House Democrats Demand NPS Halt Fees Disrupting Tourism, the Economy, and Park Operations

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today led 24 House Democrats in demanding that the National Park Service (NPS) immediately halt implementation of new rules that impose up to triple baseline fees on non-U.S.-resident visitors for passes and entry to national parks. Under the new rules, non-U.S. resident visitors must pay an additional $170 surcharge on annual park passes and an additional $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the most visited national parks.

In a letter addressed to NPS Acting Director Jessica Bowron, Members cited concerns that the significant increase in financial barriers to visiting national parks would have adverse effects on international tourism patterns, significantly affecting NPS planning and operations and outdoor recreation businesses that rely on park visitors. The Members also noted the uncertainty resulting from the roll-out of these rules, noting the lack of sufficient notice, guidance, and public input.

“In recent years, the outdoor recreation economy has accounted for more than $1 trillion in gross economic output and more than 2% of our nation’s GDP,” wrote the Members. “Unfortunately, these rules specifically target parks in a number of states that disproportionately contribute to our outdoor recreation industry, including Florida, Maine, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. With overseas visitation already down 3% last year—and 25% from Canada—any further barriers or uncertainty that discourage visits to national parks will be a significant problem for both those states and the U.S. economy.”

“The burden of implementing these rules, which upend the longstanding fee structure at NPS units, has strained the Park Service’s staffing capabilities that have been significantly reduced over the past year. Since January 2025, NPS’s permanent workforce has been cut by 24%. Those permanent cuts have been compounded by uncertainty around seasonal hiring, with a temporary freeze last year scrambling NPS’ plans for the peak of the 2025 visiting season. The result is that, despite the dedicated work of NPS employees, visitor lines at parks affected by the new rules have been long, slow, and discouraged non-residents and residents alike from visiting our nation’s parks.”

The letter is signed by U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-08), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Susie Lee (NV-03), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Dina Titus (NV-01), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC).

Full text of the letter follows below, and a signed copy is available here.

***

Dear Acting Director Bowron:

We write to request that National Park Service (NPS) immediately halt implementation of new rules that levy surcharges on non-U.S.-resident visitors to national parks. We are concerned that the new rules—which impose significant new financial barriers to visiting national parks—were rolled out with insufficient notice, guidance, and public comment. We ask that NPS end the flawed roll-out of these rules to avoid damaging NPS operations, reducing visitors to national parks, and hurting our nation’s essential outdoor recreation industry.

Under the new park access rules that went into place on January 1, non-U.S. resident visitors must pay an additional $170 surcharge on annual park passes (above the base $80 rate) and an additional $100 per person fee to enter 11 individual parks. Going forward, nonresident visitors will pay up to triple baseline fees for passes and entry. That significant added cost will change international tourism patterns and significantly affect NPS planning and operations and outdoor recreation businesses that rely on park visitors.

Most of the 11 parks with the additional surcharges are reporting longer lines, visitor confusion and visitors cancelling their visits. This will only increase as spring and summer approach.

In recent years, the outdoor recreation economy has accounted for more than $1 trillion in gross economic output and more than 2% of our nation’s GDP.3 Unfortunately, these rules specifically target parks in a number of states that disproportionately contribute to our outdoor recreation industry, including Florida, Maine, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. With overseas visitation already down 3% last year—and 25% from Canada—any further barriers or uncertainty that discourage visits to national parks will be a significant problem for both those states and the U.S. economy.

Those barriers will be compounded by tremendous uncertainty created by the roll-out of these rules, which were required by a July executive order but were not announced with details until late November. That is an unreasonably short implementation period for an unprecedented change to NPS’ visitor fees. Operating under that timeline, NPS has:

Not provided visitors with reasonable notice to plan around the new rules, particularly given that many international trips are planned a year to 18 months in advance.

Not communicated a consistent plan for verifying residency that protects visitor privacy, lets employees and visitors communicate consistently even in cases of language barriers, and provides a smooth visitor experience. NPS has instead provided conflicting information to the public and employees on how it plans, or does not plan, to do so.

The burden of implementing these rules, which upend the longstanding fee structure at NPS units, has strained the Park Service’s staffing capabilities that have been significantly reduced over the past year. Since January 2025, NPS’s permanent workforce has been cut by 24%. Those permanent cuts have been compounded by uncertainty around seasonal hiring, with a temporary freeze last year scrambling NPS’ plans for the peak of the 2025 visiting season. The result is that, despite the dedicated work of NPS employees, visitor lines at parks affected by the new rules have been long, slow, and discouraged non-residents and residents alike from visiting our nation’s parks.

