House Passes Bill with 5 Bonamici Community Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. [1/8/26] –Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that the House has passed a bill with five Community Projects she championed. These projects will bring nearly $6 million in federal investment to NW Oregon.

The House passed the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act for FY 2026 with strong bipartisan support. The appropriations bills, which include funding for the community projects listed below, will now move to the Senate.

“I’m grateful to have secured federal funding that will help make communities in NW Oregon safer and more resilient,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I urge the Senate to quickly pass this legislation to deliver the resources Oregonians need.”

The projects are:

$2 million for Portland State University’s Semiconductor Innovation and Nanoscience Equipment Purchase

The funding will support the creation of a Semiconductor Innovation and Nanoscience Center.

$1.092 million for City of Hillsboro’s Seismically Resilient Water Treatment Plant Chemical Building

The funding will be used for a seismically reinforced building foundation to allow swift restoration of safe drinking water to 450,000 residents after a major earthquake.

$1.031 million for Oregon CASA Network (OCN)’s A CASA for Every Child

The funding will be used to recruit, train, supervise, and support community volunteers to advocate on behalf of children and young people in the foster care system.

$1.031 million for Clatsop County’s Public Safety Equipment and 911 Operations Initiative

The funding will be used to replace and upgrade an outdated public safety communications system so first responders can better communicate with each other and the public in the event of an emergency.

$800,000 for Multnomah County’s Close Street Pretrial Monitoring Program Behavioral Health Expansion Pilot

The funding will be used to add behavioral health staff to Multnomah County Sheriff Office’s Close Street pretrial monitoring program to secure access to prompt, responsive, and effective behavioral health supports to individuals who have been arraigned and released by a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge pending trial.

Under the rules of the House Appropriations Committee, Members of Congress can each submit up to 15 Community Project Funding requests for consideration during the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process. The reformed and transparent Community Project Funding process allows Members of Congress to advocate for specific community priority projects in a highly competitive process. You can find more information on Bonamici’s website about the fifteen Community Projects she championed this fiscal year: Bonamici.House.Gov/CommunityProjects

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BOST SECURES FUNDING FOR SEVEN LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauded House passage of a commerce, energy, and interior funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that includes nearly $9 million for seven local infrastructure projects he championed in Congress. The community projects, spanning Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, and Union counties, will improve water safety, sanitation, public safety, and emergency communications.

“This spending package provides the certainty needed to unleash America’s energy potential, invest in our military, and modernize our aging infrastructure,” said Bost. “I’m proud to say, it’s an impact that will be felt across Southern Illinois. I worked with local leaders on key priorities to strengthen the safety of our water systems and the effectiveness of emergency response services. All told, we’ve delivered nearly $9 million dollars to make our communities safer and healthier, and that makes a big difference for small communities.”

This funding package includes targeted investments secured by Rep. Bost for Illinois’ 12th District, including:

$2.1 million for Clinton County to upgrade a countywide emergency radio and communication system

$1.636 million for the Village of Maeystown for wastewater treatment facility improvements

$1.2 million for the Village of West Salem for water main replacement

$1 million for the City of Anna for sewer infiltration and inflow improvements

$1 million for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission for a new water treatment plant

$1 million for the City of Casey for sanitary sewer relining

$750,000 for the City of Sparta for a raw water transmission line project

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More information regarding these Community Project Funding requests can be found here.

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Boyle Statement on House Vote to Extend Affordable Care Act Tax Credits for Three Years

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, issued the following statement after the House passed legislation to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for three years. Republican leadership was forced to bring the bill to the floor following a discharge petition that Congressman Boyle helped champion:

“Let’s be clear: this bill would never have passed—or even received a vote—without House Democrats forcing action to protect health care for millions of Americans. Without these tax credits, hundreds of thousands of families in Pennsylvania alone are facing average premium increases of 102 percent.

While today’s vote is an important step toward limiting the damage caused by Republicans’ historic $1 trillion cut to health care, our work is not finished.

I urge the Senate, including Pennsylvania’s two Senators, to move swiftly and send this bill to the President’s desk so working families can finally get the relief they deserve.”

Earlier today, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that a three-year extension of the enhanced ACA premium tax credits would increase the number of Americans with health insurance by millions — including roughly 3 million in 2027 and 4 million in 2028.

CBO has already estimated that Republicans’ reconciliation bill — combined with their failure to extend these tax credits — increases the number of uninsured Americans by 15 million.

District-by-district data on the consequences of the Republican health care crisis can be found on the Budget Committee Democrats website here.

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Bresnahan Statement on Extension of ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits

WASHINGTON, DC: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) released the below statement following a vote to extend the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits.

“I came to Congress to fight for an economy that works for the people, and I consider health insurance a part of those dialogues, just as much as the cost to fill your gas tank or put food on the table,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Obamacare has failed to deliver on its promise of lowering insurance costs, and families in NEPA are paying the price. But the only thing worse than a three-year extension of these credits is to let them expire with no solution or off-ramp. I voted for this because, as of right now, it is the only path forward that keeps discussions alive to protect the 28,000 people in my district from immediate premium spikes.”

“While we continue working toward meaningful reforms to fix what is broken, I will not sit idly by and let my constituents bear the brunt of a failure caused by both parties,” continued Rep. Bresnahan. “It is time to put politics aside, fight for our people, and come together around a pragmatic, sustainable, and bipartisan solution. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to come to a result that can be signed into law and make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

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Bresnahan Votes to Bring Home $6.5 Million for NEPA Projects and Fund Critical Programs

January 8, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) voted in favor of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. This package, which includes three of the 12 appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026, passed the House by a vote of 397-28.

“I came to Congress with one goal: delivering for the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “I’m proud that this package does exactly that by funding local law enforcement to keep our communities safe, strengthening our economy, boosting American energy independence, building local infrastructure projects, and investing in the Army Corps of Engineers.”

Rep. Bresnahan secured $6,537,584 in community project funding (CPF) for seven projects in Northeastern Pennsylvania. More specific information on each individual project will be forthcoming. The projects are as follows:

$1,250,000 for the Milford Borough Sewer Extension Project

$500,000 for the Scranton Police Department Equipment and Technology Upgrades

$1,250,000 for the Monroe County Wastewater Treatment Project

$1,144,790 for the Kingston Municipal Police Department Equipment and Technology Upgrades

$372,415 for the City of Wilkes-Barre Equipment Upgrades

$1,020,379 for the Monroe County DA Opioid Crimes Section

$1,000,000 for the Dallas Area Municipal Authority Wastewater Infrastructure Expansion

“This package sends over $6.5 million taxpayer dollars back home to NEPA,” continued Rep. Bresnahan. “The investment will support 7 projects across the district, from new security cameras to help the Scranton Police Department catch criminals, to wastewater treatment plant upgrades in Monroe and Pike Counties. Every dollar is going directly where it belongs: our local communities.”

Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026:

Increasing funding for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) by $63 million to end the scourge of fentanyl and other illicit drugs, and to continue to support notable takedowns, including the co-founder of the notorious Sinaloa Cartel.

Supporting the American research enterprise to counter China’s increasing investments in basic research and technology development.

Supporting DOJ grant funding for programs that assist law enforcement in addressing the opioid crisis, support President Trump’s immigration agenda, combat child exploitation, eliminate the rape kit backlog, and prevent school violence.

Enhancing multi-agency efforts to combat transnational organized crime and reduce the availability of illicit drugs – particularly fentanyl

$10.514 billion for the Department of Commerce, including:

$235 million for the Bureau of Industry and Security

$6.087 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

$37.049 billion for the Department of Justice, including:

$300 million for the Interagency Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces.

$3.250 billion for the Drug Enforcement Administration.

$8.382 billion for the Bureau of Prisons.

$720 million for the Office on Violence Against Women.

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026:

Providing $2.37 billion to reduce the danger of hostile nations or terrorist groups acquiring nuclear weapons.

Prohibiting the sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the Chinese Communist Party.

Prohibiting the Department of Energy from providing financial assistance to any foreign entity of concern.

Supporting one of the largest investments focused on mining production technologies for critical minerals extraction in decades, reducing reliance on foreign sources.

Robustly funding small modular reactor and advanced reactor demonstration projects, as well as increasing funding for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to expand capacity for the review, licensing, and oversight of new nuclear reactors.

Provides $10.435 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers, delivering robust funding for the water resources, development program, including:

$396.8 million for construction projects on the inland waterways system, advancing the most critical ongoing projects.

Approximately $2.2 billion for flood and storm damage reduction activities.

$1. 785 billion in total resources for Nuclear Energy, which is $100 million above the FY25 enacted level.

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026:

Increasing funding for oil and gas development to unleash American energy.

Ensuring funding to support wildland firefighters pay to protect communities from catastrophic wildfires.

Expanding upon the efforts created under the first Trump Administration through the DOI Opioid Reduction ask Force to disrupt the illegal narcotics trade and address the opioid crisis, a program that had been eliminated by the Biden Administration.

