Elfreth, Bergman Introduce BEACON Act to Expand Innovative Care for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03) and Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen care for veterans living with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The BEACON Act modernizes the Department of Veterans Affairs’ approach to TBI treatment by expanding access to innovative, evidence-based, non-pharmacological therapies that support long-term recovery and quality of life.

“As the granddaughter of a veteran who suffered from PTSD, I’ve seen firsthand the complex mental health challenges that our veterans and their families face. I’ve also seen how traditional VA treatments have come up short for decades to fully address the complex challenges our veterans face – and unfortunately, my family's story is far from unique,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “I’m proud to work with Congressman Bergman on the bipartisan BEACON Act to expand veterans’ access to nontraditional, evidence-based therapies, as well as integrate civilian and academic research and expertise into VA treatment. For the hundreds of military families I have the honor of representing, this expansion of care will make a real difference.”

“The men and women who served our country deserve access to the best care available, especially when it comes to invisible injuries like traumatic brain injury,” said Rep. Bergman. “The BEACON Act strengthens the VA’s ability to deliver modern, effective care by bringing proven innovation, academic expertise, and community partnerships to the table, while supporting the important work the VA is already doing.”

Since 2000, hundreds of thousands of Veterans have sustained a traumatic brain injury, often accompanied by complex mental health challenges. Traditional treatment models have relied heavily on medication-centered approaches, which have not always fully addressed the long-term and individualized needs of these Veterans, leaving gaps in recovery, wellness, and post-service outcomes.

The BEACON Act establishes two complementary grant programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs to accelerate the development, evaluation, and adoption of innovative, non-pharmacological treatments for mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. These programs are designed to close gaps in care by supporting evidence-based therapies that improve mental health recovery, reduce suicide risk, and strengthen long-term health outcomes for veterans.

Through a TBI Innovation Grant Program, the legislation supports clinical studies, clinician training, veteran and family outreach, and partnerships between community providers, academic institutions, and the VA. An Independent Research Grant Program further advances third-party research and the implementation of proven alternative treatments, with oversight by an independent entity modeled after the VA’s National Center for PTSD to ensure scientific rigor and accountability.

By integrating civilian and academic expertise into VA treatment strategies, the BEACON Act enhances veterans’ access to modern, effective care while complementing and strengthening existing VA programs. The legislation prioritizes recovery, resilience, and quality of life for veterans as they transition to post-service life.

The BEACON Act is backed by a number of key organizations:

“Veterans deserve a system that can identify what works, validate it, and scale it quickly. The BEACON Act does exactly that through VA grants supporting innovative treatment, clinician training, outreach, and partnerships. Avalon Action Alliance is honored to serve veterans through our six TBI centers nationwide, and we thank Reps. Bergman and Elfreth and the original cosponsors for recognizing this need and working together for those who have served,” said Joe Brennan, CEO of Avalon Action Alliance.

“As a congressionally chartered organization with more than 250,000 members nationwide, AMVETS believes veterans deserve every effective tool available to heal from TBI. The BEACON Act will expand access to innovative, evidence-based care and promote partnerships that meet veterans where they live. We thank Reps. Bergman, Elfreth, and the original cosponsors for advancing a bill that prioritizes better outcomes, including stronger mental health recovery and suicide prevention,” said Joseph R. Chenelly, Executive Director of AMVETS.

“The effects of a traumatic brain injury can’t always be seen from the outside, but show up around kitchen tables, in broken sleep, and strained marriages. Too often, we have asked veterans to navigate a system that treats symptoms instead of people. A system that relies on pills instead of purpose. A system that, despite good intentions, has left too many veterans feeling unseen, unheard, and alone. The American Legion refuses to accept that as the best our nation can do,” said Cole Lyle, Director of Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation at The American Legion. “Over the years, VA has gotten closer to the veterans it serves. From VAMCs to CBOCs to Vet Centers, and now innovative grant programs like the BEACON Act. This bill reflects a concerted effort by lawmakers and advocates to listen to veterans' needs and act on their expertise. The bill represents progress. The American Legion is proud to support the passage of the BEACON Act and thanks Representatives Bergman and Elfreth for their leadership on this issue. Because when America commits its sons and daughters to war, it must be just as committed to making them whole when they come home.”

“Studies and reporting show time and again a connection between service-related blast overpressure injuries and increased rates of suicide among service members and veterans. This bipartisan legislation brings together government, academia, and the private sector to align and accelerate research and treatment for traumatic brain injuries to reduce the skyrocketing suicide rates among active duty service members and veterans,” said Rye Barcott, Co-Founder and CEO of With Honor. “With Honor is proud to endorse the Veterans TBI Adaptive Care Opportunities Nationwide Act, and we thank For Country Caucus member Rep. Jack Bergman, and our Senate ally, Sen. Dave McCormick, for accelerating innovative, non-pharmacological treatments for traumatic brain injuries.”

In addition to Avalon Action Alliance, AMVETS, The American Legion, and With Honor, the BEACON Act has been endorsed by the Marcus Institute for Brain Health, University of Colorado Anschutz, Disabled American Veterans, America’s Warrior Partnership, Boulder Crest Foundation, Mission Roll Call, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The full text of the bill is available HERE.

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Whip Emmer joins Sharia Free America Caucus

WASHINGTON – As first reported by investigative journalist Laura Loomer, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) today announced that he is the newest member of the Sharia Free America Caucus, which was recently launched by Representatives Chip Roy (R-Texas) and Keith Self (R-Texas) to defend the American way of life against the rise of Sharia.

“Sharia is completely incompatible with the American way of life and threatens the very fabric of our society,” said Whip Emmer. “It is radical, oppressive, and must never be allowed to gain a foothold in America. I’m thankful to Congressmen Roy and Self for leading this noble charge in the House and looking forward to working together to combat this danger.”

“We welcome Majority Whip Tom Emmer as the latest member of the Sharia Free America Caucus,” said Reps. Roy and Self. “At a time when radical ideologies threaten our Constitution and way of life, Majority Whip Emmer recognizes that Sharia is fundamentally incompatible with American values and the rule of law. We must act decisively through our immigration and legal system to stop the spread of extremist ideologies and preserve the freedoms that define America before it is too late.”

Background:

Prohibiting Sharia in the United States has been a longstanding priority of Whip Emmer. In 2009, when Emmer served in the Minnesota State Legislature, he filed language to ban Sharia law from certain government services.


Estes Joins Colleagues to Introduce Bipartisan Budget Deficit Reduction Measure

WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Bipartisan Fiscal Forum (BFF) Co-Chairs Bill Huizenga (R-Michigan) and Scott Peters (D-California), in addition to Reps. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pennsylvania), and Mike Quigley (D-Illinois), to introduce House Resolution 981 establishing a clear fiscal goal – reduce the federal budget deficit to 3% of gross domestic product (GDP) or lower. Known as the “3% Resolution,” this measure establishes growing bipartisan agreement that Congress must adopt a concrete, achievable target to begin restoring fiscal discipline and confronting the nation’s escalating debt crisis.

With the federal deficit hovering around 6% of GDP in Fiscal Year 2025 and the national debt at historic levels, the 3% Resolution boldly calls for a straightforward, no-nonsense framework for action to put the nation on a more sustainable fiscal path and protect future generations from severe economic consequences.

You may read the text here. In addition to Rep. Estes and the two cochairs, the 3% Resolution is also cosponsored by the entire BFF Steering Committee, including Reps. Ed Case (D-Hawaii), Steve Womack (R-Arkansas), Jimmy Panetta (D-California), Erin Houchin (R-Indiana), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Washington), Blake Moore (R-Utah), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pennsylvania), Dusty Johnson (R-South Dakota), and Jared Golden (D-Maine), as well as House Budget Chairman and BFF Co-Chair Emeritus Jodey Arrington (R-Texas).

In addition to the entire BFF Steering Committee cosponsoring the legislation, the 3% Resolution has gained significant support right out of the gate.

“Reining in the deficit is essential for protecting taxpayers and preserving economic opportunity. This bipartisan resolution by Reps. Bill Huizenga and Scott Peters establishing a 3% deficit-to-GDP goal over five years provides a meaningful benchmark for getting our fiscal house in order. The best way to meet this target is for Congress to pursue thoughtful, long-term spending reforms and tax policies that encourage investment, work, and innovation. The resolution also gives the Congressional Budget Office an important role in assessing how major legislation would affect progress toward meeting these deficit-reduction goals, helping to keep lawmakers on track,” said Demian Brady, Vice President of Research, National Taxpayers Union Foundation.

“Only Congress can fix federal finances. That’s why it’s good to see an emerging new framework from Representatives Huizenga, Peters, Smucker, and Quigley: reduce the deficit to 3% of GDP through an effective congressional budget process with credible backstops. Building consensus on the goals can open the door to serious conversations about how to get there,” said Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy, Americans for Prosperity.

