Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Call for Oversight Hearings on Trump’s War in Venezuela

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, along with seven of their Senate colleagues, called for oversight hearings about President Trump’s military operation in Venezuela.

“The Trump administration has, thus far, failed to explain its plans for Venezuela’s future, how this misadventure will end, and whether it plans to use the U.S. military to exploit Venezuela’s oil for our own economic purposes. Public hearings would provide the answers the American people deserve,” the senators wrote in their letter to the Senate Armed Services, Foreign Relations, Judiciary, and Intelligence Committees. “Congress must fulfill its constitutional duty to conduct oversight and reassert its role in future decisions regarding Venezuela.”

The senators demanded answers on the President’s legal justification and his plans to “run Venezuela,” including funding the expansion of U.S. oil companies’ in Venezuela as he promised. They also noted that the President’s intervention in Venezuela deviates from decades of U.S. foreign policy and puts American service members in harm’s way.

Previously, Hickenlooper called out President Trump for launching a war in Venezuela without congressional authorization. Hickenlooper also voted to block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in further hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Dear Chairman Wicker, Ranking Member Reed, Chairman Risch, Ranking Member Shaheen, Chairman Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin, Chairman Cotton, and Vice Chairman Warner:

We write to urge you to convene immediate public oversight hearings covering President Donald Trump’s January 3, 2026 military operation in Venezuela, which Congress did not authorize. The American people deserve clarity as to why the President put our service members in harm’s way and what his plan is in Venezuela moving forward.

Nicolás Maduro was an illegitimate, brutal leader who lost, and then stole, the country’s 2024 elections. There is also no doubt as to the bravery and skill of the U.S military, law enforcement, and intelligence community personnel who contributed to this operation. However, we have seen no evidence justifying the administration’s initial decision to take military action to oust Maduro – particularly without Congressional authorization or even Congressional notification.

Equally important, with Maduro now in U.S. custody, the administration has provided Congress absolutely no coherent justification for keeping 15,000 U.S. forces and dozens of U.S. military assets in the region. Congress must decide whether we should permit this administration to maintain this military build-up, and assess the broader national security implications of the President’s military intervention in Venezuela.

This is not just a procedural matter, nor an after-action report. The Trump administration has, thus far, failed to explain its plans for Venezuela’s future, how this misadventure will end, and whether it plans to use the U.S. military to exploit Venezuela’s oil for our own economic purposes. Public hearings would provide the answers the American people deserve, including on the following questions:

This is not just a procedural matter, nor an after-action report. The Trump administration has, thus far, failed to explain its plans for Venezuela’s future, how this misadventure will end, and whether it plans to use the U.S. military to exploit Venezuela’s oil for our own economic purposes. Public hearings would provide the answers the American people deserve, including on the following questions:

1. What are U.S. interests in Venezuela and how do they justify the military actions that President Trump ordered without Congressional authorization? President Trump mentioned oil roughly 20 times in his January 3 press conference. Meanwhile, other senior administration officials justified U.S. actions as necessary to counter illicit narcotics, assert U.S. influence as a “great power” in the Western Hemisphere, access Venezuela’s vast natural resource wealth, and prevent illegal immigration. The American people deserve to understand why the President put our military in harm’s way and may do so again.

2. Under what legal authority did the administration carry out the January 3 operation? The scope of the operation, involving hundreds of U.S. military personnel and planes, is not consistent with a law enforcement operation.

3. How many people were killed in the January 3 operation, and what country or countries were they from? Reports suggest that 32 Cubans may have been killed.

4. With Maduro in U.S. custody, why have we not redeployed our military personnel to other priority missions from which they were distracted? Every member of Congress should be asking why this administration still has thousands of U.S. personnel and dozens of U.S. assets deployed off the coast of Venezuela, and be wary of the openended nature of this mission.

5. Did the administration misrepresent intelligence to justify its military operation? In July 2025, the Department of the Treasury designated Cartel de los Soles as a “terrorist organization” and in November 2025 the State Department followed suit, although the administration never provided Congress intelligence to justify this designation. Yet on January 3, 2026, the Department of Justice issued a revised indictment against Maduro, which no longer claims that Cartel de los Soles is an organized entity that threatens Americans. This reversal calls into question the legal and intelligence framework that the Trump administration repeatedly cited to justify Congressionally unauthorized military operations in the region since September 2025.

6. What diplomacy did President Trump authorize prior to invading Venezuela? U.S. officials and the Maduro regime reportedly held detailed negotiations, including at least one phone conversation between President Trump and Maduro. Congress needs to better understand the substance of those negotiations and why they did not produce a peaceful outcome.

7. When did President Trump authorize U.S. military action to capture Maduro? In recent months, officials from some U.S. departments and agencies may have failed to fulfill their statutory obligations to keep Congress currently and fully informed of their agencies’ activities planning for regime change in Venezuela

8. Why did the Trump administration consult privately with oil companies “before and after” the operation, as the President put it – but not with Congress?

There is no reason for the President to brief corporate interests ahead or instead of the American people’s elected representatives regarding a U.S. military operation in a foreign country. While President Trump and Secretary Rubio claimed that they could not brief Congress for fear of potential leaks, this justification rings hollow when President Trump himself and members of his cabinet have disclosed sensitive, apparently classified information to the public, to journalists in Signal chats, and even U.S. adversaries. Moreover, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires the President to consult Congress “in every possible instance” before sending troops into war, unless the action is in response to an imminent threat facing American citizens or servicemembers – which was not true regarding Venezuela.

9. What does President Trump mean when he says he is prepared to deploy “boots on the ground” in Venezuela? Venezuela’s legitimate leadership did not invite the U.S. military to occupy its territory, and Congress has not authorized a military occupation.

10. What is the Trump administration’s plan to “run” Venezuela, as the President put it, and does that plan include a timeline for transitioning to Venezuela’s democratically elected government? President Trump stated on January 3: “We will run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” However, other administration officials have suggested there will not be a transition and that U.S. policy is to coerce what remains of the Maduro regime to undertake unspecified actions in line with U.S. interests.

11. What factors led the Trump administration to abandon the bipartisan U.S. policy of recognizing Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate democratically elected leader of Venezuela? President Trump suggested that the opposition lacks support, but González overwhelmingly won the 2024 elections.

12. Did the Trump administration cut a deal with elements of interim President Delcy Rodríguez and her associates prior to the January 3 military operation, and what specific demands have we made of Rodríguez? The administration must publicly disclose the terms of any arrangement, as well as what the administration intends to do should Rodríguez not comply with any U.S. demands.

13. What intelligence led the Trump administration to conclude that Maduro’s security services will cooperate with any U.S. plan to “run” Venezuela and exploit its oil? The Venezuelan security services have a clear financial interest in maintaining the status quo. Congress must determine if the Trump administration plans to bribe illegitimate, corrupt, and repressive elements of the Maduro regime as part of the White House’s quest to control Venezuela’s oil.

14. What financial or other commitments has the Trump administration made to facilitate the expansion of U.S. oil companies’ footprint in Venezuela? On January 5, President Trump said that the United States may subsidize oil companies so that they can rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure. Congress must determine if the President plans to make the American people foot the bill for private corporate interests in Venezuela.

15. Does the Trump administration plan to invade Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, and Greenland? President Trump has long asserted that Greenland, which is part of Denmark, should be a U.S. territory, implying willingness to take U.S. military action against a NATO ally. He similarly indicated a desire to pursue military action against Colombia and Mexico, longstanding U.S. counternarcotics and trade partners. Secretary Rubio also suggested that Cuba could be a future target of U.S. military action. Congress has not authorized any of these dangerous potential military operations.

The President’s recent actions in Venezuela risk implicating the United States in a corrupt bargain to govern a sovereign country alongside elements of an authoritarian regime, seemingly for the purpose of exploiting Venezuela’s oil. This is an unprecedented and dangerous break with decades of U.S. foreign policy. What the Trump administration does next in Venezuela – to say nothing of potential action against Colombia, Cuba, Greenland, and Mexico – will have serious implications for U.S. national security.

Congress must fulfill its constitutional duty to conduct oversight and reassert its role in future decisions regarding Venezuela. The American people expect that we will do our jobs on a bipartisan basis, and we encourage you to convene hearings on these questions and related issues without further delay.

Sincerely,

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Hickenlooper, Hassan, Colleagues Celebrate Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Increase Job Support for Gold Star Surviving Spouses

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Maggie Hassan, along with seven of their senate colleagues, welcome unanimous Senate passage of their bipartisan Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act, which would expand access to job counseling services for Gold Star and surviving spouses.

“Losing a spouse in military service is a devastating trauma with lifelong consequences,” said Hickenlooper. “These families deserve all the support we can offer, including help finding a stable, good-paying job.”

The Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act would increase access to job counseling services through the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program, which provides states with funding to provide individualized career counseling to eligible veterans. Hickenlooper’s bipartisan bill would expand these specialized support services to surviving spouses.