Increasing funding for onshore oil and gas development at the Bureau of Land Management by $7.4 million.

Protecting funding for Republican priorities like the Rural Water Technical Assistance program and other regional water programs.

Provides $14.54 billion for the Department of the Interior.

Provides $1.08 billion for the Smithsonian Institution.

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Issues: Congress Economy


Buchanan Bills Highlighted at Energy and Commerce Committee Health Hearing

Buchanan’s Bipartisan Bills Expand Medicare Home Infusion Therapy Benefit, Improve Digital Reporting

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Health Subcommittee, released the following statement after the House Energy and Commerce Committee Health Subcommittee hearing entitled “Legislative Proposals to Support Patient Access to Medicare Services.”

During the hearing, members and witnesses discussed legislation focused on expanding access to care for seniors, including Buchanan’s Preserving Patient Access to Home Infusion Act (H.R. 2172) and Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act (H.R. 5347).

“I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and Health Subcommittee Chairman Griffith for holding today’s important hearing and for highlighting two of my bills that will improve access and efficiency for Medicare patients. My Preserving Patient Access to Home Infusion Act will ensure that seniors can continue receiving life-saving treatments safely and conveniently at home by modernizing outdated regulations and supporting providers who deliver these services. Likewise, my Healthcare Through Flexibility Act offers a commonsense path forward to ease the burden of new reporting mandates on value-based Medicare providers, while still promoting quality care and innovation.

“Nearly 200,000 seniors in my district rely on accessible, affordable health care, and these bills will protect the services they depend on. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get these bipartisan initiatives signed into law.”

The Preserving Patient Access to Home Infusion Act (H.R. 2172) would ensure patients receive the intravenous (IV) medications they need while at home. Buchanan’s legislation provides technical clarifications that will remove the physical presence requirement for providers, ensuring payment regardless of whether a health care professional is present in the patient’s home. The legislation also acknowledges the full scope of professional services provided in home infusion—including essential pharmacist services—into the reimbursement structure.

The Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act (H.R. 5347) eases implementation of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) regulation requiring Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), groups of healthcare providers who offer value-based, quality care to Medicare recipients, transition to electronic Clinical Quality Measures (eCQMs).

In addition to being the Vice Chairman and most senior Republican on the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, Buchanan is also the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, which has broad jurisdiction over traditional Medicare, the Medicare prescription drug benefit program and Medicare Advantage.

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Buchanan Meets with HHS Secretary Kennedy, Applauds Trump Administration’s Historic Reset of the Food Pyramid

“We Cannot Treat Our Way Out of This Crisis—We Have to Prevent It, and That Starts with Changing How We Approach Food, Nutrition and Health in This Country.”

Updated Guidelines Deliver Common-sense Nutrition Guidance for Families, Children and Future Generations

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, issued the following statement applauding the Trump Administration’s release of the newDietary Guidelines for Americans, marking the most significant reset of federal nutrition policy in decades. Buchanan attended the Department of Health and Human Services’ nutrition policy celebration recognizing the release of the updated guidelines.

“The United States spends nearly $5 trillion a year on health care, yet Americans’ health outcomes continue to worsen,” said Buchanan. “Nearly 90 percent of that spending goes toward fighting chronic disease, much of it driven by poor diet and lifestyle, while nearly 20 percent of children and more than 40 percent of adults struggle with obesity. We cannot treat our way out of this crisis—we have to prevent it, and that starts with changing how we approach food, nutrition and health in this country. These new guidelines put real food back at the center of health and empower Americans to be the CEO of their own health.”

The updated Dietary Guidelines emphasize simple, flexible guidance rooted in modern nutrition science, including:

Prioritizing protein at every meal

Consuming full-fat dairy with no added sugars

Eating vegetables and fruits throughout the day, focusing on whole forms

Incorporating healthy fats from whole foods such as meats, seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, olives and avocados

Focusing on whole grains while sharply reducing refined carbohydrates

Limiting highly processed foods, added sugars and artificial additives

Eating the right amount based on age, sex, size and activity level

Choosing water and unsweetened beverages for hydration

Limiting alcohol consumption for better overall health

The guidelines also provide tailored recommendations for infants and children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women, older adults, individuals with chronic disease and vegetarians and vegans, ensuring nutritional adequacy across every stage of life.

For more information, visit RealFood.gov.

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Carter secures jobs-creating critical minerals funding for Georgia Tech

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today secured $500,000 in the House-passed Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 for the Georgia Institute of Technology to establish a center to advance critical mineral supply chains in the United States.

This funding, which will create the Georgia Critical Mineral Supply Chain Manufacturing Demonstration Center, builds on President Trump’s March 20, 2025, executive order to boost U.S. production of critical minerals and rare-earth elements, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign sources and enhance national security.

“Our national security depends on onshoring and friendshoring our critical mineral supply chain, so we are not reliant on hostile foreign nations, such as China, to meet these needs. I’m proud that Georgia is demonstrating leadership on this issue and thank Georgia Tech for its efforts to support local industries and continue providing world-class educational opportunities for students,” said Rep. Carter.

“I want to thank Congressman Carter for helping secure this important funding to help Georgia Tech create a critical mineral supply chain manufacturing demonstration facility. We are working hard to support our country’s goals of domestically sourcing critical minerals, while also creating new jobs and supporting industries in the state of Georgia,” said Dr. Tim Lieuwen, Executive Vice President for Research at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Read the full bill text here.

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Carter, Blackburn Lead Colleagues in Introducing Bicameral Legislation to Deport and Denaturalize Fraudsters Following Minnesota Somali Schemes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced the House of Representative’s companion to U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn’s (R-TN) Fraud Accountability Act, which would explicitly add fraud as a deportable offense under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The bill would also make clear that any person who commits a deportable offense, now explicitly including fraud, would be subject to denaturalization.

Original co-sponsors of the House bill include Reps. Tony Wied (R-WI) and Mike Kelly (R-PA).

“Any alien or naturalized citizen who comes to the United States to defraud American taxpayers does not deserve to be here,” said Rep. Carter. “Tim Walz’s socialist Minnesota allowed both immigration and social programs to run unchecked, resulting in $9 billion worth of fraud that directly harms Minnesotans' access to childcare, nutrition, and other programs and may have funded terrorist activity overseas. Every immigrant involved in these schemes should be deported, and I thank Senator Blackburn for her leadership to ensure we welcome folks with integrity, not criminals.”

“Anyone who comes to the United States and steals from American taxpayers by committing fraud should be deported,” said Senator Blackburn. “The fraud schemes we have seen in Minnesota and across the country are a betrayal of hardworking American taxpayers, and individuals like the Somali scammers in Minnesota should be subject to both deportation and denaturalization for these crimes. The Fraud Accountability Act would hold these criminals accountable for robbing American taxpayers.”

U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), and Tedd Budd (R-NC) joined Senator Blackburn in introducing the bill in the Senate.

“The rampant and unprecedented fraud uncovered in Minnesota involving Somali-run childcare centers and nonprofits is unconscionable, and Governor Walz’s complete deflection of any responsibility for this massive theft of U.S. taxpayer dollars under his watch is cowardly but unsurprising,” said Senator Cornyn. “Anyone who attempts to get rich at the expense of American taxpayers should be ashamed and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and I’m proud to introduce this bill with Senator Blackburn to ensure any illegal alien who is convicted of fraud faces swift deportation for their flagrant abuse of taxpayer funds.”

“It’s completely unacceptable to waste Arkansas taxpayer dollars on fraudulent government programs,” said Senator Cotton. “Any alien who commits fraud against American taxpayers should be deported immediately.”

“North Carolina taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to foot the bill for blatant fraud schemes across the country,” said Senator Budd. “If government programs using taxpayer dollars are not run responsibly, we must ensure those who steal taxpayer dollars are held accountable.”

The Fraud Accountability Act would:

Amend the INA to explicitly add any crime of fraud—of any amount—committed against private individuals, funds, corporations, or government entities as a deportable offense; and

Revoke the naturalization of those who commit a crime of fraud or any other deportable offense.

This bill boasts support by NumbersUSA:

“Our current immigration system is vulnerable to fraud, and as evidenced, unsustainable numbers can overwhelm the system and impact Americans and our communities. This bill holds those committing fraud against the U.S. accountable and serves as a reminder that immigration is a privilege, not a right,” said NumbersUSA Co-President Michael Hough.

Read the full bill text here.

BACKGROUND

Federal prosecutors allege that the total amount of stolen taxpayer dollars in Minnesota could exceed $9 billion.

Under Governor Walz’s watch front groups that pretended to provide social services stole billions of taxpayer dollars.

In 2024, the Biden administration scrapped a rule that required childcare centers to verify that kids actually attended their facilities to receive federal funding.

The fraud extends far beyond Minnesota, which is why President Trump froze more than $10 billion in federal grants in five states following serious concerns about widespread fraud and misuse of taxpayer dollars in state-administered programs.


