourth Amendment.”

“It is impossible for the American people to have an informed public debate about laws that are interpreted, enforced, and adjudicated in complete secrecy,” Wyden said. "When talking about the laws governing Intelligence operations, the process has little to no transparency. Declassifying FISA Court opinions in a form that does not put sources and methods at risk will give the American people insight into what government officials believe the law allows them to do.”

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) is a special U.S. federal court tasked with authorizing requests for surveillance both inside and outside the United States. Because of the sensitive nature of these requests, the FISC is a “secret court.” The FISC rulings, orders, and other deliberations are highly classified. The Court’s rulings can include substantive interpretations of the law that could be quite different from a plain reading of the law passed by Congress, and such interpretations determine the extent of the government’s surveillance authority. There is certainly information included in the Court’s orders and rulings that is necessarily classified, related to the sources and methods of collection used by intelligence agencies. However, the substantive legal interpretations of what the FISC says the law means should be made public.

This legislation would accommodate national security concerns. If the Attorney General determines that a Court opinion cannot be declassified without undermining national security interests, then the Attorney General can declassify a summary of the opinion. If the Attorney General determines that even a summary of an opinion would undermine national security, the Attorney General is required to provide a report to Congress describing the process to be implemented to declassify FISA Court opinions including an estimate of the number of opinions that will be declassified and the number that are expected to be withheld because of national security concerns.

Last December, Senator Merkley offered this bill as an amendment to the reauthorization of the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. The amendment would have covered declassification of rulings related to the provisions used to authorize the controversial Verizon telephone records metadata collection and the PRISM program collecting information from tech companies, both of which were disclosed last week. Thirty-seven senators supported the effort.

On Saturday, the New York Times editorial board endorsed the Senators’ efforts to declassify the opinions, saying, ”Congress should … require the court to be more public about its decisions.” The bill is also endorsed by the American Association of Law Libraries, The Constitution Project, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Project on Government Oversight (POGO), CREDO Mobile and OpenTheGovernment.org.

###

Heller Statement on Passing of Barbara Vucanovich

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Representative Barbara Vucanovich:

“With the passing of Barbara Vucanovich, the Silver State has lost one of its finest and most well-respected Nevadans. During one of my first trips to Washington, Barbara took me, a complete stranger, to lunch in the Congressional dining hall. Ever since that day, I have admired her and valued her wisdom, experience and friendship. Barbara always stressed that constituent services and responding directly to Nevadans’ needs are the most important responsibilities of public service. Grateful for that advice, I took it to heart and have always tried to follow the high standard she set. Lynne’s and my thoughts and prayers are with Barbara’s family and friends as we join them to mourn the loss of this great Nevadan,” said Senator Dean Heller.

###

Heller Statement on NSA Wiretapping Verizon Phones

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement in response to reports that the National Security Agency was granted authority to collect vast amounts of information from Verizon Business Network customers:

“This is yet another example of government overreach that forces the question, ‘What sort of state are we living in?’ There is clearly a glaring difference between what the government is doing and what the American people think they are doing.

"Of course, keeping American citizens safe is one of government’s most important responsibilities, but there is a fine line between protecting our nation and protecting our Fourth Amendment rights. Our government continues to come close to that line and in some areas may have even crossed it. It is exactly these types of concerning reports that spotlight the need for transparency and access to information that I have fought for in Congress and will continue to work towards,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Senator Heller voted against the PATRIOT Act five times due to the concerns about measures in the bill that provide the legal authority for the government to collect this same type of information. Senator Heller also supported an amendment introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Mike Lee (R-UT) that would require the Attorney General disclose each Foreign Surveillance Court (FISA) court decision unless it is not in the national security interest of the United States.

###

Heller: Nevada Should Not be a Political Target Because of Government Misconduct

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Introduces Bill as IRS Faces Scrutiny for Recent Conference Expenses

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) introduced a bill designed to permanently eliminate a "blacklist" of American cities like Las Vegas and Reno from hosting federal agency and executive branch conferences and conventions. Heller introduced the bill as the IRS faces scrutiny for expenses incurred at conferences paid for with taxpayers’ dollars.