“Supporting military families is a commitment that we must honor, especially for those who have lost a loved one in service to our country,” said Hassan. “Expanding access to job counseling services for Gold Star and surviving spouses is one meaningful way that we can honor their sacrifice and help them build stable futures. I’m grateful that the Senate unanimously passed this commonsense legislation, and I urge the House to join us in getting this across the finish line.”

“During the Civil War, President Lincoln said that we the living have the obligation ‘to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.’ The Gold Star Spouse bill fulfills this command in the modern world—that the surviving wife or husband would have access to career services to care for themselves and their family,” said Cassidy.

“I’m glad the Senate passed this bipartisan bill to stand behind the families of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Kelly. “Surviving spouses deserve access to job counseling and employment services that help them get back on their feet after an unimaginable loss.”

“The spouses of the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country deserve the very best we have to offer. Expanding access to job counseling services will provide critical support to spouses navigating a devastating loss by helping them secure stable, good-paying jobs. I am proud to join Senator Hassan in this important legislation and am glad to see it pass the Senate and move one step closer to becoming law,” said Schmitt.

“Gold Star families make sacrifices day in and day out for our country, and we owe them our support,” said Kaine. “That includes assistance when it comes to accessing high-quality career counseling services. I’m proud the Senate passed bipartisan legislation I cosponsored to stand with surviving spouses and help ensure that type of support is within reach, just like it already is for many veterans.”

“When a member of our military makes the ultimate sacrifice, we must do everything we can to uplift their loved ones following such unimaginable loss,” said Cornyn. “This legislation would ensure surviving military spouses have access to career services so they can find employment, renewed purpose, and the ability to provide for their families.”

“We have a solemn duty to look after the families of the men and women who gave their lives in service of our country,” said Smith. “This bill is a simple way we can support surviving spouses as they figure out how to navigate their new normal and support their families financially.”

“Those who have worn the cloth of our nation and gave their last full measure of devotion deserve our utmost gratitude. So do the Gold Star families whose loved ones never came home from their service. This bill is a practical way to carry out that responsibility by ensuring surviving spouses have access to career counseling and job support as they care for their families and build their futures,” said Lankford.

In the Senate, Hickenlooper has made support services for Colorado’s 41,000 active duty military personnel and their families a top priority. This Congress, Hickenlooper introduced the Military Spouses Hiring Act to incentivize small businesses to hire military spouses. He also introduced the Justice for America’s Veterans and Survivors Act of 2025 to improve data collection related to veteran causes of death and ensure surviving family members receive the benefits they deserve.

Full text of the bill is available HERE.

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Hirono, Colleagues Urge Administration to Restore Funding for Full-Service Community Schools

Lawmakers: “This unnecessary termination of education funding is alarming families, disrupting carefully-planned programs that support children, and jeopardizing services for thousands of students in underserved communities.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and nine other colleagues in sending a letter urging Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to reverse the U.S. Department of Education’s decision to discontinue $168 million in grants for the Full-Service Community School Program (FSCS) across 12 states.

Community schools are public schools that provide services needed throughout the local community, including health programs, nutrition services, and learning opportunities for parents and families. Successful schools take into consideration the needs of the local community, providing the community with a voice in the process. Currently, there are 22 community schools located throughout the state of Hawaii, many of which have previously received federal funding to support their programs.

In their letter, the Senators expressed deep concern that the abrupt cuts to this funding in the middle of the school year will force schools to shut down essential programs that support students’ academic performance and facilitate families’ access to food, housing, and health care, among other services. The senators also criticized the Department’s vague claim that the grants, which have existed for over 15 years, violate civil rights law and stressed that these grant cancellations runs directly counter to Congressional intent and long-standing bipartisan support for this program that serves students and families all across the country.

“We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (“the Department”) recent action on December 12th, 2025, to discontinue $168 million in Full-Service Community Schools grants serving students across 12 states. Pulling expected federal grant funds from public schools in the middle of the school year, built around community partnerships and parent engagement, is just plain wrong. Congress authorized and appropriated funds specifically for the Full-Service Community Schools program because research shows community schools improve student academic achievement, reduce chronic absenteeism, and support student wellbeing. We demand that the Department fully reinstate all Full-Service Community Schools grants that were abruptly discontinued,” the lawmakers began.

“The Full-Service Community School grant program supports school districts and public schools in their mission to meet students’ needs so they can succeed academically and in life, focusing on the school as a community center that can connect families to food, housing assistance, medical care, and other services,” they continued. “This unnecessary termination of education funding is alarming families, disrupting carefully-planned programs that support children, and jeopardizing services for thousands of students in underserved communities.”

“The Department claims that affected grantees violate civil rights law or conflict with the administration's policy priorities, but this rationale lacks any specificity. Grant recipients received letters providing few details, and just one week or less to appeal. These discontinuations directly contradict bipartisan congressional intent for this program. In 2023, Congress increased annual funding for the Full-Service Community Schools program from $25 million to $150 million, which was maintained in fiscal year 2024 and 2025 appropriations laws, reflecting bipartisan recognition that schools serving high-poverty communities require comprehensive support. All federal grants must abide by applicable requirements, but the Department has failed to produce legitimate reasons, including any grantee performance-related information, to discontinue multi-year grants that Congress authorized and appropriated, that grantees are implementing successfully, and that provide essential services to our underserved students,” the senators wrote.

“We demand that you reinstate all community school grants that have been abruptly discontinued and respectfully suggest that the Department refocus its efforts to support community schools in their efforts to meet the needs of and improve education outcomes for all students,” they concluded.

In addition to Senators Hirono, Van Hollen, Schumer, and Sanders, the letter was also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM).

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Secretary McMahon:

We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (“the Department”) recent action on December 12th, 2025, to discontinue $168 million in Full-Service Community Schools grants serving students across 12 states. Pulling expected federal grant funds from public schools in the middle of the school year, built around community partnerships and parent engagement, is just plain wrong. Congress authorized and appropriated funds specifically for the Full-Service Community Schools program because research shows community schools improve student academic achievement, reduce chronic absenteeism, and support student wellbeing. We demand that the Department fully reinstate all Full-Service Community Schools grants that were abruptly discontinued.

The Full-Service Community School grant program supports school districts and public schools in their mission to meet students’ needs so they can succeed academically and in life, focusing on the school as a community center that can connect families to food, housing assistance, medical care, and other services. Community leadership and school coordinators partner to co-locate services and provide cost-effective resources that are deemed necessary by the families they serve—a community-based approach that has been successful in both rural and urban areas. Multiple studies show that community schools lead to more positive academic outcomes for students and more successful schools. Discontinuing these grants puts students’ progress in jeopardy.

On December 12th, 2025, the Department abruptly discontinued $168 million in grants to community schools just two weeks before their next round of funding was set to arrive. Across the country, nineteen grant recipients received letters alerting them that, effective immediately, their projects would no longer receive future federal funding under their approved grant awards, including in many rural communities. Your decision is forcing schools and community partners to eliminate vital services for students and families in the middle of the academic year, with no transition period or alternative support.

Full-Service Community Schools grants are generally authorized for five years, providing schools and partners with the stability to plan for the reliable delivery of services. The grants that were abruptly cancelled had either two or three years remaining in their approved five-year projects. This unnecessary termination of education funding is alarming families, disrupting carefully-planned programs that support children, and jeopardizing services for thousands of students in underserved communities. Schools that built partnerships with community organizations, hired staff, and made multi-year commitments to families now face breaking those promises through no fault of their own.

The Department claims that affected grantees violate civil rights law or conflict with the administration's policy priorities, but this rationale lacks any specificity. Grant recipients received letters providing few details, and just one week or less to appeal. These discontinuations directly contradict bipartisan congressional intent for this program. In 2023, Congress increased annual funding for the Full-Service Community Schools program from $25 million to $150 million, which was maintained in fiscal year 2024 and 2025 appropriations laws, reflecting bipartisan recognition that schools serving high-poverty communities require comprehensive support. All federal grants must abide by applicable requirements, but the Department has failed to produce legitimate reasons, including any grantee performance-related information, to discontinue multi-year grants that Congress authorized and appropriated, that grantees are implementing successfully, and that provide essential services to our underserved students.

We demand that you reinstate all community school grants that have been abruptly discontinued and respectfully suggest that the Department refocus its efforts to support community schools in their efforts to meet the needs of and improve education outcomes for all students.

Sincerely,

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“Hang On or Get Out:” Cotton Farmers Face the Hardest Decision of Their Lives

After years of losses, debt is piling up and new government payments won’t fill the hole. At a breaking point, more farmers are expected to leave the business this year, some by choice, others forced out by lenders.