Carter brings home $67.3 million in funding for Georgia Ports

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today secured $67.3 million in the House-passed Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026, to fund the United States Army Corps of Engineers’ modification and maintenance of the Port of Brunswick and the Port of Savannah.

This investment is crucial to both the Port of Brunswick and the Port of Savannah in their continued service to local and global trade. They are the #1 gateway in the nation for autos and heavy machinery roll-on/roll-off, as well as the largest single-terminal container facility in North America, respectively. In FY24 alone, Georgia’s ports accounted for 11% of Georgia’s total sales, amounting to $174 billion.

“With investments in the Savannah and Brunswick ports, Georgia is poised to continue its streak of 12 consecutive years as the best state to do business,” said Rep. Carter. “Our ports aren’t just the lifeblood of the Southeast; they power the global economy. These strategic modifications and maintenance projects will strengthen Georgia’s economy, create more jobs, boost revenue, and solidify our state’s position as an international trade leader.”

“Georgia’s deepwater ports in Savannah and Brunswick are two of the nation’s most important hubs for commerce – supporting the growing demands of the Southeast and beyond. This funding is critical to the continued efficient flow of cargo to and from American agriculture, retail and manufacturing interests. We applaud the Georgia delegation, Congress and the Administration for their continued leadership on behalf of the Georgia Ports Authority and our customers,” said Griff Lynch, President & CEO, Georgia Ports Authority.

Among other provisions, the bill includes:

- $17.9 million for Brunswick Harbor Operation and Maintenance, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

- $48.9 million for Savannah Harbor Operation and Maintenance, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

- $500,000 for the Savannah Harbor Deepening Study

- Brunswick Harbor Modifications Project final funding via reprogramming


Carter votes against Biden COVID Bonus extension

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement after voting against a Democrat-backed three-year extension of Biden COVID Bonuses in Obamacare plans:

“Democrats wrecked health care when they passed the UnAffordable Care Act. Throwing more money at a broken system, riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse, without addressing the root cause of skyrocketing costs does nothing but bail out Big Insurance and illegal immigrants. We should be empowering patients and promoting health care competition, like House Republicans did when we passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, not sending money to billion-dollar corporations that benefit from patients’ pain and suffering.”


Carter lands rapid fentanyl detection funding for Augusta University

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today landed $450,000 in funding for Augusta University to develop an instrument that improves current detection methods of narcotics and other substances, including fentanyl, in the House-passed Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026.

This funding will assist in providing rapid, accurate data analysis to field operations agents, increasing their safety by limiting exposure to harmful, even life-threatening, substances.

“My background in pharmacy gives me a unique understanding of the dangers of fentanyl, exposure to which poses a risk to our brave law enforcement agents even in the smallest of quantities. I applaud Augusta University for its leadership in protecting Georgians against illicit substances, which will make our communities and those who defend them against criminal activity safer,” said Rep. Carter.

"As a national leader in education and research, Augusta University continues to demonstrate our ability to drive innovation that improves lives. Augusta University's chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Science and Mathematics, Dr. Guido Verbeck, is helping protect communities and advance solutions that save lives. Congressman Carter’s commitment to securing this funding for Augusta University will support critical research and drive the development of innovative technologies aimed at addressing one of the most urgent challenges facing our society. The fentanyl crisis has devastated countless families in Georgia and across our nation, and this investment represents an important step toward meaningful solutions,” said Augusta University President Russell T. Keen. “I am deeply grateful for Congressman Carter’s continued commitment to this project, which aims to develop a safer and more rapid approach to detecting fentanyl and its almost 300 analogs. This investment will further expand Augusta University’s interdisciplinary research and reinforces our role as a hub for discovery.”


Congresswoman Bynum: “This Isn’t Law Enforcement, It’s State-Sponsored Terrorism”

Oregon City, OR – Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) released the following statement after U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents shot two people in Portland.

“This isn’t law enforcement, it’s state-sponsored terrorism,” said Rep. Bynum. “Stop fucking with us. This is the second shooting this week by agents following the orders of a wannabe dictator who is trying to take over cities and rule by instilling terror in the hearts of American people. When the President deployed his guardsmen to our city earlier this year, we told him their presence was unwelcome and unhelpful. Today, we saw just how dangerous this is – we need these goons gone. Get to steppin’.”

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Carbajal Co-Leads Bill to Protect Military Families from Deportation

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) co-led the introduction of Representative Gil Cisneros’s (D-CA-31) PROTECT Military Families Act, a bicameral bill that aims to protect military families from deportation and forced separation. The U.S. Senate version of the bill is led by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and co-sponsored by Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The bill is endorsed by the Veterans for American Ideals.

The PROTECT Military Families Act would direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to parole family members of qualifying current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It creates a mandatory pathway to Parole in Place (PIP) benefitting spouses, widows or widowers, parents, or children of qualifying current or former U.S. Armed Forces members. Parole can be denied only if the Secretary jointly issues a detailed written justification for the denial with the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

“It’s unacceptable that military families are even vulnerable to deportation,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Service members already have a lot on their shoulders — they shouldn't also be worrying about whether their loved ones will be deported. I'm proud to co-lead the PROTECT Military Families Act to introduce long overdue stability for our country's service members and their loved ones.”

“Our servicemembers and veterans served our nation and dedicated their lives to protect American values and our freedoms—it is only fitting that we provide a pathway to protect their families,” said Rep. Cisneros. “Our Armed Forces deserve to keep their families together and feel safe in their communities. I am proud to introduce legislation with Senator Duckworth and our colleagues that will protect these families by providing a stable pathway to Parole in Place.”

“There is no higher betrayal to our heroes than to have one of their family members deported by the same nation they sacrificed to defend,” said Senator Duckworth. “In his ICE raids, Donald Trump is targeting servicemembers, Veterans and their loved ones—separating families who have made tremendous sacrifices for our country. Our legislation would help support our men and women who served by protecting their families from deportation. They fought for this country, and it’s past time Congress joins us to fight for them too.”

Carbajal has long fought to protect military families from deportation. In June 2025, Carbajal introduced his bipartisan Protect Patriot Parents Act, which would make parents of U.S. military servicemembers eligible for Lawful Permanent Resident status, preventing potential deportations or separations of military families.


Carey Statement on Unaffordable ACA Subsidy Extension Vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-Ohio-15), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement after voting to extend Covid-era Enhanced Premium Tax Credits through the Affordable Care Act (ACA):

“I voted today to extend the enhanced tax credits for ACA plans. The cost of health care is still too high because of the failed Obamacare policies that removed choice and raised premiums with punishing government mandates on our working families. Close to 45,000 Ohioans in our district currently have these plans, and I want to make sure that they do not lose access to a plan that they have relied on as Congress continues addressing the high cost of health care.

“I will continue working with my House colleagues to advance bipartisan proposals that provide more affordable, more accessible health care options directly to the working families of our district.

“The partisan Obamacare system as is it exists has raised costs for everyone, but I want to give Ohioans certainty as we work to unravel the higher costs Americans face from the failed policies of the past.”

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Carey Votes to Pass Partial Government Funding Package, Secures Resources for Ohio Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-Ohio-15), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, voted to pass a 3-bill partial government funding package to partially fund the government for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). The package includes the following appropriations bills: Energy and Water; Interior; and Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS). These bills now go the U.S. Senate where they will need to pass with 60 votes before being signed into law by President Trump.

Included in this package is funding for several projects across Franklin and Fayette Counties secured directly by Rep. Carey.

“Today marks another step to fund the government in a bipartisan way and prevent another costly government shutdown. This legislative package will fund critical initiatives that unleash American energy, build strong local and national infrastructure, and keep Americans safe. I was proud to support this package and the millions of dollars coming to our district for projects I directly advocated for that will improve our communities,” Rep. Carey said.

Details on funding projects directly secured by Rep. Carey can be found below and on his website:

$3,031,000 to the Ohio State University (Columbus, Ohio) to renovate and purchase research equipment for laboratories at The Ohio State University’s regional campuses located in Lima, Marion, Mansfield, and Newark. The renovated laboratories would continue to build capacity for the University’s Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology which is preparing tomorrow’s research and manufacturing STEM Workforce.

$1,936,000 to the Village of Jeffersonville, Ohio for upgrades to a failing lift station and to install 6,000 feet of sanitary force main to address aging wastewater infrastructure that threatens public health and limits economic growth.

$750,000 to the City of Columbus, Ohio to expand capacity at the Southerly Waste Water Treatment Plant (SWWTP) to match growing demand in the area.

$400,000 to Freedom a la Cart (Columbus, Ohio) for a workforce development program aiding survivors of human trafficking to increase the capacity and services for human trafficking survivors as well as serve an additional 200 survivors — reaching over 600 survivors in Ohio annually.

$400,000 to the United Way of Central Ohio (Columbus, Ohio) for its youth crime deterrence program that aims to address the root causes of juvenile delinquency and crime.

$300,000 to JewishColumbus (Columbus, Ohio) for advanced cameras and license plate reader technologies at Jewish institutions in the 15th district.

