Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the House of Representatives passed S. 47, The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA).  After a long delay, the House has finally allowed a vote on the Senate legislation which passed last year and again this year with the support every female Republican Senator and which has the support of over 1,300 domestic violence, sexual assault, and law enforcement groups.  Loebsack is a cosponsor of the bipartisan, comprehensive bill.

"I am very pleased that House leaders finally heard the public's call from women and men across the country, along with over a thousand organizations and groups and allowed a vote on the bipartisan, comprehensive Violence Against Women Act.  I was proud to stand with my colleagues and cosponsor this important legislation.  It was unconscionable that politics held up the reauthorization for as long as it has, it is long overdue.  Today is an important day for women and families in Iowa and across the nation."

By Congressman Dave Loebsack

Throughout the month of February, Iowans gathered for different events and celebrations across the state to honor and pay tribute to the many contributions African Americans have made to our great state and nation.  Iowa has always had a proud history of leading the way in advancing civil rights.

As we reflect on the long history of African Americans and their struggle for freedom and equality, we must also take the time to commemorate the great achievements of African Americans right here in Iowa.  From the Civil War to the 21^st Century, some of our country's greatest African American leaders have called Iowa home.

As a graduate of Iowa State, I have long appreciated the story and achievements of George Washington Carver.  Born on a plantation in Missouri, Carver came to Iowa and became the first African American to enroll at what would later be known as Iowa State University.  Completing his bachelor's degree in 1894, he became the school's first African American faculty member.  After graduating with his master's, he joined Alabama's Tuskegee Institute, where his work resulted in hundreds of new products from peanuts and other crops.  Today, he is remembered for improving farming practices and being one of the first prominent African American scientists.

I'm proud to represent an area that is home to many great African American leaders.  Born in Ottumwa, Archie Alexander went on to study engineering at the University of Iowa.  He later became a renowned architect and designed a variety of projects around the country.   One of his most well-known endeavors was the design of airfield where the legendary Tuskegee airmen trained during the Second World War.

In 1941 President Franklin Roosevelt overruled his top generals and ordered the creation of an all African American flight training program.  These pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance, and support staff became known as the Tuskegee Airmen.  They served with distinction during World War II despite facing segregation both inside and outside the military.  A few years ago, I had the great honor of presenting the Tuskegee Airmen Bronze Medal to a constituent in the Second District in honor of his service during World War II as one of the first African American military pilots.

I am proud to be an Iowan and I hope that over the last month you have found a way to commemorate the great achievements of African Americans here in Iowa and across the United States.  Our state and our country have made great advances in equality and we must honor those who struggled so long against injustice and discrimination.  As we have done in the past, it is my hope that Iowa will move forward together and continue to fight for equality for all our people.

Lawmakers to discuss possible impact of sequestration on the QC economy

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-02) and Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) announced today that they will tour the Mandus Group to get an overview of their business and a tour of the facility, TOMORROW, Tuesday, February 19^th. Loebsack and Bustos will also discuss the impact that arbitrary, across the board spending cuts know as sequestration could have on the Quad City region.  Media are invited to join the tour and the members will hold an availability following.  Details follow.

Tour of Mandus Group and Media Availability

WHO Congressman Dave Loebsack

Congresswoman Cheri Bustos

WHERE Mandus Group

2408 4th Avenue

Rock Island, IL

TIME Tour begins at 11:30am

Washington, D.C. - Congressmen Dave Loebsack (IA-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04) and Tim Walz (MN-01) announced today that they will be filing a resolution in the House of Representatives expressing opposition to the International Olympic Committee's decision to drop wrestling as a core sport.  The resolution will be introduced in the coming days.

"The decision by the International Olympic Committee to drop wresting is baffling.  The history of collegiate and Olympic wrestling runs through Iowa.  From Dan Gable and Tom Brands to Cael Sanderson and Jake Varner, Iowa has represented the sport with determination and the hard work it takes to succeed in life and sport.  I will continue to work with my colleagues to change this ruling on behalf of Iowa's, and America's, storied wrestling history," said Congressman Dave Loebsack.

"Wrestling defines the Olympic spirit like no other sport. The IOC got this one dead wrong, and their decision threatens to extinguish the dreams of countless American athletes. I look forward to working with my friends in the wrestling community toward reversing this ruling," said Congressman Jim Jordan.

"I am disappointed by the IOC's decision to eliminate wrestling from the Olympic Games. Minnesota has a storied and rich wrestling heritage. This is especially true in southern Minnesota where wrestling gives students the confidence, courage, and work ethic it takes to be successful not only in the sport, but also in life. I urge the urge the IOC to reconsider their decision and reinstate wrestling as a core sport of the Summer Games," said Congressman Tim Walz.