By Tyne Morgan

It’s a grim reality that isn’t improving in the South. Cotton and rice producers say their balance sheets are bleeding red. After multiple years of losses, debt continues to mount, and recently announced government payments are not expected to come close to covering the financial hole farmers face again this year.

For many, the question is no longer how to make a profit, it’s whether they can stay in farming at all.

Farmers, industry leaders and economists warn the U.S. could be approaching a breaking point for cotton and rice production, with 2026 shaping up to be another year that pushes more growers out of the business. And with more farmers potentially walking away, the fear is the U.S. could be on the verge of losing those industries altogether.

“An Average Crop Doesn’t Pay the Bills”

For Charles Williams, a farmer in Crawfordsville, Ark., he’s seen what multiple years of losses can do to an industry.

“In terms of how the year ended up, it’s pretty average to mediocre,” Williams says. “But an average crop really doesn’t pay the bills, unfortunately.”

Looking back at 2025, Williams says he feels fortunate his operation was able to plant at all. Heavy flooding across the mid-South last spring forced many acres to go unplanted, compounding losses in a region heavily dependent on rice and cotton.

The flooding came at a time when acreage was already under pressure.

“I’m on the Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board, and I’ve seen some projections on acres,” Williams says. “In 2024, I think we had 1.4 million acres of rice here in the state. In 2025, USDA shows 1.25 million got planted. I’m kind of surprised by that number, but it’s probably some late-planted rice. We’re projecting under 900,000 acres. I think that’s the lowest acreage since 1983.”

Arkansas is the nation’s largest rice-producing state, growing roughly half of all U.S. rice. Cotton is the other cornerstone crop,but it comes with specialized, expensive equipment that leaves farmers with few alternatives.

Because these farmers have cotton equipment to pay for, equipment that can only do one thing, which is pick cotton, walking away isn’t an easy choice. Williams also is an owner of a gin.

“We’ll continue to plant some cotton, at least as much as we did last year,” he says. “Our production last year is half of what it historically is, so we’ll be 50% to 60%, maybe 65% of what we historically plant with cotton. Rice, I don’t know. There may not be a whole lot of rice grown, quite frankly.”

The Piece Not Many Are Saying Out Loud: “We’re on the Cusp of Offshoring Production”

Williams says many farmers are planting crops in 2026 knowing full well they won’t make money on them. That reality has him worried about the long-term future of U.S. production.

“I hate to think about the possibility of offshoring cotton production and rice production,” Williams says. “I think we’re on the cusp of that right now.”

That concern is echoed across the Cotton Belt.

When Gary Adams, president and CEO of the National Cotton Council, spoke to “U.S. Farm Report” last spring, he warned the industry had gone from just losing money to losing farms. Nearly a year later, he says little has changed.

“If you just look at the economics of where the market is, it’s been generally trading sideways over the last half of 2025,” Adams says. “For a lot of growers, the situation is kind of the same as it had been. You just put another year of losses on top of what had been a couple of years before that.”

Adams says conversations with farmers reveal a level of stress he hasn’t seen before. Average cotton losses in 2025 are estimated at more than $300 per acre.

“That’s the kind of numbers we’re seeing for the 2025 crop,” Adams says. “We compare that to 2024, even a little worse than what we saw in 2024, and 2023 had a loss as well, just not as large. That’s the magnitude we’re looking at when we stack up market returns versus cost of production.”

Government Aid Helps, But Doesn’t Close the Gap

Last week, USDA announced payment rates for the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, with rice payments set at nearly $133 per acre and cotton payments just over $117 per acre.

Those payments drew criticism from soybean farmers who argue soybeans were hit harder by last year’s trade dispute with China.

Seth Meyer, who served as USDA chief economist for five years before taking a job with the University of Missouri to start 2026, was on the front lines of crafting the calculations for the Farmer Bridge Program payments. He says it’s key to understand the program is designed as economic aid, not trade mitigation.

“We started off this discussion about trade mitigation and simply tight margins and tough economic conditions to bridge us to ARC and PLC support,” says Seth Meyer, director of Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) at the University of Missouri and former USDA chief economist. “The safety net kicks in in October of this year. When folks look at some of the commodity payments, this is an economic impact. They were calculating these very similarly to ECAP, looking at shortfalls in cost of production, not trade impacts.”

Meyer says the administration was pursuing multiple strategies simultaneously while being strategic with how the program was rolled out.

“There’s been kind of two efforts,” he says. “One is putting a program out there so the Chinese can’t hold that trade impact over our head during negotiation. At the same time, we’re pursuing other trade opportunities. When we look at ongoing trade negotiations with China and the president’s supposed visit in the spring, there’s been some progress, even though the friction lasted longer than last time.”

But the Farmer Bridge payments are capped at $155,000 per individual, a limit Adams says will constrain many cotton operations.

“I do think it’s helping offset a portion of their shortfall,” Adams says. “It gives them a chance to stay in business, not a chance at a profit, a chance to stay in business, when you combine it with the higher reference prices in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that will take effect later this year.”

He says in the OBBB, cotton’s seed cotton reference price increased about 14%, but those funds won’t arrive until October.

“There’s still a lot of weight between now and then,” Adams says. “Things can happen with the market. This serves as a bridge, but does it fill the entire hole they’re facing? No, it doesn’t.”

What it does provide, Adams says, is some reassurance to lenders.

“It gives lenders some assurance to go with them for another year,” he says. “That’s the situation a lot of growers are in.”

More Farmers Walking Away? Those Decisions Are Being Made Right Now

Even with the assistance that USDA says should hit bank accounts by the end of February, Adams says some farmers won’t make it, either by choice or because their lender won’t finance them for the upcoming year.

“Some growers will look at the markets, look at cost of production, look at what equity they still have and make the decision that that’s enough,” Adams says. “They’ll decide to get out of farming and do something else. We know those decisions are being made right now.”

When asked whether the industry expects an uptick in farmers exiting, particularly in the mid-South, Adams doesn’t hesitate.

“I think there’s a really good chance that will happen,” he says. “Whether it’s by choice or dictated by their lender, they’re taking a hard look at what equity they still have and whether they want to continue taking on that level of risk.”

Ag Lender Says Farmers Are Seeing the Most Financial Stress Since the 1980s

Greg Cole is president and CEO of AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, which serves roughly 6,700 members across 24 counties in Arkansas. Cole started in ag lending in 1984, and he told U.S. Farm Report last year that Arkansas farmers were staring at a loss on every crop they grow. He says it’s not an exact repeat of the 1980s, but it’s eerily similar.

“I can tell you this, this is the most stress I’ve seen since the ‘80s when you come to farm profitability, i.e. farmers losing money,” Cole says. “One positive we have now compared to the ‘80s is land values. Our land values are still positive, which gives some lendable equity —unlike in the 80s, when I started my career, when U.S. farmland prices plummeted in some areas up to 60%.”

With a drastic drop in commodity prices, but input prices still record or near-record high, Cole says farmers in Arkansas, specifically, have been eroding balance sheets for four straight years.

“We started seeing losses in ’22 when 40% of our producers lost money,” Cole says. “In ’23, about 50% lost money. And then last year, in ’24, 70% lost money, with the average loss of about $150 an acre. And that’s after they received about a $50 per acre ECAP payments. Today, we’re looking at where we stand now. We could have a similar level of losses in ‘25 that we had in ‘24. Even though in ’24, we had very strong yields. But now we have weaker yields.”

As mounting debt shows up on the balance sheets, Cole says there are two types of farmers seeing the most severe financial strain.

“The ones who rent most of the land, especially if they pay on the higher end of rent. And here in the Mississippi Delta, most farmers who have a lot of acres rent most of their ground,” Cole says. “And then young, beginning farmers who didn’t have the opportunity to build up a lot of equity. Those are the ones that have occurred these multiple year losses where their balance sheet debt has swollen to a level that’s hard to service a debt when you add the interest rate cost on top of it.”

What Will It Take to Turn Cotton Prices Around?

With prices still below breakeven again this year, Adams says the industry is focused on the demand side of the equation.

“Commodity markets are always cyclical,” he says. “There will be some unanticipated shock, but when we look forward. We’re really focused on demand; global cotton demand has been relatively stagnant for the last decade.”

Global consumption currently sits between 115 million and 118 million bales, down from highs of 123 million to 124 million bales. That’s why the industry is leaning into campaigns like Plant Not Plastic, highlighting cotton’s environmental and health benefits.

“We’re really focusing on cotton as a natural fiber and a healthy alternative to synthetics,” Adams says. “Microplastic microfiber pollution is in the environment, in our bodies and in our food. We want brands, retailers and consumers to be aware of that.”

Adams also points to untapped domestic demand. Of the roughly 40 million bales of fiber consumed in the U.S. retail market each year, only about 4 million bales, roughly 10%, are U.S. cotton.

Legislation known as the Buying American Cotton Act, introduced by Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, aims to change that by offering transferable tax credits for products made with U.S.-grown cotton.

