CatholicVote article on Smith's international religious freedom hearing'Catholic congressman sounds alarm on global religious persecution: "We must act"'

By Elise Winland

Published February 4, 2026

U.S. Rep Chris Smith, R-N.J., warned Feb. 4 that religious persecution worldwide is a “festering and exploding” crisis that demands strong U.S. leadership.

Smith, a Catholic who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, made the remarks during a congressional hearing titled “Defending Religious Freedom Around the World.” The hearing examined religious freedom violations in countries, including China, North Korea, Nigeria, and Tanzania, where millions face imprisonment, torture, or death because of their faith.

Religious liberty is America’s “first freedom,” Smith said in opening, pointing to the First Amendment’s protections for conscience and free exercise of religion. He argued the right is universal, not uniquely American.

“Yet, all around the world today, religious persecution is festering and exploding. What has been unconscionable for decades and centuries has gotten worse,” Smith said. “Billions of human beings, made in the image of God, live in countries where their God-given right to freely exercise their religion is restricted — many to the point of incarceration, torture, and execution.”

Smith cited data from the Open Doors 2025 World Watch List, which reports that more than 380 million Christians suffer high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith.

He pointed to countries with authoritarian regimes that he said view independent religious belief as a threat: China, Russia, Nicaragua, North Korea, Belarus, and Cuba. Smith also cited countries enforcing strict interpretations of Islamic law, including Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, along with parts of Nigeria. He also listed Syria, where religious minorities face escalating violence.

“Anything outside of the ubiquitous state — especially the search for deeper spiritual truths that speak directly to the human soul — is automatically a threat to these regimes,” he said.

Much of Smith’s remarks focused on China, where he accused the Chinese Communist Party of widespread abuses against people of faith, including Uyghur Muslims, whom he said are “suffering a genocide,” and underground Christian communities.

Smith recalled meeting Catholic Bishop Su Zhimin during a 1994 visit to China, describing how the bishop was beaten, starved, and imprisoned for decades because of his faith. Despite his immense suffering, Bishop Su prayed for China’s leaders and those who persecuted him.

“He prayed not just for the persecuted church, but for the conversion of those who hate, torture, and kill,” Smith said. “His witness and his faith absolutely amazed me. Love those who hate you, as Christ did from the cross.”

According to Smith, Bishop Su was arrested just a few years after their meeting and has not been heard from since.

“Xi Jinping is crushing people of faith with torture, jailing, rape, and murder,” Smith said. “We must act.”

Smith also raised concerns about North Korea, where he said an estimated 30,000 Christians are held in political prison camps and even possessing a Bible can result in execution, according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Turning to Africa, Smith said Nigeria remains a critical concern regarding religious freedom. He praised President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” in October, a decision that he said was long overdue.

“The CPC designation is a phenomenal first step, but in statute,” he added, “it is accompanied by 15 different policy tools — including sanctions and other economic penalties that can and must be employed to improve the situation on the ground.”

Smith also called attention to Tanzania, citing reports that Catholic clergy, Christian leaders, and political opponents have been assaulted or abducted, along with the closure of thousands of churches.

“Countries whose governments engage in — or tolerate — severe, systemic, and egregious violations of international religious freedom against their own people merit extra scrutiny and diplomatic pressure from the United States,” he said.

He called on the State Department to issue a full list of CPC designations and urged renewed U.S. leadership to confront religious persecution worldwide.


Ciscomani’s Statement on House Passage of Five Appropriations Bills, Advancing Responsible Governance and Arizona Priorities

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Juan Ciscomani released the following statement after voting in favor of Concurring in the Senate amendments to H.R. 7148 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 which passed the House with bipartisan support with a vote of 217-214.

“Passing these five appropriations bills today is another important step toward restoring regular order in Congress and delivering certainty for the American people. After months of bipartisan, bicameral work, the House honored the agreement we reached and did the job the American people sent us here to do. Today’s package strengthens our national defense, supports veterans, education, and public health, invests in infrastructure and transportation, backs small businesses, and reinforces America’s leadership abroad. With this step forward, more than 95 percent of the federal government will be funded through full-year appropriations, providing certainty and stability for families, communities, and our national security. I’m proud to be doing this work as Arizona’s sole appropriator and to be fighting for the needs of Southern Arizona every step of the way. This package is now off to the President for signature.”

Passage of Concurring in the Senate amendments to H.R. 7148 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 has now been signed by President Trump.

Included in this legislation is $22 million in Community Project Funding submitted by Congressman Ciscomani for Arizona’s 6th congressional district, which passed the House initially on January 22, 2026. Details can be found HERE.

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President Trump Signs Package, Includes Ciscomani Medicaid Access Bill

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Juan Ciscomani is welcoming the passage of legislation he introduced last year which removes certain limitations for disabled, working individuals who want to take part in the Medicaid buy-in program. The Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-in Programs Act (H.R. 1598), passed on the House floor on February 3, 2026. It is included within the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.

Current law allows working adults with disabilities ages 16 to 64 to buy into Medicaid, but the program is capped once someone hits 65, meaning they have to make a tough choice between continuing to work, if they desire to, and being able to keep necessary Medicaid benefits and health coverage. This legislation allows working adults with disabilities over the age of 65 to continue to work and receive Medicaid coverage and benefits if they choose.

Congressman Ciscomani is proud to have introduced and voted to pass this legislation. It will positively impact a number of individuals in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District by making Medicaid more accessible to those who need it.

The bill, included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, was signed by President Trump in the Oval Office yesterday, February 3rd.

“House passage of the final funding package included key Medicaid legislation. This is a major step forward for working adults with disabilities who simply want the freedom to keep working without losing the care they rely on,” said Ciscomani. “This bill fixes a commonsense gap in the system by allowing individuals over 65 to continue working by choice while maintaining their Medicaid coverage. No one should be penalized for staying in the workforce, and I’m proud to see the House come together to advance a solution that promotes dignity, independence, and opportunity.”

This legislation is welcomed by affected organizations, such as ANCOR, a community of providers for adults with disabilities.

Elise Aguilar, Director of Advocacy, ANCOR:

“We are grateful to Representative Ciscomani for his leadership in removing a barrier that prevented older, working adults with disabilities from participating in states’ Medicaid Buy-In programs. Access to Medicaid home and community-based services programs empowers people with disabilities, to live, work, and thrive in their communities,” said Barbara Merrill, ANCOR’s chief executive officer. “Thank you to Representative Ciscomani for ensuring this crucial legislation passed through the recent appropriations package and we urge the Senate to support this important policy.”

You can read a summary and full text of the bill here.

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Rep. Cline Funding For I-81 Improvements Signed Into Law

This week, President Trump signed the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill into law, which included $17 million for widening projects and safety enhancements along Interstate 81. The funding, championed by Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), advances key improvements and potential expansion of the corridor and underscores his work on the House Appropriations Committee on behalf of Virginia’s Sixth District.

“Interstate 81 is a critical component of the Shenandoah Valley and plays an outsized role in the region’s economy and daily life,” said Rep. Cline. “From local commuters and families to farmers, manufacturers, and truck drivers, countless Virginians rely on this corridor every day. This funding allows us to begin tackling persistent safety and congestion challenges while laying the groundwork for future capacity improvements. Adding a third lane to I-81 will improve reliability, support economic growth, and deliver lasting benefits for communities throughout the entire Sixth District and beyond.”

BACKGROUND:

The I-81 Corridor handles an enormous volume of freight and passenger traffic. Each year, more than 12 million commercial trucks travel along the interstate, moving over $300 billion in goods. As traffic increases, so does the need to modernize the highway to support on-time delivery and reduce disruptions that hurt both local businesses and national commerce.

Originally built over 50 years ago, I-81 has not kept up with growing traffic and freight demands. A 2018 state report identified urgent needs along the corridor, and while Virginia has taken important steps to address them, additional federal investment is necessary.

Travel delays are becoming more frequent and unpredictable, impacting both freight movement and personal travel. To help fix this, Virginia’s Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP) includes plans to widen the road from two to three lanes in critical sections. These upgrades will reduce congestion, create more room for emergency response vehicles, and lower the risk of crashes by allowing more space for vehicles to maneuver.


RELEASE: Congressman Michael Cloud Demands Response from ATF on Illegal National Gun Registry

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), along with several other members of Congress, sent a follow-up letter to Deputy Director Robert Cekada of the Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), demanding an immediate response to inquiries about the agency’s Out-of-Business Records Imaging System (OBRIS)—a digital database that functions as an illegal, searchable national gun registry in violation of federal law.

The original inquiry, submitted by 18 Members of Congress on February 14, 2025, has gone unanswered for over 290 days. The follow-up letter urges the ATF to provide a full response no later than February 10, 2026, including the total number of records (digital and hard copy) currently maintained in OBRIS.

“Congress has waited long enough for basic transparency from the ATF,” Rep. Cloud stated. “The American people have a right to know if their government is maintaining an unlawful registry of firearms and firearm owners in direct violation of U.S. code and the Second Amendment.”

Key concerns outlined in the letter include:

A 2021 leaked document showed the agency was processing more than 54 million out-of-business gun records per year, and a later congressional review found nearly 921 million records already in ATF hands—most of them digitized.

At that rate, the total could easily reach 1.1 billion records today, which would directly violate the federal ban on gun-owner or gun-sale registries (18 U.S.C. § 926(a)(3)).

The letter stresses that ATF’s refusal to respond hinders congressional oversight, funding decisions, and compliance with appropriations restrictions, federal statutes, and constitutional protections under the Second and Fourteenth Amendments.

Click here to read the letter.

Members of Congress signing the letter include:

Reps. Begich, Biggs (AZ), Biggs (SC), Boebert, Burlison, Cline, Clyde, Desjarlais, Fallon, Gooden, Hunt, Johnson (SD), Luna, Mann, McCormick, McGuire, Miller (IL), Moore (AL), Ogles, Smith (NE), Rose, Roy, Stauber, Taylor, Van Drew, and Van Epps.

Groups in support of the letter include:

Gun Owners of America


Rep. Clyde Honors 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winners

GAINESVILLE, GA – Last week, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) hosted a reception at his Gainesville District Office to honor the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia’s Ninth District.

The competition featured six talented student submissions from across the District, each creating original software applications that reflect creativity, problem-solving, and a commitment to innovation.

In December, Rep. Clyde announced the following winners:

First Place: Krish Tripathy’s “Pulmo Lens ” | Woodward Academy

Second Place: Michael Wang’s “Ten8Link” | North Gwinnett High School

Third Place: Linh Do’s “Ace AP Stem” | Fulton Science Academy

Background

First launched in 2014, the Congressional App Challenge is the official computer science competition of the U.S. House of Representatives. The competition encourages students to create and submit their own app for the opportunity to receive national recognition.

Students may participate as individuals or in teams of up to four. Congressional App Challenge winners will have their app featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol and put on the U.S. House of Representatives’ website. Additionally, winners will receive an invitation to the #HouseOfCode celebration on Capitol Hill.


Representatives Cohen, DeSaulnier and Ross and Senators Gillibrand and Lujan Introduce Legislation to Protect Drivers from Fatal Tractor Trailer Accidents

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN-9), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), and Deborah Ross (D-NC-2) and U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) today introduced legislation to help prevent deadly truck underride crashes.

An underride crash occurs when a car slides under a large truck, such as a semi-trailer, during an accident. When these crashes happen, a car’s safety features are rendered useless because most of the car slides under the trailer and the trailer undercarriage crashes straight through the windows and into the passengers. The passengers in the car often suffer severe head and neck injuries, including decapitation. These accidents are frequently fatal, even at low speeds and also affect vulnerable road users such as bikers and pedestrians.

Studies and pilot programs show that a simple barrier attached to the lower area of a truck, called an “underride guard,” would help prevent a car from sliding underneath a truck in an accident. Under current federal law, unlike the rear of a truck, underride guards are not required to be on the sides or front of trucks. The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would expand on current restrictions by instructing rulemaking to require side underride guards on new trucks, improving data collection, and directing additional research on underride crashes.

“The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would help prevent these terrible and too-often fatal truck-trailer accidents by ensuring that cars can no longer slide underneath trucks,” said Representative Cohen. “In introducing this legislation, I’m reminded of my constituents Randy and Laurie Higginbotham who lost their son in an underride crash in Memphis in 2014. The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 builds on important progress made in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will save lives by helping to end these fatal crashes.”

“With truck underride collisions claiming the lives of at least 300 people per year, the time to act on reforms is now. Small changes will make a big difference, and we cannot leave any room for error,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing this bill to put an end to these avoidable tragedies.”

“Requiring trucks to have underride guards is a simple way to prevent hundreds of deaths on our roads,” said Congresswoman Ross. “These guards are a proven, effective safety measure that will reduce underride crashes as well as severe injuries and fatalities caused by underrides. I have heard directly from families in my district about the lives this improvement could save. I’m proud to introduce legislation that will prevent vehicle fatalities and make our roads safer for drivers in North Carolina and across the country.”

“Truck underride guards are one of the best and easiest solutions for protecting passengers during collisions with large trucks,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 is commonsense legislation that will protect passengers and make our roads safer. I look forward to working across the aisle to get this passed.”

“I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing life-saving legislation to make our roads safer,” said Senator Luján. “The Stop Underrides Act will help prevent deadly underride crashes and protect families from tragic, preventable loss. I’m grateful for Senator Gillibrand’s leadership on this important issue, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill signed into law.”

Specifically, this bill would:

Require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to finalize rulemaking requiring side underride guards on commercial trucks.

Restart the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Advisory Committee on Underride Protection, to provide recommendations for how to reduce underride crashes and severe injuries and fatalities caused by underrides.

Require the DOT to publish a website making underrides research accessible to researchers, industry, and advocates.

Instruct the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on the prevalence of underride incidents, including those involving the fronts of large trucks.

Instruct the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study of the implementation of NHTSA’s 2022 rear underride rule and provide suggestions to better improve the rule.

Instruct NHTSA to review its Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and correct crashes in the database that should have been classified as an underride but were not.

Instruct NHTSA to create free, on-demand web-based training for state and local law enforcement to better identify and document underride crashes.

This bill is supported by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, America Walks, AnnaLeah & Mary for Truck Safety, Cascade Bicycle Club, Casey Feldman Foundation, Center for Auto Safety, EndDistractedDriving.org, Families for Safe Streets, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, League of American Bicyclists, Institute for Safer Trucking, Kids and Car Safety, Ride Illinois, Ride of Silence, Road Safe America, Sylvia Bingham Fund, Safe Routes Partnership, Stop Underrides, and Truck Safety Coalition.

“We appreciate Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) for her leadership on legislation to reduce preventable deaths and injuries involving large trucks. The Stop Underrides Act 2.0 would help stop devastating underride crashes by advancing research-backed protections which are long overdue. We urge Congress to advance this bill without delay to prevent more people from being horrifically killed or injured in an underride crash,” said Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.

“I commend Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Cohen for introducing the Stop Underrides Act 2.0,” said Jennifer Tierney, Truck Safety Coalition and CRASH Board Member. “I lost my father, James Mooney, in a preventable side underride crash over 40 years ago. It is unconscionable that trailers still are not required to have side underride guards and my heart breaks for every single loss of life that could have otherwise been saved. This bill will save lives.”

“The Stop Underrides bill was written to solve the decades old problem of vehicle occupants and vulnerable road users from dying under tractor-trailers. It’s not the crash that kills; it’s the underride. Underride protection around tractor trailers and large trucks is necessary to save lives,” said Lois Durso-Hawkins of the Stop Underrides advocacy group.

“Hundreds of people are killed or injured each year in side underride crashes, a preventable consequence of semitrailer design. Requiring side underride guards on new semitrailers will save lives, protecting motorists and people walking or biking,” said Eric Hein, Board Member, Institute for Safer Trucking; bereaved father of Riley Hein.

“I’m grateful to Senators Gillibrand, Lujan, Blumenthal, and Duckworth, as well as Representatives Cohen, DeSaulnier, and Ross for taking this next important step to bring about long overdue underride regulations,” said Marianne Karth of AnnaLeah & Mary for Truck Safety. “The provisions in this bill need to become law to bring Americans safely home. I don’t want any more families to lose loved ones while engineering solutions gather dust on a shelf.”

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Cole Introduces the Medical Student Education Authorization Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) introduced H.R. 5428, the Medical Student Education Authorization Act, along with Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV). This legislation would authorize the Medical Student Education (MSE) Program, which provides grants to public institutions of higher education to expand or support graduate education for physicians in states with the most severe primary care provider shortages, through the Fiscal Year 2028.

After introducing the legislation, the members of Congress released the following statements:

“Data shows that medical students and residents often decide to practice in the same community where they completed their training. Therefore, by providing medical education in rural, tribal, or underserved areas – and increasing recruitment in these places – we can make a difference by increasing the likelihood of access to quality care in these communities in the long term. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act will help to do just that,” said Congressman Cole. “I am grateful for Congresswoman Titus for her collaboration on this vital legislation, and I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure relief for communities struggling with shortages of healthcare providers.”

“We need a whole-of-government approach to address the physician shortages plaguing communities here in Nevada and across the country. By supporting medical student training in underserved areas, we can invest in the next generation of providers while improving care access to patient outcomes,” said Congresswoman Titus.

This legislation is also endorsed by several stakeholders, who offered praise for the bill:

“The American Associations of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) applauds Representatives Cole and Titus for reintroducing the Medical Student Education Authorization Act,” said Robert A. Cain, President and CEO of AACOM. “Osteopathic medical schools lead the nation in graduating physicians who practice primary care in rural and medically underserved areas. The MSE Program expands opportunities for osteopathic graduates to train in the communities that need them most. AACOM is proud to support this bipartisan bill, which will strengthen the physician workforce and increase access to care in tribal, rural, and underserve communities.”

“Health care professionals continue to provide dedicated, high-quality care to our patients and communities. However, ongoing staffing shortages have contributed to increased stress and burnout of care teams. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act would help remedy this by providing grants to public institutions on behalf of higher education to support areas with severe primary care provider shortages. We thank Representatives Cole and Titus for their leadership on behalf of the nation’s health workforce,” said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President of Federal Relations, Advocacy, and Political Affairs of the American Hospital Association.

“There is a critical shortage of physicians in rural America, where limited access to care continues to drive poorer health outcomes. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act is a smart, bipartisan investment in the future of our nation’s critical health care workforce – one that would expand the pipeline of primary care providers serving tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities,” said American Medical Association President, Bobby Mukkamala, M.D. “We commend Chairman Cole and Rep. Titus for sponsoring this bipartisan bill and look forward to supporting it as it moves through the legislative process.”

“The Oklahoma State Medical Association (OSMA) strongly supports the Medical Student Education Authorization Act, which will help address Oklahoma’s physician shortages by expanding training opportunities in rural, Tribal, and underserved communities. We commend Representative Cole for his leadership in securing the future of Oklahoma’s healthcare workforce,” said OSMA President Dr. Sumit Nanda.

Background:

The Medical Student Education (MSE) Program, which is administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and was first authorized in an Appropriations bill in 2019, provides grants to public institutions of higher education to expand or support graduate education for physicians. This program specifically focuses these grants on institutions in states with the most severe primary care provider shortages, as it is widely recognized that the training experience in medically underserved communities increases the likelihood that a physician will practice there.

Since the program’s inception, MSE has been a success. In fact, through the program, nearly $337,000,000 in grants has been provided to train the next generation of providers and mitigate these shortages.

However, unfortunately, the MSE Program, because it was first authorized through the appropriations process, has no long-term authorization. As such, the program must be reauthorized annually through the appropriations process. If it is not reauthorized, funded institutions will be subject to financial uncertainty and the risk of sudden funding cutoffs.

The MSE Authorization Act, introduced in the House by Representatives Cole and Titus, would ensure the program remains funded through the Fiscal Year 2028. This legislation is endorsed by the American Associations of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the American Hospital Association (AHA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Oklahoma State Medical Association (OSMA).

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Courtney Slams Big Ugly Bill’s Student Loan Caps for Nurses & Calls Out Banks for Lobbying in Support of Caps

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), a senior Member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, slammed the Department of Education’s new student loan caps, a result of the Big Ugly Bill (H.R. 1), which will cut in half the available graduate level student loans for nursing students and other critical professions. Courtney also called out banks for lobbying in support of the caps that will raise the cost of graduate education.

Last November, the Department of Education proposed a new rule which classifies graduate level nursing positions, such as nurse practitioners and nurse anesthesiologists, as non-professional.

To watch the download the video, click here.

“The fantasy that we hear from some of these witnesses today, particularly from the American Enterprise Institute, that [the student loan cap] is somehow going to introduce market discipline in terms of tuition, I mean, the fact of the matter is banks know better because they were lobbying for these caps because they understand that the limits are going to force student borrowers into the private market,” Courtney said.

“And of course, with private loans, there’s always an underwriting component in terms of trying to qualify for a loan, whether it’s a collateral requirement or a financial position where the bank can certify that it’s a low-risk loan. Banks, again, have sort of recognized that this going to be an issue for a lot of students because they’re now talking about coming to Congress to ask for loan guarantees, which is really just a trip back in time in terms of just the rip off that was in the student loan space where banks were getting total government guarantees as well as higher interest rates,” Courtney continued.


Statement from Rep. Jasmine Crockett on Proposed ICE Detention Facility in Hutchins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett released the following statement: "I am aware of reports that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to convert an industrial warehouse in Hutchins, Texas — a city I am proud to represent — into one of the largest detention facilities in the nation. At this time, my office has not received any formal notice, briefing, or direct communication from the Department of Homeland Security or ICE regarding this facility.

"The moment these reports surfaced, my office contacted the relevant federal agencies to request detailed and accurate information. To date, those requests have gone unanswered. In the meantime, we have remained in close coordination with the City of Hutchins — including the Mayor, City Manager, City Council, and regional elected officials — to ensure a unified and informed response.

"Hutchins is a city on the rise — focused on growth, opportunity, and long-term sustainability. The proposed conversion not only jeopardizes that progress but also raises substantial concerns about human rights, public safety, and local infrastructure capacity.

"We do not need an ICE facility in our backyard. I will continue to stand with the City of Hutchins and its residents, and I will demand transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement before any decisions are made that would directly impact this community."

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Davids, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Scrap Plan That Would Raise Costs by Weakening Vehicle Fuel Efficiency

Today, Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), Representative Doris Matsui (CA-07), and Senator Ed Markey (MA) led 78 total lawmakers in calling on the Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to withdraw the proposed rollback of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, as his attack on the standards would increase costs for hardworking Americans, reduce vehicle efficiency, and increase our reliance on foreign oil imports.

“Historically, strong CAFE standards have driven American innovation, from hybridization and advanced powertrains to aerodynamic breakthroughs,” wrote the lawmakers. “We currently have widely available and well-proven tools to keep improving fuel economy, which save Americans money at the pump and deliver more affordable, efficient, cleaner vehicles.”

Since 1975, fuel efficiency standards have saved American drivers thousands of dollars in fuel costs. The existing CAFE standards, finalized under the Biden Administration, were expected to save Americans more than $84 billion in fuel costs and other health benefits.

The Trump Administration’s proposed rollback of the CAFE standards would reduce the required fleetwide average fuel economy from 50.4 miles per gallon for Model Year (MY) 2031 vehicles to just 34.5 miles per gallon. This would effectively eliminate any requirement for automakers to improve fuel economy and is a clear violation of the requirement in law to set the maximum feasible standards, as automakers are already exceeding the proposed MY 2031 standards with a fleetwide average of 35.4 miles per gallon in MY 2024.

“We strongly urge the Department of Transportation to withdraw this misguided CAFE proposal and maintain the existing fuel economy standards,” the lawmakers concluded. “Weakening the fuel economy standards and forcing Americans to purchase more expensive, gas-guzzling vehicles would exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis and serve as yet another betrayal of President Trump’s promise to lower energy costs for the American people.”

In addition to the rollback of fuel economy requirements, the Trump Administration is also proposing to eliminate fuel-efficiency credits that help lower the cost of manufacturing electric vehicles — yet another thinly veiled attack on EVs.

This follows Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, which eliminated penalties for automakers that fail to comply with fuel economy standards and instead sell vehicles that will cost drivers more at the pump. This means there’s effectively no requirement to follow the standards at all — leaving drivers with bigger bills and the United States more reliant on oil imports.


Dean, Garbarino Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill for Transparency in Property Flood History

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Andrew Garbarino (NY-02) reintroduced the Flood History Information Act which would ensure that potential home buyers have access to a property’s flooding history prior to purchase. The lawmakers previously introduced the bipartisan bill in the 117th and 118th Congresses.

New home buyers and renters should have a right to know about their home’s flood history and risk. However, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council, 23 states still do not require a seller to disclose to a buyer whether a home has previously flooded. Furthermore, Urban flooding events have occurred in the U.S. once every 2-3 days for the past 25 years. Flooding has cost U.S. taxpayers more than $850 billion since 2000 and is responsible for two-thirds of the cost from all natural disasters.

“As the climate crisis exacerbates the intensity and frequency of severe weather, home buyers deserve to know the full extent of a property’s flood history, potential risk, and need for flood insurance,” Rep Dean said. “Hurricane Ida ravaged parts of my district, devastating and displacing families. And as communities everywhere confront the aftermath of natural disasters, transparency is crucial. I’m grateful for Congressman Garbarino’s continued partnership on this bipartisan bill.”

“Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions people make, and they deserve accurate information before they commit,” Rep. Garbarino said.“Too often, buyers don’t learn about a property’s flooding history until after the purchase, when the costs and risks become unavoidable. This bipartisan bill is about transparency, so people can make informed decisions and better understand their flood risk before it’s too late. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Dean to bring more common sense and certainty to the flood insurance process.”

The Flood History Information Act requires FEMA to provide information on whether the property owner would need to purchase flood insurance due to previous federal disaster assistance. It would also require FEMA to provide information on the number and dollar value of flood insurance claims filed for a property over the life of the property. This bill would charge a fee for insurance companies to access the flood history database but would not charge a fee for buyers or current owners. The bipartisan legislation would apply to properties under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and to private insurance companies who choose to participate in the data sharing agreement with FEMA.

The Flood History Information Act is endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS.

“Realtors® thank Representatives Madeleine Dean and Andrew Garbarino for reintroducing the Flood History Information Act to provide critical transparency for homebuyers and renters particularly in high-risk zones. Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, yet under current federal privacy law, FEMA cannot disclose NFIP claims history directly to prospective buyers or renters. As a result, consumers must rely on the current property owner to obtain this information during an already compressed real estate transaction timeline,” the National Association of REALTORS® said. “This legislation would allow flood claims history to be shared directly with buyers and renters upon request, giving consumers access to critical information earlier in the process and supporting more informed housing decisions. Realtors® support this bill and urge Congress to include these provisions in any long-term reauthorization or reform of the National Flood Insurance Program.”

Read the full text of the bill here.

Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.

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Congressman Deluzio Announces $208,000 Federal Grant for Traffic Safety Improvements in Dormont

CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $208,000 in federal grant funds to the Borough of Dormont to implement and study a range of traffic safety improvements to prevent serious and fatal crashes at a number of intersections.

“Everyone should feel safe getting around town, and I applaud Dormont officials for looking for new ways to make our roads safer,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’ll keep working to bring federal money back home to Western Pennsylvania to make our communities safer.”

“Safe mobility has been a priority for Dormont for many years, and we have made significant gains in putting policies and improvements in place that emphasize that commitment,” said Amie Downs, President of Dormont Council. “We are grateful to Congressman Deluzio for his work to secure over $200,000 in funds from the U.S. DOT’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program that helps us continue this important work.”

Dormont will use the grant to survey and audit intersections, update its Safety Action Plan, engage the public, pilot quick-build traffic safety demonstrations like temporary paint and curb construction, and evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions using speed measurements and other metrics to inform future projects.

The federal grant funding is coming from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. Congressman Deluzio’s office hosted a Guide to Grants webinar with DOT officials to help local government officials better understand how to win these competitive grants.

The Trump Administration’s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov.

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Deluzio Demands Answers from ICE on Recent Arrests in Oakmont Area

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, Congressman Chris Deluzio sent a letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Tom Lyons demanding answers to basic questions about the recent arrest of Oakmont resident Jose Flores and other activities in the area.

“I'm demanding answers to basic questions about the arrest and detention of Oakmont resident Jose Flores in front of his 8-year old daughter and other ICE activities in our area last month,” Congressman Deluzio said. “My office is in touch with his family and his lawyer—and according to them and local reporting, Mr. Flores has no criminal record and is in the United States legally under a valid work authorization document. I'll keep fighting for answers and accountability for ICE and Secretary Kristi Noem’s failed leadership.”

The letter sent yesterday follows the Congressman’s multiple ‘no’ votes on Department of Homeland Security funding bills that did not include strong guardrails, accountability, or reforms to rein in ICE’s abuses. See a previous statement here.

The full text of Congressman Deluzio's letter is here, and below:

Dear Acting Director Lyons:

Last Thursday, January 29, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained Mr. Jose Flores, a resident of Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District, outside his home in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. According to local reporting, Mr. Flores has no criminal record and has a valid five-year work authorization document with a valid REAL ID and Social Security number. Mr. Flores and his family are awaiting an affirmative asylum determination.

I have questions about this specific arrest and ICE activities in and around Oakmont, PA last month. I request responses to the following questions by February 9th, 2026:

How many people were detained in and around Oakmont, PA in January 2026?

On what basis were they detained??

On what basis was Mr. Flores detained? Was he detained pursuant to a warrant?

Was his action targeted at specific people for enforcement?

If so, what underlying offenses, conduct, or other criteria made someone a target for enforcement. Provide this information for each targeted person.

Were any non-targeted people also detained?

Have removal proceedings been initiated for any people detained?

What other law enforcement agencies or departments were involved in this activity?

What is the status of those who were detained?

It took you nearly six months to respond to my previous letter, dated August 5, 2025. I expect more prompt communication in response to my Congressional inquiries.

Very respectfully,

Chris Deluzio

Member of Congress

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Congressman Davis-Led VETS Opportunity Act Passes House to Expand Job Training for Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) voted to pass H.R. 1458, the Veterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act, a bill to extend educational benefits in the post-9/11 GI Bill to include both in-person and partially online (or hybrid) versions of skilled trade training programs. The bipartisan legislation, which Congressman Davis co-led with Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), passed the House without objection by voice vote.

“We must ensure our veterans have access to opportunities that will set them up for success in the workforce,” said Congressman Don Davis. “To that end, it is time for Congress to support common-sense legislation like the VETS Opportunity Act, which will give back to those who sacrificed so much for our nation.”

Prior to the vote, Congressman Don Davis took the House floor to urge his colleagues to support the bill. Below is a transcript of his speech:

“Thank you, Madam Speaker, Chairman Bost, and Ranking Member Takano. I appreciate your leadership.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1458, the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025. As a proud United States Air Force veteran and voice for over 56,000 veterans and their families in North Carolina's First Congressional District, it was an honor to join and work with the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Ciscomani, in introducing this bipartisan legislation.

For too many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life comes with uncertainty about how to build a new career and support their families. By expanding in-person and hybrid training options for skilled trade programs, we are bridging skill gaps across the country, we are empowering our veterans, and contributing to our local economies.

So, Madam Speaker, I believe it's time to equip eastern North Carolina's veterans and beyond with the training and skills they so need. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back."


Congressman Don Davis Joins Bipartisan Effort to Boost Ticket to Work Awareness

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Don Davis (NC-01), French Hill (AR-02), Jim Costa (CA-21), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Max Miller (OH-07), and Blake Moore (UT-01) to introduce the bipartisan H.R. 7253, the Ticket to Work Awareness Act, legislation aimed at strengthening outreach for the Ticket to Work program that helps Americans with disabilities access job training, employment services, and career support without jeopardizing their earned benefits.

The Ticket to Work program offers free, voluntary employment and vocational rehabilitation services to eligible beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Despite its proven impact, nearly two-thirds of eligible individuals remain unaware of the program's existence.

“The Ticket to Work program opens doors for eastern North Carolinians and others across the nation by offering training that leads to meaningful new careers and economic stability for their families,” said Congressman Don Davis. “True potential is unlocked when eligible participants know how to access these impactful training opportunities.”

“Nearly two-thirds of eligible beneficiaries have no idea the Ticket to Work program exists. That is unacceptable,” said Congressman French Hill. “This commonsense bill improves outreach so people who want to work know what options are available to them, without adding new spending or growing government. I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to correct the Social Security Administration’s failure to adequately communicate and promote this important program and support greater opportunities and independence for people with disabilities.”

“I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation to ensure people receiving Social Security disability benefits are aware of the Ticket to Work program,” said Congressman Jim Costa. “Far too many individuals with disabilities across the San Joaquin Valley and the nation are unaware of the employment services readily available to them. This bill strengthens outreach and allows beneficiaries to explore work opportunities without risking their benefits.”

“Far too often, people who want to work and gain more independence don’t have clear information about the support available to them. This bipartisan bill ensures Social Security reaches out clearly and consistently, so Kansans with disabilities can explore career opportunities without fear of losing the benefits they depend on. By improving awareness, we can help more families build financial stability and dignity through work — without adding cost or bureaucracy. I am glad to work with my Republican colleague, Representative French Hill, on this effort,” said Congresswoman Sharice Davids.

“Too many Americans with disabilities who want to work and achieve financial independence simply don’t know the Ticket to Work program exists,” said Congressman Max Miller. “This legislation takes a simple, common-sense step to change that by requiring regular outreach, so eligible beneficiaries are aware of the opportunities and support available to them. Ticket to Work empowers Americans to pursue meaningful employment without risking their benefits, and increasing awareness will help more people gain independence, dignity, and a stronger future. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill to make sure no one is left in the dark about a program designed to help them succeed.”

“The Ticket to Work program exists to give disability beneficiaries access to free vocational rehabilitation, employment, and other work-related support services while maintaining their benefits. Unfortunately, many of the people who could benefit the most from this program don’t know that it exists. I’m excited to work with my friend Chairman French Hill to introduce the Ticket to Work Awareness Act to require regular advertising for the program, bringing awareness to the opportunities and support available to SSDI beneficiaries,” said Congressman Blake Moore.

Background:

The Ticket to Work program was created with bipartisan support as part of an effort to promote work amongst those who receive Social Security disability benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income.

The Ticket to Work Awareness Act requires the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration to advertise the Ticket to Work program to beneficiaries at least every six months. The Social Security Administration has 12 months for implementation.

Increasing awareness of the Ticket to Work program is a straightforward, cost-effective way to improve its impact. Ensuring consistent SSA outreach will help beneficiaries understand and access the opportunities they have and deserve.

What is the Ticket to Work Program?

The Ticket to Work program enables beneficiaries ages 18–64 to access free employment services, vocational rehabilitation (VR) services, and other support from approved providers to achieve specific career and work-related goals.

Participation is entirely voluntary and free.

The program is designed to help individuals with disabilities gain work experience while connecting them to the services and support they need to succeed in the workplace.

The goal is to assist Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries who are able and willing to pursue financial independence.

Throughout participation in the Ticket to Work program, beneficiaries do NOT lose their disability benefits.


Johnson Legislation Removes Statute of Limitations for Murder on Federal Lands

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced Kamisha’s Law to remove the statute of limitations for non-capital homicide crimes on federal and tribal lands. Kamisha’s Law honors Kamisha Nyvold, a toddler who was murdered in Sisseton, S.D., in 1992. Thirty years after the crime, new information led to the prosecution of the murderer, however, the five-year statute of limitations had passed. Prosecutors were unable to charge the defendant with second-degree murder. U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced identical legislation in the Senate.

“This is a much overdue reform for families like Kamisha’s,” said Johnson. “It’s unfortunate that Kamisha’s killer will only spend ten years behind bars. I’m grateful for Senator Rounds’ leadership on this issue to ensure justice for victims and for the advocacy of Kamisha’s mother, Christine Irwin, and her husband Roger.”

“Prosecution for murder should not have an expiration date,” said Rounds. “In the case of Jay Adams Jr., new evidence was not brought forward until over three decades after Kamisha was murdered. While he was prosecuted under a plea deal, this legislation rights a wrong by eliminating the statute of limitations for second-degree murder on federal lands. I appreciate Kamisha’s mother Christine and her husband Roger for working with my team on this legislation, and I appreciate Representative Johnson agreeing to carry companion legislation in the House. I look forward to working with my colleagues to honor Kamisha’s memory and get it across the finish line.”

“Kamisha’s Law is about accountability, protection, and making sure no other family has to endure the pain we live with every day,” said Christine and Roger Irwin. “Our daughter, Kamisha, is more than a name attached to legislation. She is deeply loved, and her life mattered. This law honors her by turning loss into action and grief into meaningful change. Kamisha’s Law represents a commitment to doing better—to closing gaps that allow harm to continue. No family should have to fight for justice only after the unthinkable has already happened. We call on lawmakers from both parties to come together and pass Kamisha’s Law without delay. Protecting families by ensuring offenders receive appropriate sentences must rise above politics. Bipartisan support sends a clear message that human life, safety, and accountability are shared values. We are grateful to the leaders who have listened, who have shown compassion, and who have chosen to act. Kamisha’s legacy will be one of impact, awareness, and protection for others. We urge Congress to stand united, pass Kamisha’s Law, and ensure that Kamisha’s life leads to lasting change.”

Background:

Kamisha Nyvold was a toddler who was murdered in Sisseton, S.D. in 1992. Thirty years after the crime, new information led to the prosecution of the murderer. However, the five-year statute of limitations had passed. Prosecutors were unable to charge the defendant with second-degree murder.

Prosecutors were forced to strike a deal with Kamisha’s killer, who then had to waive his statute of limitations and plea to manslaughter, resulting in a maximum 10-year sentence in federal prison.

Kamisha’s Law will eliminate the statute of limitations for non-capital homicide offenses on federal and tribal lands for the following crimes:

Second-degree murder

Voluntary/attempted manslaughter

Second-degree murder, voluntary/attempted manslaughter of U.S. government officers and employees engaged in official duties, and those assisting

Second-degree murder, voluntary/attempted manslaughter of foreign officials, official guests, and internationally protected persons

Second-degree murder by federal prisoners serving life sentences

Second-degree murder, voluntary/attempted manslaughter on foreign soil of U.S. nationals by U.S. nationals

Second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter by escaped federal prisoners serving life sentences

Second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter of persons aiding federal law enforcement or state correctional officers


Elfreth Speaks Out on the Rising Cost of Child Care For American Families

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) spoke on the House floor during a Special Order Hour organized by freshman Democrats on the ongoing affordability crisis. She spent her remarks focusing on the staggering cost of child care and how the state of Maryland is working to address this issue for working families.

"It is more expensive to send an infant to daycare than it is to send an 18-year-old to the University of Maryland. But I come to this floor with good news. I'm proud to share that in our state, education and nonprofit leaders are working to find innovative solutions to help families afford child care through scholarships and tax credits, but also – and this is crucial – to grow the supply of child care providers and create critically needed seats," said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth. "The Growing Opportunities for Family Child Care Program has opened nearly 300 day cares, or 2,000 child care slots in just three years by providing training, coaching, and resources to individuals, who happen to be almost entirely women, in opening and operating family child care businesses. Now this is a win, win, win. We create more jobs in child care. We allow more parents to enter the workforce. And, we lower the cost of care through increased supply."

The Growing Opportunities for Family Child Care program (GOFCC) is an innovative program kickstarted in Montgomery County, Maryland, that provides free, targeted training, coaching, and resources to those in the process of opening a family child care business. The program helps prospective child care providers navigate the licensing process while simultaneously supporting them through specialized training to establish strong business foundations and ensure high-quality programming. Over the past three years, the program has mitigated a huge loss in Maryland child care providers post-pandemic. In Baltimore alone, the program supported 61 new family child care programs – helping to fill major gaps in child care.

In 2025, Elfreth hosted a Child Care Roundtable, which convened local, state, and federal experts in early childhood development and child care to discuss key issues, including the rising cost of care, return to work, and changes at the Department of Education.

CLICK HERE or the image below to view Elfreth's full remarks:

Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth

Remarks as Delivered

Floor Speech on Rising Cost of Child Care

February 3rd, 2026

Thank you so much. Mr. Speaker, we are taking time up on the floor today, because from coast to coast, I guarantee that we are all hearing the same message from our constituents: the cost of living is just too high.

I feel it too, as the daughter of a single mom who made everything work because of access to affordable child care, as a millennial with student loan debt that I'm still years away from paying off, and as a first-time homeowner who finally was able to buy a house in the district I represent after renting for over two decades.

And this is something I believe everyone in this chamber, Republican and Democrat alike, can agree on. Congress must do more to lower the crushing costs of electric bills, groceries, prescription drugs, housing, and more.

While I'd love to take a full hour today running through what we can and should do on all of these crises, I have only just a few minutes to focus on one.

Mr. Speaker, from my very first conversations nine years ago, when I first asked my neighbors to place their trust in me to represent them, to even just this weekend at the grocery store, I've heard from parents, I've heard from grandparents, I've heard from small businesses alike, that the child care crisis is suppressing our economy and forcing families to make impossible decisions.

It's more expensive to send one infant to daycare than it is to send an 18-year-old to the University of Maryland

Like every state, Maryland saw devastating losses in child care providers after the pandemic. We lost 15%, or 1,135 home-based child care providers, and that further pressured the market and limited options for families.

But I come to this floor with good news. I'm proud to share that in our state, education and nonprofit leaders are working to find innovative solutions to help families afford child care through scholarships and tax credits, but also – and this is crucial – to grow the supply of child care providers and create critically needed seats.

The Growing Opportunities for Family Child Care Program has opened nearly 300 day cares, or 2,000 child care slots in just three years by providing training, coaching, and resources to individuals, who happen to be almost entirely women, in opening and operating family child care businesses.

Now this is a win, win, win. We create more jobs in child care. We allow more parents to enter the workforce. And, we lower the cost of care through increased supply.

As a Congress, we need to work together to find common-sense policies that will make it easier for our neighbors, not just to get by, but to get ahead.

I call on my colleagues to join me in tackling these issues head on, together through difficult conversations, as we seek to do the unfashionable thing here in Washington: find common ground.

Because that is the fundamental promise of our country, to be able to give our kids and the next generation a better life than we had, and we can only do that by offering real, comprehensive, innovative solutions to the affordability crisis that families across this country are experiencing.

And with that, I yield back.

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Elfreth Testifies Against Elkridge ICE Facility

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) testified at a Howard County Council public hearing in support of CB16-2026 - Emergency Legislation - Amending – Howard County Building Code – I-3 Use group. This legislation would prohibit the permitting of privately-owned buildings operating as detention centers in Howard County. This legislation was introduced in response to the County's inspection of a privately-owned office building in Elkridge, which is currently under renovation for use as a detention facility.

"As the Trump Administration continues to weaponize ICE and stoke fear in our communities, we have to be united across government – local, state, and federal government – to protect the safety and dignity of our neighbors. When ICE sends under-trained agents – who spend roughly ⅓ the amount of time training than our own local law enforcement – when they send those undertrained agents into our communities with guns and masks and no respect for due process, the public trust is eroded. When two U.S. citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, are brutally murdered on camera, ICE is not making our communities any safer. And in 2025 – I know you know this, but I have to say it for the record – it was the deadliest year on record for those who were detained in ICE facilities. 25 people died in ICE facilities while in custody. In January 2026 this year, eight people have died. We need meaningful reform," said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth. "Thank you, Howard County Council, for not just taking up this bill, but expediting this bill, and to my partner, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, for taking quick and decisive action to halt an ICE detention center here in Elkridge."

Elfreth voted yesterday against additional funding for DHS and ICE. She has also been outspoken against the weaponization of ICE in Minneapolis and called for the impeachment of Secretary Noem.

At the meeting, Elfreth and her team handed out DHS and ICE privacy release forms, which allow the Congresswoman's team to communicate with the federal agency on behalf of constituents. For Marylanders impacted by the President's weaponization of ICE, Elfreth's office has compiled a Know Your Rights factsheet, and the Congresswoman has also partnered with the National Immigration Law Center to share additional resources.

CLICK HERE or the image below to view Elfreth's full remarks.

Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth

Remarks as Delivered

Testimony in Support of CB16-2026

February 4th, 2026

I'd like to start by thanking the Council for not just taking up this bill, but expediting this bill. I'd like to thank my partner, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, for taking quick and decisive action this week.

But if I could take a moment, Mc. Chair, I'd like to thank everyone in this room for showing up on really difficult days, for standing with your neighbors in tremendously trying times. You give me hope, even on the really hard days in Washington. I just want to thank everyone for participating in this democratic process. This is who we are and what we're supposed to be.

I, for the record, am here to testify in support of CB16-2026.

As the Trump Administration continues to weaponize ICE and stoke fear in our communities, we have to be united across government – local, state, and federal government – to protect the safety and dignity of our neighbors.

When ICE sends under-trained agents – who spend roughly ⅓ the amount of time training than our own local law enforcement – when they send those undertrained agents into our communities with guns and masks and no respect for due process, the public trust is eroded.

When two U.S. citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, are brutally murdered on camera, ICE is not making our communities any safer.

And in 2025 – I know you know this, but I have to say it for the record – it was the deadliest year on record for those who were detained in ICE facilities. 25 people died in ICE facilities while in custody. In January 2026 this year, eight people have died. We need meaningful reform.

But when people are afraid to go to work, send their kids to school, or peacefully protest because of actions taken by their own government, we are seeing a fundamental failure across government.

This week in the House of Representatives, I'm not sure if you saw, but I and most of the delegation, including our Senators, voted no on funding ICE and DHS.

We are united as a caucus in calling for an investigation of what happened in Minnesota. I want to share with folks in the room. I spend a lot of time with my colleagues from Minnesota. The occupation is the only word I can speak for them here of what is happening. It is worse than you are seeing on television, and it has no place in this country.

And, I have signed onto articles of impeachment against Secretary Noem.

But, I do want to focus on how all of what is happening in Washington, D.C. is impacting our community right here in Howard County. Locally, we all know in this room that an ICE detention facility is not welcome in Elkridge. It is not welcome anywhere in Maryland. We have state laws already protecting this, and we're seeing this Administration undermine those state laws.

I have been to the ICE Baltimore facility with many of my colleagues in the delegation multiple times to conduct our oversight duties. You probably saw that they locked us out the first time we attempted to conduct our legal oversight responsibilities. I can tell you there are many outstanding questions we have around safety, around medication, around access to attorneys, and access to families of those who are detained in that facility. Like many of you, the videos that we've seen this week, reportedly from the Baltimore facility, are terrifying.

If I could, Mr. Chair, I just want to speak to folks watching at home and folks in this room. We are living in dark and scary times. As this Administration targets people based on the color of their skin, as this agency actively tramples on the due process and civil rights of neighbors, as they try to intimidate peaceful protesters, I too feel it often difficult to keep the faith. These videos are gutwrenching. The headlines leave us feeling hopeless. But, please continue to lean in and stay engaged.

What gives me hope are the people here in this room, the organizers in Minnesota, the faith leaders across the country who are peacefully protesting and braving the bitter cold to make clear that ICE has no place in our communities. In Howard County, I know that we will continue to show our solidarity, show up, and speak up.

I do want to mention to the folks in this room that my office here in Columbia is ready to serve you. One of the ways we do that is by communicating with federal agencies on your behalf, everything from VA benefits and IRS to ICE and immigration.

Mr. Chair, there hasn't been a week – I've been your Congresswoman for a little over a year now – there has not been a week I have served in this position, where I have not received a frantic text message or Facebook tag from somebody whose loved one, or coworker, or neighbor has been picked up by ICE. And my office has and is ready to spring into action when that happens. But, what I need from folks in this room – it's bureaucratic – but we can't do that, without a privacy release form. We brought them, Mr. Chair. They are in the back of the room. I would encourage folks, if you have any reason to be in need of our services, you can fill those privacy release forms out. We will keep them on file. They are private to us. And then if God forbid, we need to support you with the federal government, we can spring into action immediately.

Again, these are not easy times, but my office is here to serve you on our hardest days.

And I want to just note, I spent an hour with colleagues from across the country yesterday, just focused on this issue. And so many of my colleagues are facing this same issue of privately run detention facilities seeking permits in their offices. Councilwoman Rigby, we talked about this on the phone just the other day, and I'm proud to be able to say in that meeting, Howard County in my district is taking action. You are now showing them what action looks like – what leadership looks like. You are on the cutting edge of the response that local government can and should take up in this moment, and I've shared that. And, I'm incredibly proud of the fact that you are taking this action and doing it so expeditiously. And with that, I just want to thank you. Thank you for being a model. Thank you for letting me go overtime, Mr. Chair. I greatly appreciate it.

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Congresswoman Escobar Reiterates Her Opposition to Any New Migrant Detention Facilities in El Paso

Yesterday, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) sent a letter to Department of Homeland (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons expressing her concerns over potential new immigration detention facilities in her district.

The letter can be found in its entirety below and here.

“Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons:

"I am writing to strongly oppose further construction of any more immigration detention facilities within El Paso County, Texas.

"My office is aware that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified a location within my district as the potential site of a new immigration detention center. My district currently houses Camp East Montana, a detention facility run and operated for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the largest detention facility in the country. Camp East Montana, which was hastily constructed last summer and began operations in August 2025, is warehousing immigrants in inhumane conditions with little oversight and no accountability. Three people have died so far at Camp East Montana, including one death that was ruled a homicide by the El Paso County Medical Examiner.

"El Pasoans do not want more detention facilities in our community. During a weekly meeting of the El Paso County Commissioner’s Court, over 200 El Paso County residents spoke out against the construction of further detention facilities in the area. I stand firmly with the wishes of my constituents, neighbors, and community and urge DHS to suspend any and all plans to build further detention facilities."

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Fedorchak votes to speed up domestic mining and strengthen America’s mineral independence

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) today voted in support of the Critical Mineral Dominance Act, legislation that strengthens domestic production of critical and hardrock minerals by streamlining federal permitting, prioritizing key mining projects, and reducing America’s reliance on foreign mineral supply chains.

“Energy security is national security. Right now, the Chinese Communist Party exercises strong control of the critical mineral supply chain—creating a real vulnerability for the United States. Expanding domestic mineral production is essential to supporting our energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, national defense, and emerging technologies,” Fedorchak said. “This bill will help increase mineral production, strengthen our supply chains, and create good-paying jobs at home.”

The Critical Mineral Dominance Act codifies key executive actions to accelerate responsible domestic mining and reduce the nation’s reliance on imported minerals—many of which are currently sourced from countries that do not share U.S. values or strategic interests.

The legislation directs federal agencies to identify priority mining projects, speed up permitting where appropriate, expand geologic mapping, and review regulations that unnecessarily delay domestic mineral development. It also requires clearer analysis of the economic costs of America’s reliance on imported minerals and highlights opportunities to recover critical minerals from existing mine sites and byproducts.

ICYMI: Earlier this year, Fedorchak attended the Talon Metals ribbon cutting ceremony marking the launch of the Beulah Minerals Processing Facility near Beulah, ND. This effort, backed by a nearly $115 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, will advance domestic battery material production, diversify North Dakota’s coal mining industry, and strengthen U.S. energy and mineral independence.

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Congressman Fine Introduces the TSP Fiduciary Security Act of 2025 to Prevent Fund Investments and Votes That Harm the National Security of the United States

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Fine (FL-06) introduced the TSP Fiduciary Security Act of 2025, legislation focused on preventing the TSP from being invested in Countries of Concern by incorporating national security interests into the fiduciary responsibilities of the management of the Thrift Savings Fund.

The TSP serves as the 401k for all federal employees, including the US Armed Forces. Investing money in adversary nations, especially their military companies, only enhances the resources they need to not only compete with the United States, but develop weapons that can be used against our military.

Congressman Fine’s legislation would put the United States’ national security first by:

Preventing investments in entities on certain lists maintained by the Department of War and the Department of Commerce.

Ensuring that major industry does not suffer significant losses due to the regulations, including exceptions for impacts to the defense industry, emerging technology, and critical technology.

Prohibits TSP investments in any Chinese-based companies through the mutual fund window.

“It is in the United States’ best interest to prevent the TSP from being invested in countries of concern, such as China," said Congressman Randy Fine. "My bill would prevent excess funds from falling into the hands of our adversaries and stop them from being used to develop weapons that could be turned against the United States.”

“Americans’ retirement dollars should never fall into the hands of Communist China, a self-declared enemy nation bent on destroying America and our way of life. Doing so puts Americans’ futures at risk," said Senator Rick Scott. "Our TSP Fiduciary Security Act builds on our work to ensure the hard-earned money that our federal workers invest in their retirement is kept out of enemies’ reach by further preventing the TSP from investing in companies based in Communist China."

Congressman Fine remains committed to working with members of both parties to bring this bill into fruition and protect the interests of the American people.


Congresswoman Fischbach Meets with Secretary Rollins to Advocate for Urgent Relief for Sugarbeet Farmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) met with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins to discuss the economic crisis facing American sugarbeet farmers and to advocate for their fair share of the $1 billion in supplemental economic relief recently announced by the USDA.

The meeting focused on the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, an initiative designed to help row crop farmers recover from market disruptions. While the USDA has reserved an additional $1 billion for specialty crops and sugar, sugarbeet producers are currently facing unprecedented financial strain that threatens family farms and rural economies.

“Our sugarbeet farmers are facing collapsing prices and skyrocketing input costs,” said Congresswoman Fischbach. “With loss ratios averaging $500 per acre and exceeding $800 in some regions, this is an industry in crisis. I urged Secretary Rollins to ensure that the sugar industry receives its fair share of the $1 billion supplemental fund. These family-owned cooperatives are essential parts of the agriculture industry, and we cannot allow them to be left behind.”

The Congresswoman announced she will continue to work closely with the USDA and the Trump Administration to ensure that the final distribution of these funds reflects the depth of the economic hardship facing the industry. She remains committed to securing a long-term solution that protects domestic producers from volatile global markets and foreign competition.

Michelle Fischbach is the U.S. Representative for Minnesota's Seventh Congressional District. Get updates from Rep. Fischbach's congressional office on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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From Warrington to Washington: Fitzpatrick-Led Joe Fiandra Home Infusion Act Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, DC – What began as a conversation with one family in Warrington has now become federal law. Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) announced the passage of the Joe Fiandra Access to Home Infusion Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that expands Medicare coverage and removes barriers that prevented seniors from receiving life-saving infusion therapy at home.

The legislation was included in the final passage of H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026.

Named in honor of Joe Fiandra, an Army veteran and constituent of Pennsylvania’s First District who passed away in 2022 following a courageous battle with amyloidosis, the law corrects a long-standing gap in Medicare coverage that prevented many patients from receiving medically necessary infusion therapy at home. Drawing directly from Joe’s experience navigating barriers to care, the Joe Fiandra Access to Home Infusion Act expands Medicare coverage by ensuring that external infusion pumps and certain non-self-administered drugs are covered as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), removing unnecessary obstacles to home-based treatment. The change will benefit seniors nationwide who rely on infusion therapy to manage complex and life-threatening conditions.

“Joe faced his illness with the same courage that defined his life, but the barriers he encountered made an already difficult battle even harder. With this bill becoming law, no family will have to endure those same struggles—and that brings us peace, and profound pride in Joe’s legacy. I am deeply grateful to Congressman Fitzpatrick for standing with us from the beginning, listening to our story, and turning it into action. Having this legislation bear Joe’s name is an honor. It means his fight will spare other families from suffering, and his life will continue to make a difference for years to come,”said Helen Fiandra, wife of Joe Fiandra, Warrington resident.

“Joe Fiandra served our nation with honor, loved his family fiercely, and faced his illness with courage,” said Fitzpatrick. “But his fight revealed a health care system that made an already difficult moment even harder. When I met with Joe’s wife, Helen, she asked for one thing—that no other family would have to endure the same struggle. Now, with the signing of this bill, that promise has become law. Joe Fiandra’s legacy will permanently strengthen how Medicare delivers care—putting patients first and removing barriers that never should have existed. I am grateful to Helen for her strength, her partnership, and her advocacy, and will continue working to ensure our health care system does what it exists to do—help people when they need it most.”

In 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services acknowledged a critical flaw in Medicare policy—proposing to clarify that the Home Infusion Therapy benefit created under the 21st Century Cures Act should cover infusion drugs requiring professional supervision, not just those that are self-administered. That clarification was never finalized, leaving patients without coverage for medically necessary treatments and forcing families to navigate an illogical gap in the system.

The Joe Fiandra Access to Home Infusion Act permanently resolves that gap. By amending the Social Security Act, the law explicitly ensures that external infusion pumps and associated infusion drugs are covered as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) when medically necessary—bringing Medicare policy in line with modern standards of care and real-world patient needs.

Under the law, Medicare coverage applies when:

FDA-approved prescribing information requires administration by, or under the supervision of, a health care professional;

The drug is administered in the home by a qualified supplier; and

The therapy requires frequent administration or infusion rates that necessitate the use of an external pump.

The legislation also strengthens transparency by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to notify patients of applicable cost-sharing obligations for home infusion therapy compared to other care settings.

Read the full bill text here.

The Joe Fiandra Access to Home Infusion Act is supported by the Amyloidosis Support Group and reflects a broad consensus that Medicare should support care that is clinically appropriate, cost-effective, and centered on patients.

Background:

Congressman Fitzpatrick introduced the Joe Fiandra Access to Home Infusion Act in August 2025 alongside bipartisan partners Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02), and Darren Soto (FL-09). The legislation builds on work first advanced in the 118th Congress and reflects sustained bipartisan efforts to close gaps in Medicare coverage for home infusion therapy.

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Congressman Fong Votes to Pass NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026, Advancing Key District Priorities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) voted to pass H.R. 7273, the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026, during a full committee markup in the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. The bipartisan legislation provides critical direction for NASA and strengthens America’s leadership in space exploration, science, and innovation, and helps advance the critical work being produced at the NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center and the Mojave Air and Space Port. This bill was voted out of Committee by a unanimous vote of 37-0.

The bill includes provisions championed by Congressman Fong, including his ACERO Act, which strengthens critical wildfire fighting capabilities through the use of technology, and the MACH Act, which supports hypersonic advancements through industry partnerships. Congressman Fong also secured a key Chase Aircraft provision, which helps ensure NASA Armstrong has the needed Chase Aircraft to support its vital mission. Congressman Fong also introduced an amendment that was adopted unanimously and requires the NASA Administrator to establish a formal process for cross-directorate collaboration to better coordinate Mars exploration and science efforts.

“With rapid technological change and growing global competition, America must remain the world leader in space exploration and aerospace innovation,” said Congressman Fong (CA-20). “The NASA Reauthorization Act strengthens key programs supporting commercial spaceflight, advances cutting-edge aeronautics research and hypersonics, and reinforces critical partnerships with industry. This legislation is especially important for the Central Valley and Eastern Kern County – home to NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center and the Mojave Air and Space Port – and helps protect and expand the aerospace testing capabilities that keep our nation secure and globally competitive.”

Highlights of H.R. 7273 include:


Congressmen Maxwell Frost and Brian Mast Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Rail Safety

With Florida ranking third nationwide for pedestrian train injuries, the Safer Rail Crossing Act will strengthen deployment of federally-funded rail crossing safety projects.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) and Congressman Brian Mast (FL-21) introduced the Safer Rail Crossing Act, legislation aimed at improving rail safety, reducing accidents, and saving lives at railway crossings.

In 2023, there were nearly 1,900 accidents at railroad and roads or pedestrian walkway intersections. Florida ranks third in the country for the number of pedestrians injured in train accidents as of last year, underscoring the need for stronger safety measures.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)’s Railway-Highway Crossing Program (RHCP) provides funds for the elimination of hazards at public railway crossings. Since 2019, of the 723 RHCP projects completed, there has been a reduction of accidents at 597, or 82% of these crossings. These lifesaving gains have been achieved even as traffic on both roads and railways has increased, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in improving safety.

However, states and local governments using this program have reported needing better guidance, technical assistance, and examples when it comes to projects aimed at making grade crossings safer for pedestrians. This gap has made it harder for communities to fully utilize RHCP funds for pedestrian-focused improvements.

The Safer Rail Crossing Act would address this need by instructing the Federal Highway Administration to issue clear guidance on the types of pedestrian safety projects eligible under the RHCP. By providing states and local governments with better tools and clarity, the bill will help communities more effectively deploy proven safety solutions, prevent accidents, and save lives.

“Across the country, folks are increasingly relying on rail to get where they need to go, and as demand grows, so do concerns about rail safety. The Safer Rail Crossing Act builds on the proven success of the Railway-Highway Crossing Program and gives states and local governments the guidance they need to invest in safety solutions that saves lives. In turn, this creates an environment where both pedestrians and commuters can move freely without fear and ensures rail remains a safe and vital part of America’s infrastructure and economy,” said Congressman Frost

“Florida’s 21st District is all too familiar with the tragic consequences of railroad crossing malfunctions and unsafe pedestrian crossings,” said Rep. Brian Mast. “Serious safety concerns exist throughout Florida’s 21st District and across the nation. With high-speed rail cutting through our communities and freight trains passing through daily, the Safer Rail Crossing Act will help ensure crossings meet appropriate safety standards—making grade crossings safer for pedestrians and reducing preventable, fatal accidents.”

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Congressman Fry, President Trump Deliver $3 Million in Funding for South Carolina’s Seventh District

WASHINGTON, D.C. - President Trump has signed a funding package that included the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026. This bill included $3 million of funding secured by Congressman Russell Fry for the Seventh District of South Carolina.

The funding will support two major projects that are focused on protecting homes, businesses, and public assets while laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth in our communities.

The South Carolina Office of Resilience will receive $1.5 million for stormwater improvements in the City of Dillon from Dargan Street to the Washington Street Trunk Line. The project will replace failing infrastructure to reduce chronic flooding, protect homes, businesses, and the Dillon County Courthouse, and safeguard more than 100 properties while supporting future downtown redevelopment.