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CONGRESSMAN CLEO FIELDS VOTES IN SUPPORT OF THE EXTENSION OF ACA SUBSIDIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Cleo Fields (LA-06) released the following statement today after voting in support of the ACA Subsidies Extension:

“Today, I voted without hesitation in support of extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, reaffirming my strong commitment to lowering health care costs and protecting access to quality care for families across our communities, both locally and nationally. These subsidies are vital to addressing the health care affordability crisis affecting millions of Americans.

As I’ve said before, the people of Louisiana should not have to choose between putting food on the table, keeping the lights on, and being able to go to the doctor. Under the current circumstances, this rings true now more than ever.

It is not an exaggeration to say that the urgency of this moment is paramount. We cannot wait any longer. When Americans are forced to ration and stockpile life-saving medicine, Congress has a moral obligation to act—and to act now!

Failing to restore and protect access to affordable health care will only drive-up costs in the long run. Untreated medical conditions lead to more serious health complications, higher costs of care, and longer wait times in already overburdened emergency rooms— where too many Americans are forced to seek treatment as a last resort.

I want to make it clear that my vote reflects a broader principle: put people ahead of politics and ensure that government works for those it serves.

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Randall Avenue Bridge to Reopen Following Federal Coordination Led by Fitzpatrick, Restoring Safety and Connectivity in Bristol Township

BRISTOL TOWNSHIP, PA — Following sustained federal coordination led by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), the Randall Avenue/Edgely Bridge is scheduled to reopen Wednesday, January 14th after receiving final safety clearance from PennDOT’s bridge inspectors and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. This reopening restores a critical local connection after nearly two years of closure.

From the outset, Fitzpatrick served as the central liaison between Bristol Township and Amtrak, helping ensure the access and coordination necessary for repairs over an active rail corridor to proceed safely and responsibly.

“The moment it became clear the bridge had to close, the work began. Together with Bristol Township, Amtrak, and our federal partners, we focused on what was required to restore safety—carefully and responsibly. This bridge connects a community, but the responsibility to protect people always comes first—a principle that guided every step forward,” said Fitzpatrick.

“We recognize the significant inconvenience this extended closure has caused residents, businesses, and emergency responders. The reopening of the Randall Avenue Bridge restores an important local connection and reflects the Township’s continued commitment to public safety and infrastructure investment,” said Bristol Township Manager Randee Mazur, “and we are grateful to Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick for his continued support, partnership, and his coordination efforts with AMTRAK representatives to address project requirements, scheduling considerations, and operational needs associated with the bridge’s proximity to the rail corridor.”

The township-owned bridge was closed in early 2023 after inspections identified serious structural deterioration, including falling concrete and debris over the active Amtrak and SEPTA rail lines below, as well as significant damage to key structural components. Because the bridge spans an interstate rail corridor, progress required federal-level coordination to align local ownership, rail access, and safety requirements.

As part of that effort, Fitzpatrick hosted Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner in Bucks County in January 2024 to review safety conditions at the bridge and maintain close coordination as repairs moved forward.

With traffic set to resume, Fitzpatrick emphasized that the work to address long-term infrastructure needs continues:

“Reopening is an important milestone,” said Fitzpatrick. “But we must—and will—continue working together to ensure the infrastructure serving this community is reliable and built to last.”

With that objective in mind, Fitzpatrick is continuing to work long-term with leaders in Bristol Township and Washington, D.C. to advance a permanent infrastructure solution. Through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, Fitzpatrick is pursuing Community Project Funding to support the construction of a new bridge and extension of Haines Road over the existing railway corridor and North Radcliff Street. Since 2021, Fitzpatrick has secured nearly $53.1 Million for Pennsylvania’s 1st, ensuring projects such as this that address long-term safety, improve regional connectivity, or support economic growth are possible.

Together, the bridge’s reopening and the pursuit of a permanent solution reflect Fitzpatrick’s efforts to resolve urgent safety issues, restore public access, and continue the work necessary to deliver infrastructure that meets the demands of the future.

Background:

Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick played a leading bipartisan role in passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) during the 117th Congress—legislation that reshaped the federal approach to repairing aging infrastructure, strengthening transportation safety, and modernizing critical systems nationwide.

Because of that effort, Pennsylvania is now the fourth-largest beneficiary of IIJA funding, receiving a guaranteed minimum of $17.8 billion to repair roads and bridges, modernize transit systems, strengthen rail safety, and support large-scale infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth. That federal investment has directly benefited Bucks and Montgomery Counties, helping address long-standing infrastructure needs while positioning the region for long-term growth.

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Following Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher’s Advocacy, House Passes Federal Funding for Texas’ Seventh Congressional District Priorities, Helps Address Cost-of-Living Crisis

This week, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) voted for the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026, H.R. 6938, to fund certain federal agencies and critical government programs for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. After bipartisan negotiations, the legislation passed this week increases spending above 2025 levels, a complete repudiation of President Trump’s budget request, which would have decimated housing programs and severely weakened many other critical initiatives that help address the cost-of-living crisis. It also reasserts Congress’ power of the purse with instilling transparency and accountability requirements.

“Keeping our government funded and functioning is a fundamental responsibility of Congress,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. “For the past year, however, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have fought at every turn to eliminate funding for government programs that people across Texas’ Seventh Congressional District rely on. I am pleased that, after months of negotiations between Democrats and Republicans, we have come to a bipartisan agreement to reinstate funding for government programs that the administration gutted—a rebuke of DOGE and Republican efforts to eliminate critical funding.

“Specifically, I am proud that my efforts to provide federal funding for natural disaster research and preparedness, to provide immigration court counsel, and to support emissions-reducing technology in the energy sector succeeded,” continued Congresswoman Fletcher. “I will continue to do everything I can to fight back against the Trump administration’s and Congressional Republicans’ dangerous and harmful efforts and protect our community.”

Last year, Congresswoman Fletcher led an effort to reject President Trump’s attempt to gut the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) and instead fund it at a level of at least $656 million. Following her advocacy, H.R. 6938 provides $588 million, 74 percent higher than President Trump’s budget request.

Also last year, Congresswoman Fletcher spearheaded an effort to protect funding for the Legal Orientation Program (LOP), which the Trump administration attempted to terminate earlier this year and is currently being litigated in court. The LOP is a critical program that contracts with nonprofit legal service organizations to assist detained individuals to make timely and informed decisions on immigration court procedures, educating people on their rights and improving the judicial efficiency of the immigration courts. Following Congresswoman Fletcher’s advocacy, H.R. 6938 provides $27.5 million of her $28 million request for the Legal Orientation Program (LOP).

And, last year, Congresswoman Fletcher led an effort to protect funding to support emissions-reducing technology in the energy sector. Following Congresswoman Fletcher’s advocacy, H.R. 6938 provides $30 million for the Department of Energy’s Methane Mitigation Program, which is an improvement from President Trump’s budget request, which would have eliminated funding for this program.

Additionally, for FY 2026, H.R. 6938:

Funds the Legal Services Corporation at $540 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Funds the Minority Business Development Agency at $50 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Funds the National Endowment for the Arts at $207 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Funds the National Endowment for the Humanities at $207 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Increases home energy efficiency for low-income residents across the country by providing $329 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the program in its entirety;

Addresses high electricity costs and the cost-of-living crisis by providing $375 million for electric grid infrastructure;

Invests in water infrastructure projects by providing $10.4 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, an increase of $1.8 billion above the Fiscal Year 2025 level and $3.8 billion above the Trump administration’s budget request;

Protects people from violence and abuse and helps ensure domestic violence survivors have access to essential services by funding Violence Against Women Act grants by $7 million;

Funds four crucial NOAA programs for coastal resilience and ecosystem health at $183 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the programs in their entirety;

Funds the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Grants’ COPS Hiring Program Collaborative Reform Model at $5.5 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Funds the National Science Foundation’s STEM Education Account at $938 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety;

Funds the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s STEM Education Account (NASA) at $143 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety; and

Funds the Chemical Safety and Hazards Investigation Board at $14 million, after President Trump and House Republicans attempted to eliminate the agency in its entirety.

For a summary of the Commerce, Justice, Science FY 2026 funding bill, click here.

For a summary of the Energy and Water Development FY 2026 funding bill, click here.

For a summary of the Interior and Environment FY 2026 funding bill, click here.


Rep. Frankel Votes to Stop Skyrocketing Health Care Costs

Today, Lois Frankel (FL-22) released the following statement after voting to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits for three years.

“Everyday costs are already too high, and extending Affordable Care Act assistance will help keep millions of Americans from being forced to choose between seeing a doctor and paying their rent,” said Rep. Frankel. “Senate Republicans and Donald Trump must now step up to stop a full-blown health care crisis.”