“We hope in the next two to three weeks to have a companion bill introduced in the House,” Adams says. “This would provide tax incentives to brands and retailers that document the use of U.S. cotton. We believe that translates into additional demand and better prices for producers.”

Williams says domestic consumption is critical.

“I think we need to find ways to incentivize production as much as we can,” he says. “Beyond that, domestic consumption is something we need to be looking at. The Buying American Cotton Act is an America-first approach that could reshore finished goods. That’s what we need.”

“It’s Hang On and Hold On”

Until something changes, farmers say the pressure will continue into 2026. For Williams, the stakes are deeply personal.

“It’s hang on and hold on,” he says. “I’m going on 52 years old. I’ve got four kids, two in college and two in high school, and I need to see them through.”


HYDE-SMITH WELCOMES MISSISSIPPI FSA STATE COMMITTEE APPOINTEES

Trump Administration Names Five Mississippians to Board Overseeing USDA Farm Programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today welcomed the Trump administration’s appointment of five Mississippians to serve on the Mississippi USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Committee.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Tuesday announced that Robert J. Moody of Louisville will chair the Mississippi FSA State Committee with members Scott Flowers of Clarksdale, Roy Gale Martin of Brandon, Andrew Prosser of Madison, and Rita Seward of Lucedale. Hyde-Smith recommended these Mississippians to USDA and the White House for consideration.

“County FSA offices play such a key role in the on-the-ground implementation of agricultural policies, so the state committee has an important role in providing insights and oversight of how these programs work in Mississippi. I am confident these appointees, with their broad and diverse expertise, will serve well in helping our agricultural interests through thick and thin,” said Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee and Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee.

The FSA State Committee is responsible for the oversight of farm programs and county committee operations, resolving program delivery appeals from the agriculture community, maintaining cooperative relations with industry stakeholders, and keeping producers informed about current FSA programs.

To learn more about the members of the Mississippi FSA State Committee, click here.

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Senator Justice Speaks Before Supreme Court, Demands Court Protect Female Sports

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Justice spoke at a rally in support of female athletes before the Supreme Court to demand the Court protect female athletics, female locker rooms, and female spaces from biological males:

“Biological males should not be competing in female sports – plain and simple. How bad has this become? It’s really sad to see it come to this point, but at the end of the day we will win. This is common-sense vs. radical leftism, and our girls are the ones paying the price. I am a girls’ basketball coach and have been for years – I’ve seen what they can achieve, which is why I will keep fighting every day for our female athletes until they are guaranteed a fair playing field. It is vital the Court uphold Title IX as originally intended,” said Senator Jim Justice.

WATCH THE SPEECH HERE

BACKGROUND:

In April 2021, Senator Justice as Governor of West Virginia signed into the law the Save Women’s Sports Act.

Senator Justice joined Senator Tuberville’s Protection of Women and Girls Sports Act of 2025.

Senator Justice has coached the Greenbrier East High School Lady Spartans Basketball team for years and has fostered a culture of hard work and success while head coach.

Senator Justice’s daughter competed in women’s athletics growing up and played basketball in both high school and college.

Senator Justice was joined by Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, Speaker Mike Johnson, Senator Tommy Tuberville, and Senator Marsha Blackburn.

Read more about Senator Justice defending female sports here.

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Video: Kaine Speaks on Senate Floor Ahead of Vote to Undo Trump Administration Rule That Adds Red Tape to ACA Enrollment Process

FULL VIDEO OF KAINE’S REMARKS ARE AVAILABLE HERE.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, spoke on the Senate floor ahead of a vote on legislation he sponsors to repeal a Trump Administration rule that adds red tape to the Affordable Care Act enrollment process, making it harder for Americans to enroll in health coverage. The legislation will be voted on today and needs a simple majority to pass.

“I’m glad to join my colleagues to talk about the upcoming vote on Senate Joint Resolution 84: the use of the Congressional Review Act to strike down a recent regulatory attack on the Affordable Care Act launched by the Trump Administration,” said Kaine. “Even the Trump Administration’s own experts at CMS—the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services—say implementation of this rule could lead up to 1.8 million people to lose health insurance just this year, 2026. That would be devastating. On top of the premium increases that people have seen because the Affordable Care Act extended tax credits were not extended when tax cuts for the wealthiest were extended, this additional burden on this 1.8 million-person population is unacceptable.”

“I wanted to focus, in particular, on a kind of person who is really going to be affected by the Trump rule if we do not affirmatively embrace this Congressional Review Act resolution,” Kaine continued. “And that is self-employed entrepreneurs and gig workers.”

“One of the challenges about the American health care system before the Affordable Care Act was it was very, very difficult to buy health insurance if you were an individual entrepreneur, if you had a very small business,” said Kaine. “Then you also had a huge group of people working with companies that had insurance—that had this great American dream of an idea to start their own business—but they couldn’t do it because if they were to leave their large employer to go off and follow their dream, they couldn’t get health insurance.”

“One ever the very salutary effects of the ACA has been to enable people to pursue their dream and become innovators, or entrepreneurs, or gig workers and work in the way and in the flexible circumstance they choose,” Kaine continued.

“The rule that has been put in place by the Trump Administration isn’t going to make it particularly hard for large-group plans to just reup insurance, but it will make it very hard for those individuals that don’t have a H.R. department fighting for them, that have to figure it out all their own, it will make it very hard for them to negotiate the marketplace and buy insurance,” Kaine said.

“We often say … small businesses and start-ups are the backbones of the American economy,” Kaine concluded. “I grew up in a House with a dad who worked for a huge company, and it was his dream to start his own business. And he bought a little iron working shop that at the time that he bought it, had four employees. And during the entire growing up period where I worked in my dad’s shop, in a good year, it would be seven employees, and in a bad year, it would be four plus my mom and my two brothers and me. So many American businesses are just like this. They’re one or two employees. There’s somebody who even has another gig, maybe as an artist, and then they’re moonlighting in some area where they can make just enough to afford to buy health insurance on the exchange, if we don’t crush them with high premiums and if we don’t make the paperwork burdens so substantial.”

“The CRA that my colleagues are offering will be directly responsive to the needs of this very, very important group of American innovators and entrepreneurs, and that’s why I so strongly support it and urge my colleagues to do the same,” Kaine concluded.

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Kelly, Gallego Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Ratify and Fund Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement

Today, Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego introduced theYavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to ratify and fund the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The bill resolves the Nation’s longstanding water rights claims, strengthens water reliability in the Verde Valley, and helps protect flows in the Verde River. It also builds on Senator Kelly’s ongoing work to secure Arizona’s water future and deliver reliable water infrastructure for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities.

The Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act authorizes $1.039 billion to construct and maintain critical water infrastructure, including the Cragin-Verde Pipeline and a surface water drinking plant. The settlement confirms the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s right to 4,610 acre-feet of water per year, promotes water conservation, and supports long-term protection of the Verde River. It also includes a land exchange with the U.S. Forest Service to secure lands contiguous to the Middle Verde Reservation, strengthening community resilience and environmental stewardship.

A house companion, H.R. 8949, was introduced by Representative Eli Crane (R-AZ-02).

“Families and businesses in the Verde Valley and surrounding communities need a reliable water supply, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation deserves a fair, lasting resolution to its water rights,” said Senator Kelly. “This agreement honors Tribal sovereignty, invests in critical water infrastructure, and helps safeguard the Verde River. It’s a big step forward for the Nation and for every community that depends on this river, and we’ll work together to get it done.”

“Few things in Arizona are more precious than water. Arizona’s Tribal communities understand that better than most,” said Senator Gallego. “That’s why I’m proud to help introduce this bill to finally codify the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s water rights and invest in infrastructure to bring clean, reliable water to the Nation and surrounding communities, now and in the future.”

“I’m honored to introduce this legislation to help secure long-term water security for the Yavapai-Apache Nation, develop critical infrastructure, and finally move toward a permanent solution,” said Rep. Crane. “After visiting and meeting with tribal leaders and surrounding communities, it was clear how much certainty and stability this bill would provide. I’m proud to fight for rural Arizona.”

See what Arizona leaders and stakeholders are saying about the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2026:

“The State of Arizona proudly supports the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement, which will bring increased water security and sustainability to the Verde Valley and help ensure every Arizonan has access to the water they need to thrive,” said Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. “My administration is committed to partnering with Tribes on all water resource matters, including settling outstanding water rights claims. These rural communities have waited decades for this settlement, and it is time we get it done to ensure water reliability for generations to come.”