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Representative John Carter Supports FY26 Appropriations Package Restoring Regular Order and Advancing America First Priorities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman John “Judge” Carter (TX-31) voted in favor of the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment appropriations package, advancing a return to regular order in Congress and ensuring responsible, full-year funding for essential government operations.

“This legislation reflects a deliberate, transparent process that respects Congress’s constitutional responsibility over federal spending,” said Rep. Carter. “Passing full-year appropriations bills through regular order provides stability, accountability, and certainty for the American people.”

By voting in favor of this bill the House took a key step to fully fund key agencies through the end of the fiscal year. The package supports priorities important to Texas and the nation, including strengthening national security, restoring American energy leadership, and equipping law enforcement with the resources needed to combat fentanyl trafficking and violent crime. It includes investments in grid security, critical minerals, geothermal energy, and the continued modernization of the nation’s nuclear deterrence.

Additionally, the legislation provides funding for responsible management of public lands, wildland firefighting, tribal public safety initiatives, and national parks, while preserving longstanding protections for the Second Amendment and preventing taxpayer dollars from being used to fund abortions.


Case On U.S. House Approval Of Extension Of Affordable Care Act Insurance Premium Support

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01) today voted for U.S. House passage of a measure to revive and extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for another three years. The premium tax credits, which assist over twenty million Americans including over 24,000 Hawai‘i residents with their health care, expired at the end of last year.

“Today’s successful bipartisan vote in the House confirms what I have been saying all along: that while Americans, including Members of Congress, can disagree on various issues, nobody can disagree that the cost of living and overall affordability, including health care, are unacceptably high for all Americans and getting worse,” said Case.

“This House approval offers a ray of hope not only for a bipartisan solution to our many challenges, but specifically to the millions who depend on the ACA for their basic health care. With mutual commitment, we should be able to solve this challenge and move on to our many others.”

The measure, which was forced to a full House vote against the opposition of the current House majority leadership by a rare procedure referred to as a “discharge petition”, which Case signed, passed the House on a vote of 230-196. It now moves to the U.S. Senate.

Case is part of a bipartisan group of Representatives and Senators who have been working for months (more here) and met again today to further develop a compromise measure that can pass both the House and the Senate.


Casten Secures Over $2 Million for Projects in IL-06

Washington, D.C. (January 8, 2026) — Today, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) successfully secured over $2 million in federal investment for local projects throughout the 6th Congressional District in government funding bills passed by the House of Representatives.

The funding includes $950,000 for research equipment at Elmhurst University and $1.1 Million for the City of Palos Heights to ensure residents of Palos and Northwestern Community Hospital have a secondary water source, should the primary source become compromised. The projects were selected by Rep. Casten as two of 15 Community Funding Projects in the 6th Congressional District.

“I’m incredibly proud to have advocated for and secured over $2 million for the 6th Congressional District,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “This funding helps ensure folks in our community always have access to clean drinking water and that our local universities have the top-notch technology necessary to stay at the forefront of medical research.”

The legislation should soon receive consideration in the Senate and become law. Rep. Casten expects additional Community Project Funding for Illinois’ 6th Congressional District to pass the House later this month.

Information on the Community Project Funding for Elmhurst University and the City of Palos can be found below.

In addition to securing this Community Project Funding, Rep. Casten also successfully advocated for grant programs that can help fund the Morton Arboretum, including funding for Landscape Sale Restoration and Urban and Community Forestry.

“Morton Arboretum is one of the true treasures of the 6th District,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “We must ensure it has the necessary funding to improve forestry throughout the Chicagoland area.”

Community Project Funding Information

Project Sponsor: Elmhurst University’s Health Sciences Research Equipment

Project Address: 190 Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst, IL, 60126

Amount Secured: $950,000

Project Description: $950,000 for the purchase of equipment to advance cutting-edge technology research in the field of health sciences. The equipment will create a modern skills lab where researchers can practice and demonstrate assessment and intervention skills in a realistic and convenient setting. The technological settings will mirror various healthcare settings such as emergency rooms, hospital rooms, labor and delivery rooms, and operating theaters to fully immerse researchers in the clinical experience. The lab and simulation spaces will have life-like mannequins and modern medical equipment, including an anatomy table and a high-tech, 3D anatomy system. This new technology will enable researchers to conduct studies that have the potential to advance the field of health sciences significantly.

Project Sponsor: City of Palos Heights

Project Address: 7607 W College Drive, Palos Heights IL 60463

Amount Secured: $1.1 Million

Project Description: This project will upgrade the 80th Ave Pump Station to provide the City of Palos and the Northwestern Community Hospital with a secondary water source in an event the primary source becomes compromised.

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Rep. Castor, FL Dems Call on DeSantis to Follow the Law, Cover Kids’ Health and Lower Costs for Families

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) led Florida Democrats in calling on Gov. Ron DeSantis and the State of Florida to provide health coverage to at least 43,000 children who rely on the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) - known as Florida KidCare - as the law requires. For over two years, DeSantis has illegally blocked enrollment in KidCare, in defiance of federal and state law.

“The bipartisan and unanimous approval of the KidCare expansion was meant to be a godsend to Florida children and their families, but Governor DeSantis’ refusal to follow federal law for two years has delayed the expansion, prevented 42,000 uninsured children from gaining coverage, and illegally ripped insurance away from at least 43,000 already eligible and enrolled children,” the lawmakers write. “In the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (CAA), Congress enacted legislation that requires state Medicaid and CHIP programs to provide 12 months of continuous eligibility for children under the age of 19. This protection went into effect over two years ago on January 1, 2024, with explicit directives for states to keep children continuously enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP for one year, with only two exceptions: the child reaches age 19, or the child ceases to be a resident of that state.”

Florida is the only state in the country to violate the thoughtful and cost-effective expansion of health coverage for children in accordance with 12-month continuous eligibility, denying families access to critical health care. During that time, Florida’s child uninsured rate has gotten worse and remains one of the highest in the nation, with more than 400,000 Florida children going without health insurance, according to the Georgetown Center for Children and Families. (See Florida Leaders Have Failed to Implement Bipartisan Plan Approved Over 2 Years Ago to Help Families Afford Health Insurance for Their Children – Center For Children and Families)

“Florida families are urgently waiting for Governor DeSantis to stop inflicting unnecessary harm and finally implement the bipartisan KidCare expansion,” the lawmakers concluded. “President Trump has expressed a commitment to protect the health and well-being of every American child, so we urge his Administration to immediately enforce the continuous eligibility law and work with the State of Florida to allow families access to affordable coverage.”

Rep. Castor has led Florida Democrats in holding the State accountable, calling for federal action in April 2024 on Gov. DeSantis’s illegal stripping of tens of thousands of Florida Kids of their health care. DeSantis and the State of Florida were also on the losing end of a federal court decision this week that took the state to task for failing Florida families under Medicaid, another rejection of the state’s callous treatment of Florida families.

Read the full letter to the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services here and below:

Dear Administrator Oz and Director Brillman:

As members of Florida’s congressional delegation, we write to encourage you to take every action to ensure that Florida’s kids have access to the health care they deserve. We applauded the Florida Legislature’s decisive 2023 action to expand eligibility for Florida’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known as KidCare. This expansion would allow children in families earning between 215% and 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL) – between about $60,000 to $80,000 for a family of three – to access health insurance with affordable premiums. The bipartisan and unanimous approval of the KidCare expansion was meant to be a godsend to Florida children and their families, but Governor DeSantis’ refusal to follow federal law for two years has delayed the expansion, prevented 42,000 uninsured children from gaining coverage, and illegally ripped insurance away from at least 43,000 already eligible and enrolled children.

In the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (CAA), Congress enacted legislation that requires state Medicaid and CHIP programs to provide 12 months of continuous eligibility for children under the age of 19. This protection went into effect over two years ago on January 1, 2024, with explicit directives for states to keep children continuously enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP for one year with only two exceptions: the child reaches age 19 or the child ceases to be a resident of that state. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) later released guidance to states outlining three more exceptions to the 12-month continuous eligibility protection that are critical to protecting program integrity: the child or guardian requests a voluntary termination, the State determines eligibility was erroneously granted, or the child is deceased. Removal for non-payment of premiums is not on either list of exceptions. To clarify any ambiguity, CMS subsequently codified a regulation clarifying that there is no exception to continuous eligibility for non-payment of premiums in Medicaid or CHIP—the only exceptions are the five outlined above.

However, in February 2024, Governor DeSantis filed a lawsuit against CMS arguing that states should have the authority to terminate children’s health coverage for unpaid premiums. Florida is the only state in the nation brazenly defying federal protections and disenrolling insured children in families with incomes up to 215% of the FPL for non-payment of premiums. The lawsuit and the Governor’s refusal to follow the law not only caused 43,000 already eligible and lower-income children to improperly lose their health insurance but has prevented an estimated 43,000 children from gaining desperately needed coverage. Florida has 400,000 children who are currently without insurance, the second-highest number of uninsured children in the nation behind Texas, and the Governor’s intentional actions have only made this worse. This harmful approach is even more disturbing in light of the fact that Florida’s child uninsured rate jumped from 7.4 percent to 8.5 percent from 2023 to 2024 – one of the largest increases in the nation.