Complicating the situation further is that the new rules were promulgated without clear authority under federal law or compliance with existing provisions. The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act only explicitly allows for residency verification for discounted parks passes on the basis of age, disability, and military service. All new or changed recreation fees are subject to clear advance notice and public participation requirements, notices in local newspapers regarding new or changed fees and public involvement in the development of those fees. As our colleagues in the Senate noted in December, there is no indication that those notices have been posted or that public engagement has taken place. The new rules also risk being struck down in court, producing even greater uncertainty for park employees, park visitors, and the outdoor recreation economy.

By continuing to implement these rules under those circumstances, NPS is unnecessarily hurting both its own workforce and the communities that rely on our national parks. We therefore ask that NPS halt the implementation of the new fee rules for national parks and engage with Congress on a robust solution to fund our National Park System. We thank you for your attention to this issue and request an update on NPS’ plans for these rules no later than February 15, 2026.


Beyer Statement On House Tariff Vote

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), who serves on the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, today issued the following statement after the House voted to narrowly defeat a Republican rule that included legislative language which would have preemptively surrendered congressional authority to end President Trump’s tariffs:

“For the past year Trump’s illegal tariffs have crushed our economic growth, hit American families with higher costs, killed the very manufacturing jobs we were told they would multiply, and alienated our closest allies. It is heartening that a handful of Republicans finally stood up to Trump to put a stop to this madness, and I hope that more of our colleagues will join them as we move on to consider measures to terminate tariffs on Canada and other key allies and trading partners.

“At the same time, it is a shame that most Republicans again tried to surrender Congress’ power as a coequal branch of government to check a president who is behaving like a mad king. This is particularly depressing given the fact that the trade powers Trump is illegally usurping are expressly granted to Congress under the Constitution. The American people badly need their Congress to show courage, and to fight for them. Let us hope that this small step in that direction will be a harbinger of more to come.”

Economic analysis by the Tax Foundation finds that Trump’s tariffs cost American families $1,000 last year, while similar analysis from Congress’ Joint Economic Committee put the figure at $1,625.

Beyer chairs the New Democrat Coalition’s Trade Task Force, and is the sponsor of the Congressional Trade Authority Act, which would rein in presidential abuses of authorities under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.


Bilirakis and Buchanan Take Decisive Action to Boost U.S. Travel and Tourism Ahead of America’s 250th Anniversary

Washington, D.C. -Earlier today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) celebrated their introduction of the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act, legislation aimed at strengthening the travel and tourism sector during the upcoming joint review of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) and positioning the United States to maximize global travel opportunities ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250, an initiative expected to drive historic levels of domestic and international travel, the legislation ensures that the travel and tourism industry has a formal voice in North American trade discussions. The bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative to advocate for the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group as part of the USMCA Joint Review. While the agreement includes joint working groups for other key industries, travel and tourism - one of the largest contributors to the U.S. economy - remains unrepresented. With America 250 expected to draw millions of international visitors, ensuring seamless cross-border travel and cooperation with Canada and Mexico - our two largest trading partners - is critical to fully realizing the economic benefits of this milestone celebration.

“Travel and tourism are major drivers of the U.S. economy, supporting millions of jobs, generating significant export revenue, and strengthening communities across the country,”said Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Co-Chair of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus. “As we prepare to welcome the world for America’s 250th anniversary, establishing a dedicated Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group will provide a focused forum to address trade barriers, expand market access, and enhance cooperation, ensuring this critical sector continues to contribute to economic growth, competitiveness, and resilience.”

“For districts like ours that welcome millions of visitors each year, tourism isn’t just an industry, it’s a driver of jobs and economic growth,” said Buchanan. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, ensuring seamless, efficient travel between the United States, Canada and Mexico is essential to keeping our tourism industry strong. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act to ensure travel and tourism are fully represented during the upcoming USMCA joint review and to keep our economy open for business.”

The USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act reflects Congress’s commitment to leveraging the America 250 initiative to promote economic opportunity, cultural exchange, and international engagement across North America.


Representatives Moore, Veasey Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prohibit Foreign Investment into NIL Deals

WASHINGTON - Representatives Blake Moore (R-UT) and Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced bipartisan legislation to prohibit foreign investment into collegiate sports name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements and restrict foreign investments into collegiate athletics revenue streams.

