Congresswoman Pou to ICE Leader: “Would me being a Latina or me speaking Spanish be enough for ICE agents to…shove me into one of your unmarked cars?”

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) today grilled the leaders of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. In a House Homeland Security Committee hearing, Pou pressed them for accountability on continuing abuses by the Trump administration.

“This is the first time any of you have testified before our committee. It took two American citizens being murdered in cold blood to get you to show your faces here. ICE raids schools, churches, and hospitals. And let’s not forget five-year-old Liam Ramos. You used him as bait and then detained him despite his father legally seeking asylum. Liam is the face of your cruelty,” Pou said to the faces of immigration enforcement leaders.

During her questioning, Pou called for answers on the continued incarceration of her North Jersey constituent Leqaa Kordia, who remains detained despite multiple court orders demanding her release.

“Why are you refusing to release my constituent? Why did you fail to inform her family where she was sent and the status of her condition? When will you set her free?” Pou asked the head of ICE.

Pou also questioned whether ICE activities could disrupt or ruin World Cup matches in New Jersey or elsewhere in America: “Yes or no – will ICE commit to pausing its operations and raids at FIFA matches and other FIFA-sanctioned public events?” she asked the head of ICE.

Last week, Congresswoman Pou called on DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to explain why ICE agents are systematically hiding vehicle license plates to mask their work and identities. This week, Pou introduced legislation that would forbid ICE agents from manipulating their vehicle license plates.

As a member of the Homeland Security Committee, Congresswoman Pou has been a long-running critic of the Trump administration’s actions. On October 14, 2025, Pou led 11 members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation calling on Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to restore federal security grant funding that is being slashed by the Trump administration by nearly 50 percent. On January 26, 2026, Congresswoman Pou signed on to a letter demanding that Secretary Noem answer questions about deaths in CBP and ICE custody.

At an oversight hearing on May 14, 2025, Pou confronted Noem, telling her, “You are actually breaking the law.” On January 28, 2026, Pou called for Noem’s removal, either by firing or by impeachment.

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Congresswoman Pou Introduces National Terrorism System Overhaul

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), a member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, has introduced the Modernizing and Improving the National Terrorism Advisory System Act, legislation to overhaul the National Terrorism Advisory System.

The bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Congressman Matt Van Epps (R-TN-07) and Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02).

“When there is a real threat to public safety, people need information they can actually understand and act on,” said Congresswoman Pou. “Our terrorism advisory system plays an important role, but it should reflect today’s threats and how people get their information in 2026. Our bipartisan legislation will help make sure alerts reach more people and provide practical, easy-to-understand information when it matters most.”

“The National Threat Evaluation and Reporting Program plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe, and this bill puts it exactly where it belongs. By moving NTER to the Office of State and Local Law Enforcement, we strengthen coordination with our state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners while preserving the program’s operational integrity. This reform ensures transparency, proper funding, and a sharper focus on preventing targeted violence—without blurring the core intelligence mission of DHS. It’s a smart, responsible step to better protect the homeland,” said Congressman Van Epps.

In 2011, the Department of Homeland Security replaced its well-known color-coded terror alert system with a new approach created to give Americans more useful information about real threats. Rather than vague warnings, the new system was designed to explain the nature of the threat, who might be affected, and what people and agencies should know.

Fifteen years later, the threat landscape has changed and so have the ways people receive information. That makes it important to take a fresh look at whether this alert system is still working as intended. By consulting with law enforcement, first responders, transportation officials, security experts, and the public, the legislation would help DHS identify ways to update the system so it is more useful for the public and for those responsible for keeping our communities safe.

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National Association of Manufacturers Endorses the DIGNITY Act

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the nation’s leading voice for the American manufacturing industry, has endorsed the DIGNITY Act (H.R.4393), marking a major show of support from the business community for a serious, bipartisan immigration reform solution to strengthen the American workforce and sustain economic growth.

Manufacturing represents 10% of US GDP. If we cannot build more things in America and expand American manufacturing, we cannot grow as a nation. However, manufacturers across the country continue to face persistent labor shortages that threaten growth, productivity, and long-term competitiveness. NAM’s endorsement underscores how closely these challenges are tied to the need for immigration reform. The DIGNITY Act offers the practical solution to help stabilize the workforce, support economic expansion, and reinforce accountability and the rule of law.

“When the nation’s manufacturers speak, Washington should listen. They know firsthand that a strong economy depends on both the rule of law and a stable, reliable workforce,” said Rep. Salazar. “Right now, our broken immigration system is hurting our workers, holding back our businesses, and undermining our long-term competitiveness. The DIGNITY Act of 2025 brings these priorities together, revamping manufacturing in America, strengthening our industries, and giving businesses the certainty they need to invest, hire, and grow. I’m grateful for NAM’s leadership and proud to have their support as part of a growing national coalition committed to finally fixing our broken immigration system.”

“Our broken immigration system has lost credibility in the eyes of American citizens. President Trump has secured the border, but more work needs to be done to restore confidence. With the Dignity Act, Reps. Salazar and Escobar have offered actionable solutions to promote the core values of opportunity and hard work while appropriately focusing our immigration priorities on a strong and secure border, a workable system of enforcement that respects the rule of law, and merit-based reforms that prioritize America’s economic interests. Manufacturers take great pride in training and developing our U.S. workforce. But the reality is that we have over 400,000 jobs open at any given time, and to help our industry invest and expand our footprint here at home, we need more workers. The Dignity Act will help manufacturers in America innovate more, compete more, build more, produce more and export more American-made products,” said Jay Timmons, president and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers.

“It’s long past time Congress understands that immigrants are good for America. The ongoing labor and workforce shortages continue to highlight just how much our economy, our industry, and our manufacturers rely on immigrants,” said Rep. Escobar. “I am grateful for the National Association of Manufacturers’ support of the Dignity Act; their endorsement reflects a clear understanding that our immigration system is broken and in desperate need of real solutions.”

This endorsement comes as manufacturers across the country continue working to meet rising demand, expand production, and invest in the future. For many in the industry, access to a stable and reliable workforce is essential to sustaining growth, strengthening supply chains, and keeping American manufacturing competitive.

Why Manufacturers Support the DIGNITY Act:

Manufacturers are facing a sustained workforce shortage that directly affects production, growth, and long-term competitiveness. A stable, legal workforce is essential to closing that gap and maintaining America’s industrial strength. Industry data underscores the urgency:

Since January 2025, the economy has lost 63,000 manufacturing jobs, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Manufacturers consistently have more than 400,000 jobs open, reflecting a chronic labor shortage across the sector.

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, accounting for roughly 10% of GDP and driving nearly 53% of all private-sector research and development, underscoring how access to a stable workforce — supported by effective immigration reform — is critical to sustaining American innovation.

Over the next decade, 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will be needed, with 1.9 million projected to go unfilled without additional workforce solutions.

Together, these realities help explain why manufacturers increasingly view the DIGNITY Act as a necessary step toward stabilizing the workforce, restoring order to the immigration system, and strengthening the long-term competitiveness of American industry.

A Growing National Coalition Backs the DIGNITY Act:

Momentum behind the Dignity Act of 2025 (H.R. 4393) continues to grow, with support now coming from over 35 Members of Congress and more than 65 national stakeholder organizations across the country. This expanding coalition reflects broad, cross-sector recognition that a serious, bipartisan immigration solution is urgently needed.

Supporters represent a wide range of voices from across the American economy and civil society, including employers, veterans, faith leaders, farmers, small businesses, construction and manufacturing industries, higher education organizations, community leaders, and immigrant-serving groups. Together, they underscore the diverse national support behind efforts to restore order to the immigration system, strengthen the workforce, and support long-term economic growth.

The growing list of endorsing organizations includes:

A-1 Global Holdings, American Bakers Association, American Business Immigration Council (ABIC), American Families United, American Latino Coalition, American Legion, Americans for Prosperity, American Seniors Housing Association, Anti-Defamation League, Asian American Christian Collaborative, Associated Equipment Distributors, Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America, Bethel Consulting Group LLC, Brick Industry Association, Center for American Progress, Christian Family Coalition of Florida, Cleaning Coalition of America, Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, Critical Labor Coalition, Essential Workers Immigration Coalition (EWIC), Evangelical Immigration Table, FWD.us, Greater Houston Partnership, IEEE-USA (Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers), Improve the Dream, Jewish Federation of North America, Latin Chamber of Commerce Nevada, LeadingAge, LIBRE Initiative, Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), MIRA USA, National Association of Evangelicals, National Association of Home Builders, National Association of Landscape Professionals, National Association of Manufacturers, National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), National Council of Chain Restaurants, National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), National Hispanic Health Foundation, National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, National Immigration Forum, National Latino Evangelical Coalition, National Retail Federation, National Roofing Contractors Association, Nisei Farmers League, Niskanen Center, Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA), Power & Communication Contractors Association (PCCA), Power Design, Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute, President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, Puerto Rico Builders Association (PRBA), Repatriate our Patriots, Secure Growth Initiative, Small Business Majority, State Business Executives, Steel Tank Institute-Steel Plate Fabricators Association (STI-SPFA), Texas Business Leadership Council, Tile Roofing Industry Alliance (TRIA), Third Way, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. for Success Coalition, United States Hispanic Business Council, Walroth-Sadurní Law, WERC, World Relief.