“In addition to finally resolving the Nation’s water rights, this historic legislation will provide for the development of water infrastructure to import new water sources to the Verde Valley and our Reservation homeland, safeguarding the Nation’s water future, while also helping to protect the Verde River and local groundwater supplies for everyone who relies on these critical resources,” said Yavapai-Apache Nation Chairman, Buddy Rocha, Jr. “On behalf of the Nation and our many leaders who have worked on this Settlement over the years, I want to thank Senator Kelly and Senator Gallego for reintroducing the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act and for their longstanding commitment to the Nation’s water certainty. The Nation also wants to recognize the remarkable commitment to this Settlement by our settling parties, the State of Arizona, the Town of Camp Verde, the Town of Clarkdale, the City of Cottonwood, Salt River Project, and the Central Arizona Water Conservation District.”

The Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2026 is supported by the Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District & Salt River Valley Water Users’ Association, City of Cottonwood, Town of Camp Verde, Town of Clarkdale, Central Arizona Project, City Payson, Gila County, and Chino Valley.


WATCH: On Senate Floor, Kelly Stands Up to Hegseth’s Unconstitutional Actions to Censure and Demote Him

“I’ve never backed down from a fight for our country, and I will not back down from this one.”

Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly took to the Senate floor to discuss Secretary Hegseth’s unconstitutional attempts to censure and demote him, and the lawsuit Kelly filed to fight back against this unlawful use of power and to stand up for the rights of all retired veterans and all Americans’ right to free speech.

Sen. Kelly speaks on the Senate floor.

Kelly underscored that he must uphold his oath to the Constitution and that it is his duty as a U.S. Senator to defend the rule of law: “I didn’t expect that I would ever find myself here, as a U.S. Senator, having filed a lawsuit against a Secretary of Defense. When I graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy and was commissioned into the United States Navy as an Ensign, I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. I have upheld that oath every single day since.

“And so, I have upheld my oath in this job too, because I take seriously my duty to protect the Constitution for all Americans. I just never expected that I would have to protect the rule of law against a Secretary of Defense.”

Kelly vowed to not back down in order to protect the rights of veterans and all Americans: “For 250 years, we have been the greatest Democracy the world has ever seen because patriotic Americans have been willing to stand up for not just their own rights, but for the rights of all of their fellow citizens. That continued resolve is what will decide if our Democracy lasts for another 250 years. That’s why today, I filed a lawsuit against the Secretary of Defense to protect my rights, the rights of retired veterans, and the rights of all Americans. I’ve never backed down from a fight for our country, and I won’t back down from this one.”


Klobuchar Statement on the Resignation of Former Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson and Career Prosecutors

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the resignation of former Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson and career prosecutors:

"Joe Thompson led investigations into fraud, the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and the Annunciation Catholic Church shooting. I worked to help make Joe acting U.S. Attorney during a critical time. This is a loss for our state and for public safety."

"These career public servants have served our state through multiple tragedies and critical investigations. We cannot allow prosecutions to be driven by politics. The family and loved ones of Renee Good deserve justice, not political attacks."

"The DOJ’s politicization of the investigation into Renee Good’s killing is doing lasting damage to our justice system. It needs to stop."

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Rep. Levin & Sen. Merkley Introduce New Bill to Prevent Taxpayer Dollars from Reimbursing Oil Companies in Venezuela

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced the Protecting Taxpayers from Risky Investments in Venezuela Act to prevent American taxpayer dollars from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure without Congressional approval. Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley introduced the Senate companion of this bill.

Following the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, President Trump stated that the United States would “run” Venezuela’s oil sector and potentially “reimburse” U.S. oil companies for their investments. He further suggested that the Trump Administration would exercise total control over oil revenue generated in Venezuela. Independent analysts have found that, under current market conditions, oil companies do not have an incentive to invest substantially in Venezuela unless they are subsidized by the American public. At the same time, analysts have found that increased production in Venezuela is unlikely to bring down gas prices in the United States. At the recent White House meeting with oil executives, the CEO of Exxon stated that Venezuela is “uninvestable” without significant changes and assurances from the Trump Administration.

“President Trump’s push to build out oil infrastructure in Venezuela and reimburse oil companies demands that Congress stand up and assert its power of the purse,” said Rep. Levin. “Americans’ money should never be used for backroom deals and taxpayers should not be on the hook for costly foreign projects that provide them no benefit. I’m proud to join Sen. Merkley in introducing this bicameral legislation to protect taxpayer dollars and the Constitution from abuse by the Trump Administration.”

“American taxpayers have no business funding oil infrastructure in Venezuela,” said Sen. Merkley. “Congress must pass our Protecting Taxpayers from Risky Investments in Venezuela Act to stand up to Trump’s reckless vision of making Big Oil even richer at the expense of American families. In fact, Trump’s plans could cost $100 billion to modernize Venezuela’s oil infrastructure to make a big profit for Big Oil. I think every American can think of a lot of issues, including health care, housing, and American infrastructure, where that money can be a hell of a lot better spent.”

At a time when millions of Americans cannot afford basic necessities, Congress must ensure taxpayer dollars are not being used on open-ended, risky foreign investments, and that U.S. foreign policy decisions are guided by national security interests and the Constitution rather than promises made after the fact.

The new bicameral legislation would protect taxpayers, uphold Congress’s power of the purse, and avoid entangling the United States in uncertain foreign ventures.

The bill is endorsed by Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Public Citizen, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Earthjustice Action, and Union of Concerned Scientists.

The Senate bill is co-sponsored by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

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Sen. Moran, Rep. Mann Applaud Decision to Temporarily Move Food for Peace to USDA

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry – and Representative Tracey Mann (R-KS-01) – a member of the House Committee on Agriculture – applauded the decision to temporarily move the administration of the Food for Peace program from the U.S. Department of State to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Kansas has a long history of providing food to the hungry, and for the past 70 years, American farmers have helped combat international hunger through Food for Peace, feeding more than 4 billion people in more than 150 countries,” said Sen. Moran. “Last year, I joined my colleagues in introducing legislation to move Food for Peace to USDA, and the administration is temporarily enacting this policy which will bring the program closer to the farmers and producers who grow the crops that feed hungry people across the globe. This is a good step, and I will continue working to permanently transfer Food for Peace to USDA to bolster national security, maintain an important market for U.S. producers and advance efforts to combat world hunger.”

“For 70 years, Kansas and American farmers have played an active role in sending their commodities to feed malnourished and starving populations around the world,” said Rep. Mann. “This free gift from the American people is more than food, it’s diplomacy that feeds the most vulnerable communities while helping them recognize the freedom, prosperity, and good America can establish across the globe. Allowing USDA to administer the Food for Peace program equips American producers to serve hungry people while providing more transparency and efficiency as to how taxpayer dollars are stewarded. I was proud to lead efforts in Congress to move the program and I applaud the Trump Administration for supporting these efforts. I will continue to fight for Food for Peace to be permanently placed under USDA so that America can continue to be the beacon of hope and freedom we are to the rest of the world."

Timeline of Sen. Moran & Rep. Mann's work to move Food for Peace:

Feb. 11, 2025: Sen. Moran, Sen. Hoeven and Rep. Mann introduced legislation to move administration of Food for Peace to USDA. The bill was supported by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Sorghum Producers Association, National Sorghum Producers and American Soybean Association.

May 6, 2025: Sen. Moran questioned Secretary Rollins about USDA’s willingness to take on administration of the Food for Peace program and his legislation that would make this move.

May 15, 2025: Sen. Moran delivered floor remarks advocating for Food for Peace to be moved to USDA, emphasizing the importance of the program in combatting global hunger.


Moreno Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Transparency in Hospital Billings

WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) joined Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) as a cosponsor of the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act, bipartisan legislation to require meaningful price transparency in healthcare so patients can see the true cost of procedures, medications, and services before receiving care.

“The days of hospitals rigging the system to hide prices from patients have to end,” said Senator Moreno. “Ohioans shouldn’t need to break the bank to afford their healthcare, and providers must be transparent about costs. This bill is a critical step toward putting American patients first and ensuring the system works for everyone.”

“Rising health care costs are crushing Americans. Our bipartisan bill makes health care price tags the law of the land so patients and businesses know what they’re paying for in advance—a commonsense step toward a health care system that works better for American families. Let’s get it across the finish line!” said Senator Hickenlooper.

“Transparency brings accountability, and it’s clearly time for more transparency in health care prices. Our bipartisan legislation is a common-sense solution that will hold health care providers accountable, and it will give Americans the timely and accurate information they need to make the best decisions for them,” Senator Grassley said.

“American patients should know up front how much they are going to pay. I’m proud to support the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act to give Ohioans and all Americans greater transparency and certainty about the cost of their care,” said Senator Husted.

“Patients deserve to know costs upfront— it’s that simple. By codifying these transparency requirements, we’re making sure that no future administration can roll back this critical consumer protection. When families can compare prices and make informed decisions about their healthcare, it puts power back where it belongs: in the hands of patients, not bureaucrats or hospital billing departments,” said Senator Lummis.