Access to consistent health coverage is critical for children’s development and well-being, with research showing overwhelmingly positive effects on children’s health outcomes and their labor outcomes in adulthood. Continuous eligibility has protected millions of children who have been wrongfully disenrolled due to procedural or administrative reasons, and the new federal protection has benefited more than 17 million eligible children in states that previously didn’t have a 12-month continuous eligibility policy.

Florida families are urgently waiting for Governor DeSantis to stop playing political games and finally implement the bipartisan KidCare expansion. President Trump has expressed a commitment to protect the health and well-being of every American child, so we urge his Administration to immediately enforce the continuous eligibility law and work with the State of Florida to allow families access to affordable coverage.


Castor Warns Trump Climate Move Means Higher Energy, Insurance Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14), former Chair of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis (SCCC) and Ranking Democratic on the House Energy Subcommittee, released the following statement on President Donald Trump’s shortsighted decision to withdraw the United States from 66 international treaties, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

“The heating climate and extreme weather are costing American families significantly—driving up energy bills, insurance premiums, and health care costs, while fueling increasingly destructive hurricanes and wildfires that leave communities struggling to recover.

"President Trump promised to lower costs for American families, but he has done the opposite and left American families holding the bag. While Trump calls climate change a hoax, dismisses the affordability crisis, and pulls America out of the most important international scientific organizations, he boosts polluters and cronies who make life more expensive and dangerous. As Trump walks away from international partnerships and strong commitments to boost cleaner, cheaper energy, our adversaries are cheering, while Americans are left with higher costs and uncertainty.

“Climate change is causing economic instability at a time when people need solutions and action on cleaner, cheaper energy. Protecting Americans requires strong U.S. leadership and cooperation with our allies, including through partnerships like the UNFCCC and IPCC. Walking away undermines more than three decades of American leadership, forfeits trillions of dollars in economic opportunities in clean energy and manufacturing, and weakens our health, economic security, and national security.

“House Democrats, state and city leaders, and the private sector will continue to be a partner to our international allies in addressing the climate crisis. As energy costs continue to rise, working families, seniors, and small businesses deserve leadership that will lower costs, create jobs, clean up pollution, and protect public health.”


CASTOR STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF DEMOCRATS' AFFORDABLE CARE ACT THREE-YEAR TAX CREDIT EXTENSION

Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting “yes” on House of Representatives passage of Democrats’ historic bipartisan discharge petition that would extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) Tax Credits for the next three years:

“Neighbors across the Tampa Bay area who are grappling with huge health cost increases in the new year have hope for their pocketbooks and affordable care. House Democrats successfully forced a vote and were joined by seventeen Republicans to pass a three-year extension of enhanced tax credits. I appreciate the many Tampa Bay neighbors who shared their stories about the economic stability that affordable health coverage provides. Our health care system needs reform, but we cannot allow Republicans to sabotage health care for 22 million Americans in order to fund massive tax cuts for billionaires. People deserve affordable, consistent access to the care they need.

"The ACA has been a godsend for hardworking Americans since it was signed into law fifteen years ago in ending discrimination for preexisting conditions, allowing young people to stay on parents insurance until age 26, and providing true options for the self-employed. Our country and economy are stronger when Americans are healthy and can thrive.

“I am thankful to the handful of Republicans who worked in a bipartisan manner with Democrats to get this bill across the finish line.

“The Senate should immediately pass the three-year so our neighbors have greater access to more affordable health care coverage."


Castro, Krishnamoorthi Introduce No Occupation of Venezuela (NOVA) Act to Block Taxpayer-Funded Occupation and Oil Company Reimbursement in Venezuela

Legislation would block Trump plans for “running” Venezuela and using American tax dollars to subsidize oil companies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Ranking Member of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) introduced the No Occupation of Venezuela (NOVA) Act of 2026, legislation to prohibit the use of any federal funds—military or civilian, direct or indirect—to occupy, administer, or assert U.S. control over Venezuela, including through taxpayer-backed reimbursement or subsidies for oil company expansion and infrastructure in the country.

The legislation comes as President Donald Trump has publicly stated that the United States could “run” Venezuela, take control of its oil resources, and use American tax dollars to support or reimburse oil companies operating there. The NOVA Act makes clear that Congress has not authorized—and will not finance—any U.S. occupation of Venezuela, any assertion of control over its economy or resources, or any oil-driven foreign entanglement funded by taxpayers.

“The American people want affordable healthcare, not to spend billions or more on ‘running’ Venezuela,” said Congressman Castro. “The NOVA Act would block the president from occupying Venezuela and prevent him from enriching himself, his cronies and oil companies in the process.”

“At a time when families are stretching every dollar for groceries, housing, and health care, American taxpayers should not be forced to bankroll an overseas occupation or subsidize Big Oil’s return to Venezuela at Donald Trump’s direction,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “The NOVA Act draws a clear line: no president gets to spend Americans’ money on foreign occupations or oil deals without Congress—and without the consent of the American people.”

What the NOVA Act Does

Blocks funding for occupation or control: Prohibits any federal funds from being used to support U.S. possession, supervision, jurisdiction, or control over Venezuelan territory or resources, whether through military or civilian means.

Stops oil-sector reimbursement and expansion: Bars taxpayer dollars from being used to subsidize, reimburse, or otherwise support oil company expansion, reconstruction, or resource control in Venezuela.

Closes executive loopholes: Prevents the Executive Branch from shifting from military action to civilian governance or economic administration without explicit congressional authorization.

Preserves emergency humanitarian assistance: Ensures emergency humanitarian aid to the Venezuelan people is not restricted.


Castro, McGovern, Massie Reintroduce Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Block Trump’s Escalating Hostilities Toward Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, in the aftermath of the Trump administration’s military strike against Venezuela, Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, and Congressman Thomas Massie (R-KY) reintroduced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to block further U.S. hostilities within or against Venezuela absent explicit authorization from Congress.

A nearly identical resolution introduced by Castro, McGovern, and Massie forced a floor debate on December 17th, 2025 and failed by just two votes, with a final tally of 211-213.

Their reintroduction follows the White House admitting “it’s a war” in Venezuela, claiming that America is going to “run the country,” and refusing to rule out more U.S. troops in the country—alarming signals that America is being dragged toward a dangerous, expensive, and open-ended quagmire without constitutional authority or congressional oversight.

“The president has dragged the country into an illegal war with Venezuela,” said Congressman Castro. “We know this war is not about protecting democracy or the security of the American people. It's about oil and land. The President has said that he is in charge of Venezuela. Instead of addressing the cost of living for Americans, the President wants to spend billions of dollars rebuilding Venezuela and benefit his oil executive friends. Every House member needs to be on the record about whether they support yet another nation building effort, this time in Venezuela.”

“Donald Trump should be focused on America, not Venezuela,” said Congressman McGovern. “Instead, he is bragging that ‘it’s a war,’ claiming the United States is ‘running the country,’ and leaving the door wide open to more troops and strikes—all without congressional authorization. These reckless actions are unconstitutional and illegal, and Congress has a responsibility to stop this before it spirals into another disastrous and costly quagmire. There’s no question Maduro is a tyrant who stole power—but the Venezuelan people deserve to decide their own future, and the American people deserve a Congress that debates and votes before more troops are put in harm’s way.”

“This is not about drugs; this is about oil and regime change. It’s an insult to the intelligence of Americans to frame it as an arrest by the DOJ. Our troops are not pawns to be risked for the profits of oil companies and investment bankers,” said Congressman Massie.

Introduced pursuant to the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the measure is privileged and must receive consideration by the House if called up.


“Do not ignore or trivialize the battered victim in the womb. Unborn babies need Members of Congress to be their friend and advocate, not powerful adversaries.”Rep. Smith debates on the House floor on the need to apply Hyde Amendment protections to the so-called Affordable Care Act

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus and stalwart defender of mothers and the unborn, today debated on the House floor on the need to apply Hyde Amendment protections to pending legislation that would extend the COVID-era Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credit.

The Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal funds from paying for elective abortion, was neither included in the original ACA enacted by President Obama in 2010, nor was it appended when President Biden expanded ACA subsidies during the COVID pandemic. Smith, who has fought for the inclusion of the Hyde Amendment in the ACA since its enactment, delivered the following remarks on the House floor:

Mr. Speaker: today, the House of Representatives is considering legislation to extend the COVID-era Affordable Care Act premium tax credit (adding more than $80 billion to the deficit over three years, according to CBO), which, unless amended, continues to force taxpayers to subsidize plans that cover abortion on demand.

Hyde Amendment protections need to be added to this bill. Taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the killing of an unborn child by dismemberment or baby poison pills.