Resources:

One-pager on the Dignity Act - click here.

Detailed summary of the Dignity Act - click here.

Section-by-section breakdown of the Dignity Act - click here.

For the media kit - click here.

Full text of the bill - click here.


Salinas, Merkley, Colleagues Champion Strong Federal Support for Regenerative Agriculture

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley led their colleagues—including Senator Ron Wyden, Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), and Val Hoyle (OR-04)—in reintroducing the Soil Conservation And Regeneration Education (Soil CARE) Act. Their bicameral bill would create a training program and curriculum to ensure that farmers and ranchers have access to information and tools to improve long-term soil health management, navigate degraded lands, promote profitability, and increase resilience to climate chaos-fueled extreme weather events like floods and droughts.

“From our Christmas trees to our hazelnuts, Oregonians produce some of the best crops in the world. However, with the growing threat of climate change and extreme weather, access to new technologies like regenerative agriculture and soil health management are essential to maintaining our world-class products,” said Salinas. “Our bill would guarantee USDA personnel and third-party service providers are trained to help producers restore degraded lands, increase profitability, and build generational resilience.”

“Oregon’s world-class agriculture industry deserves strong federal support to continue thriving, and that includes supporting the health of our lands and ecosystems, which have defined our state for generations,” said Merkley. “As climate chaos continues to make the West hotter and drier, we must ensure our farmers, ranchers, and land stewards have the resources and tools they need to keep their lands adaptable and resilient, leading to healthy and regenerative soils.”

“Drought and all the radically unseasonable weather impacts of the climate crisis have landed hard on farmers in Oregon and nationwide,” said Wyden. “That’s why federal support for tools like those in this legislation is so urgently needed to support U.S. agriculture continuing to grow crops that are renowned around the globe.”

“Healthy soil is key to growing a healthy agricultural economy,” said Bonamici. “Climate change, runoff pollution, and extreme weather threaten this foundation, risking farmers’ livelihoods and their ability to put food on the table for people in NW Oregon and across the country. Managing soil health will help to mitigate these effects by absorbing carbon in soil, producing more resilient crops, safer food, and cleaner air."

“Oregon’s farmers and producers are on the front lines of climate change, facing more intense storms, flooding, drought and unpredictable growing seasons—especially in our coastal and rural communities,” said Hoyle. “The Soil CARE Act invests in the education, training, and soil health tools farmers need to build resilience, protect their land and maintain a thriving business. We’re supporting the backbone of our local economy and helping ensure Oregonian farmers and their families can thrive for generations to come.”

As farmers, ranchers, and federal land personnel continue to deal with the impacts of climate chaos, training and education are crucial components to support these stewards of the land and conservation efforts across the nation. The Soil CARE Act would invest in expanded technical assistance and provide U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) staff and personnel with the latest knowledge, tools, and innovations to help producers produce and boost healthy soil.

The Soil CARE Act would:

Develop and deliver curriculum on soil health management systems within one year of passage;

Develop a nationally-available online training curriculum;

Encourage all relevant personnel—such as a USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) staff and third-party technical service providers (TSPs)—to complete online training every two years to learn about the latest soil health innovations and scientific and technological advancements.

Hold annual soil health workshops and training sessions;

Dedicate resources to providing required continuing education for all NRCS and TSPs; and

Require NRCS to use the training curriculum to develop soil health education materials for producers.

In addition to Merkley, Salinas, Wyden, Bonamici, and Hoyle, the Soil CARE Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT).

The bicameral bill is endorsed by Oregon Climate and Agriculture Network (OrCAN), Oregon Association of Conservation Districts (OACD), Bob’s Red Mill, Earthjustice Action, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Green America / Soil & Climate Alliance, American Sustainable Business Network, United We Eat, Climate Reality Project Regenerative Agriculture Coalition, US Composting Council, Compost Manufacturing Alliance, InCommon Group, Green Mountain Technologies, Inc., New Mexico Healthy Soil Working Group, CA Association of Compost Producers, Terra Regenerative Capital, World Centric, Eco-Cycle, and Naturepedic Organic Mattresses.

"Healthy soil is essential for resilient farms, strong local economies, and thriving businesses. The Soil CARE Act provides practical support for farmers adopting regenerative practices, helping build productive, resilient working lands that benefit farmers, communities, and the broader economy,” said Liza LaManna, Manager of Ag & Water Policy, American Sustainable Business Network.

“Healthy soil is a top priority for the many American farmers that Bob's Red Mill sources from, but they need the right support to implement effective practices. The Soil CARE Act would provide essential education needed to help more farmers improve soil health, providing critical tools for farmer prosperity and resilience. We applaud Senator Merkley, Senator Wyden, and Congresswoman Salinas for their efforts in championing this important bill,” said Julia Person, Sustainability Manager, Bob’s Red Mill.

“Farmers and ranchers can regenerate our working lands but only with targeted support. The Soil CARE Act would educate NRCS staff and third party technical service providers about biological soil health and regenerative agriculture principles, and in turn, provide American producers with the tools they need to steward ecosystems and become more prosperous,” said Jessica Hulse Dillon, Senior Director Soil & Climate Alliance and Regen Policy Initiative.

A summary of the Soil CARE Act can be found by clicking here.

Full text of the Soil CARE Act can be found by clicking here.

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Scalise Exposes Democrat Hypocrisy on Voter ID

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), and Congressman Mike Haridopolos (R-Fla.) to discuss Democrats threatening to shut down the Department of Homeland Security, the SAVE America Act, and Democrats' hypocrisy on voter ID.

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Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise's full remarks.


Scalise: Getting the SAVE America Act to President Trump’s Desk is Critical

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Newsmax’s The Record with Greta Van Susteren to discuss the SAVE America Act, commonsense legislation that requires proof of citizenship when registering to vote and photo ID to vote in federal elections. Leader Scalise highlighted Democrats’ hypocrisy on voter ID despite its popularity amongst the American people.

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Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise's full interview.


Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Children Online

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the Kids Off Social Media Act, a bipartisan bill that aims to protect kids online by prohibiting children under the age of 13 from being on social media and banning social media companies from recommending content using algorithms for users under the age of 17. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13). A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate and is led by Senators Brian Schatz (HI) and Ted Cruz (TX).

“As a pediatrician and a mom, I’m very worried about the impacts that screen time and social media are having on this generation. We’re seeing sleep deprivation, inattentiveness, impaired social skills, and increased rates of depression and anxiety that experts in the field link to social media use,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Social media companies are not properly regulating their platforms and are pushing harmful content on our kids that they know is detrimental. They’re purposely designing their platforms to make them more addictive and keep kids scrolling so they can rake in more profits. Our kids are not for sale. That’s why I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to set commonsense safety measures on social media use and protect our children.”

"Protecting kids online is not a partisan issue. Parents across America are sounding the alarm about the real harms social media is causing—from anxiety and depression to exposure to dangerous content," said Congresswoman Luna. "This bipartisan coalition reflects families nationwide who have been asking for help. The Kids Off Social Media Act is about putting children’s safety first and holding Big Tech accountable.”

The United States is facing a mental health crisis across all age groups, but adolescents — especially young girls — have been particularly impacted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 57 percent of high school girls and 29 percent of high school boys felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021. In the same survey, 22 percent of all high school students — and nearly a third of high school girls — reported they had seriously considered attempting suicide in the preceding year.

Social media use has been proven to be a significant contributing factor to this crisis. Internal Meta documents reported that 32 percent of teen girls said that when they felt bad about their bodies, Instagram made them feel worse, and found that teens themselves blame Instagram for increases in the rate of anxiety and depression. The algorithms utilized by social media companies have been optimized to increase and prolong time spent on apps, which is particularly harmful for young, impressionable children. Independent studies have also shown that the more children and teens use social media, the higher the risk of depression, and that when children and teens reduce or eliminate exposure to social media for longer than a month, their mental health benefits.