Frankel: Higher Costs and ICE Brutality Mark the Real State of the Union

February 24, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Ranking Member Frankel Speaks Out Against Trump’s Expansion of the Deadly Global Gag Rule

January 30, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Bipartisan Florida Delegation Urges Implementation of Proposal to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Care

December 16, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases

Frankel Celebrates Opening of Palm Beach State College’s Expanded Respiratory Clinical Lab

December 5, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases


Congressman Gabe Evans Votes to Pass Bipartisan Appropriations Package, Secures Major Wins for CO-08

WASHINGTON — Today Congressman Gabe Evans (CO-08) voted in favor of H.R. 6938, a consolidated appropriations package that funds crucial government operations including Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment for FY-2026. The legislative package also includes more than $1 million in funding for local priorities across Colorado’s Eighth Congressional District.

“Today I proudly voted in favor of a bipartisan appropriations package that fully funds critical government operations — from law enforcement to energy dominance to natural resource protection. This crucial legislation also delivers more than $1 million in direct funding for Colorado’s Eighth Congressional District, securing meaningful wins for my constituents and our state. I look forward to continuing the bipartisan appropriations process to ensure the federal government is responsibly funded for fiscal year 2026.” — Congressman Gabe Evans

Evans secured Community Project Funding for the following local priorities:

$600,000 for From Silenced to Saved's Expansion of Justice and Freedom Program for Victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation

Funding will expand programs which provide training to law enforcement and resources to victims aimed at combating commercial sexual exploitation and supporting those impacted by human trafficking in the Northern Denver Metro Area.

$420,000 for Thornton Police Department's Crime Lab Enhancements

Funding will allow the Thornton Police Department to redesign the existing crime lab and enhance it with state-of-the-art equipment that will enable rapid collection, analysis, and cross-reference of forensic evidence.

$75,000 for Firestone Police Department's Enhancing Public Safety Through Technology Initiative

Funding will acquire equipment to modernize frontline operations, increase officer safety, and deliver more proactive and data driven public safety services.

Rep. Evans also secured the following programmatic funding and report language provisions that will directly benefit Colorado’s Eighth Congressional District:

$6,100,000 for NASA's CAPSTONE Mission

Report language supporting the study of polar ground station infrastructure and emerging technology to support NOAA

Report language directing a DOE study on state policies that threaten energy reliability and affordability

Report language directing DOE to provide recommendations to Congress to address natural gas turbine shortages

Report language directing the DOE to develop a national strategy to advance solid state battery technology

$23,899,000 for the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund

$25,000,000 for enhanced geothermal system demonstrations and next-generation geothermal demonstration projects

Language and programmatic support for DOE's Fusion Sciences Program, including the Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program

$8,000,000 for the Southwest Ecological Research Institute for hazardous fuels and wildfire risk reduction

The consolidated appropriations package passed the House and is now headed to the Senate.


Rep. Gabe Evans Leads Framework to Modernize Federal Permitting

WASHINGTON, DC – Representatives Gabe Evans (R-CO-08) Representatives Scott Peters, Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released a discussion draft for the Create Expedited Reviews to Transform American Infrastructure Now (CERTAIN) Act, to transform the federal permitting process and meet America’s energy and electricity needs.

The CERTAIN Act would build upon ongoing permitting reform efforts in Congress to secure permit certainty for energy projects of all types – ensuring federal agencies handle project authorizations and environmental reviews fairly and efficiently, with clear timelines, notice requirements, and accountability. It also emphasizes coordinating between different agencies involved in these processes to avoid unnecessary delays.This would incentivize necessary investments to build out high-demand energy resources to ultimately lower costs, create jobs, and protect our environment.

“As the representative of a truly all-of-the-above energy district, I hear from oil and gas and renewable energy producers alike that overburdensome permitting processes and lack of permit certainty has plagued investment and delayed innovation. Across the U.S., modernizing how we permit our infrastructure is absolutely vital to meeting our growing energy demand and lowering costs for working families. I’m proud to lead these bipartisan discussions to build upon the work already done in the House to strengthen American jobs, businesses and markets, reduce cost of living, and provide investors greater certainty when allocating capital to current and future energy projects.” — Congressman Gabe Evans

"It’s no secret that our surging energy demand is straining our grid and our wallets. As we face the growing challenge of powering our nation’s future, we must act quickly and effectively. Our CERTAIN Act is the comprehensive solution we need—giving us the tools to tackle energy challenges head-on, without unnecessary delays, and ensuring we’re meeting the moment with urgency and responsibility." — Congressman Peters

“Endless permitting roadblocks hurt communities and drive up energy costs. I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan CERTAIN Act to bring transparency and accountability to the permitting process and ensure projects that meet their requirements can move forward on time.” — Congressman Garbarino.

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen how shifting policies from one administration to the next lead to stalled energy projects and make long-term planning impossible, and we cannot afford to leave our energy producers exposed to this political pendulum. That’s why I’m proud to be leading the CERTAIN Act, a bipartisan solution that protects the permitting process for all types of energy projects from undue political interference.” — Congressman Vasquez.

Key provisions of the CERTAIN Act include:

Protection from Political Interference: Provide certainty for infrastructure investment by ensuring that lawfully issued permits that remain in compliance are safeguarded from political interference.

Clear Timelines and Deadlines: Set specific deadlines, timelines, and milestones for federal agencies in the environmental review process. This would cover all reviews, under all environmental laws, for all projects.

Transparency and Accountability: Promote transparency and accountability throughout the federal environmental review process, including by empowering decision-makers to resolve disputes.

Address Workforce Needs: Require agencies to analyze and respond to workforce and technical needs, ensuring they can meet statutory obligations for environmental reviews.

Agency Accountability: Strengthen communication between agencies and project sponsors on any delays, with opportunities to hold agencies accountable in court for missing deadlines and review milestones.

A section-by-section on the draft is available HERE.

A one pager is available HERE.


CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ DENOUNCES MEXICAN GOVERNMENT UNDERMINING U.S. POLICY

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) denounced the Government of Mexico’s continued oil subsidies to the Communist Cuban regime.

This follows recent reports that in 2025 the Mexican government overtook the Venezuelan regime as the primary source of oil shipments to the Communist Cuban dictatorship.

“In the United States Congress, we are deeply disturbed by Mexico’s subsidies to the narcoterrorist dictatorship in Communist Cuba,” said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. “Instead of gifting free oil to a regime in decline those resources should be used to benefit the Mexican people. As the United States Government enters negotiations with Mexico over the USMCA Agreement, we are demanding that President Claudia Sheinbaum’s government immediately halt these free oil shipments to Communist Cuba. We want to be good allies with our friends in Mexico but if this disturbing trend continues my colleagues and I will have no hesitation in enforcing serious consequences against the Mexican government.”

Watch Congressman Gimenez's full statement HERE.

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Rep. Grijalva Celebrates $600,000+ Veterans Housing Grant Award to the Tohono O’odham Nation

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva celebrated the award of $622,637 in federal funding to the Tohono O’odham Kiki Housing Authority to expand housing support for Native American veterans on the Tohono O’odham Nation. The grant will be used to provide rental assistance to approximately 20 Native American veterans.

“Native American veterans have sacrificed immensely for our country, yet too many continue to face barriers to stable housing,” said Rep. Grijalva. “This investment represents an important step toward honoring their service and ensuring veterans on the Tohono O’odham Nation have access to the support they deserve. Following generations of historic disinvestment in tribal communities, it also highlights the critical need for sustained federal resources, which I will continue to advocate for in Congress.”


Moore, Welch, Chu Reintroduce Bicameral Bill to Bolster SNAP Benefits for Social Security Recipients

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Judy Chu (CA-28) reintroduced the COLAs Don’t Count Act, bicameral legislation, H.R. 6986, to allow households utilizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - Foodshare in Wisconsin - to deduct annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) from their income when calculating eligibility and benefits under the food assistance program. Railroad retirement and veterans’ benefit COLAs and state supplementation program payments would similarly be exempt.

“For individuals and American families who rely on Social Security, SSI, and SNAP, the annual Social Security COLA increase can deliver economic support especially as inflation remains too high in our country. At the same time, the COLA can result in cuts to critical food assistance.

Our legislation would exempt the Social Security COLA from being counted as income for purposes of determining SNAP eligibility and the benefit amount,” said Rep. Moore. “This is similar to existing exemptions of many other federal benefits, which work to protect SNAP benefits for vulnerable Americans. As Republicans cut SNAP and food insecurity grows, Congress needs to advance this legislation to strengthen SNAP and help families keep food on the table.”

“Nearly 70,000 Vermonters rely on SNAP for vital hunger assistance, so it’s essential this program accurately captures the financial reality of those who need it. Yet we’re seeing SNAP recipients lose out on vital benefits because of outdated requirements that don’t account for modern financial hardships,” said Senator Welch. “We need to update SNAP to help families put food on the table and keep up with rising costs.”

“Social Security’s annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) are supposed to help our most vulnerable Americans, including seniors and Veterans, keep up with the rising cost of basic necessities. But for too many Americans, those COLA increases cause them to receive lower monthly food assistance benefits or even to lose eligibility altogether. It’s harmful and unacceptable,” said Rep. Chu. “I’m proud to join Representative Gwen Moore in introducing this common-sense bill to stop penalizing seniors by ensuring Social Security COLAs are no longer counted as income for the purposes of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility.”