“Given this Administration’s pattern of excessive spending, it’s understandable that many taxpayers do not trust the government to treat their tax dollars responsibly. However, it is not fair for government irresponsibility to negatively impact the life-blood of Nevada’s economy. Our state is home to some of the best hospitality and convention services in the world. It’s important that our state is not a political target because of government misconduct, particularly as the Silver State faces record unemployment, foreclosures and bankruptcies,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Just yesterday, the Treasury inspector general released an audit on Tuesday which detailed "questionable expenses" from recent IRS conferences. Heller first introduced this legislation in the 112^th Congress following reports that the General Services Administration hosted a particularly lavish conference in Las Vegas.

A PDF of this legislation is below.

###

Heller Introduces Bill to Measure Small Business Administration’s Effectiveness

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Transparency in Small Business Assistance Act Increases Transparency, Responsiveness at the SBA

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced introduction of the Transparency in Small Business Assistance Act (S. 936). Heller’s bill will help the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Congress determine whether SBA assistance programs provide effective and consistent help to small businesses.

“My number one priority in Congress is getting Nevadans back to work. Over the last four years, many small businesses - the lifeblood of our economy - have had to rely on SBA assistance programs in order to survive. It is important to track whether this assistance has been beneficial to small businesses. If the assistance programs are not working properly, Congress must take necessary actions to improve these programs,” said Senator Dean Heller.

A recent GAO report revealed that the SBA typically does not collect information to track the success of its programs. Collecting information from businesses who have received SBA assistance will enable the SBA and Congress to measure program outcomes, ensure the federal government is not wasting taxpayers’ dollars, and provide efficient and effective support to small businesses.

Bill Summary:

Heller’s SBA Efficiency Act would require the SBA to collect information related to:

Whether a small business is still operational six months and one year after receiving assistance through the SBA.
The reasons for closure if a small business is no longer in operation.
A business’s average employment six months and one year after it received assistance through the SBA.
Number of referrals an SBA program makes to other SBA programs or agencies if they are unable to provide the proper small business assistance.

###

CONGRATULATING CAOLINN MEJZA, SHARON FANG, AND JUSTIN JOSEPH

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

HON. DEAN HELLER

OF NEVADA

IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE

June 4, 2013

Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to recognize three of Nevada’s brightest students—Caolinn Mejza, Sharon Fang, and Justin Joseph—for earning the prestigious title of Presidential Scholar from the U.S. Department of Education. Presidential Scholars are chosen for outstanding test scores, essays, grades, and community service commitments.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars named only 141 scholars throughout the United States this year. Caolinn Mejza, who attends the Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing & Visual Arts, Sharon Fang of Clark High School, and Justin Joseph of Valley High School will represent Nevada as our state’s winners. Each Presidential Scholar will receive a medallion at a ceremony on June 16^th in Washington, D.C.

While honoring these students’ academic achievements, it is also important to recognize the value and importance of education in our state. We must continue to support teachers and to improve our education system for students at all stages. I am dedicated to increasing the quality of education and ensuring that every student graduates prepared to enter college or the workforce.

On behalf of the residents of the Silver State, I am proud to recognize Caolinn, Sharon, and Justin for their accomplishments and their contributions to our state. They are undoubtedly some of the finest and most talented students in Nevada. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these exceptional young Nevadans.

CONGRATULATING CEASAR SALICCHI

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

Hon. Dean Heller

of Nevada

in the United States Senate

June 4, 2013

Mr. Heller: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Ceasar Salicchi for being named a Distinguished Nevadan by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents during the commencement ceremony at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). Mr. Salicchi is a military veteran and advocate for people with disabilities. He is truly deserving of this prestigious honor, which is awarded to current and former Nevadans who have made significant contributions to the cultural, economic, and scientific or social advancement of Nevada and its people.

Mr. Salicchi served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. After he contracted polio at the age of 25 in 1952, he became an advocate for others with disabilities. He is a founding member of the Elko Association for Retarded Children, established in 1969, and served as the office manager for Elko General Hospital from 1962 to 1970. Mr. Salicchi went on to serve four different Nevada governors as a committee member for the Developmental Disabilities Act as well as the Employ the Handicapped Act. His lifetime dedication to serving those with disabilities is inspiring.