To address the harm that social media is having on children, the bill would:


Reps. Peters, Rutherford, McGarvey, & Sens. King, Cramer Unveil Legislation to Protect Job Training Benefits for Disabled Veterans

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA), John Rutherford (R-FL), and Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), and U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), introduced the Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act, legislation to address an unfair rule in federal law that can create unnecessary delays when veterans with service-connected disabilities attempt to access earned education and employment benefits.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) administers the Veteran Readiness and Employment program (VR&E), which helps qualifying veterans with service-connected disabilities with job training, starting their own businesses, independent living services, education, employment accommodations, and resume development. The type of service offered are unique to fit the goals and needs of each veteran.

Under current law, veterans who use GI Bill education benefits before accessing the VR&E program can be prevented from accessing their VR&E benefits for years due to VA rules. Veterans who use VR&E first are not subject to the same penalty, creating an unfair disparity that disproportionately affects veterans with disabilities.

The Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act ensures that veterans who would like to access the VR&E program are not penalized based on the order in which they use their earned education benefits.

“San Diego is not only home to a vast military community, but to more than 240,000 veterans who proudly served our country—and it’s crucial they have the resources they need to thrive after their service ends,” said Rep. Peters. “No one, especially disabled veterans, should lose access to education and job-training benefits because of a technicality in the law. Our bipartisan, bicameral bill fixes this unfair disparity and ensures veterans can fully access their hard-earned benefits after serving our nation.”

“Our servicemembers sacrifice so much to keep the air we breathe free,” said Rep. Rutherford. “That’s why I am proud to join Rep. Peters in introducing the Veterans’ Access to Resources Act to get rid of unnecessary roadblocks preventing veterans from receiving the benefits they earned.”

“Veterans shouldn’t have to navigate a maze of red tape just to get the benefits they’ve already earned,” said Rep. McGarvey. “The Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act helps streamline that process, so our nation’s heroes can spend less time on paperwork and more time focusing on their future. I’m grateful to Rep. Peters for tackling this problem with a commonsense solution that will make the system work better for the veterans it's meant to serve.”

“Our veterans served this country with grit and class, and now it is our turn to return the favor and provide commonsense access to the benefits they have rightly earned and deserve,” said Senator King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “The Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act will help veterans access their benefits more efficiently – ensuring all veterans with disabilities can pursue their education without becoming tangled in red tape. This simple fix will make it easier for veterans to access benefits they have earned, making sure they can learn the skills they need to transition to the next phase in their life, beyond the military.”

"AMVETS strongly supports the Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act, which repeals an outdated limitation that prevents veterans from accessing both the VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program and educational assistance benefits. Disabled veterans should never be forced to choose between rehabilitation and education when both are critical to achieving meaningful, long-term employment,” said American Veterans (AMVETS) National Executive Director Joe Chenelly.

“Veterans’ paths to meaningful employment are not one-size-fits-all. By removing unnecessary barriers between VA education benefits and the Veteran Readiness and Employment program, this legislation would modernize VA policy and put veterans’ long-term success first. The VFW applauds Rep. Peters for advancing a commonsense fix that better reflects today’s transition realities,” said VFW National Legislative Service Associate Director Joe Grassi.

"The Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act is a meaningful fix that puts veterans first. For too long, the outdated 48-month rule has penalized disabled veterans who rely on both the GI Bill and the Veteran Readiness and Employment program to pursue education and employment related training or rehabilitation. Repealing this rule ensures fairness, reduces unnecessary red tape, and empowers veterans to get the resources they need to succeed. IAVA is proud to stand with our partners in support of this legislation, and we urge Congress to move quickly to pass it,” said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, CEO, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA).

Full bill text can be found here.

Background

The VR&E program provides education, training, and rehabilitation services to veterans with service-connected disabilities to help them prepare for employment or independent living. While VR&E already has its own statutory limits and safeguards, outdated rules governing multiple education programs have created unnecessary barriers for veterans who need these services most.

The Ensuring Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act amends Title 38 of the U.S. Code to remove VR&E from the combined benefit limitation, while preserving VR&E’s existing 48-month cap and the VA’s authority to grant extensions when medically or vocationally necessary.

Since coming to Congress, Rep. Peters has worked across the aisle to achieve the best possible outcomes for veterans and their families in San Diego – a city with one of the largest populations of veterans in the nation. He’s led several bills which have become law, including the Veteran HOUSE Act, the Veteran PEER Act, and the Sergeant Daniel Somers Veterans Network of Support Act, to ensure veterans have the housing, mental health care, and community support they need long after their service ends.

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Congresswoman Simon Secures Over $11 MILLION in Community Project Funding for Transformative Projects in the East Bay

OAKLAND, CA – Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) is excited to announce that she has successfully secured $11.2 million for 15 different community projects in California’s 12th Congressional District through the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding (CPF) Grant process.

The federal funding will support a variety of efforts from the East Bay Regional Fire Training Facilities in Berkeley and Albany, public safety through the City of Oakland’s ‘Ceasefire’ program and at the Northeastern University Oakland campus, safety and mobility improvements to the Lincoln Avenue / Marshall Way / Pacific Avenue Corridor, a new public transit plaza next to the Ashby Bart Station and lighting improvements at nine BART stations across the district, shoreline improvements for the City of San Leandro, Brooklyn Basin, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, and more.

Of the funding, Congresswoman Simon stated:

“I am thrilled to announce I have secured $11.2 million dollars in Community Project Funding to advance 15 community projects across California’s 12th Congressional District.

“From Oakland to Emeryville to San Leandro, this funding will make tangible and real differences for people in our district now and for generations to come. I am excited to see public safety, transit, health, environmental and fire prevention improvements keep the East Bay running and thriving.

“In my first term in Congress, I am especially proud to have secured funding for all 15 projects I fought for during the Community Project Funding process. I look forward to working closely with all funding recipients to ensure that these projects are efficiently and quickly executed so constituents can benefit.”

Each fiscal year, members of Congress can submit Community Project Funding requests for consideration with the House Committee on Appropriations. In her first year in Congress, Congresswoman Simon submitted 15 CPF requests for projects across the East Bay, and she secured funding for all 15 CPF requests.

Former Congresswoman, now Mayor of Oakland Barbara Lee, previously championed multiple appropriations requests that Congresswoman Simon successfully secured in FY2026. Of the announcement, she stated:

"I want to thank Congresswoman Simon for her tireless work in securing federal funding for Oakland. Her partnership has been invaluable in advancing priorities our community needs most. I am especially grateful that she continued to carry forward projects I championed during my time in Congress, ensuring that our vision for Oakland's future remains on track. This funding will make a real difference in improving transitional housing and social services by investing in capital improvements for Magnolia Women's Recovery Program and Fred Finch Youth & Family Services, strengthening our public safety efforts within the Department of Violence Prevention, enhancing security at Northeastern University's Oakland campus to better serve students and community members who use the grounds and facilities, and addressing our illegal dumping crisis through blight removal along Oakland's Brooklyn Basin. Congresswoman Simon's commitment to Oakland is exactly the kind of leadership our city deserves in Washington.”

Of Congresswoman Simon’s announcement, elected officials in CA-12 stated:

“I am grateful for Congresswoman Simon’s outstanding leadership and advocacy as Berkeley’s representative in Washington, said Mayor of Berkeley Adena Ishii. By securing these critical funds, she is helping make our streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists and ensuring our firefighters have the training facilities they need to protect our community.”

“The City of Alameda is grateful for the Congresswoman’s leadership and strong commitment to the East Bay,” stated Mayor of Alameda Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft. “Here in Alameda, this federal funding for the Lincoln/Marshall/Pacific Corridor project will increase safety for all of our residents by transforming a Tier-1 high injury corridor into a safe, modernized corridor connecting schools, commercial districts, and parks.”

“Thank you, Congresswoman Simon, for supporting, San Leandro’s commitment to protecting bay waters and enhancing recreation opportunities for our community,” said Mayor of San Leandro Juan González.

“We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Lateefah Simon for securing Community Project Funding for Emeryville’s 40th Street Multimodal improvements,” said Mayor of Emeryville Sukhdeep Kaur. “This investment reflects community voices — including vulnerable residents seeking safer access and local businesses advocating for improvements that enhance, rather than restrict, customer access. These funds will support a safer, more accessible, and economically inclusive corridor.”

“The City of Albany is very appreciative of Representative Lateefah Simon securing $250,000 dollars in Federal funding for the East Bay Regional Fire Training Center,” said Mayor of Albany Peggy McQuaid. “With a motto of ‘Stronger Together’ the training facility will be used by the Albany, Berkeley, El Cerrito/Kensington, and Richmond Fire Departments to deliver superior training that improves the safety of East Bay residents and emergency responders. As a regional resource, the East Bay Regional Fire Training Center will provide a place to unify our emergency responders, enhance operational consistency, implement industry best practices, and promote a shared culture of excellence.”