In 2023, approximately 9 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries were also SNAP recipients, with 33% of SNAP households receiving Social Security benefits (an average of $1,096) and 23% of households receiving SSI benefits (an average of $723 monthly). Each year, Social Security beneficiaries receive a COLA provided through the Social Security Act to ensure the value of benefits is not eroded by inflation. For 2026, the estimated 67.5 million Social Security beneficiaries and 7.3 million SSI beneficiaries will receive a 2.8% COLA.

When the income of a SNAP household rises, beneficiaries face a potential reduction in SNAP benefits or risk becoming ineligible, creating a benefits cliff. Further, as COLAs raise a household’s overall income—and are not considered an allowable deduction under SNAP’s current income eligibility requirements—it can impact households’ ability to receive vital food assistance. For example, in 2023, an estimated 28,000 SNAP households lost their eligibility for the program as a result of Social Security COLAs, and 36% of SNAP recipients saw a decrease of an average of $32 per month in benefits. Without an exemption, vulnerable Americans can experience hunger and increased hardship. This legislation would protect their SNAP benefits from fluctuating annual COLA rates.


Hageman Votes to Advance Three Appropriations Bills to the Senate

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-WY) voted for H.R. 6938, which funds crucial agencies that serve Wyoming, such as the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Environmental Protection Agency. This appropriations package is the product of a conference committee between the House and Senate and would complete 6 of the 12 annual appropriations bills in advance of the January 30th funding deadline.

“After a harmful Democrat-caused shutdown in 2025, Congress finished the year strong by passing three full-year spending bills. We are starting 2026 even stronger with the passage of another three-bill package in the first week of the second session of the 119th Congress. We are funding the federal agencies Wyoming relies on every day while spending nearly $2 billion less than levels projected under the current continuing resolution. H.R. 6938 also invests $20.8 million in Wyoming infrastructure projects that I requested in Community Project Funding,” stated Rep. Hageman.

Background:

Congress appropriates discretionary funds for all the federal agencies each fiscal year through 12 appropriations bills. If signed into law, H.R. 6938 would complete 6 of those bills, avoiding another harmful shutdown for the agencies which most directly serve Wyoming.

H.R. 6938 makes appropriations for agencies such as: the Departments of Commerce, Energy, the Interior, and Justice; the U.S. Forest Service; the Bureaus of Indian Affairs and Education; and the Environmental Protection Agency. Notable provisions of the bill are:

$20.8 million in Community Project Funding requested by Rep. Hageman

$14.6 million for the Fort Laramie Canal Tunnel Restoration Project

$1 million for the Northern Arapaho Tribe, Arapaho Industrial Park Wastewater Improvements Project

$1 million for the City of Mills - Lower Mills Hydrant, Service, and Valve Replacement Project

$1.75 million for the City of Casper - North Platte Sanitary Sewer Project

$600,000 Carbon County - Police Pursuit Vehicle Acquisition

$828,000 City of Casper - Police Fleet Vehicle Replacement

$1 million Town of Jackson - Snow King Complete Street Project

Fully funds the Unleashing American Energy agenda by increasing funding for on and offshore oil and gas development on federal lands and waters

Fully funds the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, estimated at $550 million

Increases funding to $570.06 million for Tribal Public Safety and Justice programs and expands the DOI Opioid Reduction Task Force to target disrupt drug smuggling and cartel operations on tribal lands

Cuts the EPA’s budget by $320 million, or nearly 4%

Prohibits the drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to entities controlled or owned by the Chinese Communist Party

Increases funding for the Drug Enforcement Agency to combat fentanyl and reduces funding for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Maintains longstanding conservative riders that protect the Second Amendment and Hyde pro-life protections

Cuts and eliminates funding for woke, green spending from the Biden administration, such as Biden-era Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, zeroing out funds for Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Justice and Equity, and eliminating funding for environmental justice

Exempts farmers and livestock producers from burdensome greenhouse gas permitting and reporting requirements

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NIH: Harder Unveils Landmark Legislation to Supercharge Medical Breakthroughs at Top Science Agency

Scientific frontier has outgrown decades-old model for funding medical research and discovery

New “X-Labs” Initiative brings high-risk, high-reward research model to NIH for first time ever

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced new landmark legislation to supercharge medical breakthroughs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by transforming how the world’s top science agency invests in research. Led with Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Harder’s Launching X-Labs for Breakthrough Science Act brings a proven startup model of high-risk, high-reward scientific exploration to NIH for the first time ever, unlocking hundreds of millions of dollars for ambitious medical research.

American science is key to our productivity and success. NIH pioneered the polio vaccine, chemotherapy, and the Human Genome Project and has saved countless lives while ensuring America is the world leader in science and health care. But America is now falling behind – breakthroughs are slowing down and foreign competitors like China and Australia are speeding up because NIH is still using the same processes it’s used for 75 years. The vast majority of NIH grants are awarded to small, low-risk, university-based investigators with little collaboration and minimal equipment. Moreover, our top scientists are spending more than half their time filling out paperwork instead of developing science in a lab.

“American science is losing its edge because we don’t invest in the risks necessary for modern breakthroughs,” said Rep. Harder. “We have to reinvent how we do innovation. We should learn from the proven startup science model and start giving higher-risk, higher-reward efforts the backing they need. Our families and our economy are depending on us.”

Alternative scientific funding models have shown that models that fund teams, not projects can produce groundbreaking results. Likewise, the National Science Foundation (NSF) is actively experimenting with this approach right now. Harder’s Launching X-Labs for Breakthrough Science Act helps the NIH take advantage of these innovations and will cut the red tape holding back American science while strengthening our scientific leadership and accelerating discoveries. The bill establishes the “X-Labs” Initiative, a four-part funding series at NIH:

Foundational Discovery (XL01) – Funding independent research organizations that produce new and major scientific discoveries.

Toolbuilding (XL02) – Research focused on identifying gaps in tools and infrastructure used in scientific discovery.

Biomedical Regranting (XL03) – Empowering scientific scouts to spot promising biomedical research.

New Institutions (XL04) – Seeding new institutions at the forefront of future scientific research.

Grants under XL01 through XL03 would receive $10-50 million every year for seven years, and grants under XL04 would seed new institutions with $1-5 million for up to three years. Here’s what the “X-Labs” Initiative would look like in practice:

Discovering not just hundreds of thousands of potentially new materials, but identifying the manufacturing needs of the future right now.

Unlocking the best-performing microbes for testing new medical theories that have been locked behind decades of research requirements.

Supercharging the search for the next ten most promising solutions to biomedical bottlenecks.

Building the runway that a future research team will use to develop new cancer therapies.

“Innovation thrives when researchers have the long-term support they need to explore groundbreaking ideas,” said Rep. Obernolte. “The X-Labs Initiative will empower institutions across the country to take on high-risk, high-reward projects that can transform human health. I’m proud to co-lead this effort to strengthen America’s scientific leadership and accelerate discoveries that will improve lives for generations to come.”

The Institute for Progress strongly endorses the Launching X-Labs for Breakthrough Science Act as an investment in institutional innovation for American science that will help ensure the U.S. remains the global leader in scientific discovery.

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Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Protect Affordable Manufactured Housing

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 5184, the Affordable Housing Over Mandating Efficiency Standards Act (HOMES), legislation that stops federal energy rules that would raise the cost of manufactured homes and make housing less affordable for working families, seniors, and first-time buyers.

“Manufactured homes give people a real chance to own a place of their own,” said Congressman Harrigan. “When federal agencies add new requirements without weighing the cost, families feel it immediately in the price tag. I’ve seen how hard people work just to get ahead, and housing policy should respect that reality.”

In recent years, the Department of Energy finalized energy standards for manufactured housing that did not fully account for factory-built construction, regional differences, or the impact on upfront costs. The Affordable HOMES Act blocks enforcement of those rules and requires future recommendations to consider affordability, real-world construction methods, and long-term costs for homeowners.

With House passage, the Affordable HOMES Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is calling on lawmakers to act quickly to protect affordable housing options and prevent federal mandates from putting homeownership further out of reach.


ICYMI: Congressman Pat Harrigan Leads Letter to Governor Stein After Federal Audit Exposes Dangerous CDL Failures in North Carolina

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) is leading a letter to North Carolina Governor Josh Stein after a federal audit revealed widespread failures in the state’s commercial driver’s license program that put public safety at risk and threaten millions in federal transportation funding.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration found that approximately 54 percent of non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses reviewed in North Carolina were improperly issued, including licenses granted without proper verification of lawful presence or issued beyond the expiration of legal status. Federal officials warned that the deficiencies are severe enough to jeopardize nearly $50 million in federal highway funds beginning in fiscal year 2027.

The full letter to Governor Stein can be read HERE.