The Hyde Amendment was not included when the ACA was enacted in 2010, nor was it included when President Biden significantly expanded subsidies during COVID.

It’s gotten so bad, that according to a 2025 article by KFF, 12 states, including my own state of New Jersey, absolutely require all plans on the ACA marketplace to cover abortion on demand.

The House, however, has passed my bill, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, on four separate occasions—in 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2017, and has been again introduced in this Congress—which would, among other provisions, have added Hyde protections to the ACA, but the Senate never acted.

I remember the day, several years ago, when my friend and author of the amendment, Henry Hyde of Illinois, first learned that about one million children were alive because of his amendment. He was overcome with joy knowing that a million mothers were spared the agony of post-abortion pain, and a million children were alive and well, growing up, going to school, playing sports, dating, marrying, and having kids of their own.

Today, that number is estimated at over 2.6 million children not aborted—about 60,000 precious lives saved per year—all because abortion subsidies have been prohibited by the Hyde Amendment in the federal Medicaid program and other HHS programs.

It’s time to add Hyde to the ACA.

It is time, I believe, for more of us to face the harsh reality of what abortion does to children and look beyond the slogans and surface appeal arguments.

The so-called abortion pill—mifepristone—is baby poison that kills the unborn infant by starving the innocent child to death, and whose body is often flushed down the toilet.

We now know, however, that mifepristone is extremely dangerous to women as well—and this is especially important because this dangerous drug is used to procure at least six out of ten abortions in the United States.

On April 28, 2025, the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC) released a report entitled, “The Abortion Pill Harms Women: Insurance Data Reveals One in Ten Patients Experiences a Serious Adverse Event.” This report, led by researcher Jamie Bryan Hall, is the first in an ongoing series.

Key Finding: The report found that more than one out of ten (10.93%) women who take the chemical abortion drug mifepristone experience sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, or another serious adverse event within 45 days.

Study Methods: EPPC analyzed data from an all-payer insurance claims database that includes 865,727 prescribed mifepristone abortions between 2017-2023.

Large Dataset: EPPC states that this is the “largest-known study of the abortion pill” and includes “28 times as many [abortions] as were included in all FDA-cited clinical trials combined.”

Recent Data: While the EPPC study uses data that is no older than 2017, EPPC notes that “the FDA approval of mifepristone relies on data from more than a decade ago.”

Representative Sample: EPPC explains that this “real-world, post-market study” is “representational of the women who obtain mifepristone abortion in the U.S.” Unlike other clinical trials that have been conducted, this study does not recruit “a prescreened group of generally healthy women.”

Policy Implications: The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision under the Obama and Biden administrations to progressively weaken the safety protocols around mifepristone is based on old, flawed data.

On the Mifeprex label, the FDA claims that less than 0.5% of women taking mifepristone experience serious adverse reactions. This claim is based on ten older clinical trials, studying a combined total of 30,966 participants.

Another method of aborting a baby—dismemberment—tears the child’s fragile body to pieces and includes decapitation. Until rendered unconscious or dead by this hideous procedure, the baby feels pain with every cut of the knife.

It is no wonder that polling has consistently shown that the majority of Americans do not want their federal tax dollars to fund the destruction of children through abortion.

Abortion is the polar opposite of health care.

Abortion is not health care, unless one construes the precious life of an unborn child to be analogous to a tumor to be excised or a disease to be vanquished.

Do not ignore or trivialize the battered victim in the womb. Unborn babies need Members of Congress to be their friend and advocate, not powerful adversaries.

Abortion violence must be replaced by compassion and empathy for women and respect for weak and vulnerable children in the womb.

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Patch article on official naming of Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell VA Clinic'WWII Hero Finally Honored At VA Clinic In Ocean County'

By Karen Wall

Published January 8, 2026 at 3:23 PM ET

TOMS RIVER, NJ — After lengthy delays, the new Veterans Affairs outpatient medical clinic in Toms River finally bears the name of Leonard G. "Bud" Lomell, the World War II hero from Ocean County.

The clinic opened in November 2024, and efforts to name it for Lomell — a D-Day hero whose actions as an Army Ranger in Normandy saved the lives of thousands of soldiers during the D-Day invasion — had stalled for nearly two years.

On Tuesday, Lomell's heroism was honored with the unveiling of his name at the clinic, with his widow, 104-year-old Charlotte Ewart Lomell, his daughter Renee and other family members in attendance.

Also in attendance was 100-year-old John Wardell from Point Pleasant, who was an Army Ranger and served with Lomell in at least one World War II battle.

Leonard G. "Bud" Lomell's widow, Charlotte (seated), his daughter Renee, and fellow Army Ranger John Wardell (seated) at the VA Clinic naming ceremony, with J. Mark Mutter, Rep. Chris Smith, Maurice Hill & Latriece Prince-Wheeler, interim clinic director. (Office of U.S. Rep. Chris Smith)

The proposal to name the clinic for Lomell was made by former Toms River Mayor Maurice "Mo" Hill at the groundbreaking for the clinic in 2022.

Lomell, who died in 2011 at 91 years old, had extensive ties to Ocean County. He grew up in Point Pleasant Beach and after graduating high school, received a degree from Tennessee Wesleyan College before enlisting in the Army.

After he was discharged from the Army in 1945, Lomell returned to New Jersey and married Charlotte, who had been his long-term girlfriend, and they settled in Toms River. They raised three daughters — Georgine, Pauline, and Renee — along with Elizabeth “Buffy” and Jay Bergson, the children of Charlotte’s sister, who had passed away unexpectedly. Lomell earned a law degree from Rutgers Law School and founded the Lomell Law Firm, one of the largest and most successful in Ocean County. He served as the president of the Ocean County Bar Association; was the first director of the newly organized Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau; a director of the First National Bank of Toms River; director of the South Jersey Title Insurance Company, Atlantic City; president of the Garden State Philharmonic Symphony Society; director of the Ocean County Historical Society; trustee of the Ocean County College Foundation; chairman of the Dover Township Juvenile Conference Committee; and was a member of the Dover Township Board of Education.

U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, who represents the 4th District, introduced legislation in July to name the Toms River clinic in his honor. It was approved and signed into law by President Donald Trump in September, setting the stage for Tuesday's ceremony.

Lomell's daughter Renee thanked Smith for his efforts during the ceremony, "for all that you have done for the veterans throughout the years, particularly for recognizing the need for a VA Clinic to serve this part of the state, first at Brick, and now in Toms River."

"Thank you for your perseverance through the very lengthy legislative process," she said.

She said her father "would be so pleased that the Toms River VA Clinic offers such a range of services, including help for PTSD and a Women’s Health Department."

"Dad understood the cost of war and the need for the services of the VA," Renee Lomell said.

Renee Lomell with the artist's rendering of the sign that will honor her father at the Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Toms River. (Office of U.S. Rep. Chris Smith)

"The 68,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility bearing Bud’s name provides both primary and specialty care, including dental care, women's health care, mental health counseling, physical therapy, and laboratory services," Smith said. "This clinic has already done so much for our community — it is only right that it be named after a true war hero, who dedicated his life to the service of his country and its veterans."

"While we cannot repay Bud and his fellow Rangers for the sacrifices they made to ensure our freedom, the naming of this clinic will ensure that Bud’s heroic legacy lives on," Smith said.

Also in attendance were Hill and J. Mark Mutter, the former Toms River Township clerk and township historian, who also advocated for the naming of the clinic for Lomell.

"This building now stands in memory of a man who stood in the middle of the 20th century — and turned history for the better. In the end, it’s all about what Bud fought for and stood for: freedom and democracy," Mutter said.

Lomell, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Legion of Honor medals, led a group of Army Rangers up the 100-foot cliffs at Pointe du Hoc, where they destroyed the Germans’ 155-millimeter artillery guns that threatened the Allied invasion with thermite grenades, saving countless lives.

Lomell's heroics were later heralded in the book "The Greatest Generation" by Tom Brokaw, who devoted an entire chapter to Lomell.

He went on to serve in other pivotal battles, including the Battle of Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge. At Hurtgen Forest, he and his fellow servicemen in the D company helped to capture and defend the infamous Hill 400. Lomell was wounded at Hurtgen and again in the Battle of the Bulge, resulting in his honorable discharge in December 1945.

It was at the Battle of Hurtgen Forest that Wardell, a private first class, served with Lomell, who was a second lieutenant, according to Smith's office. Wardell also fought in the Battle of Normandy and the Battle of Brest. He received the Purple Heart upon his honorable discharge in October 1945.

In June, Wardell was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the oldest and highest civilian award in the United States, on behalf of all U.S. Army Ranger veterans in recognition of their service and sacrifice during World War II.

The Leonard G. "Bud" Lomell VA Clinic replaced the James J. Howard VA Clinic that opened in Brick Township in 1991 and served the community until the Lomell clinic opened. As the veteran population in Ocean County and surrounding areas grew it quickly outstripped the Howard clinic's capacity, prompting the need for the new clinic.