The full list of projects that Congresswoman Simon secured that were signed into law and quotes from recipients can be found below:

City of San Leandro’s San Leandro Shoreline Development Project

Amount: $1,092,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to create a regional park along the East Bay shoreline with investments in clean water infrastructure and new recreation opportunities.

East Bay Regional Park District’s Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline Water Quality Improvement Project

Amount: $1,092,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to implement green infrastructure to enhance water qualities, helping to reduce pollutants, sedimentation, and nutrient runoff into the San Leandro and San Francisco Bays.

Samuel Merritt University, Research Equipment for Oakland City Center Campus

Amount: $1,031,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to purchase research equipment for Samuel Merritt University’s new campus in Downtown Oakland.

City of Oakland’s Department of Violence Prevention Enhancements (Operation Ceasefire)

Amount: $1,039,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to enhance the capacity of the City of Oakland’s Department of Violence Prevention to deliver intensive life coaching and violence interruption services for individuals who are most likely to be victims or perpetrators of gun violence in the next 90 days. This project will directly support a reduction in violent crime and recidivism.

UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland Pediatric Blood Disorder Research Center

Amount: $1,031,000

Purpose: This funding will be used for a groundbreaking pediatric blood disorder research center at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland. This innovative research center will house investigators dedicated to translating basic research into innovative, curative therapies that would directly benefit our patients and children across the world suffering from blood conditions, including sickle cell disease, thalassemia, leukemia, and bone marrow failure.

Northeastern University Oakland, Public Safety Security Improvements

Amount: $1,031,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to make public safety security enhancements at Northeastern University’s 135-acre campus in Oakland and surrounding neighborhood. The enhancements will benefit not only students and faculty, but non-Northeastern affiliated members of the Oakland community who use the grounds, walking trails, and athletic facilities.

City of Alameda for the Lincoln Avenue / Marshall Way / Pacific Avenue Corridor Improvement Project

Amount: $850,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to make safety and mobility improvements to the Lincoln Avenue / Marshall Way / Pacific Avenue Corridor Improvement Project that serves schools, commercial districts, and parks.

Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) for the station LED lighting program

Amount: $850,000

Purpose: This funding will support the materials and labor to upgrade the lighting to LEDs in nine BART stations, including: Coliseum, Downtown Berkeley, Fruitvale, Lake Merritt, MacArthur, Rockridge, San Leandro, North Berkeley, and West Oakland.

City of Berkeley’s Adeline Complete Street and Ashby BART Transit Plaza.

Amount: $850,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to create a new pedestrian and public transit plaza along the west side of Adeline Street adjacent to Ashby BART.

City of Emeryville’s 40th Street Multimodal Infrastructure Improvements

Amount: $500,000

Purpose: This funding would be used for transportation infrastructure improvements along 40th street to Christie Avenue in Emeryville, CA.

City of Oakland’s Brooklyn Basin Blight removal and shoreline improvements

Amount: $250,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to remove blight/plant disease and illegally dumped materials along the estuary, as well as efforts to raise the shoreline and address sea level encroachment.

Peralta Community College District (PCCD) Manufacturing and Fabrication Pathway (FabLab)

Amount: $250,000

Purpose: This funding will be used to build the capacity of PCCD’s Manufacturing and FabLab facilities, which will provide students with access to the tools and experience required for successful digital fabrication careers.

City of Oakland’s Capital Improvements for Core Service Providers

Amount: $250,000

Purpose: This funding would be used to facilitate a City of Oakland partnership with the Magnolia Women’s Recovery Program (Magnolia) and Fred Finch Youth Center to help provide core services to those in most need. Funding at Fred Finch would rehabilitate a commercial kitchen and cafeteria for non-minor, dependent foster youth and permanent supportive housing tenants. Funding for Magnolia would support a women’s recovery program that offers transitional housing in Oakland to advance recovery and employment outcomes with purchase of transitional housing in Oakland.

City of Berkeley’s East Bay Regional Fire Training Facility

Amount: $250,000

Purpose: This funding would be used to build out the East Bay Regional Fire Training Facility.

City of Albany’s East Bay Regional Fire Training Center Development and Construction

Amount: $250,000

Purpose: This funding would be used to build out the East Bay Regional Fire Training Facility.

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Rep. Simpson Announces Upcoming Veterans Resource Fair

WASHINGTON— Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson announced his upcoming Veterans Resource Fair in Twin Falls, Idaho, on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026. More information on the event location and time is listed below.

“Ensuring our local heroes are taken care of is one of my top priorities in Congress,” said Rep. Simpson. “It is always Team Simpson’s pleasure to welcome and ensure our great veterans are cared for. I encourage any veteran who resides in Idaho’s Second District and is struggling with a federal agency to swing by our upcoming Veterans Resources Fair and receive the help they so greatly deserve.”

Veterans Resource Fair: February 18th, 2026

College of Southern Idaho

315 Falls Ave, Twin Falls, ID

2nd floor of the Taylor Building – ADA accessible

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more information on the upcoming Veterans resource fair, please call Congressman Simpson’s Twin Falls office at (208) 734-7219.


Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces $500K in Federal Funding for Rockford and Peoria projects

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce that two community projects in Illinois’ 17th District are included in the FY26 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

The legislation includes $500,000 in Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Sorensen to support public safety and infrastructure improvements in Rockford and Peoria.

“These projects came directly from listening to our communities and responding to their needs,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This funding will help keep families safer and make our streets more reliable for everyone who uses them. I’ll continue fighting to bring federal dollars back home and make sure they’re put to work in ways that improve daily life for our neighbors,”

“We are grateful for Representative Sorensen’s leadership and commitment to securing funding to expand operations at the Rockford Family Peace Center,” said Jennifer Cacciapaglia, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Domestic and Community Violence Prevention. “This funding will allow us to address violent crime and provide improved services to youth survivors of domestic and sexual violence.”

“When our roads and intersections are made safer, our children and families are safer. Thanks to this funding secured by Congressman Sorensen, the busy intersection of Sterling and Forrest Hill will be modernized to reduce congestion and better protect human life”, said Peoria Mayor Rita Ali. “We are forever grateful.”

The funded projects include:

Rockford Family Peace Center - $250,000

• The funding will support services for survivors of domestic violence and improve community safety.


Speaking on House Floor, Stanton Slams Republican Move to Block Vote on Trump’s Tariffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) slammed House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republican lawmakers on the House floor for blocking a vote on his legislation ending Trump’s tariff authority.

The effort led by Speaker Johnson would block the House from voting until after July 31 on legislation to end the president’s emergency tariff powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This marks the third time Republicans have blocked action; earlier last year, Speaker Johnson quietly pushed through provisions that blocked action until after Jan. 31.

Watch Rep. Stanton’s floor remarks HERE.

Stanton has been leading the effort in Congress to end Trump’s unchecked use of tariffs and restore Congressional authority. He led a resolution to terminate Trump’s unlawful use of “emergency” authorities under IEEPA to impose tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Stanton has also backed the Prevent Tariff Abuse Act to stop the President of the United States from imposing tariffs under the guise of a national emergency without Congressional approval.

Speaking on the House floor, Stanton said, “Too many Republicans would rather surrender their congressional authority than stand up to Trump. No, they’d rather cross their fingers and hope the Supreme Court settles this.”

Last November, the Supreme Court held oral arguments on the legality of President Trump's tariffs and whether the President has the power to impose tariff policy under IEEPA. A ruling is expected in the coming months.


Rep. Steube: No ACA or Medicaid for Sex Offenders

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced yesterday the Criminals’ Loss of Eligibility and Assistance Networks Act or CLEAN Act. This bill prohibits sex offenders from receiving federally funded Medicaid benefits as well as the refundable tax credit for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.

“Sex offenders have no business tapping into programs intended for lower-income and disadvantaged Americans,” said Rep. Steube. “Taxpayers have the right to know their hard-earned money is not being used to cover the medical expenses of serial abusers and criminals. Rapists and abusers have no business receiving federal benefits. My bill will protect Medicaid and ACA assistance for law-abiding Americans by barring sex offenders from accessing these programs.”

Background: The CLEAN Act amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to prohibit sex offenders from receiving the refundable tax credit for coverage with a qualified health plan under the Affordable Care Act. It also amends the Social Security Act to make sex offenders ineligible for federally funded benefits under Medicaid.


ICYMI: Stevens, Slotkin, Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Ensure Congress Drives American-Made, Union-Made Cars

The “Make Congress Drive Union-Made Act” would impose restrictions on which cars they can buy or lease using their so- called Members' Representational Allowance, the funds lawmakers are given annually to spend on staff, district office leases and other expenses related to their official duties.

Rajiv Sicora, the UAW's legislative director, said in a statement to POLITICO that the legislation “would ensure that Members of Congress stand up for the union way of life in their choice of vehicle — supporting the generations of autoworkers who build not only cars, but a better economic future based on solidarity.”