“Obamacare screwed up our entire healthcare system,” said Senator Tuberville. “As a result, it’s nearly impossible for Americans to get a straightforward quote on how much a procedure is going to cost. Patients should be able to know upfront exactly how much they will be paying. President Trump has done his part via Executive Order—now it’s Congress’ turn to do our job. I’m proud to join Sen. Marshall in introducing this meaningful legislation.”

“Wisconsinites are struggling to afford their health care, and we need to do everything we can to lower costs. Our health care system too often puts profits before patients, and we need to pull the curtain back and let families see the true cost of the care they are getting. I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to bring basic transparency so we can foster competition and lower prices for Wisconsin families,” said Senator Baldwin.

“At a time when health care costs are skyrocketing, patients deserve transparency about the true cost of procedures, medications, and services to make informed decisions about their care and their family’s finances,” said Senator Booker. “The Patients Deserve Price Tags Act is common-sense legislation that promotes price transparency, protects patients from overcharges, and allows them to make informed health care decisions.”

The Patient Rights Advocate is another supporter of this legislation and also found in a separate report that it would have savings up to $1 trillion annually.

“The Marshall/Hickenlooper Patients Deserve Price Tags Act will truly transform healthcare to greatly lower costs through consumer empowerment benefiting from price competition and prices protecting from overcharges making hospital and insurance billing be honest,” said Cynthia Fisher, Founder & Chair of Patients’ Rights Advocate.

“We applaud Senators Marshall and Hickenlooper for their ongoing commitment to enhancing health care price transparency requirements that will ensure employers have access to information necessary when making decisions on benefit design for the millions of Americans who receive coverage through their employer,” said ERIC President and CEO James Gelfand. “Moreover, strong transparency requirements of providers, including hospitals, and plans will empower workers and their families to select high-quality, affordable health care, drugs, and services, helping ease the ever-growing pressures health care costs have on employers and workers alike.”

“Patients Deserve Price Tags Act is a critical step toward delivering high-quality care at lower costs for patients. Price transparency starts with clear, accessible information and this bill will empower patients to compare prices before they seek care. Real transparency and accountability are essential in helping unions make informed negotiations on behalf of workers and will ultimately help drive down costs. The Patients Deserve Price Tags Act moves us closer to that goal,” said Kevin Lyons, Member Benefits Director for the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association.

“At a time when health care costs are ballooning out of control and Americans continue to make clear that affordability is a top priority, we applaud Senators Marshall and Hickenlooper for introducing the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act. This robust, pro-consumer, bipartisan legislation will ensure that every family in America knows exactly how much a big hospital will charge them before they receive medical care and services,” said Sophia Tripoli, senior director for health policy at Families USA. “As long as big hospital corporations and health care systems are able to keep their prices hidden, they will continue to jack up prices year over year with no transparency or accountability from the public or lawmakers. The Patients Deserve Price Tags Act would bring much needed transparency to hospital pricing and help us hold the health care sector accountable for the unfair price gouging practices that are hurting patients and families.”

The Patients Deserve Price Tags Act requires the publication of real, upfront healthcare prices across the system so patients can compare costs before receiving care. The bill also requires itemized billing, prevents actions when bills exceed published prices, and directs health plans to provide Advanced Explanations of Benefits, so patients know their out-of-pocket costs in advance.

Senator Moreno joins Senators Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) on the bipartisan bill.


Murkowski and Shaheen Introduce Legislation to Cement NATO Unity

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the NATO Unity Protection Act, bipartisan legislation to prohibit the use of U.S. Department of Defense or Department of State funds to blockade, occupy, annex or otherwise assert control over the sovereign territory of a NATO member state without that ally’s consent or authorization from the North Atlantic Council.

The legislation comes amid growing concern following Trump Administration’s recent statements, indicating that the U.S. could take steps to take control of Greenland, the autonomous territory of NATO ally, Denmark. Such a move would be counter to the North Atlantic Treaty, weaken NATO cohesion and undermine the Alliance’s existing efforts to address threats from adversaries like Russia and China. NATO remains the most successful defensive alliance in history, and its credibility rests on the shared understanding that member states’ sovereignty will be respected and defended by one another.

“Our NATO alliances are what set the United States apart from our adversaries. We have friends and allies who are willing to stand firmly alongside us as the strongest line of defense to keep those who work to undermine peace and stability from making sweeping advances globally,” said Senator Murkowski. “The mere notion that America would use our vast resources against our allies is deeply troubling and must be wholly rejected by Congress in statute.”

“The strength of NATO depends on unity, trust and respect for the sovereignty of every member state,” said Senator Shaheen. “Any suggestion that the United States might use its power to seize or control the territory of a NATO ally would directly undermine the alliance that keeps Americans safe and plays into the hands of our adversaries. This bipartisan legislation makes clear that U.S. taxpayer dollars cannot be used for actions that would fracture NATO and violate our own commitments to NATO. This bill sends a clear message that recent rhetoric around Greenland deeply undermines America’s own national security interests and faces bipartisan opposition in Congress.”

Specifically, the NATO Unity Protection Act would:

Affirm that the unified strength of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is critical to U.S. national security and foreign policy;

Recognize that any occupation or takeover of the sovereign territory of a NATO ally would violate the U.N. Charter and the North Atlantic Treaty;

Prohibit the use of Department of Defense funds to blockade, occupy, annex, conduct military operations against or otherwise assert control over the sovereign territory of a NATO member state without that state’s authorization or approval by the North Atlantic Council;

Prohibit the use of Department of State funds to develop, support or implement plans for such actions against a NATO member state;

Clarify that nothing in the Act limits the ability of the United States to defend itself or an ally against an armed attack or a credible threat of imminent attack.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

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Murkowski Statement on Supreme Court Decision to Deny Certiorari in U.S. v. Alaska Case Regarding Subsistence Management

Washington, DC — U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the State of Alaska’s petition for certiorari in United States v. Alaska:

“I support the Supreme Court’s decision to decline review, leaving in place longstanding precedent from the Katie John line of cases, which has guided federal subsistence management under ANILCA in Alaska for decades,” said Senator Murkowski. “Subsistence is a way of life that is essential to rural Alaskans who rely on hunting and fishing for food security and cultural continuity. I remain committed to defending this way of life and supporting practical, bipartisan solutions grounded in the needs of all Alaskans.”


Murphy Statement on Injunction Halting Trump’s Baseless Shutdown of Revolution Wind

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement in response to a federal judge temporarily allowing Revolution Wind to keep building after multiple attempts by the Trump administration to halt the project:

“After shutting down wind farm construction because of a so-called threat to national security, the Trump administration denied my office a briefing to avoid exposing their ridiculous, empty claim. Now a federal court has weighed in and handed Trump another defeat. Revolution Wind will be able to continue work on a project that is nearly 90% complete and will deliver relief to Connecticut families struggling with sky-high energy prices. We’ve always known Trump’s attacks on Revolution Wind are baseless, and I’m glad to see the courts agree.”


Senator Murray Remarks on Three-Bill Funding Package at Senate Democratic Leadership Press Conference

Senate advanced package in 80-13 preliminary procedural vote on Monday night

Package of funding bills rejects draconian cuts and policies pushed by President Trump, House Republicans—and reasserts congressional control over key funding decisions

ICYMI: Murray, Top Appropriators Release Three-Bill Minibus

***WATCH: Senator Murray’s Remarks***

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered the following remarks at this afternoon’s Senate Democratic leadership press conference on the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development; and Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies fiscal year 2026 appropriations bills as the U.S. Senate considers the package this week.

Text, summaries, and more information on the three bills in the package are available HERE.

Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:

“This week, the Senate has an opportunity to pass three of our funding bills. They were bills that were a product of a lot of hard work and some serious negotiations.

“Was there more that I would have liked to do? Of course, but you don’t win anything if you take your ball and go home.

“The programs that are funded in these bills are meaningful—and because Democrats were at the negotiating table, we were able to protect resources for programs that families rely on. We protected programs that help lower families’ energy bills. We protected funding to prevent violence against women. We honored our commitments to our Tribes and our Indian Country—and a lot more.

“These are bills that reject the devasting cuts Trump demanded in his deeply unserious budget he sent to Congress about a year ago. When just about every Secretary came before our Appropriations Committee to advocate for those Trump funding cuts, I made clear to them I planned to rip up his budget and write a newone—and that is exactly what we are doing.

“Congress has a choice to do our most fundamental job which is writing and passing these funding bills or hand the pen over to Donald Trump and Russ Vought. I’m here to do my job.

“I was elected to be a voice for the state of Washington, so I’m going to vote to pass bills that include the priorities that are important to my state. And bills that reflect the input of nearly every Member of this Congress. Bills that reassert Congress’ control over spending decisions by providing hundreds and hundreds of directives that were not provided last fiscal year. I have zero intention of letting Donald Trump and Russ Vought decide how our taxpayer dollars get spent.

“Congress is the people’s representative; we hold the power of the purse. We are the check on this [president] and on any president.