“When over half of the licenses reviewed don’t meet basic federal requirements, that’s a clear breakdown in oversight,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Commercial trucks are on our roads every day, alongside parents driving kids to school and people heading to work. North Carolinians should be able to trust that the system responsible for licensing those drivers is doing its job. Right now, that trust has been damaged, and state leadership needs to move quickly to restore it.”

In the letter, Harrigan and his colleagues urge the Governor to immediately revoke improperly issued licenses, conduct a comprehensive audit of the CDL program, strengthen verification procedures, and bring North Carolina back into full compliance with federal safety standards.


Congressman Harris Announces $2 Million for Swan Meadows Water and Sewer Public Infrastructure Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced $2,000,000 in federal funding for the Swan Meadows Water and Sewer Public Infrastructure Project in Aberdeen. The City of Aberdeen will administer the funding to replace aging and deteriorating water and sewer infrastructure in the Swan Meadows neighborhood.

The project will replace critical water and sewer lines that are more than 80 years old and increasingly prone to failure. These upgrades are necessary to maintain reliable service, reduce the risk of system breakdowns, and protect public health in one of Aberdeen’s underserved communities.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“Water and sewer infrastructure in Swan Meadows has far exceeded its intended lifespan, and residents have been dealing with ongoing system failures for years. It was my honor to secure this funding to replace those systems and bring the neighborhood’s infrastructure up to modern standards.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov


Congressman Harris Announces $2.55 Million for Newark Water Treatment Plant Replacement Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced $2,550,000 in federal funding secured through the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill for Worcester County’s Newark Water Treatment Plant Replacement Project.

The funding allows for the replacement of the existing water treatment plant, upgrading treatment capacity and meeting current water quality standards.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“Worcester County’s water treatment system must be updated to meet today’s standards. This investment allows the Newark Water Treatment Plant Replacement Project to move forward, replacing an outdated facility and improving drinking water quality for Worcester County residents.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov


Congressman Harris Announces $3.2 Million for North East River Dredging Project in Cecil County

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced $3,200,000 in federal funding for the North East River Dredging Project, provided through the Energy & Water Development appropriations bill to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Baltimore District, to support critical dredging efforts along the North East River in Cecil County, Maryland.

The funding will support dredging in the North East River to remove sediment buildup that has restricted navigation and created safety challenges for commercial and recreational vessels in Cecil County. The project will restore navigability and support ongoing maritime and economic activity in the region.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“For years, sediment buildup has made it harder and less safe to navigate the North East River. I’m proud to have secured this dredging funding for Cecil County, allowing sediment removal to move forward and restore safe access for boaters, businesses, and the communities that depend on this waterway.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov


Congressman Harris Delivers $4,785,000 for Slaughter Creek Dredging Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced $4,785,000 in federal funding for the Slaughter Creek Dredging Project in Slaughter Creek, Maryland, secured through the Energy & Water Development appropriations bill for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Slaughter Creek has faced long-standing navigation challenges, with reduced channel depth limiting access for commercial and recreational vessels. This funding allows long-delayed dredging to move forward and improve navigation.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“When waterways like Slaughter Creek become difficult to navigate, it directly affects the people and businesses that rely on them. This funding allows long-delayed dredging to move forward and restore reliable access for commercial and recreational vessels.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov


Congressman Harris Secures $1.95 Million to Modernize Rolling Mill Finished Water Pump Station in North East

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) announced $1,950,000 in federal funding secured through the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill for the Town of North East in Cecil County to modernize the aging Rolling Mill Finished Water Pump Station.

The funding will allow for the relocation and replacement of the Rolling Mill Finished Water Pump Station, which has reached the end of its useful life. The project will reduce risk to the town’s drinking water system and bring the facility up to modern standards.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“The Rolling Mill pump station is an aging piece of infrastructure in North East, Maryland, that needs to be addressed. I’m proud to have delivered this investment through the appropriations process to reduce the risk of drinking water service interruptions and strengthen the reliability of the town’s water system.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov


Himes Votes to Combat Rising Health Care Costs for Millions of Americans

Washington, DC—Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) released the following statement regarding his vote for a three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act enhanced tax credits. House Democrats forced the vote by obtaining 218 Member signatures for their discharge petition, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

“Despite overwhelming opposition from Republican leadership, House Democrats passed a bill to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits that would prevent skyrocketing health care costs for millions of Americans. Barely a day goes by that I don’t hear from constituents worried about health care, and it is unfathomable to me that any of my colleagues would choose to ignore these stories. But my colleagues across the aisle have once again proven themselves more interested in securing tax cuts for billionaires and groveling to Donald Trump than in helping their constituents struggling with the affordability crisis.

“I hope that a few Republican Senators will show the necessary courage to help Democrats pull this legislation over the finish line. Until then, I will continue working with state and local leaders to ensure that no one in Connecticut is priced out of critical medical care.”


Hinson Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Ensure All VA Medical Centers Have Designated Nursing Spaces

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) joined Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) to co-lead the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. This legislation ensures that all medical centers managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have private nursing rooms that are accessible for veteran mothers, VA employees, and their families. This bipartisan, bicameral effort is being led by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and passed by unanimous consent in the Senate.

"VA facilities should be fully equipped for breastfeeding moms. Women who proudly served our country or supported a family member who served have already sacrificed so much for us and they deserve private, clean facilities to breastfeed. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort in the House and look forward to ensuring our veteran families receive the support and services they deserve!" — Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

“Every mom should be able to breastfeed in a clean, safe, and private space, and our veterans deserve the best. As a nurse, I’m so proud that this bipartisan, bicameral legislation will make sure that VA facilities are properly equipped to support veteran families.” — Congresswoman Lauren Underwood

Background:

This bill requires VA medical centers to have a lactation space and defines what that is: a private, accessible, clean space that is not a bathroom, with a chair and a work surface.

As of 2022, there were only 90 VA medical centers across the country with such designated nursing rooms. Rep. Hinson has been a proud advocate for ensuring moms have access to clean, specified places for breastfeeding.

Bill text can be found here.

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Horsford and Rosen Offer President Trump Solution to Hold Corporate Housing Investors Accountable

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) and Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) sent a letter to the Trump Administration requesting support for their legislation to prevent large institutional investors from manipulating housing prices and hold bad actor corporate property owners accountable for abusive practices.

“Our ‘Housing Oversight and Mitigation Exploitation (HOME) Act’ (H.R.3214/S.2668) provides clear, administrable tools to crack down on corporate price gouging in the housing market, which can drive up already-high home prices and take affordable homes off the market.” wrote the members.

“[T]oo often these homes acquired by bad actor corporate investors never resurface on the housing market, resulting in lost housing stock at a time when our nation is experiencing a dire housing shortage.”the members continued. “Since you’ve opened the door to confronting housing speculation and lowering the cost of housing, the “HOME Act” offers a ready-to-move solution.”

Horsford’s Housing Oversight and Mitigation Exploitation (HOME) Act would require needed oversight over the housing market to prevent institutional investors from manipulating it and hold corporate property owners accountable for price manipulation.

The bill followed a protracted listening campaign, including a housing-focused virtual town hall; a housing tour with the Neighborhood Housing Services of Southern Nevada; meetings with affordable housing leaders ahead of a state-level lobbying day; an Affordable Housing Roundtable and Affordable Housing Development Tour with the Nevada Housing Coalition; and an in-home meeting to hear the challenges a 25-year-old single mother of a five-year-old daughter faces keeping a roof overhead.

To read full letter read here.

To read more about the HOME Act read here.

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Horsford Secures Nearly $7M for Local Nevada Water and Law Enforcement Investments in House Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) today announced nearly $7 million in federal funding for projects across Nevada’s 4th Congressional District that he secured in the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. The House of Representatives passed this bipartisan legislation on Thursday, January 8th; it now moves to the Senate for final passage.

Rep. Horsford released the following statement:

“From wastewater treatment and increased sewage capacity, to cutting edge law enforcement training and crisis response equipment, the funds I included in this week’s Appropriations bill support projects that ensure Southern Nevada remains an incredible place to call home,” Rep. Horsford said. “Our communities deserve infrastructure and investments to thrive, and I’m proud to help deliver them. I look forward to final passage in the Senate, and to the impact these funds will have on the ground in Nevada’s Fourth Congressional District.”

A breakdown of funds secured is included below.

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

Project RecipientProject DescriptionAmountCity of North Las VegasThe Losee Wash Diversion Project will construct a sanitary sewer relief system to address toxic sewer overflows caused by overcapacity, converging sewer main lines along Gowan Road. Without this project, continued overflows would threaten public health, degrade residents’ quality of life, and constrain future development in north and northwest North Las Vegas.$1,092,000Clark County Water Reclamation DistrictThe Wastewater Treatment Facility Project will replace aging sewer infrastructure in Indian Springs, Nevada, where the existing system does not meet Clark County Water Reclamation District standards. The upgrade will modernize the system and ensure a more reliable, compliant wastewater service for the community.$1,092,000Las Vegas Valley Water DistrictThe Kyle Canyon Water District, operated by the Las Vegas Valley Water District, provides water service to Mount Charleston residents, including the Rainbow community. Funding is requested to replace and reroute the primary discharge pipeline to ensure reliable water distribution.$1,092,000Moapa Valley Water DistrictThe Water Transmission Line Project will replace 4.3 miles of a critical 24-inch potable water transmission line that has a high leak and break rate. The replacement will reduce system failures and prevent contamination in the water distribution network.$1,092,000Virgin Valley Water DistrictThe Main Transmission Line Replacement Project will replace roughly 26,000 feet of failed or undersized transmission lines, including pipes, valves, and other components, along Riverside and White Rock Roads. The lines deliver water from four wells, three arsenic treatment plants, and four storage tanks to residents in Bunkerville and historic Mesquite, Nevada.$1,092,000

Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies

Project RecipientProject DescriptionAmountNevada State PoliceFunding for Virtual Reality Law Enforcement Training aims to enhance officer training in response to national attention on use-of-force incidents by implementing a virtual reality (VR) system for de-escalation and critical incident training. VR will allow officers to experience multiple customizable scenarios, receive interactive feedback, track performance metrics, and standardize training across the agency to improve preparedness while minimizing the use of force. This funding was secured alongside Rep. Lee (NV-03).$360,000Lyon CountyFunding for Mobile Crisis Response Co-Responder Vehicle will support the purchasing and retrofitting of a police vehicle to safely transport individuals experiencing a mental health crisis alongside a licensed clinician. The vehicle will also feature Mobile Outreach Safety Team graphics to promote community acceptance and reduce anxiety associated with a traditional police presence.$90,000Nye CountyFunding for the NV Security Enhancements Project aims to enhance security at county facilities and public parks through access control, perimeter measures, and surveillance cameras. These improvements align with National Institute of Justice guidance on municipal security planning to reduce risks and protect the community.$1,031,000

More information is available here.

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Houchin Secures Nearly $8 Million for Critical Infrastructure Projects Across Indiana’s Ninth District

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, House Republicans passed H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026, which makes appropriations through Fiscal Year 2026 and supports efforts to strengthen America’s energy security, secure communities, reduce bureaucratic environmental red tape, advance critical programs, and implement President Trump’s America-First agenda.

As part of this legislation, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) secured nearly $8 million in Community Project Funding for critical infrastructure projects across Indiana’s Ninth District, including:

$3,700,000 for upgrades to the Brown County Regional Sewer District

$2,000,000 for shoreline protection in Clark County

$1,250,000 for water treatment upgrades through City of Bloomington Utilities

$1,000,000 for stormwater management improvements in the City of Madison

“This funding is focused on taking care of real needs in our communities. From protecting our riverbank to upgrading sewer and water systems, these projects will make a tangible difference for families across Indiana’s Ninth District. We will continue to fight for these necessary resources to return to Indiana.” — Congresswoman Erin Houchin

“We truly appreciate Congresswoman Houchin’s continued support for infrastructure projects that protect environmental health and safety. The Lake Lemon and Bean Blossom Creek Watershed Project will replace failing septic systems that have contributed to excessive E. coli levels in local streams. This funding lays the groundwork for reliable, sustainable wastewater management that will improve water quality and public health.” — Clint Studabaker, Vice President, Brown County Regional Sewer District

“For many years, the north shoreline of the Ohio River has continued to erode, destroying streets, recreational facilities, and historical artifacts. We have lost direct access to rescue boats, impacting emergency services. Previous temporary stabilization efforts were unsuccessful, and studies show that altering water currents through Bendway Weirs is the most effective solution. We strongly encourage the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to implement similar prevention methods to protect our community.” — Kevin Baity, Town of Clarksville

“I appreciate Congresswoman Erin Houchin’s support for this critical investment in Bloomington’s water infrastructure. Booster pump stations are essential to how drinking water moves through our system, serving the City of Bloomington, Monroe County, and Indiana University. Rehabilitating aging equipment will improve reliability, modernize controls, and strengthen the long-term resilience of our water system.”— Kerry Thomson, Mayor of Bloomington

“Booster stations are an essential component of our distribution system, acting like a heart in the system by maintaining water pressure throughout miles of pipes. This rehabilitation will add Variable Frequency Drives to improve efficiency, upgrade monitoring and control systems, and enhance reliability and cybersecurity, resulting in more cost-effective operations.” — Katherine Zaiger, Director, City of Bloomington Utilities

“This project will improve the health, safety, economic development, and quality of life for residents of the City of Madison and Jefferson County. The City of Madison’s 2026 Stormwater Plan will reduce repetitive flood damage in our National Historic District, decrease reliance on FEMA disaster assistance, and mitigate the risk of loss of life. The City of Madison is grateful for the support of the Subcommittee on Interior and Environment and the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development in making this critical infrastructure investment.”— Bob Courtney, Mayor of Madison

Congresswoman Houchin emphasized that these investments reflect her commitment to delivering tangible results for Indiana’s Ninth District through responsible infrastructure improvements that protect communities and support long-term growth.


House Passes Houchin’s Affordable HOMES Act to Cut Red Tape and Lower Housing Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5184, the Affordable Housing Over Mandating Efficiency Standards (Affordable HOMES) Act, a bipartisan bill led by Representatives Erin Houchin and Mike Flood, by a vote of 263–147. The legislation prevents the Department of Energy from enforcing duplicative energy efficiency standards on manufactured housing, restores clear regulatory authority to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and helps lower housing costs for American families.

The Affordable HOMES Act repeals a 2022 Department of Energy rule that imposed site-built housing standards on manufactured homes—standards that failed to reflect the unique construction and cost structure of factory-built housing. By restoring HUD’s long-standing role as the sole regulator of manufactured housing construction standards, the bill provides regulatory clarity while preserving affordability.

“As demand for affordable homes has surged, so have unnecessary costs, making the dream of homeownership slip further out of reach for Americans. The Affordable HOMES Act takes a practical approach by cutting red tape and regulations that contribute to pricing American families out of owning a home, which will increase supply and lower costs. I’m proud to see the House take an important step toward restoring the American Dream with the passage of this bill.” – Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09)

“Hardworking families and young Americans need real solutions to lower housing costs. I was glad to work with Rep. Houchin on legislation that cuts bureaucratic red tape by ensuring HUD has final authority over manufactured housing energy standards instead of the Department of Energy. Our bill not only provides greater certainty for homebuilders; it is also a much-needed step toward making the American Dream of homeownership more affordable.” – Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Chairman Mike Flood (NE-01)

“Affordable homeownership should be Congress’s top economic priority. This bill makes progress by unlocking production of manufactured housing and lowering prices by up to $10,000 per unit. Coming off a big bipartisan vote in the House, the Senate should pass this—fast—to start cutting costs in the housing market.” – Rep. Jake Auchincloss (MA-04)

“There’s a long list of bad Department of Energy regulations that harm both current and aspiring homeowners, and this bill addresses one of them. For the sake of housing affordability—especially for those struggling to buy their first home, we urge swift passage.” – Ben Lieberman, Senior Fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute

“For over five decades, HUD has served as the sole regulator of construction standards for our industry, ensuring a balanced approach to safety, durability, and affordability. The Affordable HOMES Act is essential to restoring regulatory clarity, certainty, and efficiency—maintaining affordability as Congress intended when it established the HUD Code.” – Manufactured Housing Institute

“We support the Affordable HOMES Act because it is good for housing affordability, and it is good for housing supply. An abundance and affordability agenda requires streamlined, efficient, and feasible regulation that enhances and supports innovation and cost efficiencies.” – National Housing Conference

With House passage secured, supporters are urging the Senate to take up the Affordable HOMES Act promptly to deliver meaningful cost relief and expand access to homeownership nationwide.


Hoyer Statement on December Jobs Report

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today on the December jobs report:

"With the release of the December jobs report this morning, the results are in: 2025 was the worst year for U.S. job growth since 2020 – the peak of the pandemic. Last month saw only 50,000 jobs added to the U.S. economy, with unemployment hovering around 4.4 percent. Additionally, we saw revisions indicating that 76,000 fewer jobs were created in October and November than previously reported. In all, only 584,000 jobs were added to the economy in the first year of Donald Trump's second term. That pales in comparison to the more than two million jobs that were added to the US economy in 2024.

"Last month, Donald Trump said America was poised 'for an economic boom the likes of which the nation has never seen,' but the numbers suggest we're going bust. The number of long-term unemployed Americans increased by 375,000 in 2025. Youth employment, Black employment, and manufacturing employment are all lower today than they were a year ago. Indeed, despite Trump's promise to bring back manufacturing jobs, the American economy lost some 58,000 manufacturing jobs in the past year.

"And yet, Trump claims that America has the 'hottest' economy in the world. As the numbers make clear, however, Trump's promises about creating new jobs and growing the economy were nothing but hot air."


Omar, Jayapal, Raskin, Thompson Lead 156 Lawmakers in Demanding Accountability Following the Death of Minneapolis Woman by ICE Agents

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) led a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons seeking transparency and accountability following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Earlier this week, ICE agents shot into the vehicle of a legal observer in South Minneapolis, killing the woman in the driver’s seat. Immediately following the deadly shooting, DHS released a false statement that simply did not reflect the evidence of the video recordings that exist and contradicted the factual information that local governments and law enforcement, elected officials, media, and the public had gathered from witnesses about what had transpired.

In the letter, the lawmakers demand an immediate suspension of the current surge of federal officers and agents to Minneapolis and an investigation into this reprehensible event by an independent agency.

“This week, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot and killed Renee Good, an U.S. citizen in Minneapolis. We write to express our horror and outrage at the actions that have taken place under your command. This is not the first time your agents have used unnecessary force on civilians without provocation. You have lost the faith and confidence of the American people. We demand that you immediately suspend the current surge of federal officers and agents to Minneapolis and that you work with an independent agency to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the course of the investigation into this reprehensible event,” the Members wrote.

“What is clear is that DHS must take immediate steps to preserve evidence, bring in unbiased investigative partners like the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and ensure the officers involved comply fully with investigators. The American public deserves the guarantee of a professional, unbiased and thorough investigation.”

The letter was signed by 160 Members of Congress. You can see the full list of co-signers in the letter below.

The full letter is available here.


LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “WE’RE CALLING ON JOHN THUNE TO BRING THE BILL UP FOR A VOTE IMMEDIATELY”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s The Situation Room, where he made clear that Democrats are demanding that Senate Republicans bring Democrats’ House-passed extension of the ACA tax credits and will continue to push back on Donald Trump and Republicans’ corruption.

WOLF BLITZER: Leader Jeffries, thanks so much for being with us. This measure is largely expected to go nowhere in the US Senate, as you know. Do you have any hope at all that something can still be worked out? I know you’ve been speaking with some Republican leaders in the Senate.

LEADER JEFFRIES: It was a big victory for the American people to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits to prevent tens of millions of everyday Americans from experiencing dramatically increased health insurance premiums that in some cases will cost them an additional $1,000 or $2,000 per month. That’s unacceptable. That’s why the House was able to come together in a bipartisan coalition, 213 Democrats partnering with 17 Republicans, to deliver a decisive vote. It’s now on the Senate. Now, there are Republicans who claim that there’s no path forward for this bill to become law. But that same group of people made that claim about what was possible in the House of Representatives. The reality is the American people have made clear that they want to see the Affordable Care Act tax credits extended. The American people understand we have a broken healthcare system. Democrats are committed to addressing the Republican healthcare crisis. And all we need are a handful of Senate Republicans to join with every single member of the Senate Democratic Caucus and we can get this bill done in the Senate as well.

[…]

WOLF BLITZER: You think it’s still doable, that there will be enough Republicans in the Senate to pass this legislation?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Listen, it’s important to understand that a majority of the United States Senate currently supports a straightforward extension of the Affordable Care Act. All 47 Senate Democrats and four Senate Republicans have already been on record in support of this. So the obstacle right now is procedural. It’s John Thune indicating that they don’t want to do anything to protect healthcare affordability for millions of Americans, including people that he represents. And so it remains to be seen. We’re calling on John Thune to bring the bill up for a vote immediately. And if that happens, Wolf, it’s going to pass.

WOLF BLITZER: All right, we’ll see what happens because there certainly is a lot at stake for so many millions of Americans right now. Some other sensitive issues, Leader Jeffries. You were among the Members of Congress briefed by the Trump administration after the capture of the Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro. What was your takeaway from those highly classified briefings?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Those briefings left more questions than answers. The administration has no plan moving forward. They claim they’re going to run Venezuela. They can’t even run the United States of America properly. And here’s the reality: that the people of Venezuela should decide the future of Venezuela. Not Stephen Miller, who’s out of control, or Secretary Rubio or the so-called Secretary of Defense. None of them should be involved in running or deciding the future of Venezuela. More importantly, we don’t need another failed forever foreign war. That’s why I’m so thankful by the action that the Senate took yesterday in passing a War Powers Resolution that will restrict the ability of the Trump administration to engage in further military action in the absence of congressional approval. On the House side, Jim McGovern is leading a similar War Powers Resolution effort. And we are going to force a vote on that resolution so we can stop the Trump administration from engaging in this reckless activity moving forward.

WOLF BLITZER: And on that issue that you raised, the War Powers legislation, a handful of Senate Republicans, we’re talking specifically five of them, joined the Democrats in delivering a big rebuke to President Trump’s actions in Venezuela. They voted to allow a future vote that would limit the President’s powers in that conflict. The House is expected, as you correctly point out, to take a similar vote. What do you expect to happen in the House?

LEADER JEFFRIES: All we need are a handful of House Republicans to join with us, as was the case yesterday, and we can do the right thing by the American people. It’s my expectation that the votes will exist within the House Republican Conference, and you’ll have strong, of course, support from House Democrats who have been leading on this issue. The reality is the American People want the Trump administration to focus on solving their problems. Donald Trump promised that he was going to lower the high cost of living on day one. Costs aren’t going down. They’re going up. Housing costs out of control. Healthcare costs out of control. Grocery prices out of control. Child care costs out of control. Grocery prices, of course, as I mentioned, along with everyday goods, completely and totally out of control, unaffordable. America is too expensive, and the reality is the Trump tariffs are making things worse by thousands of additional dollars per year. And so the American people want action to improve their quality of life. House Democrats are committed to delivering that action, as we showed yesterday, and we just want a handful of Republicans to join us, and we can begin to get things turned around in the United States of America.

WOLF BLITZER: While I have you, another sensitive issue I want to discuss, the Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet next week with officials from Denmark after the White House said it would not rule out the use of military force to take the island of Greenland, which is part of Denmark. What’s your response to the administration’s push to acquire the Danish territory?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, I was in Denmark, met with the Prime Minister last year. She made clear that Greenland is not for sale, and the future of Greenland should be decided by the people of Greenland in partnership, of course, with the people of Denmark. That’s the reality of the situation. Denmark is an ally, a NATO ally. You had people fight in conflicts for America from Denmark, and they don’t understand, just like the American people don’t understand, this level of aggressive rhetoric. And again, the President is focused on these extreme foreign adventures, as opposed to trying to deal with issues that matter for the American people. As Democrats, we’re going to continue to fight to lower the high cost of living, to improve their quality of life, to fix our broken healthcare system and we also have to clean up the corruption that we’re seeing and ask the questions, following the money, is this the reason why we’re seeing all of this aggressive foreign action? Who within the Trump orbit is going to benefit? What members of the Trump cartel stand to benefit financially from the things that we’re seeing talked about in Venezuela as it relates to oil and in other parts of the world?

WOLF BLITZER: The Democratic House Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, as usual, thanks so much for joining us.


LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT OF JULIA BROWNLEY

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.


Brownley Secures over $19.7M for Ventura County and the Conejo Valley in FY26 Funding Bill

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced the inclusion of funding totaling more than $19,792,000 that she secured for California’s 26th Congressional District in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act (H.R. 6938). This funding ensures continued federal investments in important infrastructure and public safety initiatives across the region.

“Every year, I am eager to deliver for my constituents by fighting for the federal funding that is needed to keep our communities moving forward,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I am so proud to have continued my strong partnership with local leaders and community stakeholders across the region as we advanced our shared commitment to improving and strengthening the lives and livelihoods of all those who call Ventura County home.

“From securing critical resources to support victims of crime to replacing dilapidated pipelines across the county to bolstering engines of job growth like our ports and harbors, this package of bills allows for substantial investments that will upgrade regional infrastructure, strengthen our local economy, and improve public well-being.

“I am so pleased that the House approved funding for these critical community initiatives with overwhelmingly bipartisan support. As these spending bills get considered by the Senate and make their way to the President’s desk, my hope is that the important provisions included for Ventura County in the funding package will be delivered promptly and without modification.”

The FY2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies portion of the bill includes the following Community Projects:

$1,031,000 for the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office East County Family Justice Center Project

$900,000 for the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department DNA Automated Workflow Project

The FY2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies portion of the bill includes the following Community Projects:

$1,092,000 for the Calleguas Municipal Water District Lake Bard Pump Station Project

$1,092,000 for the City of Oxnard for Cast Iron Pipe Replacement Project

$1,092,000 for the City of Santa Paula Cross-Town Pipeline Project

Additionally, the Energy and Water Appropriations portion of the bill continues programmatic funding championed by Brownley for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects in Ventura County, including:

$8,230,000 for dredging of Channel Islands Harbor

$5,980,000 for dredging of Ventura Harbor

$375,000 in donor port funds for the Port of Hueneme

In total, Brownley secured over $19,792,000 million for critical investments throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley in this appropriations package.

The text of the funding package and Joint Explanatory Statements for each division are available here.

The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on January 8, 2026 with a strong bipartisan vote of 397-28. The legislation is expected to be considered by the U.S. Senate in the coming days before heading to the President for signature.