“Michigan auto workers put the world on wheels, and they deserve to know their elected leaders have their backs,”

“This bill makes sure we invest in our American auto industry and the union workers that power it."

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin plan to introduce legislation that would make it illegal for members of Congress to buy or drive anything other than U.S. union-made cars with their annual congressional budgets.

“Michigan autoworkers put the world on wheels, and they deserve to know their elected leaders have their backs,”

“This bill makes sure we invest in our American auto industry and the union workers that power it.”

Currently, members of Congress receive an annual budget to carry out official duties, which can be used to lease or acquire vehicles for official use.

Stevens says the bill would require Congress to spend taxpayer money only on vehicles made in America by union workers.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, both Democrats from Michigan, are teaming up on a new auto bill that they say would ensure taxpayer dollars better support workers and union jobs in the U.S.

They each introduced companion legislation in the House and Senate that would require members of Congress to drive American-made vehicles. It’s called the Make Congress Drive Union-Made Act.

Right now, members of Congress receive an annual budget to carry out duties, which can be used to acquire vehicles. Currently, there is no requirement for those vehicles to be American-made or assembled by union labor.

Two women in Congress from Michigan are pushing for a new requirement on the types of cars driven by federal lawmakers.

Representative Haley Stevens and Senator Elissa Slotkin are introducing bills today aimed at making it illegal for members of Congress to use their annual congressional budgets on anything but cars made by unions in the U.S.

Two of Michigan’s Democratic members of Congress are rolling out new legislation that would require lawmakers to drive union-made vehicles when they’re on official business.

U.S. Representative Haley Stevens and Senator Elissa Slotkin plan to introduce matching bills today that would limit the use of congressional office budgets to purchase or lease only American-made, union-built cars. Right now, there’s no rule dictating what kind of vehicle a Member of Congress can drive.

The Make Congress Drive Union-Made Act is made up of companion legislation introduced in both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate earlier this week.

Members of Congress can currently purchase any car for official use, but Representative Stevens says the proposed legislation would change that.

“We want to see taxpayer dollars for those government vehicles being spent on union-made and American-made vehicles that support the great jobs that we have right here in Michigan. the jobs and the workers who build our auto industry.”


Rep. Summer Lee & Ranking Member Robert Garcia Demand AG Pam Bondi Comply with Oversight Subpoena and Release All Epstein Documents Immediately

WASHINGTON, D.C. – FEBRUARY 10, 2026 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement, alongside Congressman. Robert Garcia, Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, demanded Attorney General Pam Bondi comply with the bipartisan House Oversight Committee subpoena, as the Department of Justice continues to illegally withhold Epstein files materials from Congress. The subpoena, issued in August, requires the release of the complete, unredacted files to the Committee, including material relevant to ongoing investigations.

"Trump’s DOJ — with Pam Bondi at the helm — has broken the law and obstructed justice for months. If the DOJ continues to be unresponsive to our lawful subpoena, Bondi must be held in civil contempt of Congress. Survivors of Epstein and his co-conspirators deserve better, and we will pursue accountability on their behalf," said Congresswoman Summer Lee.

"Attorney General Pam Bondi is continuing to support the White House’s cover-up of the Epstein files, defying a lawful Oversight Committee subpoena that makes it clear they must release all documents about Jeffrey Epstein to us immediately. Their refusal raises serious questions about the powerful men they’re protecting. We will not stop until there is full transparency and justice for the survivors," said Ranking Member Robert Garcia.

The Department of Justice continues to violate the Oversight Committee subpoena and the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA). The Epstein Files Transparency Act is an Act of Congress that mandates the release of the Epstein files to the public but prevents the release of files pertaining to an “active investigation.” The Department of Justice has only released 3 million documents out of the total 6 million documents collected by the Department pertaining to Jeffrey Epstein. The Oversight Committee subpoena mandates the release of the Epstein files and does not prevent the release of “active investigation” files. In January, Oversight Democrats forced a vote on holding Attorney General Bondi in contempt for her refusal to comply with the Oversight Committee’s bipartisan subpoena, which was blocked by Oversight Republicans.

In the letter, Congresswoman Lee and Ranking Member Garcia wrote, “DOJ’s justifications for its withholdings and redactions are based largely on a provision in the EFTA that permits DOJ to withhold information relevant to ongoing investigations, as well as the Department’s withholdings outside of those allowed in the law for “deliberative process” privilege. However, neither is a valid basis for refusing to release documents or information pursuant to the Committee’s subpoena. Further, politically motivated investigations designed to target political opponents—including the Epstein-related investigations of prominent Democrats initiated at President Trump’s instruction—are not a legitimate basis for withholding or redacting records under the EFTA or the Committee’s subpoena.”

Congresswoman Lee has led multiple oversight actions to force transparency around the Epstein files. Her motion to subpoena the full Epstein files advanced through the House Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement with bipartisan support, marking a significant escalation in Congress’s investigative efforts. She subsequently moved to hold Attorney General Pam Bondi in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a lawful subpoena to release the documents. Congresswoman Lee has also criticized the Department of Justice’s release of recycled Epstein materials, arguing the disclosure failed to meet transparency requirements and withheld substantive new information from the public and Congress. She also joined the House Oversight Committee in convening a closed-door roundtable with survivors of Epstein’s abuse to hear directly from those impacted and inform the Committee’s ongoing investigative work.


Lee Helps Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Housing Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) voted in support of H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, a bipartisan housing package that makes long overdue improvements to federal housing programs in order to increase housing supply and lower costs for American families.

“We need to build more housing families can afford. I hear from folks daily who are struggling to keep a roof over their head, and they deserve housing that is safe, stable, and affordable,” said Congresswoman Susie Lee. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill is a meaningful and important first step towards lowering costs and making the dream of home ownership a reality for Nevadans.”

Key provisions of the bill include:

Reauthorizing and expanding eligibility for the HOME Investment Partnership Program, including increasing the maximum eligible income.

The HOME program has invested $264.1 million in Nevada since 1992, which has helped build or preserve 8,910 homes, provide rental assistance to over 1,350 families, support more than 15,800 jobs, and generate roughly $1 billion in local income.

Increasing flexibility for the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, including authorizing the use of funds for construction of new affordable housing.

Clark County receives approximately $8.5 million annually from HUD in CDBG funding, which may be used for a variety of activities that support low- and moderate- income communities.

Permanently excluding veterans’ disability payments from annual income calculations under the Department of Housing and Urban Development Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (HUD-VASH).

VASH is a joint effort between the HUD and the VA, where HUD allocates “Housing Choice” Section 8 vouchers across the country. These vouchers allow Veterans and their families to live in market rate rental units while VA provides case management services. Veterans’ disability income will no longer be considered when applying for the HUD-VASH vouchers. From 2008-2024, HUD-VASH collectively provided over 2,000 vouchers to support Nevada’s veterans.

This bill includes key provisions secured to broaden access to homeownership, expedite building of manufactured housing, make available small-dollar mortgages, better protect borrowers and families living in public or assisted housing, enhance federal oversight of housing providers, and lay the groundwork for the development of new homes families can afford across America.

Congresswoman Lee has consistently worked to build more housing families can afford across southern Nevada. She led and helped get signed into law the bipartisan Accelerating Appraisals and Conservation Efforts (AACE) Act to speed up appraisals and approvals for Nevada housing projects and cut governmental red tape that drives up housing costs. Congresswoman Lee is also a cosponsor of the Housing Oversight and Mitigating Exploitation (HOME) Act to help lower housing costs for Nevadans by cracking down on price gouging by corporate investors who are buying up housing stock and driving up home prices.

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Congressman Taylor Introduces Bill to Bolster Rural Water Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) today introduced the Water Infrastructure Assistance Reauthorization Act, which will reauthorize the Water, Waste Disposal, and Wastewater Facility Grants Program at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through 2031. This reauthorization will help rural communities make critical updates in their water infrastructure and ensure the accessibility and affordability of water across rural America.

“Rural communities like mine in southern Ohio have long been left behind by the federal government, especially when it comes to water infrastructure improvements,” said Congressman Taylor. “Updating water systems can mean an overwhelming cost soaring into the millions for these small communities. My bill will ensure every Buckeye family’s basic needs are met without having a water bill that breaks the bank.”

The USDA program that would be reauthorized by this bill currently provides loans, grants, and technical assistance to improve critical water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure in rural areas with populations of 10,000 or fewer. With most towns in Ohio’s Second Congressional District having under 10,000 residents, this program bridges the gap for rural families with limited resources.

Congressman Taylor serves on the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee. He additionally serves as the Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.