The South Carolina Office of Resilience will also receive $1.5 million for improvements to Crooked Creek in Marlboro County, including removing 2-3 feet of sediment and clearing debris from approximately 13 acres of creek banks. The project will reduce flash flooding in Bennettsville, strengthen infrastructure resilience, and support future residential and small business growth.

“This is about delivering real results for the people of South Carolina,” said Congressman Fry. “These projects will protect families, safeguard local businesses, and make our communities more resilient to severe weather. I was proud to fight for this funding and grateful to President Trump for signing it into law.”

Previously, Congressman Fry secured $13,359,887 in federal funding for 11 additional projects across South Carolina’s Seventh District.

Read more about the funding secured in the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026 and the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026 HERE.


Fulcher Speaks at First Sharia Free America Press Conference


Congressman Gabe Evans' Bipartisan Energy Threat Analysis Center Reauthorization Act passes through the E&C Energy Subcommittee.

The newly introduced legislation ensures the DOE can work collaboratively with public and private entities to protect America’s critical energy infrastructure from adversaries.

WASHINGTON — Today Reps. Gabe Evans (CO-08) and Kathy Castor’s (FL-14) bipartisan legislation The Energy Threat Analysis Center (ETAC) Reauthorization Act passed through the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy unanimously.

The newly introduced legislation will reauthorize ETAC within the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), providing operational support for energy sector cybersecurity and resilience.

“As an Army combat veteran and former cop, I know firsthand how crucial information-sharing is to the protection of our nation and the energy systems within it. I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan legislation that ensures the Department of Energy can continue these vital public-private partnerships that guarantee our energy sector has the support they need to keep our nation safe from cyber adversaries. I am proud that Colorado’s own National Lab of the Rockies (formerly NREL) is leading the way for the Energy Threat Analysis Center— conducting preventative research and real-world cybersecurity threat assessments that secure our critical energy infrastructure and keep the U.S. ahead of emerging threats.” — Congressman Gabe Evans

"The Energy Threat Analysis Center Act strengthens the Department of Energy’s emergency response capabilities in the face of cybersecurity threats to our energy system. These threats are real and dangerous. We must remain vigilant in protecting our country’s infrastructure and keeping our neighbors safe." — Ranking Member Kathy Castor

This bill reauthorizes the Energy Threat Analysis Center (ETAC) and protects critical infrastructure that American communities rely on by:


Days After Stockton Train Crash, Garamendi Calls for Passage of Railroad Safety Bill

"Three years since the disastrous Norfolk Southern train derailment, we have had our share of almost serious accidents in our region including in just recently in Stockton," said Rep. Garamendi. " That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Railway Safety Act because this bill is immensely important in California, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area where we depend on rail to transport countless goods and services essential for our economy. We will continue to fight for commonsense and bipartisan reforms to make our train tracks safe. Rail safety is just too important."

The press conference was held yesterday, exactly three years after the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, Members of Congress, community leaders, and labor leaders called on the need to implement needed railroad safety reforms. Since East Palestine, communities across the country have endured more than 200 crashes and more than 3,100 derailments, including several incidents involving hazardous materials.


Reps. Gillen, Begich Lead Bipartisan Aviation Weather Safety Bill

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY-04) and Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK-AL), members of both the House Transportation and Infrastructure and House Science, Space and Technology Committees, introduced the Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act. This bipartisan bill would require the Director of the National Weather Service (NWS) to coordinate with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the representatives of air traffic controllers and NWS meteorologists, to ensure adequate staffing.

“Long Island is home to one of the busiest and most complex airspaces in the nation, placing enormous demands on our aviation safety infrastructure. For this reason, adequate staffing of air traffic controllers and meteorologists is critical. Yet many are under tremendous strain from staffing shortages, posing a serious risk to both safety and reliability in our aviation system,” said Congresswoman Gillen. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to strengthen coordination and ensure aviation meteorologists are physically present at FAA Air Route Traffic Control Centers. Their expertise is essential to monitoring rapidly changing weather conditions and providing real-time guidance that keeps flights safe and on schedule across the country.”

“In Alaska, aviation is a critical link in the global supply chain. From bush flights serving remote villages to the nonstop cargo traffic moving through Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, safety and reliability must always come first. That’s why I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort alongside Congresswoman Gillen,” said Congressman Begich. “The Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act strengthens coordination among the FAA, the National Weather Service, and air traffic controllers to ensure Center Weather Service Units are adequately staffed and equipped to support the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. With Anchorage among the busiest cargo airports in the world, we have a responsibility to lead on aviation weather safety and make sure Alaska remains the hallmark of reliability and excellence in our national airspace system.”

"The FAA Managers Association strongly supports the introduction of the Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act of 2026,” said Mike Smith, President, FAA Managers Association (FAAMA). “Representing over 1,500 managers and supervisors across the FAA, we serve as stewards of our nation's air traffic safety. In this role, FAAMA recognizes the key impacts that timely and accurate weather information has on aviation safety. With staffing levels for Center Weather Service Units at FAA Air Route Traffic Control Centers across the country at concerningly low levels, we urge the FAA, National Weather Service and Congress to take an active role in seeking to remedy this situation. We specifically applaud Reps. Gillen and Begich for their leadership on this issue and encourage the Committee to take up this key legislation as soon as possible."

"The National Weather Service Employees Organization (NWSEO) wholeheartedly supports Congresswoman Laura Gillen's Aviation Weather Safety Improvement Act,” said JoAnn Becker, National President, National Weather Service Employees Organization. “Her bill will ensure that the Center Weather Service Unit (CWSU) offices are adequately staffed with expert aviation meteorologists from the National Weather Service. CWSU meteorologists advise air traffic controllers about severe weather conditions that could impact the safety of flights with Americans and international visitors."

This bill is endorsed by the FAA Managers Association and the National Weather Service Employees Organization.

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Rep. Tony Gonzales Introduces the Homeland Threat Response Act Ahead of Super Bowl

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) introduced the Homeland Threat Response Act to close a longstanding gap in federal law that creates bureaucratic and legal obstacles for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel when assisting state and local law enforcement in response to critical threats and violent incidents, including mass shootings and acts of terrorism.

"When violence or terror strikes, the best-trained men and women need to be able to respond without hesitation about the bureaucratic backlash,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “BORTAC and BORSTAR are elite units under Border Patrol that have frequently been called in during moments of crisis, saving many lives in the process. However, under current law, they don't have the same legal protections as their federal counterparts. My bill, the Homeland Threat Response Act, closes that gap by giving CBP clear authority and protections to assist state and local law enforcement during mass shootings, terrorist attacks, and other violent incidents. With the Super Bowl around the corner, this legislation is timelier than ever and ensures that our law enforcement can do their jobs without fear of death by paper cuts.”

Background:

The United States Border Patrol Special Operations Group (SOG) serves as the tactical and crisis-response arm of the U.S. Border Patrol, which is under the command of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The Special Operations Group includes the Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) and the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) Unit. These elite divisions are trained and equipped to conduct high-risk operations, including counterterrorism, hostage rescue, tactical tracking, and disaster response, both along the border and throughout the nation. Additionally, these units have historically been deployed to assist with specialized security at the Super Bowl.

Despite their extensive training and experience, SOG personnel still lack clear legal authority to assist state and local law enforcement in response to certain violent acts, shootings, and mass killings (6 U.S Code § 455). Under federal law, ICE and the Secret Service are authorized to deploy in such situations, but Border Patrol's Special Operations Group currently does not share that authority. As a result, SOG personnel have faced post-operation questioning and liability exposure, despite acting in good faith to safeguard American lives.

USBP SOG teams have supported or directly participated in several major domestic incidents, after which they were questioned or investigated regarding their legal authority to operate, including:

August 3, 2019: The Walmart mass shooting in El Paso, Texas.

May 24, 2022: The Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas.

May 2023: The killing of five people in Cleveland, Texas, by an illegal migrant from Mexico, Francisco Oropeza.

July 2023: The manhunt for Michael Burham, who escaped custody in Warren County, Pennsylvania, after multiple murders.

September 2023: The capture of Danilo Cavalcante, an illegal alien from Brazil who escaped a Pennsylvania prison following a murder conviction.

October 2023: The Lewiston, Maine, mass shooting in which Robert Card killed 18 people.

Solution:

Congressman Gonzales' Homeland Threat Response Act amends existing law by granting CBP and its Special Operations Group explicit legal authority to assist state and local partners in responding to violent acts, mass killings, and acts of terrorism on U.S. soil.

The Homeland Threat Response Act:

Amends 6 U.S. Code § 455 to authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to mobilize CBP to assist state and local law enforcement in violent incident response.

Specifically, the bill:

Expands existing authorities to include CBP, which ensures that SOG personnel, such as BORTAC and BORSTAR, can lawfully assist in domestic operations.

Provides that any assistance rendered under this authority shall be presumed within the scope of federal employment, extending liability and legal protections to dispatched personnel.

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