Planetary Science Caucus Co-Chairs Statement on House Passage of FY26 Full-Year Funding for Space, Science, and Exploration

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 397-28 to pass H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. Rep Judy Chu (CA-28) and Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), who both co-Chair the bipartisan Congressional Planetary Science Caucus, released the following joint statement:

“As Co-Chairs of the Planetary Science Caucus, we were extremely alarmed by the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) proposal to dramatically cut federal funding in FY26 for space because we know these investments are essential to scientific research and discovery, to our national security, to growing our space economy and workforce, and to maintaining the United States’ standing as the global leader in space. That is why we have been working closely with our congressional colleagues of both parties to ensure a robust space budget. Thankfully, with today’s vote, the House has rejected many of the OMB’s cuts to space by advancing sustained funding for NASA, including for its Science Mission Directorate and Office of STEM Engagement, for our other science agencies like the National Science Foundation, and by maintaining many of the critical NASA missions the OMB had proposed to cancel. With today’s passage of this bill, Congress has averted disaster and put the United States back on track to maintaining our preeminence in space.

While we were proud to vote for these investments, we are nonetheless disappointed that the bill supports the OMB’s plan to cancel the Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission to bring samples from the Mars surface back to Earth – samples which have already been collected by the Perseverance rover. This is our nation’s highest-priority planetary science mission according to the 2023 Planetary Sciences Decadal Survey and is critical to paving the way for eventual exploration of the planet. Our nation already lost hundreds of Mars experts at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory last year due to shortsighted budget cuts to MSR, and we cannot afford to lose more. However, we are encouraged that today’s bill provides funding for future Mars missions and we look forward to working with NASA, congressional colleagues, and all our partners to finally return these samples and maintain American expertise and leadership on the red planet.”

Rep. Judy Chu’s district includes Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a NASA Center administered by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).

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Rep. Chu Votes Yes on Spending Package that Delivers over $6 Million to CA-28 for Fire Recovery, Public Safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 397-28 to pass H.R. 6938, the FY26 Commerce-Justice-Science, Energy and Water, and Interior-Environment appropriations minibus, a three-bill funding package that invests in science, public safety, energy and water infrastructure, and environmental protection for communities nationwide, including Southern California. Rep. Chu (CA-28) released the following statement:

“While I would have liked to see even stronger investments, this bill makes progress toward rejecting the Trump administration’s draconian cuts and reinvesting in American communities. It restores Congress’s role in deciding how taxpayer dollars are spent, and helps relieve cost pressures on families. Democrats successfully put limits on agency changes that would weaken the federal workforce or threaten important programs, and pushed back against the Trump administration’s deepest proposed budget cuts, ” said Rep. Chu. “However, while I am glad this package rejects the White House’s plan to gut science funding and reinvests in NASA and the National Science Foundation, I am deeply disappointed that it supports their plan to cancel the Mars Sample Return mission led by Jet Propulsion Laboratory in my district. We cannot afford to lose more of our Mars experts, which is why I plan to continue working with NASA and my colleagues in Congress to protect JPL and bring these samples back., Despite this disappointment, and while no single bill can undo the harm caused under President Trump, this legislation represents meaningful progress at restoring some of our federal government’s most important functions.”

Within the bill, Rep. Chu secured more than $6 million in funding for six projects that will directly benefit residents of California’s 28th District. These include:

$1,092,000 for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works’ Altadena Public Sewer Enhancement Project

This funding will expand public sewer service to approximately 600 properties in Altadena, an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County that currently rely, or previously relied, on septic systems prior to the January 2025 Eaton Fire.

$1,031,000 for the Sierra Madre Public Safety Improvement Project

This funding will equip the Sierra Madre Police Department with modern public safety tools, including upgraded radio communications, mobile data computers, emergency response vehicles, and tasers.

$1,031,000 for the City of South Pasadena to upgrade police communication systems

This funding will modernize police radios and dispatch equipment so officers can communicate more clearly, meet federal safety standards, and better coordinate with neighboring cities during emergencies.

$1,031,000 for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s helicopter

This funding will be used to purchase a helicopter to help law enforcement quickly respond to emergencies, locate and apprehend fugitives, serve high-risk warrants, and support critical public safety operations, including in the Angeles National Forest.

$1,031,000 for the Upland Police Department

This funding will upgrade the department’s computer-aided dispatch and records management systems, improving response times, coordination, and access to critical information for officers and dispatchers.

$1,031,000 for the City of Pasadena’s Regional Public Safety Communications Upgrade

This funding will modernize radio and repeater site technology to increase system capacity and reliability, improving communication among first responders and essential personnel and strengthening public safety across Pasadena and the surrounding region.

“I am proud to have secured $6,247,000 in Community Project Funding in this bill to support projects across my district, from Altadena to Upland,” Rep. Chu continued. “These investments will strengthen public safety, improve public health, and modernize critical infrastructure as we recover from the Eaton Fire.”

The bill also:

Reasserts Congress’s power of the purse through mandatory staffing thresholds, notification requirements, and funding tables

Helps address higher energy costs and rising utility bills, increasing investment in electric grid infrastructure by $375 million

Helps keep our communities safe by increasing funding for Violence Against Women Act grants by $7 million

Invests in water infrastructure and climate resilience by increasing funding for the Army Corps of Engineers by $1.8 billion ($10.4 billion total)

Rejects the White House’s effort to eviscerate funding for scientific research by providing sustained funding for science agencies including NASA, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy Office of Science, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and more.

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

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

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ICYMI: Congressman García’s Speaks About the Killing of Renee Nicole Good During Judiciary Committee Markup

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today during a House Judiciary Committee markup, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) spoke about the incident in Minneapolis in which a U.S. citizen, Renee Nicole Good was shot by a federal agent. Excerpts can be found below. A link to the full video can be found here.

“This morning, I feel compelled to speak on the tragic incident that occurred in Minneapolis yesterday, the tragic killing of Renee Good. I do so mindful of the fact that two of the first shootings by ICE agents, CBP agents that occurred in this country, occurred in my district (...) last summer. First it was a father of two who had just dropped off his two children at school, he was approached by ICE agents (he was) terrified. As he sought to leave the area he was shot and killed. Then came the shooting of a young woman, a U.S. citizen, shot five times. Accused by Sec. Noem, by other officials of terrorist activity. Serious federal charges that could have resulted in decades of time in prison. She was a teacher at a Montessori school. What happened to those charges? They’ve been dropped, as have other cases of serious charges that have been brought about in my community alone.”

Congressman García also emphasized the lawlessness of this administration. “Rogue federal agents under the leadership of Secretary Noem, Tom Homan, Stephen Miller, are trampling on people’s constitutional rights like we haven’t seen in decades, perhaps in the history of our country. They are engaging in obscene ethnic and racial profiling. They are denying due process to people when apprehended. They are masked with military-grade weapons, cussing at people, ordering people to do things, treating people like dirt. U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, (...) veterans. It’s a terrible precedent in our country’s history. It will be a shameful episode as we tell the history of America, because we’ve trampled on the Constitution. We’ve violated what has been established law in our country, and we’ve engaged in Gestapo tactics of federal agents that have been encouraged to violate the Constitution and trample on the rights of people in communities all over our country.”

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House Passes Funding Package with $11.1 Million for AZ06 Community Projects

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Juan Ciscomani voted this afternoon to pass a funding package that includes over $11 million for critical community projects in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District. The funding package - H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 - was passed on the House floor today, January 8.

Congressman Ciscomani preliminarily secured 6 more funding projects submitted by local partners. These projects below now go to the U.S. Senate for the next step.

$4,200,000 for Tucson Police Vehicles;

$2,250,000 for the Town of Marana’s Source Water System Improvements at Marana Regional Airport;

$1,750,000 for the Town of Marana’s Pioneer Well PFAS Treatment Project;

$1,200,000 for Graham County’s Water Line Project;

$989,786 for the City of Tombstone for Water Reclamation Facility Upgrades;

And, $809,687 for Sahuarita Police Department’s Radio Replacement.

“This funding is critical for community projects in Southeastern Arizona,” said Ciscomani. “By advancing these water projects and public safety investments, we’re responding directly to priorities identified by our communities. I’m especially grateful to our local partners for their collaboration and leadership in helping take the next step to secure these funds and making sure federal resources are put to work locally.”

This funding package keeps the House on track to complete all twelve FY26 appropriations bills. While making historic investments in priority programs for our nation and our community, this bill continues the progress this Congress and this Administration have made in reducing federal expenditures. This is key for providing oversight and saving American taxpayers money.

Congressman Ciscomani posted a video on X and Facebook after the bill passed the House.

This bill provides a total of $78.011 billion in discretionary spending for the Department of Commerce, Justice, and important science-related agencies. Of that total funding amount, $6.604 billion will go to defense spending. Additionally, it provides $59.039 billion for the Department of Energy and water development. Lastly, the bill allocates $38.6 billion to the Department of Interior, and the Environmental Protection Agency and other related entities.

