From the office of Sen. Roger Marshall

Senator Marshall Criticizes ACA Subsidies in Shutdown Debate

WASHINGTON — Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., blamed Democrats for the Oct. 1 federal government shutdown, saying they refused to pass a House continuing resolution that would fund the government through Nov. 21. In a letter to constituents dated Oct. 3, Marshall said Democrats "voted to shut down the government rather than pass the clean Continuing Resolution."

In Senate floor remarks, Marshall criticized Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., saying Democrats were "playing hypocritical games" by complaining about rural hospital closures while blocking Republican funding solutions. Marshall said 97% of rural counties voted for President Donald Trump and questioned why Democrats wouldn't support rural health care.

Marshall appeared on CNN, Newsmax, Bloomberg and Fox News to discuss the shutdown, potential primary challenges to Schumer, drug pricing and rural health care.

Cancer Screening Legislation

Marshall introduced the Mobile Cancer Screening Act to create a federal grant program allowing hospitals and health care centers in rural and underserved communities to purchase mobile screening units. Drawing on his experience as a rural doctor for more than 25 years, Marshall said patients' geographic location shouldn't determine whether they can access life-saving cancer screenings or affect their life expectancy and health outcomes. The legislation aims to bring cancer screening to patients affected by lack of transportation or long travel distances to clinics.

Junction City Grant

Marshall announced technical assistance and agency resources for Junction City's Main Street revitalization project, aimed at connecting the downtown with nearby rivers and prairie.

Passport Legislation

Marshall introduced the Passport Sanity Act to require passports and State Department documents reflect "biological reality."

Fort Riley Event

Marshall delivered remarks during Gold Star Family Weekend at Fort Riley for the dedication of a new Gold Star Memorial.

This summary is based on various communications from Marshall's office.