Memphis

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN), Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), Congressman Tony Cárdenas (D-CA) and Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) yesterday introduced H.R. 5405, the Stop, Observe, Ask and Respond (SOAR) to Health and Wellness Act. This bipartisan legislation would provide health care professionals at all levels training on how to identify and appropriately treat human trafficking victims. It is a companion bill to S. 1446, which was introduced by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) and Susan Collins (R-ME).

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that Memphis has been selected as a finalist for President Obama’s “Promise Zone” program but was not designated a “Promise Zone” by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As a finalist, Memphis will have the opportunity to participate in the Community Needs Assessment (CNA) Initiative.

[MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the death of Officer Verdell Smith, an 18-year veteran of the Memphis Police Department:

“I was saddened to learn of the death of Memphis Police Officer Verdell Smith,” said Congressman Cohen. “Law enforcement put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. My heart goes out to Officer Smith’s family.”

“Today we pay tribute to the memory of the brave men and women who gave their lives defending our nation and reflect on their selfless courage, commitment to our country, and sacrifice they and their families made to keep us safe. Whether attending a parade or spending time with family and friends outdoors, I appreciate your joining me in keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.”

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] - Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Congressman Bill Shuster (R-PA), Co-chairs of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, released the following statement in response to the release from prison of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty journalist Khadija Ismayilova in Azerbaijan: