Welch Secures Nearly $60 Million in Federal Funds for Vermont

Welch secured funding for 27 Vermont projects, totaling nearly $31 million

Welch partnered with Vermont Congressional Delegation to secure funding for 11 additional Vermont projects, totaling more than $28 million

BURLINGTON, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, today announced that he has secured $58.68 million in federal funds to support 38 Vermont projects, following the passage of eleven annual appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026. The projects will improve local infrastructure, boost economic development, build more affordable housing, and boost access to vital health care services across Vermont’s rural communities. Sen. Welch nominated project recipients through the Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) process.

“I fought to secure nearly $60 million in federal funding for Vermont through the Congressionally Directed Spending process—I’m proud this money will be invested right back into Vermont communities. These funds will support projects that will make a huge difference in every corner of our State—from building more affordable housing to expanding access to vital health care services, and implementing important public safety and infrastructure upgrades. These funds will also help jump-start projects that support flood-impacted and rural communities,” said Senator Welch. “Federal funding is crucial to supporting local projects that make Vermonters’ lives better, but President Trump’s backwards priorities have jeopardized the success of these projects. I’ll keep up the fight to protect Vermonters’ taxpayer dollars and bring money back to the Green Mountain State.”

The Congressionally Directed Spending was included in a bipartisan funding agreement that included 11 of the 12 annual appropriation bills, including Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development; Financial Services and General Government; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.

Senator Welch secured the following federal investments to support Vermont communities:

$12,000,000 for the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board** (VHCB) to support the creation of permanently affordable rental housing and the development of shelters in Vermont.

$5,250,000 for Ascend Housing Allies Incorporated to help construct a 21-unit, fully affordable, rental apartment building in Middlebury.

$4,600,000 for the University of Detroit Mercy and the Vermont State Dental Society** to establish and support clinical dental training in Vermont for up to 64 dental students from the University of Detroit Mercy School.

$3,250,000 for Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation to create a new industrial park in Brattleboro that will spur economic development and add up to 350 new jobs in the next seven years.

$2,700,000 for the University of Vermont (UVM) to create a Wet Lab Technician Certificate Program to foster a local and regional skilled workforce and expand UVM’s research enterprise.

$2,500,000 for Vermont State University in Montpelier to develop a comprehensive certification program for composite technicians to meet industry demands and train the next generation of Vermont workers.

$2,000,000 for the Vermont Army National Guard** to construct a readiness center in Northeast Vermont.

$2,000,000 for the Vermont Army National Guard** to complete construction of a general-purpose administration building on Ethan Allen Force Base.

$2,000,000 for the Vermont Office of Economic Opportunity for home repair and remediation. This is expected to support 120 homes over a five-year period.

$1,700,000 for the City of Montpelier** to accelerate drinking water system upgrades.

$1,458,000 for the City of Montpelier** to update Elm Street housing to elevate above flood level.

$1,400,000 for Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital to construct new pharmacies in Caledonia County to address the recent loss of pharmacies in Caledonia towns.

$1,350,000 for the Town of Richmond** to upgrade the 50-year-old Richmond Wastewater Treatment Facility.

$1,200,000 for Addison County Community Trust** to address the aging and failing water systems infrastructure in Hillside Manor, a 29-unit affordable housing community in Starksboro.

$1,187,000 for the Vermont Department of Corrections for peer recovery coaches at six correctional facilities and 12 probation and parole offices across Vermont.

$1,000,000 for the Bolton Valley Water and Community Development Company to replace an existing wastewater treatment facility in Bolton at risk of contaminating drinking water sources.

$1,000,000 for Craftsbury Saplings to expand available childcare slots to meet the needs of the community and add nine new full-time jobs.

$1,000,000 for the City of Burlington* for new infrastructure upgrades for the South End Wastewater Storage.

$1,000,000 for the City of Burlington** to improve drinking water quality and increase the usable volume of the emergency back-up water supply of drinking water.

$1,000,000 for the Town of Woodstock to upgrade the 40-year-old Woodstock Main Wastewater Treatment Facility to optimize treatment and energy use.

$996,000 for UVM to expand and sustain its Bridges to Health Community Health Worker program across all rural Vermont communities.

$850,000 for Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTRANS)* to help fill the state’s funding gap for the ongoing $49.5 million Winooski River Bridge replacement project.

$814,000 for Vermont Youth Conservation Corp (VYCC) in Richmond to help families struggling with food insecurity.

$774,000 for the Town of Hartford Police Department for public safety upgrades to enhance Hartford’s emergency communications infrastructure, modernize its emergency response capabilities, and improve dispatch capacity.

$750,000 for VHCB to expand the Vermont Farm and Forest Viability Program’s capacity to serve working lands businesses, with a focus on beginning farmers and businesses.

$694,000 for UVM Health Network for hospital safety improvements.

$664,000 for the Lamoille County Regional Planning Commission to add ten streamgages and two precipitation sensors in the Lamoille River basin.

$600,000 for the Town of Berlin to improve the town’s drinking water system and expand service along the Water Main System Loop.

$598,000 for the Rockingham Municipal Fire Department SR Station to build a new fire station with expanded emergency services.

$591,000 for the City of Barre** to mitigate future flood risk through floodplain restoration.

$557,000 for Norwich University’s School of Nursing Teaching and Simulation Center to enhance the center with additional equipment and medical infrastructure.

$500,000 for the Army Corps of Engineers** for a new flood control study of the Winooski River watershed in Montpelier and Barre following the 2023 and 2024 floods.

$500,000 for Bennington First Congregational Church to upgrade the historic church building to improve accessibility and protect the historic structure.

$500,000 for the Intervale Center’s Conservation Nursery in Burlington to expand the statewide riparian restoration and land conservation projects.

$500,000 for the Town of South Hero to restore and upgrade the Old White Meeting House, the oldest municipal building in Grand Isle County.

$375,000 for the American Association of State Climatologists to prepare Vermont’s first comprehensive drought plan, create an inundation flooding platform to better predict flood risks, and more.

$373,000 for Turning Point of Springfield to reduce substance misuse and increase recovery in rural, high-risk communities by expanding Peer Recovery Coaching and Community Coalition engagement.

$250,000 for Spectrum Youth to expand school-based mental health services for middle and high school students in Chittenden and Franklin counties.

$250,000 for the Vermont Department of Economic Development to provide technical assistance to small- and medium-sized enterprises in responding to an increase in costs associated with tariffs.

$100,000 for the Center for Agricultural Economy for farm-to-school education and local food school nutrition.

* denotes funds were secured in partnership with the Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Becca Balint (VT-At-Large)

** denotes funds were secured in partnership with Senator Sanders

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Welch Statement on Launch of TrumpRx

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, released the following statement on the launch of TrumpRx, a new direct-to-consumer prescription drug platform launched by the Trump Administration:

“TrumpRx is yet another PR stunt and a money-making scheme for the Trump family. American seniors and patients will (once again) be left holding the bag,” said Senator Welch. “During his campaign, President Trump promised time and time again to bring down the price of prescription drugs. The reality is that he’s done nothing to address the health care crisis we face—if anything, he’s made it worse. President Trump should take real steps to actually lower drug prices, including enforcing a strong crackdown on drug middlemen, supporting expanded Medicare negotiation, bolstering U.S. drug manufacturing, and working with Congressional Democrats to pass drug pricing reforms.”

This week, Senator Welch, alongside Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), wrote to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) expressing concern about how the OIG will conduct oversight and apply the federal Anti-Kickback Statute to direct-to-consumer platforms such as TrumpRx.

In November, Senator Welch led six of his colleagues in in demanding transparency from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the scope, structure, and legal authority of TrumpRx. In their letter to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the Senators requested answers about how the Administration’s recent drug pricing arrangements with pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and AstraZeneca will impact patients, and existing state and federal drug pricing programs.

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Wicker, Colleagues Introduce the Regional Ocean Partnerships Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., Katie Britt, R-Ala., Chris Coons, D-Del., John Kennedy, R-La., Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Susan Collins, R-Maine., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., and Ed Markey, D-Mass., introduced the Regional Ocean Partnerships Act. The bill would reauthorize Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. ROPs are voluntarily convened by state governors in collaboration with local and federal government partners and stakeholders to address ocean and coastal issues of common concern for the region.

“Mississippi and other coastal states share similar concerns regarding American waters, including the impact of harmful algal blooms and lack of data for oyster farmers,” said Senator Wicker. “It is important for states to work together to provide solutions for the issues our coasts face today. This bill promotes regional collaboration, builds stronger data-base portals, and leverages funding to strengthen our Blue Economy and protect natural resources.”

“I’m proud to be introducing the bipartisan Regional Ocean Partnerships Act with Senator Wicker. Together, we will further empower states to work collaboratively to address coastal issues,” said Senator Blunt Rochester.

“My dedication to supporting Alabama’s coastal communities is unwavering. The most significant priorities in the Gulf of America may differ from those in the Pacific or the Atlantic – The Regional Ocean Partnerships Act engages local and state governments, including stakeholders, to safeguard our oceans and coasts by curating regional plans to ensure federal and state resources are used efficiently from coast to coast. As coastal communities, including in our Southern states, continue to grow and thrive, I’m proud to champion legislation that prioritizes their needs,” said Senator Britt.

“Delaware’s beaches are treasures of our state. We must protect them for the families that come to our shores to make lifelong memories, for the communities they protect from storms and flooding, and for the coastal economies they sustain and grow. I’m proud to support this bill to help preserve these natural resources, because healthy oceans make for a stronger Delaware,” said Senator Coons.

“Louisiana is the Sportsman’s Paradise, and we owe so much of that to the Gulf of America and the incredible natural bounty our state is blessed with. That’s why I’m proud to help renew our partnerships with the federal government, other states, and businesses and nonprofits to keep our Gulf communities strong and clean,” said Senator Kennedy.

“Massachusetts' coastal communities depend on a healthy ocean—but we can’t navigate stormy waters alone. This bipartisan bill will support the ongoing work done across the Northeast region to address key ocean and coastal issues,” said Senator Markey.

"The Regional Ocean Partnership program is one of our best tools when it comes to planning for the future of Connecticut's economy and protecting the health of the Long Island Sound. By bringing together ocean scientists and lawmakers from across New England, we can collaborate on research and be better prepared to respond to climate change and worsening natural disasters. I'm proud to support this bipartisan legislation to make sure this collaboration remains strong and can expand across the country," said Senator Murphy.

The Regional Ocean Partnerships Act would:

Give authority to the Governor or Governors of coastal state(s) to apply to the Secretary of Commerce for designation as a Regional Ocean Partnership;

Designate the Gulf of Mexico Alliance, the Northeast Regional Ocean Council, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council, and the West Coast Ocean Alliance as Regional Ocean Partnerships; and

Define the functions of Regional Ocean Partnerships.


Young, Colleagues Urge Administration to Combat Illegal Chinese Vapes

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined with a group of fellow Senate Republicans in a letter urging the Treasury Department and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to combat the shipments and illicit sales of Chinese e-cigarettes in America. These Chinese e-cigarettes are a health and national security threat, and their sales are helping fund the Chinese Communist Party’s activities.

“We write to draw your attention to the growing risks associated with the massive volumes of illicit Chinese e-cigarettes flooding into the United States. We fully support President Trump’s aggressive, multi-agency enforcement actions taken to confront this pressing threat as addressing illegal activity of this magnitude and consequence requires a comprehensive strategy and response. Accordingly, we respectfully urge the Treasury Department and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to take appropriate action within their respective authorities,” the senators wrote.

In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Tom Cottom (R-Ark.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) also signed the letter.

Full text of the letter can be found here and below:

Dear Secretary Bessent and Ambassador Greer,

We write to draw your attention to the growing risks associated with the massive volumes of illicit Chinese e-cigarettes flooding into the United States. We fully support President Trump’s aggressive, multi-agency enforcement actions taken to confront this pressing threat as addressing illegal activity of this magnitude and consequence requires a comprehensive strategy and response. Accordingly, we respectfully urge the Treasury Department and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to take appropriate action within their respective authorities.

The Chinese Communist Party, through China’s State Tobacco Monopoly Administration (STMA), exports hundreds of millions of illegal e-cigarettes to the United States each year, flooding the domestic market, and generating billions of dollars in revenue. The proceeds generated by STMA may be helping to fund military or technological initiatives designed to undermine American economic and strategic interests. Federal agencies have also linked Chinese manufacturers to Mexican cartels and money laundering operations. Earlier this year, the

Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) reported that illicit Chinese e- cigarettes are being used as part of a trade-based money laundering scheme to move fentanyl proceeds on behalf of Mexican cartels.

The Department of Justice and Drug Enforcement Agency have also connected the proliferation of e-cigarettes smuggled into the United States to retailers operated by foreign nationals near schools and military installations. Additionally, highly sophisticated “smart vapes,” with the ability to connect to user’s cellphones, have become commonplace. These devices have the capacity to initiate data breaches or malware infections and can also access and collect sensitive user data. Given the interconnected relationship between Chinese industry and state intelligence services, the targeting of U.S. military personnel with these devices raises profound national security concerns.

Given the scale and severity of this threat, we urge the Treasury Department and USTR to use their respective enforcement and diplomatic authorities to combat illegal Chinese e-cigarettes. Whether tackling money laundering operations via FinCEN or negotiating directly with Chinese leaders to prevent future shipments of illegal e-cigarettes, your leadership is necessary to help curtail this growing security risk. We appreciate your consideration and are ready to assist.


Congressman Al Green to Host Inaugural Black History Month Legislative Update and Introduce Black History Month Resolution (HUNDREDS EXPECTED TO ATTEND)

(Houston, TX) —On Saturday, February 7, 2026, Congressman Al Green will host his Inaugural Black History Month Legislative Update with a powerful message to America on “A Century of Black History Commemorations” and discuss resolutions that he will introduce in Congress preserving Black history, and the ongoing fight for justice. Honoring both history and the future, the program will include a moving recitation by Otis Marks III, winner of Houston’s Foley MLK Jr. Oratory Competition, and a Pledge of Allegiance led by students from the 9th district who have been accepted into United States military academies.

This Black History Month Legislative Update centers on a stolen legacy, how Black contributions built this nation, yet continue to be erased. Congressman Green will introduce his Black History Month and Slavery Remembrance Day resolutions, along with several additional resolutions, while confronting ongoing efforts to erase and undermine Black history in America.

Congressman Al Green stated, “Black history was not meant to be hidden or stolen. Black Americans are at the foundation of America’s wealth and success, yet today we face deliberate efforts to erase that truth while rolling back civil rights. I will continue fighting to honor the enslaved, protect our history, and confront invidious discrimination wherever it exists. AMERICA MUST NEVER FORGET THAT MILLIONS OF AFRICAN LIVES WERE SACRIFICED FOR MORE THAN 240 YEARS TO PROVIDE THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA UNPAID LABOR. THESE ENSLAVED PERSONS ARE THE ECONOMIC FOUNDATIONAL MOTHERS AND FATHERS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. THEY MUST BE RESPECTED, HONORED, AND COMMEMORATED FOR THEIR 240 YEARS OF SACRIFICE.”


Moulton, Massachusetts Members Demand Accountability After Trump Administration Moves to Dismantle ARPA-H Investor Catalyst Hub

SALEM, MA – Today, Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) joined with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ed Markey (D-MA) and Representatives Lori Trahan (MA-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Richard E. Neal (MA-01) in demanding immediate answers from the Trump Administration following reports that the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) has issued a stop-work order and notice of intent to terminate and wind down the ARPA-H Investor Catalyst Hub.

In a letter to President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the lawmakers called for an immediate explanation and justification for the decision, warning it could disrupt lifesaving biomedical innovation and waste years of federal investment.

“Terminating the Investor Catalyst Hub’s work at this stage would be a profound mistake and a blatant waste of taxpayer dollars and federal investment,” the lawmakers wrote. “Halting this work now would squander years of progress, disrupt momentum across multiple ARPA-H programs, and undermine the agency’s core mission of translating high-impact research into treatments and cures that reach the American people.”

The Investor Catalyst Hub, based in the greater Boston area, plays a central role in ensuring promising innovations successfully transition from federal research investment into real-world treatments and cures. The Hub was strategically located in Massachusetts because of the Commonwealth’s globally recognized life sciences and biotechnology ecosystem, and unmatched concentration of research institutions, hospitals, and health innovators.

Congress recently reaffirmed its commitment to ARPA-H by appropriating $1.5 billion in fiscal year 2026 funding to accelerate high-impact biomedical innovation and strengthen pathways that move breakthroughs from discovery to deployment. The delegation noted that the Investor Catalyst Hub has been fully operational for two years and is already supporting projects focused on improving cancer surgery, expanding hospital-level care to rural communities, and advancing the diagnosis and treatment of lymphatic diseases.

“With Congress' support, the Investor Catalyst Hub was created precisely to ensure that ARPA-H–funded breakthroughs do not stall out in the lab but instead move efficiently toward real-world deployment,” the lawmakers continued.

The members requested a congressional briefing, a clear justification for the decision, and a detailed contingency plan explaining how ARPA-H will maintain continuity of the Investor Catalyst Hub’s work. They asked the Administration to respond no later than February 13, 2026.

A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE.

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Neguse, Bennet Statement On Trump’s Support for Nexstar Media-Tegna Merger

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Joe Neguse and Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement after President Donald Trump posted to Truth Social endorsing the Nexstar Media-Tegna merger. The deal violates federal law and the national broadcast ownership cap, and gives corporate owners greater control over programming and the framing of local news coverage.

“Today, Donald Trump backed a media merger that will have devastating consequences for local news in Colorado and for American journalism writ large. By designating news outlets he dislikes as ‘the enemy,’ Trump has continued his baseless attack on reporters who devote their careers to investigating those in power and holding them to account. This administration’s ongoing effort is an attempt to obscure the clear abuses being perpetrated by the president and his allies, while depriving communities across the country of reliable, accessible local news. It is precisely why we fought against this reckless and illegal merger last year. We will continue doing everything we can to oppose this dangerous erosion of one of the most essential pillars of our democracy.”

The Colorado lawmakers have been leading an effort to block this merger. In October 2025, Neguse and Bennet penned a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, imploring the agency to put community interest over corporate profit and reject the Nexstar Media-Tegna merger.

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Pallone Launches 2026 Youth Advisory Council, Welcomes 134 Students from Across NJ-06

Old Bridge, NJ—Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today launched his 2026 Youth Advisory Council at the Old Bridge Public Library, kicking off a year-long civic leadership program for students across New Jersey’s Sixth District.

This year’s council includes 134 students from 28 high schools across 29 towns –the largest group yet to participate in Pallone’s 11-year initiative aimed at encouraging civic engagement among area youth.

During the kickoff meeting, Pallone spoke about the importance of civil engagement and participating in the democratic process. Throughout the year, youth council members will meet with Pallone and his staff to develop their own legislative recommendations. The program culminates with students presenting their policy recommendations directly to the Congressman.

“It is inspiring to see the next generation stepping up to tackle the challenges facing our country. For the past 11 years, the Council has provided young people from across the Sixth District with a seat at the table to share their ideas, collaborate, and help shape solutions,” Pallone said. “I look forward to hearing their proposals and working to bring their ideas to Washington.”

Now in its 11th year, Pallone’s Youth Advisory Council provides hands-on experience in public service and policymaking. To join the council, students must demonstrate a commitment to governance and public service, answer a series of questions, and provide letters of recommendation.

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Blumenthal Statement on Trump Eliminating Environmental Protections for Northeast Canyons & Seamounts Marine National Monument

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement after President Donald Trump issued a proclamation rolling back protections for the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. Trump announced that he would open the region’s only marine national monument to commercial fishing.

“Eliminating protections for this spectacular underwater seascape— a natural treasure— reverses years of our environmental advocacy. As the Atlantic’s only marine national monument, it is a pristine, precious ecosystem supporting countless species of fauna, fish and other wildlife. Trump’s decision is reckless and irresponsible. I’ll be fighting it— to restore the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument.”

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Daines Honors Montana National Guard Families at Fort Harrison

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today attended the Montana National Guard’s Adjutant General Appreciation Dinner at Fort Harrison. At the dinner, he honored the Montana Army National Guard Aviation Crews and the Montana National Guard Family & Military Readiness Group as “Montanans of the Month” and presented them with signed copies of congressional resolutions honoring their service. Read the resolutions that were presented HERE and HERE.

Read Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery below.

Thank you, Major Begger. Brigadier General Gibson, and Command Sergeant Major Deboo for the opportunity to recognize some incredible heroes of the Montana National Guard.

Distinguished guests, men and women of the MT National Guard and their loved ones here tonight, we heard just a few of the many, many stories of Guard heroism that take place on a regular basis.

Most of you in this room are very familiar with the Seven Core Principles of the Army Values. Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. I think the Soldiers we just had on stage knocked it out of the park! They are the epitome of each of those core principles.

I am so very proud of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Montana National Guard. Whether they are risking life and limb, in harsh environments and unforgiving weather to save a random stranger, or defending our freedoms half a world away, they give their all to keep us safe.

As people get older, or think about retirement, they often wonder if they made a difference. I can tell you, the people in this room, the people currently serving in the United States military, and our veterans will never have to wonder. You have made a difference, and we are incredibly grateful and proud of each and every one of you. Thank you!

When you join the military, you gain another family. The brothers and sisters you serve with will have your back to the end, but as you know, they are not the only family you have watching your back. Our loved ones at home sacrifice just as much. Military spouses take on incredible tasks while you are away, managing the household, caring for our children. Their duties are doubled throughout long deployments.

Tonight, as we recognize these two groups – the Montana Military & Family Readiness Program and the Montana Army National Guard aviation crews – let us not forget that there are many heroes behind the scenes who never get recognized for their sacrifice and bravery.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank those who serve in the Montana National Guard Military and Family Readiness Program. When families are strong, so is our nation and so is our military. Your jobs are vital to ensuring the safety and security of our state and nation.

I’d also like to thank all the military spouses here tonight for the sacrifices they have made for our Soldiers and Airmen. The hardships you endure throughout a military career are incredibly difficult. You are your own special team, a unit.

And to the brave members of the Montana Army National Guard Aviation Crews: thank you. Montana search and rescue presents its own unique challenges. Your bravery and heroism make us all very proud.

My sweet wife, Cindy and I have been married for 39 years. Four kids and seven grandkids. My duties as Senator, and the Foreign Relations Committee have me traveling the globe quite a bit, but my trips are only for a few days. When you go overseas, you go for months, sometimes a year!

Service members often tell me their spouses had it worse than they did during deployment. Can we have the military spouses in the room please stand up and let’s show them our deep appreciation! Without you and your unwavering support, we wouldn’t have the greatest military in the world!

Thank you again for allowing me to share this wonderful evening with you! God Bless you all! God Bless our troops, their families and Montana. May God continue to Bless the United States of America.

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As Housing Costs Continue to Soar, Duckworth Convenes Metro East Housing Authorities to Discuss Solutions

[ALTON, IL] — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with local housing authorities, municipal leaders and service providers to discuss the ongoing housing affordability crisis and how to expand stable, affordable housing opportunities. As the cost of housing continues to consistently faster than the rate of wages, Duckworth underscored the urgent need to address issues preventing homes from being built and ensuring the homes we do build meet the needs of Veterans, the disability community and all Americans. Duckworth met with the CEO of The Wedge, Col. Scot Heathman, Alton Mayor David Goins, Executive Director of St. Clair County Housing Authority Vera Jones, Executive Director of Madison County Housing Authority Jameca Chapman, Peter Hough with Alton Mission and Overnight Warming Location, CEO of Centerstone Anne Tyree and other local leaders.

“The cost of rent and mortgages have been growing further and further out of reach for middle-class Americans for far too long and we need to invest in new pathways for communities facing severe housing shortages,” said Duckworth. “As costs have continued to rise with little relief—and with Donald Trump telling Americans he wants housing prices to skyrocket even more—I’m proud to work alongside our local leaders in the Metro East to help create more affordable housing to help American families.”

Duckworth has been an outspoken advocate working to expand affordable housing opportunities and decrease homelessness rates. This week, Duckworth along with U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL-11) introduced the Advancing Better Options for Dwellings Everywhere (ABODE) Act, which would mitigate barriers to home ownership and incentivize builders to construct resilient and affordable homes through a competition for 21st-century single-family home designs focused on cost, energy efficiency and scalability. Last month, she joined U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) at the Center for American Progress (CAP) for a policy summit where they discussed common-sense solutions to address our nation’s housing shortage and lower housing costs for middle-class families and Veterans. The Senator recently helped introduce legislation to protect Veterans and low-income families from housing discrimination.

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Fetterman Criticizes Proposed Pennsylvania ICE Warehouses in Letter to DHS Secretary Noem

BRADDOCK, PA – Following reports of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) intention to convert two recently purchased warehouse facilities into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centers, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) expressed his concerns today in a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and requested further information.

“While I have been clear in my support for the enforcement of federal immigration law, this decision will do significant damage to these local tax bases, set back decades-long efforts to boost economic development, and place undue burdens on limited existing infrastructure in these communities,” wrote Senator Fetterman.

The proposed conversion of the facilities in Tremont Township and Upper Bern Township, without input from local or state officials, includes transforming them into 7,500- and 1,500-bed detention centers, respectively. Both townships do not currently have the capacity to meet the demands of these detention centers, with Tremont Township officials specifically stating the proposed 7,500-bed detention facility would quadruple the existing burden on their public infrastructure system.

Detention facilities impose unique and substantial demands, particularly adequate access to existing water and sewage systems, an increased demand on local electrical grids, the capacity of local law enforcement and EMS, and proximity to appropriate medical facilities.

“Additionally, the acquisition of these facilities by the federal government represents a combined loss of over $1.6M in local tax revenue per year for Schuylkill and Berks counties. This loss of vital tax dollars compounds concerns over the ability of these municipalities to meet the infrastructure needs of these facilities and would place undue strain upon the budgets of local governments and school districts in the region,” continued the senator.

Fetterman requested that DHS and ICE provide the following:

1. A briefing for his office on the criteria used to select viable properties for conversion into ICE detention centers, including specific details on the decision to purchase the Tremont and Upper Bern Twp. Properties;

2. A detailed impact assessment addressing infrastructure, public safety, public health, economic development, and fiscal concerns for these communities;

3. A commitment that federal funds will cover all necessary infrastructure upgrades and ongoing costs associated with these facilities; and

4. A commitment to a period of public engagement and dialogue with these communities.

Read the full text of the letter below and here.

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Dear Secretary Noem:

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) intention to convert two recently purchased warehouse facilities, in Schuylkill and Berks counties, into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centers. While I have been clear in my support for the enforcement of federal immigration law, this decision will do significant damage to these local tax bases, set back decades-long efforts to boost economic development, and place undue burdens on limited existing infrastructure in these communities.

The proposed conversion of these facilities into 7,500- and 1,500-bed detention centers in Tremont Township and Upper Bern Township, respectively, raises a variety of concerns. These facilities were purchased with no input from local or state officials, leaving these communities scrambling to understand why DHS and ICE selected them for large-scale detention operations.

Detention facilities impose unique and substantial demands on infrastructure both in the communities in which they are placed and in neighboring communities. I am concerned that DHS acquired these properties without taking into consideration any of the following:

Adequate access to existing water and sewage systems, or the ability to expand existing systems, particularly at the Tremont Twp. facility;

An increased demand on local electrical grids;

Local law enforcement and EMS capacity; and

Proximity to appropriate medical facilities.

Neither Tremont Twp. nor Upper Bern Twp. currently have the capacity to meet these demands. In the case of Tremont Twp. specifically, local officials have said that the proposed 7,500-bed detention facility would quadruple the existing burden on their public infrastructure system. To date, ICE has provided these communities with no information on how it will meet these expansive needs, and it would be wildly irresponsible to place such a burden on these communities.

Additionally, the acquisition of these facilities by the federal government represents a combined loss of over $1.6M in local tax revenue per year for Schuylkill and Berks counties. This loss of vital tax dollars compounds concerns over the ability of these municipalities to meet the infrastructure needs of these facilities and would place undue strain upon the budgets of local governments and school districts in the region.

My constituents are concerned that DHS and ICE made the decision to purchase these facilities without any local input yet expect the residents of these communities to shoulder the infrastructure, public safety, sanitation, and economic burdens imposed on them. Frankly, these are concerns that I share.

To that end, I request that DHS and ICE provide the following before moving forward with either project:

A briefing for my office on the criteria used to select viable properties for conversion into ICE detention centers, including specific details on the decision to purchase the Tremont and Upper Bern Twp. properties;

A detailed impact assessment addressing infrastructure, public safety, public health, economic development, and fiscal concerns for these communities;

A commitment that federal funds will cover all necessary infrastructure upgrades and ongoing costs associated with these facilities; and

A commitment to a period of public engagement and dialogue with these communities.

Due to these significant concerns, it is my fear that DHS and ICE did not perform any due diligence, spending more than $200 million in tax dollars for warehouses that cannot be adequately converted and further eroding trust between Pennsylvanians and the Federal government.

Sincerely,


ICYMI: Reuters: US Senator Ruben Gallego on His Journey from Janitor to Congress

How early jobs and military service fuel the fight for working families in Washington.

WASHINGTON – This week, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) spoke with Reuters editor Lauren Young as part of a monthly series highlighting the career path of notable Americans.

Reuters: US Senator Ruben Gallego on his journey from janitor to Congress [Lauren Young, 2/6/26]

Read experts from the interview below:

What was your first job?

My first job was actually helping out my cousins and uncles at construction sites as a laborer. They were carpenters, so I was moving around drywall, studs and things of that nature. I got paid about $20 per day, which sounds ridiculous, but it’s family.

At 14, I was also a janitor at the Evergreen Aqua club swimming pool. If I remember correctly, I was getting paid $4.25 an hour.

What skills did you learn in those first jobs that you still use today as a senator?

Hard work does pay off. For those two jobs, it was important that I woke up early and got to my job. I was part of a team. I was very proud of the fact that I was able to bring some money home to help my family.

Was helping out your family the motivating factor to work or were you saving up for something in particular?

My mom was a single mom and immigrant from Colombia raising four kids. She was a secretary. Money was tight. It was really important for me to contribute, mostly to the utility bills. Being able to give her a little of my paycheck helped ease some of the financial pain. I could also spend some money without asking for it.

How did your military experience shape your work ethic?

Discipline. When I want to do something, I buckle down, focus and get it done. Whether it is running for office or getting a bill passed, it’s a skill set I still use today. I’m still friends with the guys I served with more than 25 years ago. It gives me great perspective. I still learn a lot from them.

Can you name one concrete policy area impacted by these early jobs?

To make sure that a wage is a dignified wage. There’s nothing more frustrating than putting in 40 hours of work and still not being able to live off that. Or to be able to have a little money to invest in yourself, or even to grab a movie. I think it has gotten worse.

My work as a senator consists of me being in a suit a lot, sitting down somewhere and talking to people. That’s not hard compared to what the average person does on a job site or factory line.

Read the full article, and watch video from the interview, HERE.


Senator Gillibrand Statement On Court Ruling Protecting Gateway Project Funding

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after a federal court blocked the Trump administration from suspending funding for the Gateway Hudson Tunnel project:

“Last night’s court ruling confirms what we already knew: President Trump must put the American people over his ego and stop playing games with New Yorkers’ tax dollars and livelihoods.

“Hundreds of thousands of Americans are counting on the Gateway Hudson Tunnel – including the project’s talented union workers and their families, as well as the commuter train riders and rail passengers traveling along the busiest corridor in the nation.”

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MISS. DELEGATION APPLAUDS TRUMP FOR APPROVING MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION FOR MISSISSIPPI

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Trent Kelly (R-Miss.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), and Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) today applauded President Trump for approving Mississippi’s request for a major disaster declaration following deadly Winter Storm Fern, which struck the state Jan. 23-27, 2026.

This approval unlocks federal resources to support recovery efforts across Mississippi. The declaration approves Public Assistance for 38 counties.

“We thank President Trump for approving Mississippi's major disaster declaration. These resources will help our communities rebuild after Winter Storm Fern. We are grateful for this immediate response from the administration,” the Mississippi congressional delegation said in a joint statement.

Following the storm, the delegation signed a letter to President Trump in support of Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a major disaster declaration.

“State and local resources, along with those of volunteer organizations, are insufficient to meet Mississippi’s recovery needs. Strong federal support and coordination will be essential to help communities recover and rebuild,” the lawmakers wrote in the letter.

Click here to read the Federal Disaster Declaration Fact Sheet provided by FEMA.

Background:

All categories of Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance, were approved for Alcorn, Bolivar, Calhoun, Carroll, Grenada, Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, Leflore, Montgomery, Sharkey, Sunflower, Warren, Washington, Webster, and Yazoo counties, as well as for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

Public Assistance for emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, for Adams, Attala, Benton, Claiborne, Coahoma, DeSoto, Hinds, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Marshall, Panola, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tippah, Tishomingo, Tunica, Union, and Yalobusha counties.

Individual Assistance is under review.

The FEMA notice indicates that additional assistance designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

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Trump approves major disaster declaration for Mississippi after winter storm

By G.P. Lin

U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith, along with U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, Trent Kelly, Michael Guest, and Mike Ezell, expressed their approval after President Trump granted Mississippi’s request for a major disaster declaration in the aftermath of Winter Storm Fern. The storm impacted the state from January 23 to 27, 2026.

The federal declaration will provide resources to support recovery efforts throughout Mississippi. Public Assistance has been approved for 38 counties affected by the storm.

“We thank President Trump for approving Mississippi’s major disaster declaration. These resources will help our communities rebuild after Winter Storm Fern. We are grateful for this immediate response from the administration,” said the Mississippi congressional delegation in a joint statement.

After the storm, members of the delegation sent a letter to President Trump supporting Governor Tate Reeves’ request for federal assistance.

“State and local resources, along with those of volunteer organizations, are insufficient to meet Mississippi’s recovery needs. Strong federal support and coordination will be essential to help communities recover and rebuild,” wrote the lawmakers in their letter.


Bergman, Budzinski, Pappas Lead Letter Demanding USPS Reverse Postmark Rule

Last week, Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), and Chris Pappas (NH-01), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Postal Service Caucus, led eight Members of Congress in a letter to Postmaster General David P. Steiner, demanding that he reverse a new policy in which a postmark will no longer reflect the date that someone originally mailed a letter. As a result of the Regional Transportation Optimization (RTO) plan, USPS can no longer reliably postmark mail on the day it is sent.

The lawmakers emphasized that this change would harm Americans impacted by existing mail delays, make it harder for law enforcement to investigate and deter crime and fraud committed via mail, and undermine the ability of the Postal Service to accurately postmark letters and packages on the day they were sent by the customer. This will be especially harmful to Americans from rural areas where the Postal Service’s RTO plan has already slowed outgoing mail.

“As you know, millions of Americans rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) for the delivery of critical items such as tax returns, bills, checks, and even election ballots. For our constituents, a delayed postmark could result in late fees on bills, essential utilities being shut off, mail-in ballots not being accepted by local Boards of Elections, or delays in receiving paychecks and refunds,” the lawmakers wrote. “This change is likely to have a disproportionate impact on rural Americans who do not always have easy access to a post office where they can request a same-day postmark, an issue that has been exacerbated by the Regional Transportation Optimization plan.”

The letter is signed by Representatives Jack Bergman (MI-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Nick LaLota (NY-01), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02).

The full text of the letter can be read HERE and below:

Postmaster General David Steiner

475 L’Enfant Plaza SW

Washington, DC 20260

Postmaster General Steiner,

As Members of the Congressional Postal Service Caucus, we are writing regarding the Postal Service’s December 24, 2025, final rule clarifying that a postmark will no longer reflect the date a Postal Service customer originally mailed a letter. We are concerned about how this rule clarification coupled with the delays stemming from the Regional Transportation Optimization Plan (RTO) may affect delivery of time-sensitive mail, and the ability of the Postal Service, law enforcement to effectively investigate and deter crime and fraud committed via mail, and the integrity of the United States Postal Service.

As you know, millions of Americans rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) for the delivery of critical items such as tax returns, bills, checks, and even election ballots. For our constituents, a delayed postmark could result in late fees on bills, essential utilities being shut off, mail-in ballots not being accepted by local Boards of Elections, or delays in receiving paychecks and refunds.

This change is likely to have a disproportionate impact on rural Americans who do not always have easy access to a post office where they can request a same-day postmark, an issue that has been exacerbated by the Regional Transportation Optimization plan. As you know, the RTO plan, which has been gradually implemented across the country over the last year, has reduced the number of times mail is picked up from post offices located more than 50 miles from a Regional Processing and Distribution Center (RP&DC). The results of these changes have been clear: the RTO has added additional delays for outgoing mail from rural areas and cities that do not have an RP&DC. In 2024, a pilot version of this program was tested in the Postal Service’s Wisconsin region, and the USPS Office of Inspector General found that the changes resulted in a “decrease in service,” with “rural communities more significantly impacted.”

Additionally, we are concerned that delays in postmarking stemming from broader RTO related mail delays will hinder the ability of the Postal Service and law enforcement to investigate crimes and fraud committed via mail. By shifting postmarking from the point of origin to regional processing centers, the policy obscures where mail entered the postal system and makes it more difficult to trace mail associated with criminal or fraudulent activity. For example, in 2001, following the anthrax mail attacks on the United States Capitol and various other public officials, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was able to use the postmark to track the exact date on which the contaminated letters were sent and the location from which they were mailed. We are concerned that these changes would make it more difficult for federal law enforcement to track packages containing illicit substances, potentially resulting in increased danger for both Postal Service employees and the general public.

As Members of the Postal Service Caucus, we remain concerned that the full implementation of the RTO plan will exacerbate postmark delays for rural communities that rely on timely service from the United States Postal Service. For these reasons, we ask that the RTO plan be reversed until the Postal Service can assure customers across the country that they will not experience delayed postmarking on time-sensitive mail simply because they do not live within 50 miles of an RP&DC.

As you may expect, we have received many questions from our constituents regarding the December 24 rule change and how it will impact postmarking going forward. Accordingly, we respectfully request that you provide written responses to the following questions:

Did USPS take into consideration the potential delays in postmarking dates before implementing the RTO?

In 2025, what percentage of letters mailed had a postmark date reflecting the day the customer dropped off the letter, and what percentage had a postmark reflecting a later date?

Especially in regions of the country with reduced mail pickups, how does USPS notify customers that their letter will not be postmarked on the day it is mailed unless they request an in-person postmark at their local post office?

USPS has historically been successful in ensuring election mail is delivered to local Boards of Elections, with recent election cycles achieving over 99 percent on-time delivery. However, 16 states and the District of Columbia currently permit a ballot received after Election Day to be counted so long as it is postmarked by Election Day. Does the USPS plan to issue guidance to Americans regarding the latest date they can reliably post a mail-in ballot and still have it postmarked by election day?

How can you ensure that delays to postmark stemming from the RTO will not compromise the ability of law enforcement to track the originating location of a package containing an illegal substance or enclosure?

If a letter is suspected to contain a chemical weapon and is expected to sit for multiple days without a postmark at its originating location, how will the Postal Service trace which employees might have been exposed?

We appreciate your time and attention to these concerns and look forward to your response. Thank you for your continued service to the United States Postal Service and the millions of Americans who depend on it.


REP. HOYLE SECURES OVER $16.6 MILLION FOR 15 LOCAL COMMUNITY PROJECTS

For Immediate Release: February 8, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Val Hoyle (OR-04) announced today that she secured more than $16.6 million in federal funding for community projects in Oregon’s 4th Congressional District. These funds will support 15 projects in Benton, Coos, Curry, Douglas, Lane and Lincoln Counties.

For Fiscal Year 2026, each Member of Congress could request federal funding for up to 15 community projects on behalf of their district. Last spring kicked off months of work between the Congresswoman’s office and local governments, first responders, schools, ports and other organizations to identify, vet and advance community priority projects. Rep. Hoyle advocated for her colleagues to invest in these projects. She also partnered with Senators Merkley and Wyden to move an even broader set of Oregon priorities through the process.

“These project requests came from communities across six counties, and for months I’ve worked with my colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee and our Senators to help carry them forward — from public safety and affordable housing to workforce training to cutting-edge research,” said Rep. Hoyle. “I’m looking forward to communities starting to see real investments on the ground — from shovels in the dirt to programs getting underway.”

This federal funding will allow communities to make long-overdue investments in fire and police services, water infrastructure, workforce training and affordable housing. A full list of funded projects can be found below.

Since entering Congress, Rep. Hoyle has leveraged the federal appropriations process to bring more than $33.3 million back to Oregon’s 4th Congressional District.

Benton County

$1.031 million for the city of Corvallis to support the purchase and installation of equipment for a fully functional emergency backup center

Coos County

$1 million for the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay to replace work docks and expand a travel lift slip used to haul out vessels, including commercial fishing vessels, for service and inspection

Curry County

$1.031 million for Curry County to support long-needed improvements at the Curry County Jail

$1 million for the city of Brookings to work to replace aging water infrastructure along Easy Street

Douglas County

$3.15 million for Umpqua Community College to redevelop a college-owned building into affordable housing for students

$800,000 for Glide Revitalization to bring to fruition its vision for a multi-use community facility

Lane County

$1 million for Lane County to strengthen its fire radio network

$675,000 for the Mapleton Water District to extend the service life of Mapleton’s water storage tanks

$858,000 for the city of Springfield to replace existing body-worn cameras and in-car video systems used by police officers

$800,000 for the city of Cottage Grove to support community policing

$250,000 for the city of Florence to work to stabilize a landslide along the Siuslaw River and repair damaged stormwater infrastructure

Lincoln County

$1.015 million for Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue District #7 to make necessary upgrades for its emergency services headquarters

$2 million for Lincoln City to support the development of 84 affordable housing units

$1 million for Oregon Coast Community College to construct a new Aquaculture Technician Training Facility and purchase specialized equipment to support careers in commercial fishing, seafood processing, maritime technology and aquaculture

$1.015 million for the Siletz Valley Fire District to help build a new fire station, which would house their fire apparatus and enable the creation of a Level 1 Evacuation Shelter

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LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “WE NEED TO ENSURE THAT THERE ARE LEGISLATIVE CHANGES ENACTED AS PART OF ANY DHS SPENDING BILL”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s State of the Union, where he emphasized that Democrats will continue pushing back aggressively to rein in ICE and DHS that are using taxpayer dollars to brutalize the American people instead of to make their lives better.

DANA BASH: Here with me now is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Thank you so much for being here this morning. I want to start with what you released this past week, a list of 10 proposed reforms including, but not limited to, a mandate for judicial warrants to search private property and a ban on masks, also a mandate for agents to wear body cameras. The Republicans say they are open to some of these, but others, especially the specifics on judicial warrant, are non-starters. Only five days now until the Department of Homeland Security will shut down. Are you willing to accept anything less than this full list of demands?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Not at this point. We start with a basic premise that taxpayer dollars should be used to make life more affordable for everyday Americans, not brutalize or kill American citizens like Renee Nicole Good or Alex Pretti. We know that ICE is completely and totally out of control. They’ve gone way too far, and the American people want them reined in because immigration enforcement should be fair, it should be just and it should be humane. So dramatic changes are necessary to the manner in which the Department of Homeland Security officers are conducting themselves before any funding bill should move forward.

DANA BASH: So you say, very clearly, that this—and it’s clear in your proposals—this is about reining in ICE and the CBP. But those agencies, as you well know, are very well funded already through the Big Beautiful Bill Act—that’s what the President called it—and it passed last year. So what that means is that a shutdown would really only impact unrelated agencies, FEMA, TSA, FAA. So how is pushing for these changes and potentially not getting there help rein in an immigration crackdown?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, our plan is to get there on behalf of the American people. That’s why we need to press forward aggressively and ensure that there are legislative changes enacted as part of any DHS spending bill because that’s the way that you change behavior. And these are common sense changes, things like mandatory body cameras. Judicial warrants should absolutely be required before ICE agents can storm private property and rip everyday Americans out of their homes in such a violent fashion. Of course, we need to make sure that there are no masks so that ICE is conducting itself like every other law enforcement agency in the country. That shouldn’t be controversial. It shouldn’t controversial that we are demanding that the Fourth Amendment constitutional protections are adhered to as it relates to the way in which ICE is conducting itself. We also need to make sure that state and local officials have the ability to conduct independent investigations so that when ICE or CBP or other officers violate the law, they can be investigated and prosecuted and held accountable for those violations of state and local law, not being able to govern themselves with impunity, which is the case right now.

DANA BASH: Just real quick, are there any negotiations going on about these reforms that you want?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Unfortunately, we haven’t heard back from the White House or Mike Johnson or Leader Thune in terms of the demands that we’ve put on the table, common sense demands on behalf of the American people. And so, in our view, the ball is in the court right now of the Republicans. Either they’re going to agree to dramatically reform the way in which ICE and other immigration enforcement agencies are conducting themselves so that they’re behaving like every other law enforcement agency in the country, or they’re making the explicit decision to shut down the Coast Guard, shut down FEMA and shut down TSA, and that would be very unfortunate.

DANA BASH: I want to turn to a big debate about elections. The President said this week that, or this past week, that he wanted to nationalize elections at the White House and on Capitol Hill. They say that what they mean legislatively is pushing what they call the SAVE Act, which would mandate Americans show proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate—and also potentially more information about their registration—to vote. Now, I understand you don’t support things like a passport, for example. But requiring basic ID in order to vote is really popular. A Pew poll from a few months ago showed 83% of Americans, including 71% of your fellow Democrats, support requiring an ID to vote. Why are they wrong?

LEADER JEFFRIES: I haven’t said that they’re wrong. We know that states are the ones who are empowered to conduct elections, and every state should be allowed to decide the best way to proceed to ensure that there’s a free and fair election. Here in New York, there are, in fact, voter identification requirements. The question is that what Republicans are trying to do is to engage in clear and blatant voter suppression. They know that if there’s a free and fair election in November, they’re going to lose. In fact, Republicans have been losing every single election since Donald Trump was sworn in in January of last year, including, most recently, decisively in Texas and, of course, losing all across the country, up and down the ballot in the November off-year elections in places like New Jersey or Virginia or New York—

DANA BASH: Yeah, and they’ve been losing. But I mean, Virginia is a good example. They have a requirement to show your ID, and Democrats won very, very handily across the way. So why not maybe even just take that off the table and say, okay, maybe not a passport or birth certificate, but show ID?

LEADER JEFFRIES: First of all, every state is empowered to be able to make a decision on their own, and we completely and totally support that. What Donald Trump wants to do is try to nationalize the election—translation, steal it. And we’re not going to let it happen. We stopped them in terms of their gerrymandering efforts where they were going to try to redraw congressional maps in red states throughout the nation, not expect Democrats to respond forcefully and try to rig the midterms. They failed. We stopped Donald Trump from being able to federalize the National Guard, which we believe was probably part of some toxic attempt to unleash troops on American cities all across the nation and intimidate people from voting. And we’re going to stop them from nationalizing the election. This is going to be a free and fair election. It’s going to be conducted like every other election where states and localities have the ability to administer the law.

DANA BASH: I do want to ask about a video that President Trump shared, a racist video. And it depicted former President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. About 12 hours later, the White House blamed a staffer for the post, removed it. But the President says he doesn’t need to apologize because he didn’t make a mistake.

LEADER JEFFRIES: He definitively needs to apologize. It was a disgusting video, and the President was rightly and appropriately and forcefully denounced by people all across the country—Democrats and even a handful of Republicans who finally showed some backbone in pushing back against the President’s malignant bottom feeder-like behavior.

DANA BASH: I do want to quickly ask about something else that the President wanted to do. He asked your counterpart in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, for the chance to rename both Dulles Airport and also Penn Station after him. And if Schumer agreed to that, then he would lift a freeze on—$16 billion freeze—for New York and New Jersey and the Gateway Tunnel there. What’s your reaction to that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Listen, it’s another example of Donald Trump trying to force presidential graffiti down the throats of the American people. It’s completely and totally unacceptable. Of course I’m a hard no, as I believe is the case with Leader Schumer, House and Senate Democrats. The President is unlawfully withholding funds for Gateway. This guy’s priorities are completely and totally unhinged. But this is the Republican Party right now. These are people who engaged in the largest cut to Medicaid in American history as part of their One Big Ugly Bill. They ripped food out of the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans. They’ve failed to do anything to make life more affordable for the American people. And, in that same One Big Ugly Bill, enacted massive tax breaks for their billionaire donors and gave ICE a $75 billion slush fund so they could kill and brutalize American citizens like Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti. These people are completely and totally out of control. The American people know it, which is why we’re going to continue to press the case to lower the high cost of living, to fix our broken healthcare system, to clean up corruption and to actually get things done as Democrats for the American people.

DANA BASH: Okay, thank you so much for being here this morning. Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Leader in the House of Representatives.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

Full interview can be watched here.

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Merkley Denounces Unjust Sentencing of Hong Kong Democracy Advocate Jimmy Lai

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and past Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC)—issued this statement following the sentencing of Jimmy Lai, an entrepreneur and democracy advocate in Hong Kong who has been imprisoned since 2020 under Beijing’s National Security Law:

“Jimmy Lai’s sentencing—for the ‘crime’ of journalism—should put to rest any illusion that the Chinese government will relent until it exercises total control over the people of Hong Kong.

“This sham trial, carried out via Hong Kong officials acting on China’s behalf, is an attempt by the Chinese government to extinguish press freedom, an effort that will never succeed as long as there are people like Lai who are brave enough to risk everything to speak the truth.

“There can be no business as usual while the Chinese government continues its campaign of brutal oppression against Hong Kongers. That includes Beijing’s reliance on institutions such as Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETOs) to surveil political activism and push Chinese government propaganda in the United States. The path forward is clear: HKETOs cannot enjoy the privileges of diplomacy while operating as outposts of political repression.

“Republicans and Democrats must stand united in the defense of the people of Hong Kong. Passing my bipartisan Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act is a necessary tool to impose real consequences on China—including the potential removal of diplomatic privileges from HKETOs—as a meaningful response to destroying Hong Kong’s autonomy. There is momentum to get this done, and the U.S. must signal unequivocally that Beijing’s crackdown in Hong Kong is unacceptable. We will never abandon those fighting for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.”

As past Chair of the CECC and a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Merkley has led the charge to highlight the case of Lai and other pro-democracy advocates who have been the targets of the Chinese and Hong Kong governments’ coordinated repression of free speech and democracy. He leads the bipartisan HKETO Certification Act with current CECC Chair Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Senator John Curtis (R-UT), and Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) to crack down on the Chinese government-controlled HKETOs in the U.S.

Merkley previously held a hearing about political prisoners in Hong Kong, as well as threats and intimidation faced by Hong Kongers globally, which featured Sebastien Lai’s plea for the international community to advocate for his father’s release. In 2023, Merkley nominated Jimmy Lai for the Nobel Peace Prize.

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Congressman Aderholt’s Bipartisan Bill to Create Commemorative $2.50 Coin for America’s 250th Anniversary Get Unanimous Support in the House

The bill, titled the Two Dollar and 50 Cent Coin for America’s 250th Act, would authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to issue a collectible $2.50 commemorative coin and conduct a viability study for a potential circulating $2.50 coin for everyday use as the nation prepares to celebrate the Semiquincentennial in 2026.

Congressman Aderholt is introducing the legislation in partnership with Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ).

“This coin is about more than a piece of metal, it’s about celebration, pride, and patriotism,” said Congressman Aderholt. “I still remember America’s 200th birthday in 1976 when I was 10 years old, and the incredible excitement and national unity that came with it. That Bicentennial celebration was something special, and I hope this coin helps spur that same kind of celebration and patriotism across our country as we approach America’s 250th anniversary. Americans from all walks of life should be able to carry a small reminder of our nation’s greatness with them every day, celebrating our country jingling right there in their pockets.”

The collectible coin would feature the historic design originally issued for America’s 150th anniversary in 1926, updated to reflect the new milestone.

“In 1776, the Declaration of Independence put into writing a set of ideals that reshaped this nation and influenced the world. The Two Dollar and 50 Cent Coin for America’s 250th Act continues a long tradition of commemorating our nation’s milestones through coinage. As a co-founder and co-chair of the America 250 Caucus, and a member of the America 250 Commission, I’m grateful for the partnership with Rep. Aderholt and my House colleagues on a bipartisan basis as we prepare the nationwide celebration of America's 250th birthday,” said co-sponsor Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Congressman Aderholt said the bill will help ensure Americans have a tangible way to take part in the historic anniversary.

“As we mark 250 years of independence, it is important we find meaningful ways to bring Americans together,” Aderholt added. “This coin offers a lasting tribute to our shared heritage and a reminder that what unites us is far greater than what divides us.”

The legislation is intended to complement other national America 250 commemorative efforts and encourage broad public participation in the Semiquincentennial celebration.

Congressman Robert Aderholt represents Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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Congressman Al Green’s H.R. 3716 – the Systemic Risk Authority Transparency Act – Passes the House of Representatives as part of H.R. 6644 – the Housing for the 21st Century Act

(Washington, DC) – On Monday, February 9, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6644 – the Housing for the 21st Century Act, which contains Congressman Al Green’s H.R. 3716 – the Systemic Risk Authority Act, which had previously been passed by the House of Representatives on December 1, 2025. You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s speech regarding this legislation on his official YouTube page or by clicking here.

This bill directs banking regulators and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to provide prompt reports to Congress whenever a bank failure results in the event of the Treasury Department declaring a systemic risk exception. These reports must explain the causes of the failure and outline the regulatory decisions that followed. The bill requires two comprehensive reports from each agency responsible for strengthening transparency and gives Congress the information it needs to better safeguard the stability and resilience of similar institutions.


Barr Toasts to U.S.-India Trade Benefits for Bourbon Industry

Lexington, KY—Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY), co-Chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus and Vice-Chair of the Congressional India Caucus, released the following statement after the U.S.-India trade framework announcement included an elimination or reduction in tariffs from India on U.S. spirits:

“Unfettered access to a top five economic market will be a boom for our Kentucky bourbon businesses,” said Congressman Barr. “President Donald Trump has delivered for bourbon before—by cutting taxes, leveling the playing field for distillers, and standing up for American-made products. Today, I join Kentucky distillers in toasting to the President once again for securing access to a major new market for our signature bourbon industry.”

“Reducing India’s tariffs on American whiskey—particularly native spirits from Kentucky, including world-class bourbon and rye—is a meaningful step forward for U.S. distillers, farmers, and the broader supply chain that supports this iconic American product. Representative Andy Barr has been a consistent and effective advocate for American whiskey, and we appreciate his continued leadership and engagement on trade policies that expand market access and strengthen U.S. exports. Progress like this underscores the importance of sustained, bipartisan advocacy to ensure American whiskey can compete on a level global playing field,” said Michael Bilello, President and CEO, American Whiskey Association.

The Distilled Spirits Council also released a statement after the framework was announced, “Last year’s tariff reduction on U.S. spirits imports to India was an important first step that opened new opportunities for Bourbon producers in the world’s largest whiskey market. With India now reaching agreements with the EU and the UK to significantly reduce tariffs on their spirits, we are hopeful that this new U.S.–India agreement will secure comparable tariff reductions across all categories of U.S. distilled spirits, ensuring fair and competitive access to the Indian marketplace.”

India lowered their tariff on American bourbon products from 150% to 100% in February of 2025, after negotiations led by President Trump. In his first term, President Trump signed the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act (CBMTRA) into law, which was championed by Congressman Barr. This law created a level playing field for bourbon distillers, allowing them to deduct interest expenses associated with production in the year it is paid, not when the bourbon is bottled and sold. It also lowered the Federal Excise Tax (FET) rates for distillers and aged spirits.


Barr Votes to Cut Red-Tape, Lower Housing Costs, and Unleash American Homebuilding

Washington, DC—–Tonight, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 21st Century Act, landmark legislation to expand housing supply, lower costs, and modernize federal housing policy. U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) voted for the bill and helped guide it to passage.

“Every American deserves a fair shot at the American Dream — that starts with a place to call home,” said Congressman Barr. “This bipartisan bill tackles the housing shortage by cutting red tape, empowering community lenders, and unlocking private investment. I’m proud to stand with the broad coalition of groups that are backing this effort, and I urge the Senate to pass this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk.”

Support for the bill continues to grow from a wide range of national organizations representing housing developers, lenders, local governments, and community-focused interests. These include:

Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, which says the bill will “unlock billions of additional private sector investment to support affordable housing development.”

Mortgage Bankers Association, urging Representatives to vote “Aye” in favor of the bill’s key housing affordability and supply provisions.

Independent Community Bankers of America, representing nearly 45,000 community bank locations nationwide, which writes that the legislation will “spur home construction nationwide, promote housing affordability, and help alleviate the housing crisis.”

National Association of Counties and National League of Cities, which applaud the bill’s local flexibility and support for community-level housing solutions.

National Multifamily Housing Council and National Rental Home Council, which emphasize housing supply as vital infrastructure and endorse the bill’s efforts to speed housing delivery.

National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders, backing bipartisan housing legislation that expands affordable options for families.

These endorsements reflect cross-sector confidence that the Housing for the 21st Century Act will address structural barriers to housing production, reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, and strengthen American communities.


Congressman Barr Announces $1 Million for Kenway Extension to Improve Safety and Mobility in Berea

Berea, KY — Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) announced that he has secured $1,000,000 in federal funding for the Kenway Extension for Community Safety and Mobility, a key infrastructure project led by the City of Berea.

Barr secured the funding through the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2026. He voted for the appropriations package earlier this month, and President Trump recently signed the funding bill into law. This federal investment will support the construction of a new access road, multi-use trail, and parking lot serving Dixie Park, Roselawn, and other Sixth District communities.

Currently, Dixie Park and Roselawn are home to approximately 1,000 residents and seven businesses, where they share only a single access point, creating safety concerns and limiting mobility. The Kenway Extension will provide a second access route, improving emergency response times, traffic flow, and access to nearby employment centers that support roughly 3,500 jobs in the surrounding area.

“Investing in infrastructure that improves safety and connectivity is a top priority for the Sixth District,” said Congressman Barr. “The Kenway Extension will enhance emergency preparedness, ease traffic congestion, and strengthen economic opportunity for Berea residents and local businesses.”

“This project is essential for supporting Berea’s continued growth,” said Mayor of Berea, Bruce Fraley. “I am very grateful for the work put in by Congressman Barr and his staff members who have worked on this. This funding will definitely be put to good use for a greatly needed project.”

“This investment represents a major step forward for public safety and mobility in Madison County,” said City Administrator, Shawn Sandlin. “The Kenway Extension will improve emergency access, reduce traffic challenges, and provide safer routes for residents, workers, and visitors. We appreciate Congressman Barr’s leadership in delivering federal resources that directly benefit our communities.”

“I have lived in Berea my entire life and I have always felt a second entrance was needed off Kenway. I truly feel this will be a great improvement for this area for convenience, traffic flow, and safety,” said State Senator Jared Carpenter (R-KY-34). “The Kenway Extension solves a real, on-the-ground problem. Congressman Barr understood the urgency here and secured funding that will give families, first responders, and local business safer, more reliable access.”

“This project opens things up — for emergency response, for daily travel, and for connecting residents to jobs nearby. I appreciate Congressman Barr for pushing this through the THUD process and making sure Berea’s needs were heard at the federal level,” said State Representative Josh Bray (R-KY-71).

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Barrett Launches Second Pillar of Blueprint for a Better America To Revive the American Dream

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today launched the second pillar of his Blueprint for a Better America: Reviving the American Dream. This sweeping package of four bills aims to tackle the growing issue of housing affordability in the United States by lowering costs for homebuyers, boosting construction, and more.

“Too many families in mid-Michigan are being priced out of the American Dream. They just can’t afford a home that works for them,” said Barrett. “That’s why I’m introducing bills to make housing more affordable for Michiganders. These proposals will help first-time buyers make a down payment, boost new home construction, protect grieving spouses from unfair tax burdens, and ensure that homes go to families who need them — not just big investment corporations looking to profit. It’s time we build a housing market focused on putting families in homes rather than pricing them out.”

Today, Barrett introduced the Time to Heal Act (H.R. 7349). This bill would eliminate the requirement that widowed spouses must sell their home within two years of their spouse’s death to receive the $500,000 exemption on capital gains taxes for married couples, rather than the $250,000 exemption for single sellers. By easing the financial burden on individuals downsizing years after a spouse’s death, the bill would encourage surviving spouses to put their homes on the market for new buyers — without forcing them to rush to sell their house while grieving.

“The Time to Heal Act is a commonsense fix to the tax code that recognizes the real-life challenges surviving spouses face after the loss of a loved one,” said Shannon McGahn, executive vice president and chief advocacy officer of the National Association of REALTORS®. “No one should be penalized for needing time to grieve before making major housing decisions. By extending the $500,000 capital gains exclusion to widows and widowers who otherwise met the ownership and use requirements, this bill provides fairness, certainty, and flexibility, while including appropriate safeguards to prevent abuse. The National Association of REALTORS® applauds Rep. Tom Barrett for introducing legislation that puts people first and ensures the tax code does not add financial hardship to an already difficult moment.”

“MBA welcomes the introduction of Rep. Tom Barrett’s legislation to give surviving spouses parity with married couples regarding the primary home ‘gain on sale’ exclusion,” said Bill Killmer, senior vice president of legislative & political affairs of the Mortgage Bankers Association. “Not only would the bill give those navigating such a major life change more ‘time to heal,’ it will also help address the ‘lock-in’ effect plaguing so many markets across the United States — and increase the inventory of available homes being made ready for sale.”

Barrett also announced his support and co-sponsorship of the following proposals:

Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R. 3526): This bill would increase the IRA first-time homebuyer exemption to allow families to withdraw up to $50,000 from an IRA without owing the 10% early withdrawal penalty. The current exemption for first-time homebuyers only allows up to $10,000 penalty-free, but that amount hasn’t changed since it was created in 1997. The higher exemption would better reflect the rising cost of homes and give first-time homebuyers access to more capital to make a down payment.

Housing Supply Framework Act (H.R. 2840): This bill would require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop best practices playbooks to help state and local governments cut red tape to build more housing – increasing supply and reducing costs.

Families First Housing Act (H.R. 6962): This bill would limit the ability of large corporations to buy up homes before families have a chance. It would create a 180-day “first look” period for single-family homes put on the market by the Federal Housing Administration, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and other federal housing and lending agencies. During the first-look period for a home, only individuals, families, housing nonprofits, local governments, and community land trusts would be eligible buyers.

These new proposals build on two additional pieces of legislation Barrett introduced last month to make homeownership more affordable, including:

Home Affordability for Guard and Reserve Act (H.R. 7009) to expand eligibility for VA home loans for members of the National Guard and Armed Forces Reserve.

American Dream Act (H.R. 7051) to incentivize older Americans to sell their homes, including secondary properties like rentals and vacation homes, by expanding the waiver of capital gains taxes on a sale to a first-time homebuyer.

About Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America

Reviving the American Dream is the second of five pillars of Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America. The congressman will continue to unveil additional proposals in the coming weeks to address all of the five key policy areas this agenda is built on:

Restoring Trust in Government: Making Government Serve the People, Not Special Interests

Reviving the American Dream: Helping Families Afford Homes in Mid-Michigan

Making Health Care Affordable Again: Lowering Costs for Working Families

Recalibrating American Foreign Policy: Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength

Reforming Campaign Finance: Putting Governing Before Campaigning

Click here or visit barrett.house.gov/reform to learn more.

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Gridlock Broken: Beatty Leads Affordable Housing  Bill Breakthroughs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, in a rare bipartisan breakthrough during one of the most contentious Congresses in recent history, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) secured House passage of five legislative measures to advance affordable housing, empower and protect homeowners, and enable community banks to inject more capital into the housing industry.

The measures passed under suspension of the rules as part ofH.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, moving forward a package of regulatory and community banking reforms aimed at accelerating housing development, protecting homeowners, and strengthening the local institutions responsible for financing housing in Central Ohio and communities nationwide.

The vote comes as Central Ohio families face mounting housing pressures, including rising rents, limited housing supply, and growing concern that working families are being priced out of the communities they call home.

“This overwhelmingly bipartisan housing package is a critical first step towards solving the affordable housing crisis in America,” Beatty said. “These bills make key reforms to generate housing development, direct more investment where it is needed, and reinforce the local financial institutions that finance affordable housing projects. I am incredibly proud to advance five of my own bills that will ensure more Central Ohioans have a safe, secure place to call home.”

Beatty Bills Included in the Housing Package

Together, the measures combine affordable housing expansion, homeowner protections, and community banking reforms intended to move capital into housing development more quickly, prevent avoidable foreclosures, and ensure local lenders are equipped to finance housing in the communities they serve.

Provisions from H.R. 2031, the HOME Investment Partnerships Reauthorization and Improvement Act (included in Section 201), strengthen the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME program by easing compliance for small properties and increasing flexibility for nonprofit housing providers, so funds can be used effectively to serve low-income and extremely low-income households.

H.R. 6726, the Reforms to Housing Counseling and Financial Literacy Programs Act of 2025 (Section 405), funds foreclosure mitigation counseling for borrowers who are 30 days delinquent on their mortgage payments, helping families avoid foreclosure.

H.R. 5913, the Community Investment and Prosperity Act (Section 303), expands banks’ ability to invest private capital in affordable housing, small business lending, and community revitalization by increasing the public welfare investment (PWI) cap from 15% to 20%.

H.R. 3234, the Keeping Deposits Local Act (Section 602) modernizes the treatment of reciprocal deposits to improve liquidity for small and midsize banks, positioning them to expand local lending and inject more capital into affordable housing development.

H.R. 3709, the Advancing the Mentor-Protégé Program for Small Financial Institutions Act (Section 602), codifies the Treasury Department’s Financial Agent Mentor-Protégé Program to strengthen partnerships between large banks, community banks, and minority depository institutions (MDIs), helping smaller lenders grow and better support housing and community development.

Ohio Impact

Several provisions in the package will support Ohio housing organizations in their efforts to increase supply and will strengthen Ohio’s community banks and mid-size financial institutions like Fifth Third, Huntington, and KeyBank, supporting neighborhoods seeking solutions to the affordable housing crisis.

“Central Ohio has long been the kind of place where a family can confidently aspire to buy a home, start a family, and retire in peace,” said Carlie J. Boos, Executive Director, Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio (AHACO). “As costs rise nationwide, we see just how instrumental affordable housing is to this fulfilling life. The Housing for the 21st Century Act is an essential achievement that protects affordability and expands it to the next generation. This bipartisan legislation serves our people, expands housing partnerships, rewards innovation, and reduces bureaucracy. AHACO is excited to see the vision of Representative Beatty and her colleagues on the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services come to life.”

“We applaud Congresswoman Joyce Beatty for her leadership in advancing H.R. 6644 and for ensuring that critical housing and community development priorities are included in this legislation,” said Leah F. Evans, President & CEO, Homeport. “These provisions strengthen the tools communities rely on to expand affordable housing, preserve homeownership, and unlock private and public investment where it is needed most. By supporting community land trusts, housing counseling, foreclosure prevention, and increased community investment capacity, this legislation reflects a meaningful commitment to housing stability and economic opportunity for families and neighborhoods across Central Ohio and the nation.”

“Congresswoman Beatty continues to be a leader in advancing policies that strengthen communities in Central Ohio and across the country,” Ian Labitue, President and CEO, Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County. “The provisions she championed address critical needs in our housing ecosystem, from expanding HOME fund accessibility for land trusts providing affordable homeownership to increasing capital for community development through local financial institutions. As a CDFI working to increase housing affordability, we know these reforms translate directly into more homes for working families and stronger neighborhoods. The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus & Franklin County commends the Congresswoman for her tireless advocacy and ability to build bipartisan consensus on solutions that make a real impact.”

“The mentor-protégé program is a lifeline for small banks like Adelphi, allowing us to get support from different banks on a range of issues, from questions about loan structures to technical support from IT,” said Jordan Miller, Chairman and CEO, Adelphi Bank. “We also rely greatly on reciprocal deposits to increase liquidity and improve our standing from the regulators’ perspective. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Beatty for championing these policies that provide huge relief to MDIs and small banks so we can empower our community members to build wealth.”

“We appreciate Congresswoman Beatty’s steadfast commitment to pursue solutions addressing the affordable housing crisis that affects so many individuals and families in Ohio and across the country,” said Robert Likes, President, KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment, Affordable Housing. “As one of the nation’s leading affordable housing capital providers, we witness every day how private sector investments can change lives—providing stability, dignity, and a foundation for opportunity. This legislation will increase the industry’s ability to make those needed investments to help meet the significant need for affordable housing while opening more pathways for people to achieve economic mobility and build brighter futures.”

The legislation passed the House and now advances to the Senate for consideration.

Read the full bill text HERE.


Rep. Bera Secures Over $14 Million in Community Project Funding for Sacramento County

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA — Today, Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) announced $14,046,000 in Community Project Funding to support 14 projects across California’s Sixth Congressional District.

“I’m proud to secure more than $14 million in federal funding to support fourteen projects across our district that strengthen our neighborhoods and improve our quality of life,” said Representative Bera. “These investments support innovation and technology infrastructure, strengthen public safety and emergency preparedness, improve water reliability, enhance transportation safety and mobility, and improve our parks and community facilities. My team and I remain committed to bringing federal funding home and working with local partners to ensure these investments deliver lasting benefits for Sacramento County residents.”

$402,000 for the Jackson Laboratory in Sacramento to acquire advanced imaging technology supporting research on infectious diseases and cancer

$800,000 for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office to upgrade forensic technology used to investigate and prevent online child exploitation

$1,092,000 for theCarmichael Water District to replace aging well screens and protect drinking water quality for Carmichael and Rancho Cordova residents.

$1,092,000 forSacramento County to strengthen water supply reliability in the Arden Service Area

$850,000 for theSnowy Egret Overcrossing Study to evaluate options for a new connection over Interstate 5 improving pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle access

$850,000 for theCity of Rancho Cordova’sRossmoor Bar Trail Enhancements Project to convert informal paths into safe, accessible walking trails and restore native habitats

$2,000,000 for theMarysville Boulevard Vision Zero Safety Project to reduce serious and fatal traffic injuries by adding protected bike lanes and sidewalks for pedestrians

$260,000 for Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services to expand food access through fleet replacement and facility improvements

$500,000 for theSan Juan Avenue Phase 2 Project in Citrus Heights to improve safety and accessibility along a key neighborhood corridor

$850,000 for the Bohemian Park Community Center Resilience Wing to strengthen emergency preparedness, workforce training, and community services through enhanced facilities

$850,000 for theRoberts Family Development Center to support site preparation and planning for the North Sacramento Technology Center

$1,000,000 for theDel Paso Heights Sports Complex to expand recreational facilities and community gathering spaces

$1,500,000 for theWatt Avenue Safe Stay Facility to furnish and equip low-barrier shelter and supportive services for individuals experiencing homelessness

$2,000,000 for the Rio Linda Central Park Rehabilitation to modernize park facilities and improve accessibility for families and community events

Since Community Project Funding was reintroduced in 2022, Congressman Bera has secured $63,860,303 for 51 projects across Sacramento County.