Not only is Mr. Salicchi a strong advocate and proponent for those with disabilities, but he is also a dedicated public servant. He has served the people and community of Elko County with dignity and honor as the County Treasurer from 1971 to 2006.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ceasar Salicchi for his accomplishments and contributions to Nevada. I hope that Mr. Salicchi’s example of public service and advocacy will be an example to all of us of the power that one individual can have on the positive progression of the Silver State and its people. He is a truly a Distinguished Nevadan and has earned our admiration and gratitude.

Heller Announces New Las Vegas Office Location

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced the relocation and opening of his new office in Las Vegas. The relocated office will continue to serve as the hub for constituent relations for southern Nevada.

“I am pleased to announce the relocation and opening of my new office in Las Vegas. Providing Nevadans with the help they need is one of the most important aspects of serving in the United States Senate.

“Whether Nevadans are struggling with the housing crisis, stuck in the backlog for veterans’ benefits, having difficulty accessing their social security benefits, or any other issue, we are here to help. I encourage anyone who needs assistance navigating the services provided by the federal government to reach out to our staff by either coming by the office or giving us a call,” said Senator Dean Heller.

Contact information for Senator Heller’s Las Vegas:

Address:

8930 West Sunset Road
Suite 230
Las Vegas, NV 89148

Telephone: (702) 388-6605
Fax: (702) 388-6501

The full-time staff in Senator Heller’s Las Vegas office offers a variety of services, and provides assistance handling situations that arise when dealing with federal agencies. Senator Heller and his staff are also available to tackle casework involving housing, veterans’ benefits, Social Security benefits and Medicare/Medicaid issues, among others.

Individuals interested in learning more about federal programs are also encouraged to contact the office. Heller’s southern Nevada office also facilitates nominations for students in Southern Nevada interested in attending United States service academies. For more information about these services, please visit http://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/services

The new office is located near I-215, and is easily accessible via the Sunset Road/Durango Drive exits.

###

Heller Welcomes Stolen Valor Act into Law

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – After President Obama signed the Stolen Valor Act into law today, Senator Heller issued the following statement:

“I’m pleased that President Obama signed the Stolen Valor Act into law today. The brave acts of the men and women in our military should be honored and protected. Thanks to the hard work of Rep. Heck and those who joined us in support of this issue, the recognition that these men and women earned will be preserved,” said Senator Dean Heller.

The Stolen Valor Act categorizes lying about receiving a military decoration or medal in order to profit or benefit financially as a federal crime. In February, Senator Heller and Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) introduced the Stolen Valor Act (S. 210) in the Senate. Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) championed this issue in the House of Representatives.

###

ICYMI: Heller: Both parties must work to fix system

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – In an op-ed posted in the Las Vegas Review-Journal on Sunday, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) outlined his thoughts regarding the immigration debate currently before Congress.

Las Vegas Review Journal
Both parties must work to fix system
By Senator Dean Heller
May 26, 2013-05-28

“Obama Wants to Split the GOP,” “The Era of Partisanship Isn’t Over,” “The Senate and the House are on a Collision Course.” These are just a few of the foreboding headlines as immigration reform moves forward in the Senate. But while some may derive stories from conflict, I believe the comprehensive immigration proposal currently under consideration in the Senate is actually very much a product of bipartisanship.

Our nation needs comprehensive immigration reform, and the immigration reform proposal championed by the “Gang of Eight” just may be our answer. When it comes to fixing our immigration system, I believe that most Nevadans actually agree on about 80 percent of the policy. It’s that other 20 percent where we disagree that tends to become the focus. I’ve been encouraged to see this particular piece of legislation continue to move through the regular legislative process and hope it continues.

The fact is, we have an immigration system that is broken and must be fixed. Our immigration laws are not being enforced, and as a result, as many as 11 million individuals are living in the United States in violation of our immigration law. In other words, we have de facto amnesty right now. At the same time, people hoping to immigrate to this great nation legally and share our American Dream are forced to hire a lawyer and spend thousands of dollars to navigate the immigration bureaucracy.

Enforcing laws currently on the books and building in effective enforcement mechanisms must come first. We need to finally secure our borders. This, by the way, is a principle on which both sides agree. We simply can’t be the only country on Earth that doesn’t enforce its immigration laws. We all want to live in a country where laws are respected and followed by those who live here and by those who wish to come here. By addressing this issue now, we as a nation have an opportunity to enrich our society with the best and brightest the world has to offer.

