ICYMI: U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins America’s Newsroom on Fox News

‘A partial shutdown of Homeland Security is an actual shutdown of all things that keep Americans safe and our border and our country secure’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined America’s Newsroom with Bill Hemmer and Dana Perino on Fox News. The senator discussed ongoing DHS funding negotiations, as well as her support for the SAVE America Act to restore election integrity.

On the Republicans approaching negotiations in good faith on DHS negotiations while Democrats are continuing to play politics:

“Look what we need is Democrats to continue to have dialogue and to operate in good faith. They wanted a two-week CR, we allowed them to have that, to have these conversations and negotiations. And, Dana, it took them a week to come up with that list that you just put up on the screen. Then, it took them three more days to come up with legislative text. We responded with a list of our own and then came out with legislative text to them last night.

“A partial shutdown of Homeland Security is an actual shutdown of all things that keep Americans safe and our border and our country secure … And I think it’s really important that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement officers, that we stand for the law, that we stand for enforcing it … The President is committed to that … You saw him reach out to [Governor Walz]. You saw the President reach out to [Mayor Frey] … So, for any Democrat to say we are doing anything but operating in good faith is absolutely false. And what this means is by not allowing us to continue this conversation, by actually shutting down the department, they’re playing politics. They’re not taking the wins. They’re not helping us, you know, continue to do better and be better. They want a political issue.”

On the SAVE America Act that would enact commonsense voter ID laws to keep our elections safe and secure:

“This is an 80/20 issue. President Trump has made sure that we’re returning to common sense. This is common sense. Non-citizens are not allowed to vote. This ensures that and ensures that your vote counts. People want free and fair elections. And the fact that Democrats are running away from this is again, yet another time where they don’t understand the American people. So, we’re going to keep fighting on this.

“I actually spoke with President Trump about this yesterday morning. He is fully committed to making sure that Americans can have faith in their elections. I spoke with Mike Lee about it yesterday and last night. So, we’re working on a plan to how do we move this forward. I think the American people will make this decision and they’re going to side with common sense. And that’s what Republicans are putting forth with the Save America Act.”

You can watch the full segment here.

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ICYMI: U.S. Senator Katie Britt Speaks on the Senate Floor, Advocates for Continued Negotiations to Keep the Government Open

‘Why [Democrats are] making people pay the price like a TSA officer to go without pay again is beyond me’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) spoke on the Senate floor in support of passing a two-week continuing resolution (CR) to continue negotiations on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding. She also addressed the Ranking Member of the DHS Appropriations Subcommittee, Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), after he objected to her proposal to continue negotiations for the American people.

On Republicans’ good faith efforts to fund DHS:

“Two weeks ago, we agreed to extend funding while we talked and tried to find a pathway forward … It took the Democrats until Saturday evening to actually produce legislative text. Within the next four days, we were able to exchange dialogue and text again. You can take a look at what we’ve seen from the President and his outreach. What you’ve seen from the Secretary of Homeland Security and the deployment of body cameras across the country. And what we’ve heard from Tom Homan today. We are working in good faith to find a pathway forward.

“What we’re asking is let us continue to do that … Extend this funding for two more weeks so that as we talk, as we negotiate, TSA agents don’t miss a paycheck. So that FEMA workers who are helping to get out disaster relief to people … Mr. President, they deserve a paycheck.”

On the importance of keeping the government open and paying thousands of American workers:

“It’s clear we are operating in good faith, we are working to find a pathway forward. And the fact that people … who have stepped up to serve their country are not going to receive a paycheck, to me, is just totally, completely unacceptable, Mr. President.

“Look, we don’t have to go down another government shutdown pathway. And that’s exactly what this is. By not allowing us time to continue these conversations and shutting the government down, real people will pay the price. These same workers, these same agents who went without a paycheck for 43 days because of the failure of the Democrats to come to the table, then it’s exactly what we’re seeing now, Mr. President. It’s a choice. It’s entirely up to Senate Democrats.”

On the Ranking Member of the DHS Appropriations Subcommittee falsely claiming that Republicans were holding up negotiations:

“We wanted more time. Democrats asked for two weeks. Our concern was that two weeks wasn’t long enough. It took the Democrats a week to articulate what it is they wanted. They articulated it via press conference and via tweet … Not by conversation … Then it took them a number more days, from Wednesday to Saturday, to come up with legislative text … We want to continue this conversation. But yet you’re penalizing a TSA agent. A TSA agent is going to go without a paycheck. Why? So that you can posture politically. I’m over it …”

“I had reports of TSA agents sleeping in their car because they can’t afford gas. Selling plasma to make their bills … When the Biden Harris failed border policies allowed for millions to come across our border unvetted. When there were American citizens who paid the price in that moment, Mr. President, like Jocelyn Nungaray, who was 12 years old and raped and left under a bridge. Like Laken Riley, who fought for her life for 17 minutes, Mr. President, before her head, her skull was bashed in and we kept saying, we’ve got to do more to secure our border. And our Democratic colleague said that takes legislation. It can’t be done. Well, we know that’s not true because all we needed was a new president who secured our border and helped to make our country safe.”

On Democrats’ hypocrisy and Republicans’ continued efforts to secure the border and keep communities safe:

“And I think the half a million unaccompanied kids that came across the border during the Biden-Harris administration matter … Many of them with phone numbers safety pinned to them or written on their arm. The Biden-Harris administration got rid of the DNA policy to make sure that these kids were going to family members. These kids were lost. Many of them still are. What we heard Tom Homan say today … he said that there was a significant draw down there in Minnesota. He said operations were successful and that 3000 kids who had been lost had been found.…

“Are [Republicans] negotiating in good faith? If it takes [Democrats] over eight days to get us legislative text, and we’re able to turn that around in a couple of days, you have an announcement (from Tom Homan) like you have today, it’s clear that we are. And so why [Democrats are] making people pay the price like a TSA officer to go without pay again is beyond me.”

You can watch the Senator Britt’s remarks here and her rebuttal here.

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U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Ted Cruz Introduce Legislation to Protect Community Banks

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the Community Bank Relief Act. The legislation updates the current $10 billion asset threshold exempting small financial institutions from a rule that caps debit card fees.

“As we’ve seen in so many instances, countless regulations in the Dodd-Frank Act were not only onerous but set fixed thresholds that have become outdated over time, and the Durbin Amendment is no exception. The largest burden is on our smallest financial institutions who provide vital sources of credit to Main Streets that drive our local economies,” said Senator Britt. “This commonsense legislation would simply index, to both inflation and COLA, the outdated threshold in this provision of Dodd-Frank, ultimately providing relief for our community banks who were never intended to be burdened by this regulation.”

The Community Bank Relief Act would raise the $10 billion asset threshold established by the Durbin amendment to the Dodd-Frank Act for covered bank issuers, as well as tie it to the annual cost-of-living adjustment measured by the Consumer Price index (CPI). This would enable more community banks to remain exempt from the Durbin restrictions, allowing them to strengthen their financial flexibility and ultimately reduce costs for American families. You can read the full text of the bill here.

“The Durbin Amendment was not designed for the current economic and regulatory reality and subjects community banks to fee limits that the original language intended for much larger institutions,” said Senator Cruz. “My legislation modernizes the interchange fee cap to reflect inflation, helping small banks support local economies while lowering banking costs for Americans.”

The Durbin amendment to the Dodd–Frank Act, enacted in 2010, authorized the Federal Reserve to cap debit card interchange fees charged by large card issuers and limits transaction fees for debit card purchases by capping fees at 21 cents plus 0.05% of the transaction for banks with assets of $10 billion or more. Currently, the cap stands at roughly 22 cents per transaction. When Dodd-Frank passed, roughly 80 banks exceeded the $10 billion threshold. Today, roughly 130 banks have exceeded the $10 billion threshold, bringing a larger share of the banking sector under the fee cap that was unintentionally captured under the existing limit.

Senator Britt has been a longtime champion of community banks and local credit unions and their role in affordability for Americans across the nation. She previously led the Preventing Regulatory Overreach to Empower Communities to Thrive and Ensure Data privacy (PROTECTED) Act, which seeks to shield small financial institutions and Main Street businesses from regulatory overreach and excessive compliance costs and standards.

This bill is supported by Americans for Tax Reform, Alabama Bankers Association, and America’s Credit Unions.

Scott Simpson, President & CEO, America’s Credit Unions said, “America’s Credit Unions appreciates and supports the Community Bank Relief Act introduced by Senators Ted Cruz and Katie Britt and Congressman Andy Barr to modernize the asset threshold tied to debit interchange regulations.

“As credit unions grow by serving more members and keeping pace with the economy, many are swept into limits that were intended for much larger institutions. Indexing the threshold to inflation provides needed relief and restores fairness for community-based credit unions.

“Debit interchange revenue at credit unions is reinvested into lower fees, better rates, fraud prevention, and improved services for members. When outdated thresholds reduce those resources, it is working families and small businesses who feel the impact.

“This legislation is an important step forward. But the only real long-term solution is full repeal of the Durbin Amendment. Government imposed price controls have distorted the market and failed to deliver promised savings to consumers. While most credit unions were supposed to be protected from the impact of the Durbin Amendment, the fact is that those provisions did not work, and all have felt the negative impacts. Repeal would ensure credit unions can continue delivering affordable, secure financial services without artificial caps that miss their mark.”

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Budd, Fetterman Bipartisan Bill to Create Network of AI-Enabled Automated Labs Clears Committee and Heads to Senate Floor

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.), members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statements after their National Programmable Cloud Lab Network (NPCLN) Act received overwhelming bipartisan support and passed out of committee yesterday. This legislation would create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF), and is now headed to the Senate floor.

“Building out a national network of AI-enabled and automated labs would be a pivotal step in pushing the boundaries of American data integration and technological leadership. With North Carolina remaining at the forefront of American innovation, I am proud to be working with Senator Fetterman to advance the NPCLN Act to do just that. I appreciate the wide bipartisan support from my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee to get this legislation one step closer to the president’s desk,” said Senator Budd.

“I’m glad to see the NPCLN Act pass the Senate Commerce Committee, bringing us one step closer to empowering researchers and developing cutting edge technologies in Pennsylvania and across our great country. This is an effort I’m proud to lead with Senator Budd, and I appreciate the work of my colleagues to ensure this network of cloud labs enables biotechnical research for the U.S. to lead in,” said Senator Fetterman.

“Cloud labs are essential to accelerating scientific discovery and lowering barriers to innovation in North Carolina and beyond. We applaud Senator Budd and Senator Fetterman for leading the National Programmable Cloud Lab Network Act, a transformative step that expands access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and strengthens U.S. leadership, advance high-tech workforce development, and spur biotech innovation across life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and national security,” said Doug Edgeton, President and CEO, North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech).

“Senator Budd’s leadership on the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act addresses a critical need in our industry. North Carolina life sciences companies are already using AI to accelerate drug discovery, optimize clinical trials, advance precision medicine, and support digital manufacturing. This legislation would codify the NSF’s vision for connected cloud laboratory networks, supporting the lab automation that our state’s companies are pioneering. We commend Senators Budd and Fetterman for this bipartisan effort to strengthen America’s research infrastructure,” said Laura Gunter, President, North Carolina Life Sciences Organization (NCLifeSci).

“Duke University wholeheartedly supports the creation of cloud laboratories for a variety of workloads – both traditional wet chemistry and biology lab work, but also the types of lab processes needed to support biotechnology. Duke feels strongly that the creation of standards and reusable workflows for sciences will help with lowering costs and increasing the repeatability of experiments,” said Jennifer Lodge, PhD, Duke University’s Vice President for Research and Innovation.

The National Programmable Cloud Lab Network Act is endorsed by NCBiotech, NCLifeSci, UNC Chapel Hill, Duke University, Carnegie Mellon University, SeedAI, Allegheny Conference on Community Development, Pittsburgh AI Strike Team, and Persist AI.

BACKGROUND

The NPCLN Act would codify existing NSF proposals to create a network of up to six PCL nodes through a competitive selection process open to academic, private-sector, and non-profit research institutions, or to partnerships among any of the three prior types of institutions.

Applicants for PCL node designation would be evaluated on:

The level of existing laboratory infrastructure with automated capabilities and data integration;

Capacity to support cloud-enabled workflows for multiple users;

Ability to sustain long-term operations without continuous federal funding;

Ability to collaborate with partners in academia, industry, or federal research entities;

Protocols for research security, cybersecurity, and responsible access;

Demonstration of user interest and research needs.

During committee markup, Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Andy Kim (D-N.J.) introduced an amendment that was adopted upon passage. The amendment adds an authorization for $30 million in funding over five years, allowing the six selected labs to receive up to $5 million per fiscal year. Additionally, the amendment requires one of the selected labs to support cloud-enabled biotechnology. The amendment was accepted by the committee and included in the final bill text, now headed to the Senate floor.

Senators Budd and Fetterman introduced the legislation in December 2025. Read more HERE.

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Budd, Peters, Hickenlooper Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Give States Flexibility to Respond to Local Workforce Needs

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) in reintroducing the Lifelong Learning Act,which would provide states and Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs) with budgetary flexibility to implement programming that responds directly to local employment needs. The bipartisan legislation would update the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to allocate additional resources to workforce training programs that address current talent shortages by upskilling existing employees and reconnecting individuals to the job market.

“In today’s labor market, practical knowledge and on-the-job training are essential, especially for workers who may have lost their jobs or who face some career uncertainty. Increasing funding flexibility for training programs and offering Workforce Development Boards more leeway is critical for modernizing the American workforce and closing the skills gap. I am proud to join Sen. Peters and Hickenlooper in this bipartisan effort that will help workers and employers alike keep our economy moving forward,” said Senator Budd.

“I’m proud to lead this commonsense legislation that would allow local workforce development leaders, who know their communities best, to implement the right strategies for strengthening their regional job markets. This bipartisan legislation empowers communities to respond to changing employment needs and connect more individuals to in-demand jobs,” said Senator Peters.

“If we want a workforce that can keep up with a changing economy, we have to give local communities the flexibility to adapt. This bill modernizes training programs and ensures investments go towards what actually works for Coloradans so they can succeed in the future,” said Senator Hickenlooper.

The Lifelong Learning Act is endorsed by Third Way and the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB).

BACKGROUND

The Lifelong Learning Act updates WIOA guidelines, allowing LWDBs to:

• Utilize up to 30 percent of their Adult and Dislocated Worker budget for Incumbent Worker Training (IWT), which helps employers equip current employees with in-demand skills that expand career opportunities and avert layoffs. IWT programs have been crucial in helping LWDBs respond to broad labor market issues, such as increased automation and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. WIOA currently limits LWDBs to investing no more than 20 percent of their budgets in IWT programs.

• Expand the allowable cap for transitional job training opportunities from 10 to 15 percent, allowing LWDBs to offer more programs aimed at recruiting individuals back into the labor force.

• Allow LWDBs to serve as the one-stop operators in local workforce areas to provide an integrated and coordinated system for the delivery of workforce development programs and services tailored to local needs. WIOA requires LWDBs to identify and select a one-stop operator through a competitive process, requiring approval of the Governor and chief elected officer.

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Budd, Welch, Luján, Curtis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Next Generation of Aviation

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, joined Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and John Curtis (R-Utah) in introducing the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act to streamline the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft. This bipartisan legislation sets timelines and standards for FAA’s certification process to prevent gridlock and provide clarity to industry applicants without compromising air safety. This bill will bring transparency to FAA certification, helpAmerican AAM companies succeed, and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation.

“Innovative aircraft like eVTOLs promise to revolutionize America’s aviation system, but the certification process for new entrants to our airspace lacks clarity and efficiency, delaying next-generation advanced air mobility development. I am pleased to join Sen. Welch, Rep. Nehls, and our colleagues to introduce legislation that will ensure the FAA prioritizes timely certification of novel aircraft, allowing manufacturers to focus their efforts on developing their groundbreaking technology, not bureaucratic hurdles,” said Senator Budd.

“Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Streamlining FAA certification processes and creating more transparency for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to chipping away at gridlock to keep up with our allies. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation that will bolster the United States’ storied legacy of global leadership in aviation—and support American and ingenuity and American jobs,” said Senator Welch.

“American innovators are shaping the future of flight, and Congress must ensure our regulatory framework keeps pace with that innovation. This bipartisan bill brings greater clarity and accountability to the FAA certification process, helping Advanced Air Mobility companies compete, grow, and keep the United States at the forefront of the next generation of flight. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this bipartisan effort to help American companies compete and succeed,” said Senator Curtis.

U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined as original co-sponsors of the legislation.

U.S. Representatives Troy E. Nehls (R-Texas-22), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), and Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is endorsed by: Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), Archer Aviation, the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Beta Technologies, Boeing, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Joby Aviation, and Wisk Aero.

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

AAM technology is a novel set of technologies that will enable innovative aircraft to integrate into our airspace system. Emerging U.S.-based AAM companies are also paving the way for new and innovative electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Supporting the United States’ continued leadership in AAM technology development will boost economic growth in American communities across the country.

Specifically, the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act:

• Streamlines FAA certification review standards by establishing set timelines for the Agency to respond to petitions for exemptions of aircraft type, and to develop means of compliance for aircraft outside of the existing types of AAM aircraft.

• Updates delegation guidance for type certification to cover new and novel technologies, including eVTOL aircraft.

• Directs the FAA to establish specific criteria to be used to support innovation in aviation and the development of new and novel technologies and ensure continued U.S. global leadership in aviation.

• Directs the FAA to report to the relevant congressional committees on the status of implementing the certification regulations.

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Capito Secures CDS Allocations for West Virginia University

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS) Appropriations Subcommittee, announced Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) allocations from the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Transportation (DOT), Commerce (DOC), Energy (DOE), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), for West Virginia University’s (WVU) School of Dentistry, WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, and WVU Research Corporation in Morgantown, W.Va., as well as the WVU Medicine-Weirton Medical Center in Weirton, W.Va.

These allocations, which were secured through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) requests made by Senator Capito in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), will support a number of WVU’s projects.

“For years, I have emphasized WVU’s outstanding network throughout our state,” Senator Capito said.“During the appropriations process, I worked closely with the university to identify areas of need, and it was clear that there were a number of projects that were priorities. These investments are a vital step toward ensuring that WVU’s immense and outstanding network continue delivering real results for West Virginians. I was proud to help secure these allocations that will have long-lasting benefits for WVU and our entire state.”

“Across West Virginia University, we are deeply grateful for Senator Capito’s leadership in securing critical FY 2026 appropriations to help advance our academic, research, and infrastructure priorities. Key investments include continued renovation for the School of Dentistry, upgrades to our one-of-a-kind PRT, replacement of essential scientific instrumentation in our Department of Chemistry, and support for a field study of naturally occurring hydrogen in eastern West Virginia,” Michael T. Benson, President of West Virginia University, said. “These investments will strengthen academic excellence, elevate the student experience in health sciences and STEM, expand our energy research portfolio, and sustain the long-term safety and reliability of our iconic PRT system as it marks 50 years in safely and efficiently transporting students across the Morgantown campus. Senator Capito’s steadfast support for our Mountaineer mission and the future of higher education in West Virginia means more than we can express.”

“Senator Capito has long championed WVU Medicine's efforts to transform lives and eliminate health disparities for all West Virginians, and the FY 2026 appropriations secured for us will allow us to continue that work in two key areas: the expansion of the Emergency Department at WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center and the creation of the Center for Neuromodulation and Brain Therapeutics at the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) in Morgantown,” Albert L. Wright, Jr., President and CEO of the West Virginia University Health System, said. “With Senator Capito's help, we will be able to expand the undersized and inefficient Emergency Department at Weirton Medical Center, allowing the staff there to better treat the increasing number of patients who go there for care. The funding Senator Capito secured for RNI will position it to improve outcomes for patients with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease — for which there are no well-understood causes or cures — and discover new insights into treatments that could be life changing for millions across our country. We are grateful for Senator Capito's continued support to bring world-class healthcare to the people of the Mountain State.”

Individual allocation details listed below:

$15,000,000 CDS allocation to the West Virginia University School of Dentistry (Morgantown, W.Va.) for renovation of the existing property and acquiring additional dental equipment.

$11,934,000 CDS allocation to the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (Morgantown, W.Va.) to support construction, as well as the acquisition of medical equipment, to establish the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Center for Neuromodulation and Brain Therapeutics.

$6,400,000 CDS allocation to the WVU Research Corporation (Morgantown, W.Va.) to make upgrades and renovations to the Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system.

$2,450,000 CDS allocation to the WVU Medicine-Weirton Medical Center (Weirton, W.Va.) to support renovation and expansion efforts to the existing emergency room.

$2,200,000 CDS allocation to the WVU Research Corporation (Morgantown, W.Va.) for instrumentation supporting BioNano and Chemistry NMR research facilities.

$233,000 CDS allocation to West Virginia University (Morgantown, W.Va.) for a field investigation into naturally occurring hydrogen opportunities in the state.

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Cassidy Raises National Security Concerns Over Chinese Technology, Supports Louisiana Fishermen at Senate Finance Hearing

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) raised concerns about protecting U.S. national security from Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-linked technology entering American markets through North American supply chains and questioned witnesses on stopping illegal fishing operations harming Louisiana fishermen during a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing.

At the hearing, Cassidy questioned witnesses on whether the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) review should include specific restrictions on CCP-linked connected vehicle components and autonomous vehicle software that could be used to surveil American drivers.

“These cars that could be manufactured, or the software which could be brought in cars manufactured in Mexico to the US, could be thoroughly equipped with things which would report back to the CCP,” asked Dr. Cassidy. “So should we have explicit restrictions on Chinese manufactured connected vehicle components and autonomous vehicle software?”

“This seems to be one of the highest priorities of the president and the ambassador, as well. It reflects the concerns of Congress in this area, as well. I predict that the economic security improvements and discussions in this review will be of the highest priority,” responded Kevin Brady, former U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee Chairman.

Cassidy then highlighted continued incursions by Mexican lanchas illegally harvesting red snapper in U.S. waters, which hurts Louisiana fishermen.

“Do you agree the tax agreement should prevent illegally harvested products from accessing U.S. markets? … Should the 2026 review incorporate anti-IUU fishing cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico?” asked Dr. Cassidy.

“I do think the review is an opportunity to bring these issues to the ambassador, the administration in these conversations,” responded Brady.

Background

Last month, Cassidy led nine Republican senators in urging the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to crack down on illegal fishing by Mexican vessels operating in U.S. waters, which undermines Louisiana fishermen and funds cartel activity. Cassidy and his colleagues called on NOAA to use its existing authorities to prevent illegally harvested red snapper from being sold in the United States and to protect law-abiding American fishermen.

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ICYMI: Cassidy Pens Op-Ed on Protecting Flood Insurance, Ensuring Stability for Homeowners

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) penned an op-ed in NOTUS highlighting his plan to make the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) affordable again. Cassidy outlined his legislation to make the program reliable for policyholders even during government shutdowns, ensuring that families remain protected regardless of political gridlock.

“There is the tragedy of the flood itself, but then there is the second tragedy of people forced to leave homes they’ve lived in for decades because once a property floods, affordable flood insurance becomes nearly impossible to secure,” wrote Dr. Cassidy.

“Americans’ flood protection should not depend on politicians’ ability to get their act together. That’s why I introduced legislation that would automatically maintain NFIP coverage if Congress misses a reauthorization deadline or if a government shutdown occurs, ensuring that families remain protected no matter what happens in Washington,” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Read the full op-ed here or below:

This bill would make flood insurance reliable — even when Washington isn’t.

Flooding has touched nearly every parish in Louisiana and every corner of the United States. Texas, New Mexico, Kentucky and New York all saw deadly flash flooding last year. New York City faced storms that brought “terrifying, freak flash flooding,” as the New York Post put it. We in Louisiana know well the pain flooding can cause.

There is the tragedy of the flood itself, but then there is the second tragedy of people forced to leave homes they’ve lived in for decades because once a property floods, affordable flood insurance becomes nearly impossible to secure.

Every flood is a little bit different, but the message I always emphasize is the same: Americans need stability. For millions, that stability is the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The program has provided Americans with access to affordable flood insurance for the last 50 years. Right now, it is being threatened.

In addition to experiencing repeated lapses in authorization, the NFIP has become vulnerable because Congress has tied its reauthorization to government funding legislation. As a result, government shutdowns can halt the issuance and renewal of flood insurance policies overnight, leaving families exposed when they need protection most. Last year, the nation experienced the longest government shutdown in American history — 43 days — right in the middle of hurricane season.

That NFIP lapse left 500,000 Louisianans and millions more across the country in jeopardy of losing their coverage. Over the past decade, Congress has passed 34 short-term extensions. Clearly, a program that is extended so often deserves a long-term solution. I have been working for years toward long-term authorization to provide stability for millions of Americans rebuilding after a flood.

Americans’ flood protection should not depend on politicians’ ability to get their act together. That’s why I introduced legislation that would automatically maintain NFIP coverage if Congress misses a reauthorization deadline or if a government shutdown occurs, ensuring that families remain protected no matter what happens in Washington. It fixes the damage caused by the Schumer Shutdown and provides the stability millions of Americans rely on to buy, rebuild and keep their homes safe. We also need to pass a long-term extension so NFIP policyholders can rely on the program to do what it’s supposed to: provide stability.

Until this program is sustainable for future generations, Americans will continue to drop the program, leaving their homes vulnerable and the program under threat. I hope Congress can come together and pass my bill to prevent the NFIP from having future lapses. Let’s keep the National Flood Insurance Program alive — and then let’s keep it strong, reliable and worthy of the trust that millions of American families place in it every day.

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Senator Collins’ Statement on Caribou’s Jessica Meir Commanding NASA’s Crew-12 Mission

Click HERE for a full-resolution image of Senator Collins and Dr. Meir in 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement after the successful launch of NASA’s Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station commanded by Caribou, Maine, native Dr. Jessica Meir:

“This morning, Dr. Jessica Meir, of Caribou, successfully lifted off as commander of NASA’s Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station. She previously spent more than 200 days aboard the ISS and helped carry out the first all-woman spacewalks in NASA history.

“Dr. Meir’s career is a source of pride for all Mainers, especially the people of Caribou. I join Mainers across our state and Americans across the country in wishing Jessica and her crewmates a successful mission and a safe return home.”

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Cornyn, Lee, GOP Colleagues File Amicus Brief Against Counting Late Ballots

AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT) filed an amicus brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to secure federal elections by excluding late ballots from being counted if received after the federally established Election Day. A copy of the brief can be found here.

“A uniform, nationwide Election Day is essential to the integrity of our elections and the sanctity of each American’s ballot,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m proud to stand with Senator Lee to ensure no late-arriving ballots received after Election Day are counted in federal elections.”

“Congress, exercising its constitutional authority to set the times, places, and manner of federal elections, designated one federal Election Day,” said Sen. Lee. “States counting ballots received after Election Day clearly violate the certainty, finality, and trust Congress intended to establish by having nationwide elections take place on one set date. I look forward to the Supreme Court recognizing that States are not permitted to conduct interminable rolling elections with late-arriving ballot surprises that invite fraud and undermine trust in American elections.”

The amicus brief is cosigned by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), James Lankford (R-OK), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Jim Justice (R-WV).

Background:

The amicus in Watson v. Republican National Committee argues that Congress established a uniform national Election Day to safeguard electoral integrity and that federalism requires respecting Congress’ constitutional authority to fix the time of federal elections. It also underscores that states are not free to hold “rolling elections” by continuing to count late-arriving ballots received days, weeks, or even months after Election Day, and that having a clear rule would also bolster election security and confidence in federal elections.

An amicus brief, or “friend of the court” brief, can be filed in order to address concerns and advise the Court on a matter of law that directly affects the case at hand.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353

February 13, 2026

Cotton to Makary: Investigate Unregulated Drug Ingredients from Communist China

Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to FDA Commissioner Martin Makary urging further investigation into unregulated pharmaceutical ingredients flowing into our country from Communist China. Illegal, unregulated active pharmaceutical ingredients pose significant health risks to Arkansans.

In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

“Thank you for your actions to combat unsafe ingredients in our pharmaceutical supply chain. I write to reiterate concerns about active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from unregulated Chinese entities that have made their way into our domestic supply chain. China’s access to America’s pharmaceutical supply chain presents national security risks as well as significant health risks to American patients.”

Full text of the letter may be found here and below.

February 13, 2026

The Honorable Martin Makary, M.D., M.P.H.

Commissioner

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

10903 New Hampshire Ave.

Silver Spring, MD 20993

Dear Commissioner Makary:

Thank you for your actions to combat unsafe ingredients in our pharmaceutical supply chain. I write to reiterate concerns about active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from unregulated Chinese entities that have made their way into our domestic supply chain. China’s access to America’s pharmaceutical supply chain presents national security risks as well as significant health risks to American patients.

A recent analysis from the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol shows that between September 2023 and January 2025, 195 illegal shipments of APIs, likely used in compounded weight loss medications, entered the U.S. market. Roughly 60 of the identified shipments originated from China and Hong Kong. It is estimated that as of January 2026, up to 1.5 million American patients could be using unregulated compounded weight loss medications that may contain potentially dangerous ingredients from Chinese manufacturers.

On February 6, 2026, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it was referring a prevalent U.S.-based marketer of under-regulated compounded medications to the Department of Justice for potential violations of federal law. I encourage further investigations into other entities that expose American patients to dangerous, unregulated Chinese APIs.

Tom Cotton

United States Senator

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Sen. Cramer: EPA Awards More Than $5 Million to North Dakota for Lead Service Line Replacements

BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the award of $5,459,000 to the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. This grant, provided through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, will support the replacement of lead service lines and related efforts, including their identification, planning, and design. Funding may also be used to create or update lead service line inventories and to deliver technical assistance to small water systems conducting inventory work or carrying out construction projects.


Sens. Cruz, Lee, and Scott Introduce Bill to Prevent Childcare Fraud

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) introduced the Payment Integrity Act. The bill counters fraud enabled by payments based on enrollment numbers and/or provided in advance. It requires states to pay childcare providers based on verified child attendance and clarifies that lead agencies may issue payments after childcare services have been delivered.

Sen. Cruz said, “Programs in Minnesota for welfare and childcare were designed to channel resources into protecting vulnerable children, but were treated like an open ATM by criminals. The mass fraud in Minnesota shows that American taxpayers can no longer rely on local and state politicians to prevent abuses, because those politicians often have electoral and partisan incentives to look the other way. My legislation reduces the risk of the waste and fraud we’ve seen, and ensures that resources are provided to children and families who need it.”

Sen. Lee said, “Support for childcare should go to real kids, not empty rooms. Fake childcare operations are stealing funding from the ones who are actually taking care of America’s children in need. Our bill will address this massive fraud by granting funding based on actual attendance rather than reported enrollment, and allowing states to pay retroactively instead of in advance. This is the due diligence that should have been implemented all along.”

Sen. Scott said, “I’m proud to join Senator Ted Cruz in cosponsoring the Payment Integrity Act to restore common sense and accountability to our child care system after we’ve seen astounding reports of fraud and abuse. Hardworking American taxpayer dollars should only go toward services that are actually provided, not thrown carelessly without checking. This bill ensures the federal government is held accountable as stewards of tax dollars and reduces fraud and waste, so we can safeguard the critical resources for the families who truly depend on this support.”

Click here to read the bill.

BACKGROUND:

In Minnesota, 118,831 children ages five and under are eligible for CCDBG assistance, yet only 11,718 of those children—roughly 10%— received this support in 2025. As a result, the individuals exposed in Minnesota who stole upwards of $9 billion from American taxpayers did not merely commit financial fraud—they also diverted limited child care assistance away from families who genuinely need it.

On January 5th, Health and Human Services proposed this rule to rescind a Biden-era rule that reduced oversight and heightened the likelihood of waste, fraud, and abuse in federally funded child care. The Payment Integrity Act would codify the proposed language to restore attendance-based billing and would no longer require that providers be paid in advance.


Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Next Generation of Aviation

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jerry Moran (R-KA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act, bipartisan legislation to streamline the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft. The senators’ legislation aims to help American AAM companies succeed and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. The bill would bolster FAA bandwidth to prevent certification process gridlock by providing more clarity and transparency for industry applicants. Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“American innovators are shaping the future of flight, and Congress must ensure our regulatory framework keeps pace with that innovation,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill brings greater clarity and accountability to the FAA certification process, helping Advanced Air Mobility companies compete, grow, and keep the United States at the forefront of the next generation of flight. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this bipartisan effort to help American companies compete and succeed.”

“Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Streamlining FAA certification processes and creating more transparency for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to chipping away at gridlock to keep up with our allies,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation that will bolster the United States’ storied legacy of global leadership in aviation—and support American and ingenuity and American jobs.”

“Innovative aircraft like eVTOLs promise to revolutionize America’s aviation system, but the certification process for new entrants to our airspace lacks clarity and efficiency, delaying next-generation advanced air mobility development. I am pleased to join Sen. Welch, Rep. Nehls, and our colleagues to introduce legislation that will ensure the FAA prioritizes timely certification of novel aircraft, allowing manufacturers to focus their efforts on developing their groundbreaking technology, not bureaucratic hurdles,” said Senator Budd.

“Streamlining FAA type certification processes for advanced aviation technologies like advanced air mobility will help to strengthen America’s global leadership in aviation innovation,” said Senator Moran. “This bipartisan legislation would support emerging aerospace technologies and bolster the aviation industry in Kansas and across the country by removing unnecessary gridlock and increasing transparency in the type certification process.”

“The United States is no stranger to innovation, and we must continue to protect our competitive edge in aviation,” said Senator Lummis. “The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act strengthens American leadership in aerospace by promoting innovation and development without compromising safety. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Welch and Senator Budd to keep America at the forefront of aviation and ensure our leadership in the skies.”

“America is the birthplace of aviation, whose innovative spirit has led to the likes of Chuck Yeager and Neil Armstrong forging new frontiers for science and industry. As a lifelong aviator, father to an aspiring pilot, and founder of an aerospace business, I firmly believe America can and must maintain aviation dominance. By streamlining bureaucracy, increasing transparency, and giving innovators the certainty they need to move at the speed of competition — without compromising safety – the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act will help accomplish this critical mission,” said Senator Sheehy.

“Advanced Air Mobility platforms will revolutionize the American economy. The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is a crucial step to securing American drone dominance. Our bill will provide much needed clarity and certainty as we seek to establish American leadership in these critical technologies and lay the groundwork for the future of air transportation,” said Senator Young.

“As the world enters a new era of advanced aviation and the rise of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), the aviation community—including right here in Utah—must adapt and evolve to stay ahead. The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act lays out the framework and rigor needed to accelerate this transformation, setting the stage for safer, smarter, and more secure skies. At 47G, we are proud to stand behind this legislation,” said Aaron Starks, CEO and President of 47G. “It reinforces the values we share, safety, security, and economic viability—and aligns with our vision of building one of the nation’s most dynamic AAM ecosystems. This act isn’t just about policy; it’s about unlocking innovation, strengthening America’s global competitiveness, and creating opportunities that will shape the future of flight.”

“We move people—and the things they need—using more than just roads,” said Carlos Braceras, Executive Director of the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT). “As Utah’s population grows and we face increasing demands on our ground transportation system, we know that advanced air mobility offers innovative new solutions to address our evolving mobility needs.”

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology is a novel collection of technologies that will allow new, innovative aircraft to integrate into our airspace system. Emerging U.S.-based AAM companies are also paving the way for new and innovative electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Supporting the United States’ continued leadership in AAM technology development will boost economic growth in American communities across the country.

Specifically, the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act:

Streamlines FAA certification review standards by establishing set timelines for the Agency to respond to petitions for exemptions of aircraft type, and to develop means of compliance for aircraft outside of the existing types of AAM aircraft.

Updates delegation guidance for type certification to cover new and novel technologies, including eVTOL aircraft.

Directs the FAA to establish specific criteria to be used to support innovation in aviation and the development of new and novel technologies and ensure continued U.S. global leadership in aviation.

Directs the FAA to report to the relevant congressional committees on the status of implementing the certification regulations.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is endorsed by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), Archer Aviation, the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Beta Technologies, Boeing, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Joby Aviation, and Wisk Aero.


Duckworth, Murray, Hirono, Warren Lead Democratic Colleagues in Demanding VA Rescind Draconian Abortion Care Ban for Veterans

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC)—and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today led 29 other Senate Democrats in calling on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to immediately rescind the VA’s extreme, cruel new policy that bans the VA from providing abortion counseling and care to Veterans, even in cases of rape, incest and health endangerment. In their letter, the Senators lambasted the Trump Administration for finding yet another disgusting way to betray our brave heroes.

“Our Veterans put their lives on the line to safeguard our freedoms, yet you and President Trump—who has never served a day in his life—are denying our heroes the care they have earned,” wrote the lawmakers. “Refusing to provide abortion care in cases of rape and incest is cruel and can compound existing mental health conditions for Veterans, who are already at an elevated risk for experiencing sexual assault and rape.”

The Senators also highlighted how this decision would effectively deny abortion care to Veterans living in states with abortion restrictions or bans.

“Women are the fastest growing segment of the Veteran population and approximately 462,000 women Veterans of reproductive age are enrolled in VA healthcare,” the Senators wrote. “More than half of these women Veterans live in states with abortion bans or restrictions…the VA might have been their only opportunity to access urgently needed abortion care.”

In addition to Duckworth, Murray, Hirono and Warren, the letter is co-signed by SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jack Reed (D-RI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Gary Peters (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Maria Cantwell (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chris Coons (D-DE), Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM).

The letter is endorsed by the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Guttmacher, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), SPARTA, National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) and Modern Military Association of America.

A copy of the letter can be found below and on Senator Duckworth’s website:

Dear Secretary Collins:

We write to express our extreme concern regarding your final rule (“Reproductive Health Services,” 90 FR 61310) banning the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from providing abortion counseling and care to Veterans and their families including in cases of rape, incest or health endangerment. In light of the devastating harm this will cause to Veterans and their loved ones, especially those living in states with extreme abortion bans, we urge you to rescind this policy without delay.

Women are the fastest growing segment of the Veteran population and approximately 462,000 women Veterans of reproductive age are enrolled in VA healthcare. More than half of these women Veterans live in states with abortion bans or restrictions. Further, about 62,000 reproductive-age women enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) also live in such states.

In response to the devastating Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling in 2022, which erroneously overturned the nearly five decades of precedent establishing a constitutional right to abortion, VA promulgated an interim final rule allowing the Department to offer abortion counseling and abortion care in cases of rape, incest, life or health endangerment of the pregnant Veteran or CHAMPVA beneficiary. For Veterans living in abortion ban states, this rulemaking acknowledged that the VA might have been their only opportunity to access urgently needed abortion care. It also removed the Department’s full, no-exceptions ban on abortion care and counseling. VA finalized this rule in March 2024.

The United States is facing a healthcare crisis. This is especially true for Veterans living in states that are hostile to abortion who depend on their local VA facility for their healthcare. As such, we were disturbed by your August 2025 decision to publish a proposed rule to reinstate the ban on abortions and abortion counseling at VA—a failure for all who have served our country. We were similarly concerned by the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) December 2025 slip opinion memo rolling back this essential healthcare and VA’s subsequent internal directive to comply with the DOJ opinion immediately. VA took these actions before issuing its final rule regarding this policy change, which VA published on December 31, 2025.

Veterans are particularly vulnerable to health complications during pregnancy and are at higher risk of certain factors associated with maternal morbidity and mortality compared to non-Veterans. For example, in 2024, the Government Accountability Office reported that mental health conditions, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are more common among pregnant Veterans than non-pregnant Veterans and pregnant women in the general population. These conditions may put Veterans at increased risk for gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia—a pregnancy-related high blood pressure disorder that can lead to the onset of seizures or coma. Providing abortion care only when, purportedly, Veterans’ lives are in danger and forcing VA providers to decipher this uncodified policy on their own, fails to address pregnant Veterans’ health risks in such situations. Your chaotic, unclear and negligent directive will require VA providers to make the impossible determination of whether a Veteran is close enough to death to be covered under the “threat to life” exception before providing needed medical care.

Refusing to provide abortion care in cases of rape and incest is cruel and can compound existing mental health conditions for Veterans, who are already at an elevated risk for experiencing sexual assault and rape. An estimated one in three women Veterans report experiencing sexual assault or harassment while serving in the military, and military sexual trauma is associated with a range of mental health and other medical conditions that can result in devastating maternal health outcomes.

Before your cruel change to VA’s abortion policy, the Department allowed abortion care only in certain, limited circumstances. Your policy will now ban VA providers from even discussing abortion with their Veteran patients. It will block pregnant Veterans whose health is in danger, or who are survivors of rape or incest, from getting the basic counseling or care that they need and deserve.

Our Veterans put their lives on the line to safeguard our freedoms, yet you and President Trump —who has never served a day in his life—are denying our heroes the care they have earned. Implementing this shameful and indefensible policy over the winter holidays, without public notice, and before finalizing your proposed rule adds further insult to injury. We vehemently oppose your actions and demand the final rule, the DOJ slip opinion and VA’s internal directive be rescinded immediately.

Sincerely,

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Durbin, Senate Democrats Sound Alarm On Dramatic Increase In Deaths In Immigration Detention

In letter to Noem and Lyons, Senate Democrats cite 30+ deaths since the start of the Trump Administration with concern over continued expansion of immigration detention

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led 22 Senate Democrats in sounding the alarm on the dramatic increase in deaths in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention, with over 30 deaths since the start of the Trump Administration.

In a letter to Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE senior official Todd Lyons, the Senators write: “Even as the country reels from the senseless deaths of Americans killed or grievously injured by federal agents in Minneapolis, Chicago, and Los Angeles, we have also been shocked to see the dramatic increase in deaths in immigration detention on your watch. Seven people died in the month of December 2025 alone, and six have died since the start of the new year. This rapidly increasing number of deaths is a clear byproduct of the Trump Administration’s dangerous and poorly executed mass deportation agenda—one focused on detaining as many immigrants as possible, not just the ‘worst of the worst,’ for extended periods of time. We urge you to use the unprecedented resources at your disposal to reinvigorate your agency’s detention oversight efforts, investigate these deaths, and provide those in your custody with adequate medical care.”

The Senators then cited harrowing incidents of death in detention, including guards choking a man to death, an apparent suicide, and others.

The Senators continued: “Armed with an unprecedented and unjustified funding increase from the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, ICE has dramatically expanded its detention capacity and now is holding approximately 73,000 people nationwide—many with no criminal history—while failing to release even the most vulnerable individuals. The Administration recently doubled down on its commitment to scale up detention, soliciting private companies to warehouse staggering numbers of immigrants in massive industrial facilities capable of housing up to 8,000 people at once. By comparison, the largest federal prison has approximately 4,000 inmates. New massive facilities—one near Phoenix cost $70 million and is the size of seven football fields—add to the rapidly expanding number of detention contracts held by private prison companies and local and county jails. ICE is even reopening facilities that previously were closed due to medical neglect and systemic understaffing.”

The Senators then admonished the Administration for its irresponsibility, writing: “Though deaths in detention have occurred under every Administration, under your leadership, individuals are dying in shocking numbers. Rather than accepting responsibility for deaths in government custody and providing detailed facts about the circumstances of each death, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has attempted to smear deceased individuals’ reputations by emphasizing details about their immigration status and their alleged wrongdoing in the United States.”

The Senators cited repeated false claims by the Administration that ICE provides adequate detention conditions and medical care. They pointed to the agency’s failure to pay third-party medical providers for months, continued contracting with medical service providers known for substandard care, and internal audits documenting violations of detention standards. They also referenced deaths of individuals with treatable diseases, interference by immigration agents in medical treatment, and an analysis of 911 calls demonstrating system overwhelmed by unmet medical needs and urgent care requests.

The Senators concluded, before making a series of information requests: “At a time when record numbers of people are dying in ICE custody, it is unacceptable that the agency continues to restrict congressional oversight of detention facilities, including by unlawfully requiring Members of Congress to alert ICE seven days prior to detention visits, a policy recently blocked by a federal court, and failing to provide mandated reporting with details about the deaths. Each death in ICE custody is a tragedy and, based on the evidence available from agency records, 911 calls, and medical experts, many could have been prevented if not for this Administration’s decisions.”

In addition to Durbin, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

For a PDF of the letter, click here.

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Durbin Talks With Illinois Soybean Association

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today met members of the Illinois Soybean Association. During their meeting, they discussed the expensive costs of farming, the high price of losing Illinois soybean markets in China to Brazil as a result of U.S. trade policy, and the broken Farm Bill process. The group also advocated for keeping biodiesel goals strong when approving the all-year sale of E-15 – a bill supported by Durbin. For the past several years, Durbin has secured an emergency waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to allow for the biofuel’s summertime sale.

“Today, I spoke with members of the Illinois Soybean Association to discuss the farm economy. I believe those now in charge in Washington have broken their promise to farmers, because today’s constant, chaotic policies are making farming far too expensive,” said Durbin. “The Trump Administration is also attacking farm research, which if not stopped, will hand global leadership in this area to China. I encouraged the Illinois Soybean Association to maintain their support for three important projects targeted by the Trump Administration: the USDA Agriculture Research Lab in Peoria, and the two labs at the University of Illinois, the Soybean Innovation Lab, and the National Soybean Germplasm Collection.”

Photos of the meeting are available here.

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Gallego in MeidasTouch: “A New Marshall Plan”

WASHINGTON – In a new op-ed published today in MeidasTouch, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) warns that the Trump administration’s aggressive approach to foreign policy in the Western Hemisphere weakens our alliances, destabilizes the region, and makes the hemisphere less secure.

This comes as Senator Gallego is set to speak on a panel at the Munich Security Conference tomorrow titled “Western Hemisfever: Security in the Americas.” The discussion will focus on shifting U.S. foreign policy toward the Western Hemisphere and evolving regional security dynamics.

Read the op-ed below:

MeidasTouch: A New Marshall Plan

When I visited Colombia last August as one of the first Colombian-American members of the Senate, I met with members of their legislature, foreign ministers, and other leaders. Regardless of where they stood on the political spectrum, the message from leaders was the same—they were worried about the U.S.-Colombian relationship—one that historically has been one of the strongest in the Western Hemisphere. And one that Trump is wrecking.

Since that trip, Trump went on to decertify Colombia, cutting foreign aid that equips the country to combat drug trafficking. He then sanctioned the President of Colombia, President Petro, and sparred with him in dueling public comments filled with personal insults.

I have been clear about my criticisms of the Petro regime. I have pushed him directly on doing more to combat the drug-trafficking in Colombia that eventually reaches Arizona’s southern border. But instead of leading with ego as Trump has done, the United States needs to be a stabilizing force in the region.

The Administration’s posture towards Colombia echoes its broader policy in Latin America of going in with gunboat diplomacy instead of strengthening our alliances in the region. We are a little over one year into a second Trump Presidency and he has already invaded Venezuela and kidnapped Maduro; threatened to bomb one of our closest allies, Mexico; and imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil based on his sympathy for right-wing former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, despite our consistent trade surplus. One of his first actions in his second term was levying reckless tariffs on countries. The rationale was not based on whether a country engaged in unfair trade practices, but rather as a way to dole out punishment and rewards regardless of how it hurts American workers and consumers.

Trump approaches foreign policy and trade like a mob boss, believing that if a country fears the U.S., they will obey the U.S.

But if the U.S. keeps going down this road, we won’t have partners in the Western Hemisphere to fight against threats to our security.

The Trump administration claims its aggressive foreign policy approach is about putting America first. But in reality, picking fights with and threatening our Latin American allies destroys the very partnerships we need to counteract adversaries like China and makes us less secure.

We should be working closely with our allies instead of driving them right into China’s arms.

Right now, China is investing aggressively in Latin America. Beijing is financing ports, telecommunications infrastructure, digital networks, and critical mineral mining hoping to shape Latin America’s future economy. China is already the second-largest trading partner for Latin America after the U.S.

Every time we push our allies away, China cements its influence.

We need to counter this influence with a better alternative – a North-South security strategy for the Americas.

First, that starts with packing up the egoistic power trips, acting like adults, and working with our allies in a way that strengthens America’s national security.

Second, we need to incentivize Latin America to partner with the U.S. first. We need a modern Marshall Plan for the Americas to counter China’s influence. If a country needs to modernize a port, we should be able to say “here’s competitive financing, here’s a timeline, here are the labor standards.” If an ally wants to expand their telecommunications infrastructure, we should be offering them technology that protects their data. And instead of letting China dominate the space for critical minerals for batteries, AI, and clean energy, we should be investing to create U.S. company capacity and building those supply chains together across the Americas. If we work in unison, we have the dominance to ensure the future is written by us, not by Beijing.

The same logic applies to countering criminal networks. And as a border-state Senator, I know firsthand that we have a stronger shot at fighting cartels and stopping dangerous drugs from coming across our southern border when we’re working with Latin America countries not actively alienating them.

The Trump worldview is not the dominant view of American foreign policy – I make a point of telling that to every foreign leader I meet. There are leaders in the U.S. who still believe in diplomacy.

But what Trump is doing right now weakens our alliances, destabilizes the Western Hemisphere, emboldens China, and makes everyone less safe. America First has turned into America Last.

And the sooner we return to a foreign policy grounded in cooperation, the safer the Western Hemisphere will be.


Gallego Introduces Bill to Require Holiday Pay

Going into Presidents Day weekend, Senator Gallego is introducing a bill that would require time and a half pay on federal holidays

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Holiday Pay Act to require employers pay time and a half for working federal holidays.

READ MORE: Ruben Gallego Wants You to Get Paid More for Working on Holidays (The New Republic)

“Across the country, people are working harder than ever yet seeing their paychecks barley stretch to meet their basic needs. Many Americans are working holidays because they need the money and giving up precious time with family and loved ones to do so. They deserve to be fairly compensated for their sacrifice,” said Senator Gallego. “The Holiday Pay Act ensures hardworking people are rewarded for the extra hours they put in – raising paychecks and making life a little easier for those who keep our country running.”

You can read the full text of the legislation HERE.

“Working people are living on the edge, working longer and harder than ever before and getting less in return. On holidays, workers across the country clock in so the rest of us can enjoy a day of relaxation or reflection with our families—and their work should be fairly compensated. At a time when working people worry about every bill, every purchase, and every paycheck, the Holiday Pay Act is a basic step toward dignity and respect on the job, ensuring workers get the pay they deserve for the work they do,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.

“When someone works on a federal holiday, they’re not just putting in hours, they’re giving up time with their family that they can’t get back. Workers like the interpreters at Language Line Solutions know this sacrifice well, as they are often expected to work holidays at their regular rate of pay,” said Claude Cummings Jr., President of the Communications Workers of America. “The Holiday Pay Act recognizes that this sacrifice deserves more than gratitude, it deserves fair compensation. Establishing time-and-a-half pay as a minimum standard for holiday work is a simple, common-sense way to respect workers’ time, sacrifice, and the essential work they continue to provide.”

“Railroad workers have always known that holidays don’t stop the work of keeping this country running. While most Americans are home with their families, rail workers are moving food, fuel, and critical goods that our economy and country depend on. Senator Gallego’s Holiday Pay Act finally recognizes that reality. This bill will ensure that when we work on federal holidays (as we always have), we are compensated fairly for that sacrifice. Just as important, it offers long-overdue acknowledgment and respect for the essential service rail workers provide every day of the year. SMART-TD is proud to endorse this legislation, and we thank Senator Gallego for standing with railroad workers and essential workers across this country,” said Jared Cassity, SMART-TD’s National Safety & Legislative Director.

The Holiday Pay Act is also supported by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), Transport Workers Union of America, Iron Workers, United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen-International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BLET-IBT), Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division-International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BMWED-IBT), Teamsters Rail Conference, UNITE HERE, and National Employment Law Project.


Gallego, Kelly Respond to New Report Confirming Arizona Is Shortchanged on Federal Energy Assistance

Gallego and Kelly introduced the LIHEAP Parity Act of 2025 to fix outdated formula

WASHINGTON — Today, Arizona Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly responded to a new report from Duke University’s Heat Policy Innovation Hub finding that an outdated federal assistance formula is leaving hot-weather states like Arizona systematically underfunded under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), even as extreme heat drives record energy costs for low-income families.

The report finds that historic underfunding of the LIHEAP program means that fewer than 20 percent of income-eligible households nationwide receive assistance each year. However, decades-old provisions in the LIHEAP statute disproportionately benefit cold-weather states while Arizona and other states receive the lowest funding per eligible household. The analysis concludes that current funding does not reflect today’s energy realities and recommends aligning LIHEAP allocations with each state’s share of low-income home energy expenditures as the statute originally intended.

Last year, Gallego and Kelly introduced the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Parity Act of 2025to fix this outdated formula and ensure federal home energy assistance is distributed equitably and reflects current energy needs.

“In Arizona, access to affordable cooling is a matter of life and death. But the formula that determines how much federal energy assistance our state receives leaves Arizona and other hot-weather states behind, and this report confirms it,” said Senator Gallego. “Our LIHEAP Parity Act would fix this injustice and help ensure families, seniors, and Arizonans with disabilities can afford to keep the A/C on and stay safe.”

“Arizona families are living through longer, hotter summers, and their energy bills reflect that reality,” said Senator Kelly. “But federal energy assistance is still being distributed using a formula written decades ago that doesn’t reflect today’s climate or costs. This report makes it clear that reform is overdue. Our LIHEAP Parity Act makes a straightforward fix so that federal energy assistance goes where it’s actually needed and helps more families keep the A/C running during dangerous heat events.”

LIHEAP is the federal government’s primary program for helping low-income households pay their energy bills. However, outdated provisions mean that LIHEAP funding unfairly benefits cold-weather states. These provisions were meant to ease the transition to a fairer formula, but instead, they’ve locked in long-term funding imbalances that disadvantage hot-weather states like Arizona. In 2023, less than five percent of eligible households in Arizona received LIHEAP assistance, whereas almost 90 percent of Michigan’s eligible households were served by this life-saving program.

Gallego and Kelly’s LIHEAP Parity Act of 2025 removes outdated “hold-harmless” provisions that have distorted how regular LIHEAP funds are distributed across states, locking in preferences for colder regions at the expense of hotter states like Arizona. The bill amends the underlying formula to ensure funding is based on current energy needs and usage—so resources go where they’re most needed.

Specifically, the bill:

Strikes the 1980s-era hold-harmless provisions from the LIHEAP allocation formula.

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to publicly disclose the data sources used in the formula and how often they’re updated.

Read the full report from Duke University HERE.


Gallego Statement on Secretary Noem’s Save Act Press Conference in Arizona

ARIZONA – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released the following statement following Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference in Arizona on election security:

“If the Trump Administration wants to talk election integrity, let’s talk about January 6th. Let’s talk about how the President of the United States called the Governor of Arizona to order him to hand over the election he squarely lost. Let’s talk about the Big Lie and the fact that Donald Trump will discard your vote if it’s not for him.

“Republicans have 0 legs to stand on.

“I am willing to work with them on election integrity if they come from a place of good faith. I agree that noncitizens should never be voting in our elections.

“If the SAVE Act is designed to protect our elections, we must make sure it does not limit the ability for citizens to exercise their right to vote. Americans should not have to pay extra money or drive 4 to 5 hours away to make their voices heard. Many Arizonans do not want the hassle of sending in a photocopy of their ID with each mail-in ballot.

“The right to vote is sacred in this country—and I will not vote for anything that threatens it.

“Do not fall for their frenzy. Do not forget who tried to rob you of your God-given right.

“When I became a Marine, I swore an oath to protect the Constitution. I risked my life in Iraq over and over in defense of our core American values. On January 6th, my commitment was put to the test again. And I won’t stop fighting to defend those rights now.”


Senators Gillibrand And Marshall Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Modernize And Protect Vital Nutrition Program

U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the 21st Century WIC Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at modernizing the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) while strengthening safeguards to ensure benefits are delivered to those who need them.

The legislation allows WIC participants to complete certification and recertification through secure phone or video appointments, while still requiring at least one in-person visit to ensure personalized support and necessary health screenings. Through the use of technology, the legislation expands access for busy families, reduces barriers like lack of transportation and time off work, and brings WIC into the next generation for moms and their children.

“No child in America should go hungry. Making WIC work better for families is one of the most effective ways we can help children and mothers get the nutrition they need to thrive,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Families shouldn’t face unnecessary barriers when we have the technology to improve WIC participation. By providing greater flexibility for WIC participants, we can ensure red tape doesn’t stand in the way of parents working to put food on the table. I’m proud to partner with Senator Marshall to introduce this bipartisan legislation and support families across the country.”

“For families in rural Kansas and across the country, repeated trips to a government office can be a real hardship,” said Senator Marshall. “This legislation keeps an important in-person safeguard while using modern technology to cut waste, prevent abuse, and make sure WIC works the way it should — efficiently, responsibly, and with compassion for the families it serves.”

“21st century families need 21st century care. Virtual WIC services are critical to lowering barriers so families can access healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and health referrals. Research by the National WIC Association and the Nutrition Policy Institute found that 80% of participants surveyed said virtual services reduced preexisting barriers like transportation. The 21st Century WIC Act will help ensure families, especially in rural areas, can continue accessing WIC while maintaining the highest standards of program integrity. We are so grateful to Senators Marshall and Gillibrand for their leadership on this key issue,” said Georgia Machell, President and CEO, National WIC Association.

The two waivers proposed to be codified in this bill would:

Allow participants to get WIC certification or recertification through video, teleconference, or phone.

Allow participants to receive their WIC benefits on WIC EBT cards through mail or remote issuance instead of physically picking up or reloading benefits in person at a WIC office.

The legislation also requires the Secretary of Agriculture to submit a report to Congress outlining the uses of remote technologies, the impact of remote technologies, and best practices.

Click here to read the full text of the legislation.

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Grassley Announces Staff Traveling Office Hours in Eastern Iowa

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley’s (R-Iowa) staff will hold traveling office hours in four counties from Feb. 23 to Feb. 25, 2026. Iowans seeking assistance with a federal agency or wishing to share their views may stop by during the scheduled hours listed below.

NOTE: Senator Grassley will not be in attendance. He will be represented by his Regional Director, Rochelle Fuller of Cedar Rapids.

“I can't meet face-to-face with all three million Iowans, so in addition to mail and telephone communication, my staff holds traveling office hours to ensure my constituents’ concerns are heard and their problems are addressed,” Grassley said. “I encourage Iowans needing assistance to stop by during these upcoming traveling office hours to meet with my staff or contact one of my offices.”

The schedule is as follows:

Monday, February 23

Tama County

11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Tama County Administration Office

104 West State Street

Toledo

Benton County

1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Belle Plaine City Hall

1207 8th Avenue

Belle Plaine

Tuesday, February 24

Jones County

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Wregie Memorial Library

105 West Broadway Street

Oxford Junction

Wednesday, February 25

Linn County

9 – 10 a.m.

Fairfax City Hall

300 80th Street Court

Fairfax


Q&A: Older Iowans – Don’t Miss Out on New Tax Savings

Q: What do Iowa seniors need to know about the new enhanced tax deduction?

A: The Republican-led Congress last year passed historic tax relief for Americans that included a new enhanced tax deduction for seniors effective for tax years 2025 through 2028. These savings are geared to help older taxpayers living on fixed incomes make ends meet. Iowans need to be aware of this new provision when they file their tax returns so they don’t miss out on the savings. For tax year 2025, taxpayers must have been born before Jan. 2, 1961 to qualify. The enhanced tax deduction allows eligible seniors to deduct up to $6,000 (individuals) or up to $12,000 (filing jointly) on their tax returns. The deduction gradually phases out for individual taxpayers with income above $75,000/$150,000 for joint filers. This enhanced deduction that President Trump signed into law on July 4th as part of the landmark Working Families Tax Cuts Act adds up to sizable tax savings for seniors. Keep in mind, the enhanced deduction increases the amount of income seniors can earn before owing federal income tax in addition to any other deductions they may qualify for, including the standard deduction and additional standard deduction for the elderly or blind. For the 2025 tax year, the standard deduction and additional deduction for the elderly amount to $34,700 for those married filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse; and, $17,750 for single. Combined with the enhanced tax deduction, qualifying seniors’ income up to $23,750 for individuals and $46,700 for married seniors filing jointly is shielded from federal income tax. I hear regularly from Iowa seniors who stretch every dollar to pay the bills. I’m glad the Working Families Tax Cuts law will allow them to keep more of their own money in their pockets.

To claim the deduction, individuals must have a valid Social Security Number that is issued by the Social Security Administration before their 2025 tax return is due. IMPORTANT: On IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR, check the box indicating you are 65 or older. The IRS will automatically add the enhanced deduction amount for eligible filers.

Q: What free tax help is available for lower income seniors needing assistance?

A: For more than five decades, the IRS has sponsored free basic tax preparation services in local communities across the country through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs. These programs offer free tax preparation services by IRS-certified community volunteers across the state. The VITA program is available for taxpayers with an adjusted gross household income of $69,000 or less in 2025. The TCE program offers free tax help to individuals age 60 or older, with expertise available for questions about pensions and retirement-related issues. Appointments typically are required and can fill quickly. Be sure to bring along wage and earnings statements from employers (W-2s) and interest and dividend statements (Forms 1099), as well as a photo ID; last year’s tax return; and, Social Security card. To file taxes electronically on a married-filing jointly return, both spouses must be present to sign the forms.

Find a VITA or TCE site providing free tax help nearest you at https://freetaxassistance.for.irs.gov/s/sitelocator, or call (800) 906-9887.

See additional information below for the following locations.

• The Iowa Center for Economic Success operates 17 VITA sites. To find a location and schedule an appointment, go to https://theiowacenter.org/vita.

• Iowa State University students offer free tax preparation services for Central Iowans. VITA clinics are available Monday-Thursday evenings on campus in the Gerdin Business Building and Friday afternoons in Boone at the Des Moines Area Community College. Individuals may also schedule appointments at the public libraries in Story City, Ames or Nevada.

• Iowa State Extension and Outreach operates VITA clinics in 26 county offices. Find those at https://www.extension.iastate.edu/humansciences/vita

• Johnson County offers VITA services at the Iowa City Public Library through April 8, 2026. Schedule an appointment at https://www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/vita

• University of Northern Iowa (UNI) accounting students participate in the VITA program and provide free tax preparation to eligible individuals in the Cedar Valley community. The clinic operates on Wednesday evenings on campus at the Curris Business Building through the first week of April. UNI VITA operates on a first-come, first-served, walk-in basis. For more information, call (319) 273-2394.


Senator Hassan Reintroduces Bill to Improve Child Care Access for Working Families

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Todd Young (R-IN) to improve access to affordable child care for parents working nontraditional hours. The After Hours Child Care Act would help child care providers expand operating hours and build partnerships with businesses, so that parents can remain in the workforce and provide for their families while working outside of the traditional work hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Congressman Chris Pappas helps lead companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“At a time when many families are struggling with high costs, we need to do more to help parents find and afford child care so that they can work and support their families, including when their jobs require early mornings, late nights, or weekend shifts,” said Senator Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will help families across New Hampshire and the country access affordable child care that works with their schedules.”

“There are many successful child care models that could work for New Hampshire families, and we must expand affordable child care options to meet the needs of parents working all types of jobs and hours,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would expand existing programs and encourage the establishment of new ones, supporting working parents and strengthening our workforce and economy.”

In communities across America, major industries such as health care, advanced manufacturing, and logistics rely on workers for early morning or late-night shifts, as well as weekend availability. The After Hours Child Care Act would help fill these high-demand roles by removing barriers created by a lack of child care accessibility, especially in rural communities.

If enacted, the After Hours Child Care Act would:

Expand capacity for an existing child care program to serve families working nontraditional hours

Support efforts to establish an on-site child care program at a workplace

Ensure that federal funds supplement current efforts by requiring a 25 percent match

Require a report every two years on the bill’s effectiveness in improving child care availability

Senator Hassan continues to advocate for more help for hardworking families across New Hampshire and throughout the country. As part of government funding legislation that was recently signed into law, she secured increased funding for programs such as the Child Care and Development Block Grant and Head Start, which help families afford child care. Senator Hassan also introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that married couples employed by the same employer are no longer unfairly limited in the amount of earned family and medical leave that they can take, and legislation that would provide a tax cut to 3.5 million working families with children by allowing them to begin receiving the Child Tax Credit starting with the first dollar they earn.

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Santa Fe New Mexican: New Mexico FEMA claims office director Jay Mitchell put on administrative leave

Two of the top officials at the Federal Emergency Management Agency office in charge of compensating victims of the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire have been placed on administrative leave, according to an email.

The move comes after news outlets reported Jay Mitchell, director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office since 2024, had received a letter of determination from the claims office indicating he and his wife were offered a little over $266,000 in compensation for smoke and ash damage to their Angel Fire home — even as many victims of the massive fire and flooding in Northern New Mexico were still waiting for their claims to be filled.

“FEMA has placed the Program Manager and Deputy Program Manager on administrative leave. This step does not reflect a finding of wrongdoing,” states an internal FEMA email obtained by news site Source New Mexico and KOB-TV.

A statement from the claims office did not name Mitchell or Deputy Director Jennifer Carbajal, who also was placed on leave, according to reports from Source New Mexico and KOB-TV. While the office did not confirm in the statement to The New Mexican that Mitchell and Carbajal had been placed on leave, it said FEMA has taken administrative steps to “ensure continuity of operations” and that claims will continue to be processed as usual.

The federal agency has “ZERO tolerance” for malfeasance or misuse of funds, the statement said, and allegations are “thoroughly investigated and taken seriously.”

The statement placed the blame at the foot of the administration of former President Joe Biden.

“FEMA is fully committed to supporting the citizens of New Mexico impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fires,” the statement said. “This is yet another mess we inherited from the broken Biden administration and are focused on delivering assistance with integrity and accountability. … Our priority and focus remain on supporting eligible claimants and ensuring all claims are handled fairly and transparently. We will not be distracted from our mission to support recovery and uphold the highest standards at all levels of the Claims Office.”

The office declined to comment on requests for additional details. It was unclear when Mitchell and Carbajal were put on leave and if they were still being paid.

FEMA Region 6, which includes New Mexico, did not respond to requests for comment.

In the past weeks, several New Mexico politicians have called for Mitchell to resign.

In a joint statement Thursday, New Mexico’s Democratic U.S. Sens. Ben Ray Luján and Martin Heinrich, and U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández called the decision to put Mitchell and Carbajal on leave a “step in the right direction.”

The congressional delegates had called on Mitchell to resign after Source New Mexico and other news media reported Mitchell and his wife had received the six-figure payments.

Nevertheless, “there are still outstanding questions regarding the Claims Office status and operations, and we will continue pressing for accountability and stable, trusted leadership,” the delegates said in the statement.

They also called on the claims office to prioritize total loss claims and claims from within the burn scar.

In a call with reporters late last week, Leger Fernández criticized FEMA for not releasing reports about the progress of the recovery effort and said she continues to push for Mitchell’s resignation.

“It is clear he has lost the trust of the New Mexican people who are affected,” Leger Fernández said.

The New Mexico Joint Recovery Office is charged with disbursing $5.45 billion in federal dollars to victims of the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, which was ignited by two U.S. Forest Service prescribed burns that went awry. The combined blazes grew to more than 340,000 acres, the largest in the state’s recorded history.

As of Feb. 3, the office reported it had paid more than 23,000 claims, totaling $3.36 billion.

It’s been a bumpy road to compensate the victims, riddled with lawsuits and calls for faster processing.