“So, I am urging my colleagues to join me. We’ve got very limited time. And we want to hopefully pass these bills before the week is over.”

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WATCH: Padilla Joins Immigration Advocates at “ICE Out for Good” Rally to Demand ICE Stop Violence in American Cities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10), along with leading immigration advocates and interfaith leaders, to hold a rally and vigil to condemn the Trump Administration’s abuses against American communities and to demand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) leave Minnesota and cities across the nation. Groups including Indivisible, MoveOn Civic Action, Public Citizen, Movimiento Migrante DC, ACLU, Interfaith Alliance, and Free DC rallied outside of CBP headquarters alongside the lawmakers.

Starting with Los Angeles, ICE and CBP have conducted indiscriminate immigration enforcement in cities across the country to enable Trump’s mass deportation campaign. Today’s rally came in response to the killing of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old wife and mother of three, the escalation of ICE and CBP violence, and the months-long pattern of unchecked violence and abuse in American communities. Public outrage over ICE and CBP’s unaccountable actions continues to swell, resulting in more than 1,000 peaceful, nonviolent protests in the days since an ICE agent killed Good.

“Los Angeles was Donald Trump’s test case for the relentless overreach of ICE and CBP that has been unleashed on our streets, in our schools, and in our neighborhoods. Now, in Minneapolis — a community all too familiar with violence perpetrated by those who have sworn to uphold the law — we saw an ICE agent inexcusably shoot and kill Renee Nicole Good, a U.S. citizen and a mother who was observing immigration enforcement in her community,” said Senator Padilla. “How many more lives lost before we see real accountability? It’s time to end the terror in our communities, stop the shattering of families, and cease the takeover of American streets by masked federal agents. It’s time to get ICE and CBP out.”

Senator Padilla has been a leading voice in opposition to President Trump’s cruel and indiscriminate mass deportation agenda, including against his unprecedented, illegal militarization of Los Angeles and other American cities. Last June, Padilla led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty servicemembers to American cities. In July, Padilla and Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the VISIBLE Act to require immigration enforcement officers to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement actions. Last month, Padilla and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) introduced the Accountability for Federal Law Enforcement Act to allow individuals — regardless of citizenship — the right to sue federal law enforcement officers and agencies in civil court for violations of their civil and constitutional rights.

Video of Padilla’s remarks at today’s rally can be watched here and downloaded here.

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Reed Opposes Trump Admin’s Attempt to Weaken Legacy of Chafee’s Clean Air Law

WASHINGTON, DC – In a stunning reversal that goes against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) own mission statement, the Trump Administration unveiled a revised Clean Air Act rule that weakens emission limits for dangerous nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollution used in power plants and industrial facilities. According to the EPA, long-term exposures to NOx are linked to asthma and other respiratory illnesses and lead to increased emergency room visits. To make matters worse, the analysis included in formulating the harmful new rule abandons a decades-old practice followed by Republican and Democratic administrations that assigns a dollar value to health care costs avoided and lives saved by pollution rules.

According to the Associated Press, the rule proposed by the Biden Administration could have prevented an estimated 4,500 premature deaths and 290,000 lost workdays, as well as $77 in health benefits for every $1 spent on pollution reductions. In issuing its revised rule, the Trump Administration says it will no longer consider the public health benefits of rules aimed at reducing fine particulate matter and ozone, pollutants linked to asthma, lung disease, and premature death. Meanwhile, the agency would continue counting compliance costs to industry.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed stated:

“Once again, the Trump Administration puts special interest corporate welfare above the public good. This move would weaken the Clean Air Act of 1990, which was led by then-U.S. Senator John H. Chafee (R-RI) to strengthen pollution emissions standards.

“Fossil-fuel generated air pollution is hazardous to your health and costs taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars annually. Now the Trump Administration is recklessly rolling back clean air safeguards and hiding how much its policies will cost in lives, illnesses, and medical bills. The Trump Administration should reverse course and follow the scientific guidelines that have served the nation well under both Democratic and Republican administrations alike.”


Reed Urges Court to Uphold Free Speech for All Americans in Critical Case of Kelly v. Hegseth

WASHINGTON, DC -- After retired U.S. Navy officer and current U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) filed a lawsuit in DC federal court seeking to reverse U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s letter of censure and potentially demote Kelly’s rank, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement:

“In America, you are allowed to disagree with the government without the government unfairly punishing you for it.

“Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had every right to express his displeasure or disagree with Senator Kelly for stating a basic, established military principle. Instead, Secretary Hegseth overstepped and tried to punish Senator Kelly for protected speech in an unwarranted manner.

“Senator Kelly’s lawsuit takes a principled legal stand for free expression.

“This case is not just about Senator Kelly’s rights – it is about your first amendment rights too. It’s not just about Kelly’s retirement rank and pay. It’s about whether President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have the power to impose new restrictions on free speech and the right to punish veterans who publicly disagree with them. In deciding this case on the merits, I hope the court will curb the authoritarian impulses of the Trump Administration.”


SCHUMER DEMANDS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION IMMEDIATELY RESTORE $6 MILLION FOR WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Trump Admin Unexpectedly Canceled $168 Million In Fed Funding For Public Schools Across America in December – Including $6M For Wayne County Community Schools – To Connect Families To Food, Housing Assistance, Medical Care And Other Services

Schumer: Trump Admin Must Restore Critical Fed Grants That Help Wayne County Students Thrive

After the Trump administration canceled $168 million in federal funding for public schools across America, including $6 million for Wayne County Community Schools, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today demanded U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon immediately reverse its cancellation of Full-Service Community Schools grants.

Schumer explained that all eleven districts in Wayne County receive federal assistance through this program, bringing extracurricular activities, mental health resources, and a food pantry to students. Schumer said eliminating these grants will force schools to choose between absorbing costs and eliminating services, and said the Trump administration must immediately restore this critical federal support for Wayne County.

“Ripping away support for students in rural areas, in the middle of the school year, is just plain cruel. The Full-Service Community Schools grant program helps hundreds of students and their families across Wayne County find their next meal or access health care,” said Senator Schumer. “Refusing to deliver $168 million in federal funding, including $6 million for Wayne County, Congress allocated with bipartisan support, without reason, is wrong, and possibly illegal. The Trump administration must immediately restore these federal grants so Wayne County Community Schools can continue connecting families to the resources they need to help their kids thrive.”

The Department of Education’s Full-Service Community Schools grants help connect families to food, housing assistance, medical care, and other services. A significant portion of that federal funding supports the hiring of community schools coordinator positions in mostly rural school buildings. Wayne County Community Schools has supported Wayne County families for 15 years, supporting the needs of local families. All eleven school districts in Wayne County receive federal assistance through this program, supporting more than 18 schools and community partners in providing extracurricular activities, mental health resources, and a food pantry to low-income students. The program improves student academic achievement, reduces chronic absenteeism, and supports student wellbeing.

In December, the Trump administration abruptly canceled $168 million in Full-Service Community Schools grants two weeks before the next round of funding was set to arrive. This includes Wayne County Community Schools’ $6 million grant, $3 million of which Wayne County was expecting this month. Cancelling these grants will now force schools to make difficult choices between absorbing costs and eliminating positions.

In a letter to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Schumer and colleagues explained that cutting these critical grants off in the middle of the school year will hurt rural communities across the country, forcing some schools to eliminate vital services for students or families. The senators said that Congress increased annual funding for the Full-Service Community Schools grant program from $25 million to $150 million with bipartisan support, and failing to deliver these grants could rip away essential services to underserved students. The senators demanded that the Trump administration reinstate all Full-Service Community Schools grants.

Schumer and colleagues’ letter to Secretary McMahon can be found HERE or below:

Dear Secretary McMahon:

We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (“the Department”) recent action on December 12th, 2025, to discontinue $168 million in Full-Service Community Schools grants serving students across 12 states. Pulling expected federal grant funds from public schools in the middle of the school year, built around community partnerships and parent engagement, is just plain wrong. Congress authorized and appropriated funds specifically for the Full-Service Community Schools program because research shows community schools improve student academic achievement, reduce chronic absenteeism, and support student wellbeing. We demand that the Department fully reinstate all Full-Service Community Schools grants that were abruptly discontinued.

The Full-Service Community School grant program supports school districts and public schools in their mission to meet students’ needs so they can succeed academically and in life, focusing on the school as a community center that can connect families to food, housing assistance, medical care, and other services. Community leadership and school coordinators partner to co-locate services and provide cost-effective resources that are deemed necessary by the families they serve—a community-based approach that has been successful in both rural and urban areas. Multiple studies show that community schools lead to more positive academic outcomes for students and more successful schools. Discontinuing these grants puts students’ progress in jeopardy.