Timmons Celebrates Passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 6644)

Today, U.S. Congressman William Timmons (SC-04) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act by a vote of 390–9. The legislation reflects a year-long bipartisan effort led by members of the House Committee on Financial Services to address rising housing costs, cut unnecessary regulations, and increase America’s housing supply.

“The Housing for the 21st Century Act returns the dream of homeownership to millions of Americans,” said Congressman Timmons. “America’s housing shortage and years of inflation have pushed costs out of reach for too many families. This bipartisan package cuts red tape, modernizes outdated HUD programs, and empowers community lenders so we can build more homes and lower costs. I’m proud to work with Chairman Hill and Chairman Flood to help get this legislation across the finish line.”

The Housing for the 21st Century Act includes two bills championed by Congressman Timmons. His SMART Act provides targeted regulatory relief for well-managed community banks by streamlining examinations and reducing compliance burdens, allowing them to focus more resources on lending in their communities. Full text HERE.

His Helping More Families Save Act establishes a pilot program to help families in federal housing build savings through interest-bearing escrow accounts as their incomes rise, creating a pathway to long-term financial stability. Full text HERE.

More information on the Housing for the 21st Century Act, including the full text of the legislation, is available HERE.

Congressman Timmons serves on the House Committee on Financial Services.

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Congresswoman Torres Secures Over $11 Million for Inland Empire projects to drive innovation, support affordable housing, and improve public safety

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres, a member of the Appropriations Committee, voted for the passage of a funding minibus containing the final, bipartisan conference agreements for the FY2026 Labor Health and Human Services Education (LHHS), Defense, and Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) spending bills.

The minibus includes seven Community Project Funding requests championed by Congresswoman Torres, totaling $11,050,000 for critical infrastructure, housing, public safety, behavioral health, and economic development projects across the Inland Empire.

“These investments deliver real results for our communities, including safer neighborhoods, more affordable housing, stronger local economies, and expanded access for entrepreneurship and emergency services,” said Congresswoman Torres. “I fought to ensure Inland Empire families see their federal tax dollars come back home in ways that improve quality of life and create opportunity.”

FY2026 THUD Community Project Funding Include:

$3,100,000 for the Eastvale Library and Innovation Center - The project will establish the first true library in the city and expands access to information, education, and community programming for community members.

$2,000,000 for Cypress Grove Supportive Housing - The project will support the construction of permanent supportive housing in Fontana, providing long-term housing stability and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, with a particular focus on those with disabilities or low incomes.

$2,000,000 for Chino Valley Innovation Center- Establishes an entrepreneurship hub to support small businesses, job creation, and local economic growth in Chino.

$1,000,000 for Vista Verde II Affordable Housing Development - Adds affordable housing and creates construction jobs in Ontario.

$1,100,000 for Merrill Center Crisis Stabilization Unit Rehabilitation - Rehabilitates critical behavioral health facilities in Fontana serving residents across San Bernardino County.

$850,000 for City of Montclair Fire Department Tractor Tiller Truck - Funds a high-maneuverability fire truck to strengthen emergency response in Montclair.

$1,000,000 for The Hub on Holt: Space for Entrepreneurship, Creation, and Innovation - Helps revitalize the Downtown Ontario Arts District to support small businesses and community engagement in Ontario.

Representative Torres has prioritized directing federal resources to projects that address local needs, strengthen public services, and promote long-term economic opportunity throughout California’s 35th Congressional District.

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Representatives Van Drew, Gillen Introduce Bill to Strengthen Coastal Protection Nationwide

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew, along with Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY), introduced H.R. 7459, the Coastal Trust Fund Act, which would create a reliable, long-term funding source for coastal protection projects nationwide.

"My bipartisan Coastal Trust Fund Act sets up a permanent and reliable funding stream for coastal storm risk management projects like beach nourishment," said Congressman Van Drew. "This is a big deal, not just for New Jersey, but for the whole country. The American coastal economy contributes to 46% of national GDP, but too often the government does not deliver coastal protection until after a disaster strikes. This legislation changes the status quo by investing $1 billion a year into the Army Corps of Engineers' coastal storm management projects. By funding the Coastal Trust Fund with existing offshore energy lease revenues, we earned a budget-neutral score from the Congressional Budget Office, meaning no new taxes or fees on anybody. This bill was developed through months of collaboration with the top coastal experts in the country, and it is one of the most serious efforts in history to protect the coastlines of the United States. Thank you to my colleague Representative Gillen and the entire coastal community for supporting this effort."

"As a lifelong Long Islander, I have witnessed firsthand how hurricanes, severe storms and coastal erosion can devastate our beachfronts," said Congresswoman Laura Gillen. "Long Island is home to some of the nation's most beloved and iconic beaches, yet these treasured shorelines face growing threats from stronger storms and rising sea levels. That is why it is critical that we act now to strengthen our coastal resilience by investing in proactive, long-term solutions. We must secure dedicated funding for projects that protect our waterfront communities and preserve our shoreline. This will ensure that future generations can continue to live, work and enjoy the natural beauty that defines Long Island."

What Organizations Said in Support of the Bill:

"ASBPA proudly supports Rep. Van Drew's bold new Coastal Trust Fund Act, which will transform how our nation funds coastal storm risk management. The bill ensures long-term, reliable, federal investment to protect lives, property, and vital infrastructure in America's coastal communities. The bill not only safeguards our environment, but also fuels economic growth by indirectly bolstering tourism, jobs, and local businesses," said Nicole Elko, Executive Director, American Shore and Beach Preservation Association.

"Coastal storms pose increasingly frequent and severe threats to the stability of our infrastructure and the safety of communities, particularly through heavy rainfall, flooding, and erosion. The Coastal Trust Fund Act would establish a fund dedicated to the construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of coastal storm risk management projects. ASCE thanks Rep. Van Drew for his leadership on this important issue and looks forward to working with him to advance this bill," said American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) President Marsha Anderson Bomar, Ph.D., AICP, ENV SP, H.ITE, F.ASCE.

"The Dredging Contractors of America strongly supports Congressman Van Drew's and Congresswoman Gillen's bipartisan legislation to establish a Coastal Trust Fund. A dedicated funding stream for the Army Corps of Engineers' coastal storm risk management projects strengthens our nation's resilience, protects lives and property, and safeguards the ports and waterways that power the American economy. Reliable funding allows the Corps, coastal communities, and industry to plan strategically, maintain critical infrastructure, and ensure our marine transportation system remains secure and operational. Coastal protection is not just an environmental priority; it is an economic and national security imperative," said William P. Doyle, CEO, Dredging Contractors of America.

"Communities along our coasts are facing increasingly severe storms and growing flood risks that require sustained, long-term infrastructure investment. The Coastal Trust Fund Act is an important step toward strengthening the federal commitment to resilience and emergency preparedness. Public works professionals are on the front lines before, during, and after disasters, and dedicated support for federally authorized coastal storm risk management projects will help protect lives, safeguard critical infrastructure, and ensure communities can recover faster when storms strike. APWA thanks Congressman Jeff Van Drew, co-chair of the House Public Works and Infrastructure Caucus, and Representative Laura Gillen, for their bipartisan leadership in advancing solutions that strengthen coastal resilience nationwide," said Scott D. Grayson, CAE, CEO, American Public Works Association.

"This bill, introduced today by Representative Van Drew and Representative Gillen, creates a much-needed mechanism to ensure that federal funding is available for coastal projects, like beach nourishment. Beaches not only play an important role in the increasing resilience to coastal storms, but are significant drivers of tourism and other economic activity for states and local communities," said Derek Brockbank, Executive Director, Coastal States Organization.

"The American Coastal Coalition strongly supports the Coastal Trust Fund Act, which will establish a dedicated revenue stream to support federal beach nourishment projects. Delays and shortages in federal funding for beaches have severe economic impacts for non-federal sponsors. This legislation fixes that. Thank you, Representative Van Drew, for introducing this legislation," said Dan Ginolfi, Executive Director, American Coastal Coalition.

"This act will ensure that vital projects to protect our coasts from the risks of storms can continue without interruption. By creating a predictable way to pay for these projects, the measure will enable contractors to safeguard the nation's coastal systems for years to come," said Alex Etchen, Vice President of Government Relations, Associated General Contractors of America.

Click here to read the text of the Coastal Trust Fund Act.


Rep. Van Epps Celebrates Opening of Franklin and Clarksville District Offices

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Van Epps announced that his Franklin and Clarksville District offices are now fully operational.

Rep. Van Epps stated, “I am proud to announce that, despite delays due to Winter Storm Fern, my Franklin and Clarksville offices are now fully open and fully staffed! Serving the district, particularly through casework, is one of the fundamental constitutional duties members of congress have. That’s why I made it a priority to hire the best district staff and experienced caseworkers and get the Franklin and Clarksville offices fully opened. Many people aren’t aware of how congressional offices can help them navigate the federal government. We have multiple staff in place to help if you’re having issues with VA benefits, the IRS, passports, and social security benefits, to name a few. Our staff are trained to cut through red tape, track down issues with delayed cases, and work to get constituents the solutions they’ve been waiting for. I am incredibly honored to serve TN07, and opening these offices is one of the best ways to do that.”