These community project funds are in addition to one project already secured in last year’s Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act (H.R. 5371), which allocated $340,049 for Oracle Fire District’s Oracle Brush Dump.

Community project recipients welcomed today’s vote as an important next step toward securing these much-needed funds:

Jon Post, Mayor, Town of Marana:

“I would like to thank Congressman Ciscomani for his continued support of the Town of Marana in securing critical infrastructure funding for the Town. His efforts in obtaining federal funds for these critical water infrastructure projects is greatly appreciated. Investments such as these help ensure the reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability of Marana’s water supply. This funding allows us to proactively address infrastructure needs while continuing to protect public health and support the community’s growth."

Tom Murphy, Mayor, Town of Sahuarita:

“It is a rare quality in today’s world to see the stalwart commitment to safety that we have benefited from with Congressman Ciscomani as our representative. We are grateful for his tireless efforts to advocate for our community and the officers who work hard to keep us safe.”

John Noland, Police Chief, Town of Sahuarita:

“The Sahuarita Police Department is very grateful for Congressman Ciscomani’s efforts to help secure over $800,000 in grant funding to purchase the latest technology in police handheld radios for SPD officers! This improved technology will directly help with communication and service to our community!”

Shane Dille, Town Manager, Town of Sahuarita:

“Congressman Ciscomani has been a devoted advocate for the Sahuarita community, and we appreciate his longstanding efforts to provide resources for our officers and, in turn, our great community.”

John Howard, Supervisor, Graham County:

“I want to thank Congressman Ciscomani for his continued support of this critical project, for Graham County and for all he has done for rural Arizona. We definitely are not forgotten!”

Dustin Escapule, Mayor, City of Tombstone:

“I want to thank Congressman Ciscomani for his efforts in securing $989,786 for a rebuild of our over 50-year-old Water Reclamation Facility. This critical upgrade is vital for the health and well-being of our community and the half-million tourists who visit us each year. These improvements will cut the daily maintenance costs and help the operators maintain a safe and efficient plant.”

Charissa Presti, City Clerk, City of Tombstone:

“Thanks to Congressman Ciscomani's dedication and support, the City of Tombstone has secured $989,786 for a much-needed update to our over 50-year-old Water Reclamation Facility. This critical upgrade is vital for the health and well-being of our community and the half-million tourists who visit us each year. The improvements will also greatly assist our operator in the daily management and operation of the facility, ensuring reliable and efficient service.”

James Robby Nicholas, Public Works Director, City of Tombstone:

“Thank you to Congressman Ciscomani for securing funding for the Tombstone Water Reclamation Facility Project. This facility has served our community for over 50 years and is in dire need of modernization to meet the current environmental standards. The upgrade will not only enhance our water treatment processes but will also simplify operations for our department and ensure reliable service for our residents. Congressman Ciscomani's dedication to this project demonstrates his commitment to our city's infrastructure and future.”

Regina Romero, Mayor, City of Tucson:

"I want to thank Representative Ciscomani for championing this investment in our public safety infrastructure. These funds will allow us to modernize our public safety fleet providing essential tools that improve our service delivery to Tucson. This is a good use of federal resources that helps us deliver effective and community-based safety services to Tucson residents."

The FY26 funding package not only keeps key areas of the government funded, but also prioritizes crucial community projects throughout AZ-06, aiding the development and health of Southeastern Arizona. This package now goes to the U.S. Senate to pass this minibus funding package to keep our government funded, avoid another government shutdown, and fund key community projects in our district.

A summary and full text of the bill can be found HERE.

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Higgins Secures Funding for Louisiana Projects in FY26 Appropriations Bills

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) announced the recent House passage of funding for 11 community projects in Louisiana’s 3rd Congressional District.

These projects were included in two funding packages that passed the House: H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Constructions and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act of 2026, which was signed into law on November 12, 2025, and H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development, and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026, which passed the House on January 8, 2026.

“My office works tirelessly each year to deliver on Louisiana priorities and pass fiscally responsible appropriations bills,” said Rep. Higgins. “From hard infrastructure projects to workforce and economic development endeavors, I will continue to ensure that our district’s needs are properly represented in the appropriations process.”

H.R 5371:

$2,000,000 for the expansion and modernization of the Ambulatory Surgery and Obstetrics Department for Abbeville General Hospital.

$1,000,000 for workforce development efforts at the South Louisiana Community College Commercial Diving Center of Excellence.

H.R. 6938:


Congressman Cleaver Votes to Extend ACA Tax Credits to Lower Health Care Costs for Missouri Families

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of legislation to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that help lower health care premiums for more than 20 million Americans across the country, including more than 46,000 Missourians in the Fifth Congressional District. Following an intense effort from the Speaker of the House and the vast majority of congressional Republicans to prevent an extension, the enhanced tax credits lapsed on January 1st, immediately driving up costs on millions of Americans. However, House Democrats successfully forced a vote on legislation to revive the credits for three years through the discharge petition process with the support of 4 House Republicans. The legislation passed today by a vote of 230-196.

“For months now, as American families plead for bipartisan solutions that will address the cost-of-living crisis, I have been working with lawmakers to extend ACA tax credits that help more than 46,000 of my constituents afford quality health care,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Thanks to every Democratic lawmaker and a handful of my Republican colleagues, we have successfully passed legislation that would extend this lifeline and provide immediate relief to working-class families across the country. It is my hope that the Senate will put partisanship aside and pass this legislation so that no family is forced to choose between keeping their health care or keeping food on the table.”

According to the House Budget Committee, the failure to extend ACA tax credits will send premiums skyrocketing. For example:

A 60-year-old couple earning $85,000 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 333%.

A family of four earning $66,000 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 254%.

A family of four earning $133,750 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 121%.

The legislation will now go to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.


Rep. Cline’s Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2025 Advances to House Floor

Today, the House Judiciary Committee voted to advance the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2025, sponsored by Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), to the House Floor. The bill would increase transparency, accountability, and public input in federal agency consent decrees and settlement agreements.

“The American people should never be shut out of decisions that reshape federal policy,” said Rep. Ben Cline. “Today’s passage of the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act out of the House Judiciary Committee is a critical step toward ending the backroom arrangements that have too often allowed activist lawsuits to drive sweeping regulatory changes without transparency or accountability. This legislation ensures these agreements are opened to public notice, comment, and meaningful judicial review, giving taxpayers, workers, and small businesses the opportunity to be heard.”

BACKGROUND:

Currently, activist groups leverage behind-closed-doors lawsuits to pressure agencies into sweeping regulatory changes without meaningful input from the public, job creators, or affected industries, effectively sidestepping the traditional rulemaking process. Rep. Cline’s bill restores accountability by requiring public notice and comment, strengthened judicial review, agency head certification of settlements, and detailed reporting to Congress to ensure these agreements serve the public interest.


Rep. Clyde Applauds House Passage of Lake Lanier Wins in FY26 Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) applauded the Lake Lanier wins in Division B of H.R. 6938, the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, which passed the House of Representatives this afternoon by a vote of 397 to 28.

“The critical provisions related to Lake Lanier in the FY26 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill represent a momentous victory for Northeast Georgia,” said Clyde. “For years, I’ve worked to use every tool at my disposal to secure measures that preserve and improve our beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike. Due to my hard-fought efforts, this House-passed spending bill includes wins that protect Lake Lanier’s name and help keep its parks open for folks to safely enjoy. I’m pleased that these initiatives are one step closer to becoming law — delivering effective solutions to Ninth District families, small businesses, and local governments.”

Due to Rep. Clyde’s successful work, the FY26 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill includes a provision (Sec. 109) that allows local partners that manage multiple recreation sites at a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) civil works project to spend collected user fees across all sites they oversee at that project, rather than being limited to using the fees only at the specific site where the funds were collected.

The measure mirrors Reps. Andrew Clyde and Rich McCormick’s Lanier Parks Local Access Act, which aims to incentivize local governments to manage recreation sites on civil works projects like Lake Lanier — a simple yet effective solution to help keep Lake Lanier parks open, safe, and well-maintained.

Additionally, the FY26 Energy and Water appropriations bill report includes language requested by Rep. Clyde to prohibit the USACE from using taxpayer funds to rename Buford Dam and Lake Lanier:

None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to carry out any action altering the designation of Buford Dam and Lake Sidney Lanier, Georgia, authorized in Public Law 84-457. (Page 65)

Background

In 2023, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers identified Lake Sidney Lanier and Buford Dam to be renamed due to a misguided measure in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.

For nearly three years, Rep. Clyde has fought to protect and preserve the Ninth District’s Lake Lanier and Buford Dam:

March 2023: Rep. Clyde Applauds Pause of Lake Lanier and Buford Dam Renaming Efforts

November 2023: Rep. Clyde Fights to Protect Lake Lanier in Appropriations Process

October 2024: Rep. Clyde Requests Confirmation of Terminated Efforts to Rename Lake Lanier, Buford Dam