On December 12th, 2025, the Department abruptly discontinued $168 million in grants to community schools just two weeks before their next round of funding was set to arrive. Across the country, nineteen grant recipients received letters alerting them that, effective immediately, their projects would no longer receive future federal funding under their approved grant awards, including in many rural communities. Your decision is forcing schools and community partners to eliminate vital services for students and families in the middle of the academic year, with no transition period or alternative support.

Full-Service Community Schools grants are generally authorized for five years, providing schools and partners with the stability to plan for the reliable delivery of services. The grants that were abruptly cancelled had either two or three years remaining in their approved five-year projects. This unnecessary termination of education funding is alarming families, disrupting carefully-planned programs that support children, and jeopardizing services for thousands of students in underserved communities. Schools that built partnerships with community organizations, hired staff, and made multi-year commitments to families now face breaking those promises through no fault of their own.

The Department claims that affected grantees violate civil rights law or conflict with the administration's policy priorities, but this rationale lacks any specificity. Grant recipients received letters providing few details, and just one week or less to appeal. These discontinuations directly contradict bipartisan congressional intent for this program. In 2023, Congress increased annual funding for the Full-Service Community Schools program from $25 million to $150 million, which was maintained in fiscal year 2024 and 2025 appropriations laws, reflecting bipartisan recognition that schools serving high-poverty communities require comprehensive support. All federal grants must abide by applicable requirements, but the Department has failed to produce legitimate reasons, including any grantee performance-related information, to discontinue multi-year grants that Congress authorized and appropriated, that grantees are implementing successfully, and that provide essential services to our underserved students.

We demand that you reinstate all community school grants that have been abruptly discontinued and respectfully suggest that the Department refocus its efforts to support community schools in their efforts to meet the needs of and improve education outcomes for all students.

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SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DEMAND TRUMP ADMINISTRATION IMMEDIATELY REVERSE RECKLESS PAUSE ON OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS, WARN MOVE WILL RAISE ENERGY COSTS, KILL JOBS & THREATEN GRID RELIABILITY

Trump DOI Halted Five Offshore Wind Projects, Including New York’s Empire Wind 1 And Sunrise Wind, Putting Electricity For 1.1 Million Homes At Risk

In Letter To Interior and Defense Secretaries, Senators Demand Immediate Reversal Of Pause And Access To Classified Defense Reports Used To Justify Decision

After Trump’s Department of the Interior (DOI) abruptly paused leases for five offshore wind projects, including two off the coast of New York, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand demanded the administration immediately reverse what they called a reckless pause that threatens to raise electricity bills, kill good-paying union jobs, and undermine grid reliability.

“Even a short pause on these fully permitted, under-construction offshore wind projects risks permanent harm,” the senators said. “It will increase electricity costs for families, eliminate jobs, and weaken the reliability of our electric grid in New York and across the country.”

Schumer and Gillibrand said Empire Wind 1, by Norwegian developer Equinor, and Sunrise Wind, by Danish developer Ørsted, have already begun construction and would deliver a combined 1,734 megawatts of power to New York’s electric grid, enough to power approximately 1.1 million homes. If the projects do not resume, thousands of union workers risk losing their jobs and tens of millions of dollars in wages. The senators warned that halting these shovel-ready projects comes at a time of rising energy costs and shrinking reliability margins for all New Yorkers. The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), the nonpartisan, independent electric reliability entity for New York State, has cited both Empire Wind 1 and Sunrise Wind as projects critical to ensuring near term reliability in the New York City and Long Island regions, respectively.

The senators also emphasized that they take national security concerns seriously, noting that both developers completed all required consultations with the Department of Defense (DOD) as part of the federal permitting process. The senators also emphasized that the project developers should be granted access to the information to allow them to work with the DOD to mitigate concerns.

“As part of our constitutional oversight responsibilities, we are demanding access to the classified Department of Defense reports DOI is using to justify this pause,” the senators said.

The December 22, 2025 lease pauses come after the Trump administration paused Empire Wind 1 in the spring of 2025. Since Empire Wind 1 resumed construction, Equinor has invested $1.5 billion into the project. Equinor’s expected $2 billion of additional investment in 2026 is at risk if it cannot resume construction.

Schumer and Gillibrand said they will continue to press the administration to reverse course immediately and allow these projects to proceed, protecting New York’s energy supply, workers, and families.

A copy of Schumer and Gillibrand’s letter can be foundhere.

The Empire 1 wind Project, located about 14 miles southeast of Long Island, was scheduled to provide power next year with 54 turbines in the Atlantic Ocean. The project would be the first offshore wind power source connected to New York City, and the project is over 50% complete.

The Sunrise Wind project, located about 30 miles east of Montauk, was also expected to be operational around the same time. The project is about 40% complete.

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Scott, Wilson urge Homeland Security Secretary to select Beaufort for new Coast Guard training base

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and Representative Joe Wilson (SC-02) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem urging her to select Beaufort, South Carolina, as the location for the U.S. Coast Guard’s newest training base.

The U.S. Coast Guard issued a request for information late last year seeking potential locations to host the new facility.

Senator Scott and Representative Wilson wrote, “Beaufort has proven itself to be a reliable and mission-ready military community. In addition to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, the city is home to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, which trains and graduates thousands of Marines each year. This presence has fostered a community that is well-suited to the needs of military personnel, with the housing, schools, and infrastructure already in place to immediately support Coast Guard families.”

They continued, “The city’s location places it between two of the nation’s most strategically important ports, Charleston and Savannah. Located less than two hours away, Charleston will soon host the Coast Guard’s largest homeport, while the Port of Savannah consistently leads the East Coast in container volume. Situated between these two critical hubs, Beaufort is uniquely positioned and prepared to leverage the existing infrastructure and regional connectivity to support the Coast Guard’s mission.”

The initiative is supported by the Beaufort County Council, Town of Port Royal, City of Beaufort, Town of Bluffton, Town of Hilton Head, Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Beaufort County Military Enhancement Committee.

Read the full letter here.

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NEW: Senators Shaheen and McCormick Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Address Chronic Staffing Shortages at Federal Prisons

(Washington, DC) – To address historic and persistent staffing shortages at federal prisons across the country, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and David McCormick (R-PA) are leading the introduction of the Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act. The bipartisan, bicameral bill would provide a 35% special salary rate increase to law enforcement officers in federal prisons nationwide—boosting recruitment and retention, eliminating costly overtime and burnout, enhancing safety and, ultimately, significantly improving operations. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Rob Bresnahan (R-PA-08) and Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02).

For years, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has faced dire staffing shortages that have worsened deteriorating conditions at facilities across the country. In a February 2024 report, the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General highlighted that the use of augmentation and mandatory overtime to compensate for staffing shortages in BOP facilities overburdened employees and may have contributed to staff fatigue, sleep deprivation, decreased vigilance and inattentiveness to duty.

“FCI Berlin has dealt with workforce challenges that have forced a thinly stretched staff to work unreasonable hours just to help maintain daily operations and make ends meet. It’s untenable—and there’s more we can do to support the Granite Staters working to keep our communities safe and provide for their families,” said Senator Shaheen. “Persistent and often dangerous staffing shortages at federal prisons nationwide cause safety concerns for BOP personnel and incarcerated individuals alike. Our bill will help to ensure that staff within our federal prisons are paid adequately for the critical work they do across this country.”

“Federal correctional officers put their lives on the line every day guarding some of the most dangerous criminals in our country, yet they are paid far less than their federal law enforcement counterparts. The Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act of 2025 is about fairness, safety, and retention, ensuring the Bureau of Prisons can recruit and retain qualified officers while restoring morale and enhancing public safety. I’m proud to support this bill and stand with the officers who keep our communities safe,” said Senator Dave McCormick.

Specifically, the Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act:

Enacts a special rate of pay for federal correctional officers to address chronic recruitment and retention issues.

Establishes a 35% increase to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale for correctional officers.

Applies the enhanced pay rate to federal correctional officers with custodial responsibilities, including General Schedule positions, General Law (GL) law enforcement officers, and eligible prevailing-rate employees.

Includes a sunset provision that requires the Inspector General of the Department of Justice to conduct a review that determines if the Bureau of Prisons has demonstrated measurable progress in eliminating augmentation and reducing excessive mandatory overtime for federal correctional officers. If progress has been made, the special salary rate remains in place. A report on the review will be submitted to Congress.

A copy of the bill text can be found HERE.

In the Senate, the bipartisan Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Fetterman (D-PA) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

The Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act has been endorsed by the Council of Prison Locals C-33, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), the New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA) and the National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).

Earlier last year, Senators Shaheen and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) alongside Representative Goodlander urged DOJ and BOP to reverse the decision to cut retention incentives provided to several federal corrections facilities across the country, including at FCI Berlin. In a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Associate Deputy Director of BOP, the lawmakers highlighted that the decision would worsen persistent staffing shortages that threaten FCI Berlin’s operational capacity and security.

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WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin’s Bill to Declare National Housing Emergency and Build 4 million Homes

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