Reform is also necessary for providing communities and families certainty about their status and their role in American society. By establishing a path forward towards earned legal status, millions of people currently living in the shadows can understand what they and their family members need to do live here legally, plan for the future, and join in the fabric of American society. That’s not to say it will be easy. Those who decide to remain in the United States must pass background checks, pay taxes and a fine and learn English. They must wait in line behind everyone else who has applied before them. In fact, the option to even apply for permanent residency relies on the government’s ability to meet certain enforcement and border security requirements.

Fixing the system now provides us with an opportunity to continue to maintain the smartest, hardest-working, most creative workforce in the world. That often means allowing those who wish to immigrate here to join us. The legislation in its current form does address this issue, but the question of how many visas to provide to which kind of worker is still in flux. We must ensure that there are adequate visas for those who have special skills and are a perfect fit for jobs that cannot be otherwise filled by American citizens.

I’ve joined Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, as an original co-sponsor of the Immigration Innovation Act. This legislation increases the number of temporary work visas and employment-based green cards for highly skilled foreign workers as well as streamlines the process to acquire them. Targeted specifically at individuals specialized in the fields of science, technology, engineering, math and others, this is just one area of immigration policy that can help encourage innovation and job creation. I will continue to monitor this particular portion of the proposal very closely.

In order for immigration reform legislation to be successful, it must continue through Congress with an open process. These past several weeks, I have been able to work with Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., and other senators involved in this important bill, and we are finding ways to make this legislation even better. I am hopeful that this same pattern of transparency and openness will continue as Members debate the legislation on the Senate floor.

We are a nation of immigrants. America became the greatest nation on Earth because of the innovation, competition and rich cultural diversity that was born from a vibrant immigration process. At the same time, we treasure the privileges of being an American citizen, and we must protect them. As the Senate continues to debate this legislation, I believe that we can find an approach that works for both sides of the aisle. But for that to happen, neither side will get all that it wants.

As the Senate turns to immigration reform in coming weeks, members from both sides of the aisle must continue to work closely together. Maybe then the headlines will read something along the lines of “Bipartisanship Returns to Washington.”

I hope so.

Republican Dean Heller is a U.S. senator from Nevada.

###

Heller Memorial Day Statement

Mon, 27 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement in recognition of Memorial Day:

“Today is an extraordinary opportunity to show our gratitude for the sacrifices made by our nation’s military men and women. These American heroes set aside their individual needs and personal ambitions so that their fellow Americans could live in peace, safety, and security. While today we honor the memory of our fallen servicemembers, we must never forget their families, friends, and loved ones for their extraordinary sacrifices as well.

“As we go on with our day, and we attend barbecues and picnics, and spend time with family and friends, let us be grateful for the sacrifices made by all of our men and women in uniform who have made all of that possible. Thank you to our veterans and military men and women for your service and everything you have given to this great nation," said Senator Dean Heller.

Just last week Senator Heller introduced legislation designed to assist our nation’s veterans. Heller pushed for Senate passage on May 22^nd of the Stolen Valor Act, legislation that makes it a federal crime to lie about receiving a military decoration or medal in order to profit or benefit financially. Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) championed this legislation in the House of Representatives.

In honor of Memorial Day, Heller also teamed up with Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) to introduce the Spouses of Heroes Education Act, which would expand full educational benefits to spouses of service members who die in the line of duty.

###

Heller Bill Recognizing Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month Passes Senate

Fri, 24 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

(Washington, D.C.) – The Senate yesterday passed a resolution recognizing May 2013 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. The measure distinguishes this month as an important time to celebrate the significant contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the history of the United States. Senator Heller partnered with Mazie Hirono (D-HI) as lead Republican cosponsor to the resolution.

“It is a privilege to represent and serve the people of the Great State and its many diverse and culturally rich communities. This month we are fortunate to recognize Nevada’s Asian/Pacific American community and their vibrant, historical traditions. Thank you to Nevada’s Asian/Pacific communities for the contributions you have made to the social and economic development of Nevada, past, present and future,” said Senator Dean Heller.

###