Woody Parker, Rep. Van Epps’ constituent caseworker based in the Clarksville office said, “I am excited for the Clarksville office to be fully up and running. I am looking forward to continuing serving the people of Clarksville and the military and veteran community, and I know my colleagues are looking forward to serving constituents as well. I have worked for Tennessee’s Seventh Congressional District for 31 years, and during that time, I’ve loved getting to help with a variety of casework through the years. This is an amazing community, and serving those who have sacrificed so much for our country has been a joy.”

She continued, “I am grateful to be working for Congressman Van Epps and believe he is exactly where God wants him to be. As a graduate of West Point and a servicemember who was stationed at Fort Campbell, he is uniquely qualified to represent this district. This is important because Fort Campbell is an especially strategic base. If there is a military operation going on around the globe, it's likely that units from Fort Campbell are involved. I know Rep. Van Epps will serve them well.”

District Director, Steve Allbrooks, stated, “I am proud to announce the opening of the Franklin Office under Congressman Matt Van Epps at the historic court house on the Franklin Town Square. Being able to maintain continuity by keeping the same office we had under Congressman Mark Green is important for the community and our staff. I am looking forward to serving Rep. Van Epps and the people of the 7th district. With our low taxes, pro-business environment, and traditional values, Americans are finding Tennessee a great place to call home—and that’s something to be proud of. As a stalwart Conservative, free-market leader, and an entrepreneur, Rep. Van Epps is the perfect person to be our voice in Washington.”

If you need help navigating a federal agency please visit our website here. If you’d like to schedule a meeting, please contact one of TN07’s district offices.

You can reach the Franklin office at: (629) 223-6050

You can reach the Clarksville office at: (931) 266-4483


U.S. House Passes Vindman-Led Bill to Increase Housing Supply & Lower Costs

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed bipartisan legislation led by Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) to cut red tape, lower housing costs, and increase the supply of homes in rural communities across the country.

The Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act streamlines environmental reviews for housing built on previously developed land, commonly referred to as “infill sites”. Rising construction costs and unnecessary federal delays are making it harder for families to afford a home. In many cases, housing projects on land with existing infrastructure face duplicative National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews that add significant costs and slow construction without providing meaningful benefit.

“I’m proud that the U.S. House passed my bipartisan bill to help more Americans afford a place to live,” said Vindman. “Across the country, too many families are being shut out of homeownership by rising costs, limited supply, and unnecessary delays. By cutting red tape and speeding up responsible development, this bill lowers costs, expands housing options, and helps keep the door to homeownership open.”

By reducing unnecessary delays and costs, the bill expands housing supply and supports homeownership, while preserving all substantive environmental protections, including those that detect contaminants, toxins, or hazards. The legislation applies only to land already served by existing infrastructure and explicitly excludes farmland, forests, and open space.

Vindman leads the bill in the U.S. House alongside U.S. Representatives Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas-34), Troy Downing (R-Mont.-02), and Mike Flood (R-Neb.-01).

“With current labor shortages due to reckless immigration policies and increased costs delaying construction, there is simply not enough housing to accommodate the needs of our families,” said Gonzalez. “With this bill, we will remove bureaucratic roadblocks to streamline the development of affordable housing so more South Texas families have a place to call home.”

“I’m proud to see the Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act pass the House as part of the Housing for the 21st Century Act,” said Downing. “This bill cuts burdensome red tape, helps lower housing costs, and makes the American Dream more achievable for families in rural areas like central and eastern Montana. I want to thank my colleagues for advocating for rural America and look forward to seeing this legislation become law.”

The bill — which was folded into the Housing for the 21st Century package — now awaits passage by the U.S. Senate. This is the third Vindman-led bill to pass the U.S. House.

Click here for bill text.

BACKGROUND

Congressman Vindman has long worked to boost housing supply across the United States. In December, he introduced the bipartisan Main Street Home Builders Act, legislation that would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to carry out a pilot program supporting the construction or management of build-to-rent multifamily housing.

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Walkinshaw, Schatz Introduce Legislation to Give Federal Workers Pay Raise

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative James Walkinshaw (VA-11) and U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) introduced the Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act, a bill that would provide federal employees with a 4.1 percent pay increase in calendar year 2027.

For more than a decade, federal employees have endured government shutdowns, pay freezes, hiring freezes, and lost pay as a result of sequestration-related furloughs. The FAIR Act’s wage adjustment restores years of lost wage increases for federal employees by ensuring that federal employees, who serve in all 50 states on behalf of constituents in every congressional district, earn an average pay increase of 4.1 percent.

“Federal workers are the backbone of America, delivering the essential services and benefits that families have earned in every corner of our country,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “They serve communities nationwide and have done so honorably even as the Trump administration has launched unprecedented attacks on the civil service. The FAIR Act delivers a much-needed 4.1 percent pay raise in 2027 so federal pay can keep pace with the cost of living and public service careers remain competitive.”

“Whether it’s inspecting our food, conducting medical research, or caring for veterans, federal workers play an important role in our daily lives and deserve pay that reflects that,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill boosts wages to keep public service jobs competitive with those in the private sector and maintain a strong and talented federal workforce.”

Despite recent pay increases for federal employees under the Biden administration – 4.6 percent in 2024, 5.2 percent in 2024, and 2 percent in 2025 – wages continue to lag behind the rising cost of living. In 2023, federal employees earned roughly 27 percent less on average than employees in the private sector, according to the Federal Salary Council.

“Federal employees have long faced a significant gap in salaries as compared to their private-sector counterparts — nearly 27%lower on average nationwide—making it hard to recruit and retain the dedicated public servants our nation deserves. That’s why American Federation of Government Employees supports Senator Schatz’s reintroduction of the FAIR Act, which would provide a meaningful pay adjustment and help close this pay gap by delivering a 4.1 % raise in January 2027. Fair pay isn’t just good for federal workers — it’s also good for the quality of government services and the people we all serve,” said Everett Kelley, National President of American Federation of Government Employee (AFGE).

“Federal employees live and work in every state and congressional district across the country providing critical services for our nation and the American people. However, their pay falls far below that of individuals in comparable jobs in the private sector. NTEU applauds Senator Schatz and Representative Walkinshaw and the many Members of Congress who cosponsored this bill for supporting federal workers receiving a fair pay increase in 2027 to ensure that employees can keep up with the costs of living and that the federal government can recruit and retain talented workers,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU).

In addition to Schatz, the FAIR Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.).

The text of the bill is available here.

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Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Fight Opioid Overdoses in the Workplace

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon introduced bipartisan and bicameral legislation aimed at preventing opioid overdoses and increasing access to overdose reversal medications like naloxone, also known as Narcan. The Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits (WORK) to Save Lives Act will require the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue guidance to employers regarding opioid overdose reversal medication attainment, usage, and training.

Drug overdose deaths increased by over 30% within the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, approximately 83,000 opioid-involved drug overdose deaths were reported in the U.S. The National Safety Council found that while 75% of employers reported seeing opioid use impact their workplace, only 17% were able to report being well-prepared to address it.

“COVID-19 shone a light on an opioid epidemic that has been developing for decades. Workplaces across the country are dealing with the fallout from our failure to address this crisis,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “The WORK To Save Lives Act will finally give workplaces the tools to save workers who are struggling with opioid addiction. Getting these overdose reversal medications - and training in their use - to as many employers as possible has the potential to save countless lives.”

“Naloxone saves lives, and ensuring workplaces have access to it is an important part of what needs to be a multi-pronged effort to tackle opioid overdoses,” said Senator Merkley. “With bipartisan support in both chambers, now is the time to deliver a common-sense solution to the opioid crisis and give our communities the tools to fight this epidemic.”

“I am proud to join my bipartisan colleagues to introduce the WORK to Save Lives Act. Our bill would help equip workplaces with the skills and tools needed to administer lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication in real time,” said Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05), member of the Bipartisan Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Task Force. “While I am also focused on stopping the illicit fentanyl from coming into our country, our commonsense bill would truly save lives.”

“Opioid overdoses are increasingly claiming lives in the workplace, underscoring how deeply this crisis has embedded itself in everyday life,” said Senator Murkowski. “This legislation will give workplaces the opportunity to equip employees with access to the training and resources they need to respond to an emergency overdose in the workplace. Ensuring these medications are readily available, and that individuals are trained to administer them, will save lives.”