In December, the first 3 appropriations bills were enacted. Congress is still working to come to agreement on the remaining 6 appropriations bills ahead of the January 30th expiration of the current continuing resolution.

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Johnson Defends the LGBTQ Community, Protects Public Lands, and Blocks Wasteful Projects in House Spending Bill

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Julie Johnson (TX-32) voted to pass a House spending bill that lowers costs, strengthens protections for survivors, safeguards public lands, and blocks extreme anti-LGBTQ provisions, while also including legally binding requirements to rein in the White House and ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. The legislation reverses $9.5 billion in proposed Republican cuts by increasing funding for the Violence Against Women Act, investing in energy programs that reduce costs for consumers, and protecting national parks and public lands.

“Democrats fought to ensure this legislation reflects the very best of who we are as a nation, securing funding to protect our most vulnerable communities and public resources,” said Johnson. “We stripped out 140 extreme provisions that would have harmed the LGBTQ community and weakened public safety, while blocking wasteful vanity projects and advancing long-overdue investments in the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum and the National Museum of the American Latino. This bill affirms a simple truth: government works best when it is guided by dignity, accountability, and a commitment to the common good.”

The bill further blocks wasteful spending on Trump Administration vanity projects—preventing National Park Service funds from being diverted to a so-called “Triumphal Arch” and rejecting efforts to rename the Kennedy Center after Donald Trump.

Other highlights in the package include:

Addressing higher energy costs and rising utility bills by increasing investments in electric grid infrastructure by $375 million.

Providing $3.1 billion for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy funding, repudiating the Trump administration’s crusade against clean energy.

An increase in funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program by $3 million, rejecting the Trump Administration’s attempt to eliminate it. The program saves participating households $372 on average, per year.

Protecting the environment with $8.8 billion in EPA funding – nearly double the White House budget proposal.

Investing in water infrastructure and climate resilience by increasing funding for the Army Corps of Engineers by $1.8 billion, totaling $10.4 billion.

Promoting economic development by funding Economic Development Administration grants at $400 million above the Trump Administration’s budget request and rejecting their proposal to eliminate the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which supports domestic manufacturers.

Fully funding the National Endowment for the Arts and Humanities at $207 million each, rejecting extreme Republican proposals to eliminate them entirely.

The House-passed spending bill funds three of the 12 appropriations bills through the end of September of this year. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Congresswoman Julie Johnson represents Texas’s 32nd Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives, serving on the Homeland Security Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and the House Administration Committee. Her district includes parts of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties.


Kaptur Secures More Than $3 Million For 3 Community Funded Projects Across NW Ohio, And A Variety Of Funding That Will Greatly Benefit Our Great Lakes Region

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development released the following statement following House passage of H.R. 6938 – Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 to fund Energy and Water Development, Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, and Commerce, Justice, and Science. This legislation includes over $3.255 million in federal funding Kaptur secured for 3 community-led projects that will benefit the City of Defiance, City of Huron, and University of Toledo. The legislation will now be sent to the Senate for final passage, before being sent to, the President to be signed into law.

This week, the House passed minibus appropriations legislation to partially fund the federal government for Fiscal Year 2026. As part of H.R. 6938 – Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 Congresswoman Kaptur secured $3,255,00 in federal funding to support 3 community-led projects across Northwest Ohio in the 9th Congressional District.

“Through the bipartisan effort of Republicans and Democrats working together, Congress is delivering much needed and critical investment in services, programs, and organizations across our region that the people of Northwest Ohio and the Great Lakes Region depend on. This measure chooses progress over retreat and invests in infrastructure, job training, energy, and public safety. We’re serving as a reliable federal partner by securing over $3.25 Million for community-led projects to combat harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie, improve water distribution for the City of Defiance, and improve wastewater treatment in Erie County,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “The investments included in this legislation will help to lower utility costs, and provided a critical $2.4 Billion increase over last year in the Energy and Water provisions alone to address rising energy and water bills for American families nationwide, and across our region. Affordability isn’t an abstract concept, it’s real dollars and cents, and we are working hard to ensure that money stays in your pocket. I look forward to advancing additional legislation to fund the government, and help our people, because Congress ought lift up communities, instead of tearing them apart, or making life harder. I urge the Senate to move with haste to get this legislation to the President’s desk to be signed into law, so we can make life just a bit easier for all who sent us here to do this vital work of governing our nation.”

Congresswoman Kaptur’s community-led project funding

$1,500,000 for Erie County, Ohio’s Sawmill Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Huron to expand treatment capacity at the Erie County Sawmill Creek wastewater treatment plant, and help lower costs for Erie County families.

$960,000 for the City of Defiance for Water Distribution Upgrades to replace an existing potable water booster station that is beyond its useful life to ensure the supply of safe drinking water to the Tinora Schools complex (consisting of an elementary school, middle school, high school, performing arts center, and school district administrative building) and multiple industrial facilities.

$795,000 for the University of Toledo for Test Equipment to Monitor the Human Health Effects of Harmful Algal Blooms. The University of Toledo is addressing the increasing environmental concerns in the Great Lakes region and this funding will help acquire a state-of-the-art analytical mass spectrometer. This cutting-edge equipment will significantly bolster the university’s capabilities in environmental toxicology. Specifically, it will facilitate in-depth research into the adverse effects on human health caused by exposure to Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) toxins, as well as other emerging contaminants like microplastics, residual pharmaceuticals, and chemical byproducts from industrial waste.

Additional Highlights of the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026

Energy and Water Development

Great Lakes Authority: $5,000,000

Toledo Harbor operations and maintenance: $8,955,000

Sandusky Harbor operations and maintenance: $1,556,000

Port Clinton Harbor operations and maintenance: $16,000

Huron Harbor operations and maintenance: $13,000

Vermilion Harbor operations and maintenance: $12,000

West Harbor operations and maintenance: $10,000

Cooley Canal operations and maintenance: $8,000

Toussaint Harbor operations and maintenance: $5,000

Put-In-Bay Harbor operations and maintenance: $2,000

Soo Lock construction: $176,600,000

Great Lakes Coastal Resilience Study: $3,000,000

Operation and Maintenance; Engineering with Nature: $7,500,000

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; State and Community Energy Programs: $435,000,000

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: $1,950,000,000

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; Solar Energy Technologies: $220,000,000

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; Vehicle Technologies: $397,000,000

Science, Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists: $32,000,000

Energy Information Administration: $135,000,000

National Nuclear Security Administration, Naval Reactors Development: $2,134,000,000

Interior and Environment

Environmental Protection Agency:

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI): $369,000,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Clean Water State Revolving Fund: $1,638,861,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Drinking Water State Revolving Fund: $1,126,101,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Brownfields Program: $98,000,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Technical Assistance for Waste Water Treatment Works: $25,500,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Sewer Overflow Control Grants; Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants Programs: $41,000,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; State and Local Air Quality Management Grants: $236,672,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Radon Grants: $9,130,000

State and Tribal Assistance Grants; Diesel Emissions Reduction Program: $90,000,000

Fish and Wildlife Service:

Resource Management; Habitat Conservation; Invasive Carp: $31,000,000

National Wildlife Refuge System: $522,035,000

US Geological Survey:

Surveys, Investigations, and Research; Ecosystems; Great Lakes Science Center: $15,000,000

Commerce, Justice, Science

International Trade Administration: $562,000,000

Department of Commerce; Economic Development Administration; Economic Assistance Programs; RECOMPETE Pilot Program: $18,000,000

NOAA:

Operations, Research, and Facilities; Oceanic and Atmospheric Research; National Sea Grant College Program: $80,000,000

Operations, Research, and Facilities; National Ocean Service; National Estuarine Research Reserve System: $8,500,000

National Ocean Service, Regional US Integrated Ocean Observing System: $47,500,000

NIST:

Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership: $175,000,000

International Trade Administration: $562,000,000

Department of Commerce; Economic Development Administration; Economic Assistance Programs; RECOMPETE Pilot Program: $18,000,000

DOJ:

Juvenile Justice Programs: $375 Million

Victims of Child Abuse Act: $43,000,000

Youth Mentoring Grants: $105,000,000

Office of Violence Against Women: $720,000,000

Justice for Families Program: $21,000,000

Sexual Assault Services Program: $79,500,000

State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Programs: $4,400,000,000

Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): $14,000,000

Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Programs): $800,000,000

STOP School Violence Act: $82,000,000

LSC:

Legal Services Corporation: $540,000,000

Science:

National Science Foundation: $8,750,000,000

NASA:

Aeronautics: $935,000,000

Space Technology; Fission Surface Power: $250,000,000

Space Technology; Nuclear Electric Propulsion: $50,000,000

More information on Kaptur community-led projects can be found here. The text of H.R. 6938 – Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 is available here. A summary of the appropriations provisions for Commerce, Justice, and Science,Energy and Water, and Interior and Environment can be found by clicking individually, or all links can be found here.

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