To prepare workplaces in the event of an opioid overdose, the WORK to Save Lives Act would do the following:

The Secretary of Labor will, through OSHA, issue nonmandatory guidance to employers on acquiring and maintaining opioid overdose reversal medication and train employees on an annual basis on the usage of such medication.

The Secretary of Labor will, through OSHA, issue mandatory regulations for federal agencies on acquiring and maintaining opioid overdose reversal medication and train employees on an annual basis on the usage of such medication.

The National Safety Council, the SAFE Project, and the Global Health Advocacy Incubator have endorsed the WORK to Save Lives Act.

“Workplace overdose deaths are occurring at devastating rates, largely fueled by opioids, but the good news is we have more tools available today to save these lives,” said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council.” The National Safety Council commends the sponsors of the WORK to Save Lives Act for championing expanded access to the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication naloxone in workplaces. We urge support for making naloxone a critical component of workplace emergency preparedness to help save a life.”

“The WORK to Save Lives Act is smart, bipartisan leadership,” said Libby Jones, Associate Vice President, Global Health Advocacy Incubator, Overdose Prevention Initiative. “It directs OSHA to provide non-mandatory workplace guidance on overdose reversal medication and annual training, and it strengthens readiness across federal workplaces. This is a practical step Congress can advance quickly to help keep workers safe.”

The WORK to Save Lives Act is cosponsored by: John Rutherford (FL-05), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Andre Carson (IN-07), Angie Craig (MN-02), Danny Davis (IL-07), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12)

A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR).


House Passes Two Watson Coleman Bills to Celebrate the Nation’s 250th Anniversary

Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed two pieces of legislation led by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), intended to help America celebrate its Semiquincentennial. Congresswoman Watson Coleman is the co-chair and Co-founder of the America 250 Caucus, founded in 2020 to assist in the planning of congressional activities surrounding America's semiquincentennial commemoration in 2026. She also serves as a commissioner on the related United States Semiquincentennial Commission (America250).

The first bill, the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule Act, introduced by Congresswoman Watson Coleman and Congressman Rob Aderholt (AL-04), passed the House and now heads to the President for his signature. The bipartisan and bicameral legislation authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to create and bury a time capsule in the Visitors Center of the Capitol building, where it will remain until America’s 500th birthday on July 4, 2276.

“As a co-founder and co-chair of the America250 Caucus, I’m proud to see this legislation move forward as a part of our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Watson Coleman. “None of us will be here when this capsule is opened. That is the point. Our responsibility is to the generations who will inherit the consequences of our choices. What we do in this chamber every day is history. What we choose to speak up for, and speak out against, it defines us - and it will be the legacy we leave for every governing body that holds this space for years to come.”

“As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, this legislation gives us a meaningful way to connect today’s generation with those who will inherit our nation’s story centuries from now,” said Aderholt. “I’m proud to support Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman’s thoughtful leadership on this effort to place a time capsule in the Capitol Visitor Center—an enduring symbol of our democracy, to be opened on America’s 500th birthday in 2276. This is a fitting tribute to our nation’s founding and a powerful reminder that the American experiment is worth preserving for future generations.”

The second bill, 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. It was introduced by Congressman Rob Aderholt and Congresswoman Watson Coleman. It now heads to the Senate, where a companion bill has been introduced by Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming.

“America’s 250th birthday is a rare moment for reflection and celebration, and Congress has a responsibility to help mark it in a way that brings people together,” said Aderholt. “I can think of no better way than for millions of Americans from all walks of life, having the same $2.50 coin celebrating our nation jingling in their pockets. I’m grateful for Congresswoman Watson Coleman’s leadership and her longstanding commitment to the America 250 effort, and I’m proud to work with her on a bipartisan basis to honor our nation’s history and the ideals that continue to define us.”


Senators Baldwin, Britt Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Trade Cheats and Strengthen American Manufacturing

WASHINGTON, D.C.?– U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Katie Britt (R-AL) led their colleagues in introducing the Fighting Trade Cheats Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen U.S. trade law enforcement and empower American manufacturers to take action against bad actors that engage in customs fraud.

The bill takes aim at companies that dump foreign-made goods into the United States and would allow private companies to sue foreign producers that harm American companies. By allowing private companies harmed by trade cheats to use their own resources to fight back, the bill would help address customs fraud and protect American workers and American jobs. In addition to Senators Baldwin and Britt, the legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

“In Wisconsin, our workers and manufacturers produce world-class products – and they deserve a fair shot to compete. But, too often, foreign companies and countries, like China, rig the system, undermine our companies, and put Wisconsinites out of work,” said Senator Baldwin. “That’s why I am proud to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to crack down on trade cheats like China, level the playing field for American workers, and move our Made in Wisconsin economy forward.”

“The Chinese Communist Party continues to be America’s greatest geopolitical and national security threat, and manufacturers across Alabama are paying the price as the CCP and other bad actors cheat Americans out of jobs, intellectual property, and opportunity,” said Senator Britt. “It’s past time we stand with our manufacturers and the hardworking families who depend on them for their livelihoods by giving them the tools needed to combat malicious trade practices. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan legislation that will allow manufacturers to take direct action against bad actors, onshore good-paying American jobs, and stop these manipulative practices.”

“The Chinese Communist Party has a long history of violating trade agreements with the United States, costing North Carolina businesses and workers,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to co-sponsor this bipartisan legislation to hold the CCP and other bad actors accountable and empower private American companies to take action and fight back against trade cheats.”

American businesses including Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, which owns Neenah Foundry, support the bipartisan legislation. Charlotte Pipe and Foundry is a family-owned company that manufactures cast iron, PVC, CPVC, and ABS pipe and fittings.

“Charlotte Pipe is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year,” said Brad Muller, Vice President of Corporate Communications for Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, the parent company of Neenah Foundry. “As a fifth generation, family-owned business we have battled unfair competition from unscrupulous foreign producers for decades. The current enforcement mechanisms in place are broken and aren't doing enough to stop the flood of illegally imported goods into our country. We urge Congress to pass Fighting Trade Cheats Act and other common sense trade enforcement bills to stop the rampant cheating that threatens the jobs of our 2,000 hard working American associates.”

“Trade laws only work if they’re enforced. The Fighting Trade Cheats Act gives our government the tools it needs to hold bad actors accountable, stop duty evasion, and protect workers and industries that play by the rules,” said United Steelworkers President Dave McCall. “As we work to level the playing field and sustain good union jobs across the United States, we applaud Sens. Baldwin and Britt’s efforts to pass this vital legislation.”

Full text of the legislation is available here.

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Sen. Banks Launches TruckSafe Tipline to Report Unlawful Trucking Networks, Illegal Drivers

WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) launched the TruckSafe Tipline for truckers and those who work in the trucking industry to share concerns about carriers employing or contracting with drivers who are not legally in the United States, who are not authorized to drive a truck, or who cannot meet required English-language safety standards.

The TruckSafe Tipline can be found here.

Reports submitted to the TruckSafe Tipline will be reviewed and shared with the U.S. Department of Transportation and its Office of Inspector General to help protect roadway safety and ensure a fair, lawful trucking industry.

Senator Jim Banks: “Indiana is the Crossroads of America and Hoosiers are getting killed because drivers who shouldn’t be here in the first place are behind the wheel. If you’re driving a truck on our roads, you need to be legal, you need to be able to read traffic signs, and you need to follow the law. The TruckSafe Tipline gives people on the ground a way to speak up when they see carriers cutting corners and putting lives at risk.”

Background:

Last week, a Kyrgyzstani national who crossed the southern border illegally in December 2023 and was let into the U.S. by the Biden administration by using the CBP One cell phone app killed four Indiana men after swerving into oncoming traffic on State Road 67 in Jay County. The victims of the accident include a 50-year-old father, his two sons, ages 19 and 25, and one other person.

Over the weekend, Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said AJ Partners, the carrier that employed the illegal alien involved in the Jay County crash, and a number of other companies are under investigation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Duffy stated, “these interconnected carriers have all the markings of FRAUD and are accused of being CHAMELEON CARRIERS. This is when companies swap names and DOT numbers to avoid enforcement.”

This was not the first fatal accident caused by an illegal truck driver on Indiana’s roads. In November 2025, a Georgian national who entered the country illegally during the Biden Administration in 2022 and was granted a commercial driver’s license by New York State caused a crash that killed Indiana National Guardsman Terry Frye. When the authorities tried to communicate with the foreign driver at the scene, they discovered that the driver could not speak English and required a translator, according to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

In October 2025, an illegal alien from Serbia and Montenegro driving a semi-truck on U.S. Highway 20 in Portage, Indiana caused a multi-car accident that killed a 54-year-old. Despite being in the United States illegally since 2011, the driver owned two trucking companies that received over $36,000 in COVID-19 relief funding.

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