The development of NIL agreements in collegiate athletics exposes a major vulnerability in U.S. higher education if foreign states or state-linked entities use NIL deals, sponsorships, or revenue-generating investments to exert soft power influence. The No Foreign NIL Funds Act bans foreign nations and their entities from donating to any collegiate NIL agreement, prevents investing in collegiate athletics revenue streams, and blocks naming rights, broadcasting or media contracts, joint ventures, and sponsorships. It also prevents foreign nations from hosting collegiate athletic events abroad, such as tournaments or bowl games.

“College sports are woven into American campus life, local communities, and family traditions. But allowing foreign entities to funnel money and sponsorships into college athletics through NIL deals risks undermining the integrity of the game and exposing universities to unintended foreign influence or national security concerns,” Rep. Moore said. “NIL should be used to support college athletes, not as a backdoor for moving foreign money into American institutions. I’m proud to introduce this common-sense bipartisan bill with Rep. Veasey to prevent U.S. college sports from becoming a playpen for foreign money.”

“Our college athletics should be about opportunity for college athletes and not a back door for foreign governments to buy influence," Rep. Veasey said. "This bipartisan legislation draws a bright line by banning foreign donations to NIL deals. We’re protecting the integrity of college sports, our national security, and the future of collegiate athletics.”

"Utah State Athletics firmly supports our student-athletes and their ability to seek name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities through the appropriate channels. However, the origin of these sources is critical for NIL to function effectively and operate in the best interest of our university, state, and student-athletes. We are thankful for Congressman Moore's work in this area and support his efforts to create a safe and sustainable future,” said Cameron Walker, Utah State Vice President and Director of Athletics.

“Weber State Athletics is fully committed to helping our student-athletes maximize their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. However, for NIL to be truly effective, the process must be transparent and rooted in sources that protect the integrity of our university and the State of Utah. We appreciate Congressman Blake Moore’s leadership in this space. Weber State supports his legislative efforts to establish a clear, national framework that ensures a safe and sustainable future for our athletes and collegiate sports as a whole," Weber State University Athletics said.

Background:

Current federal regulations and court cases on NIL-related matters do not restrict foreign actors from donating to NIL arrangements, so long as they pass through a clearinghouse of requirements established in the 2025 House vs. NCAA court settlement. However, many NIL collectives operate as LLCs, meaning their donor lists and deal terms are not required to be made public. This has left a major opportunity for foreign actors to exert influence over collegiate athletics programs.

For example, a foreign entity could set up a U.S. subsidiary, foundation, or investment fund, which then makes a major donation to a collegiate NIL collective framed as a marketing partnership or philanthropic initiative. This NIL collective could then pay athletes for social media promotion, brand ambassadorship, or charitable appearances. While these payments could presumably be set at market rate, there would be zero oversight over the source of the funds or whether the donation had any pure commercial intent. Left unchecked, those agreements could be used as tools of foreign influence campaigns to boost a nation’s soft power in the United States.

Beyond NIL, cash injections from foreign sources into university or conference revenue streams risk exposing U.S. institutions of higher education to malign or undue foreign influence and eroding the amateur status of U.S. collegiate sports.

Examples of concern:

In October 2024, the New York Times reported that an ex-University of Colorado football coach made a private trip to Saudi Arabia to lobby for investments in Colorado’s 5430 Alliance NIL collective.

In October 2025, the New York Times reported that University of North Carolina football general manager Michael Lombardi made an exploratory fundraising trip to Saudi Arabia to discuss potential sponsorship opportunities.

Sports Illustrated reported that representatives from the Atlantic Coast Conference met with Saudi officials to discuss hosting the 2025 Holiday Bowl in Saudi Arabia.

CBS Sports journalist Jon Rothstein reported that multiple Power 4 athletic conferences are finalizing plans to organize an early-season college basketball tournament in Dubai in November 2026.

The No Foreign NIL Funds Act:

Bans any national or foreign entity from making contributions to NIL agreements with the following entities:

An institution of higher education

A student-athlete

A private collective or booster organization that solicits, receives, or manages funds on behalf of, in affiliation with, or under the direction of an institution of higher education

Bans certain foreign investments into collegiate athletics revenue streams. No university, athletic conference, media rights distributor, or bowl or post-season football organization may enter into contracts or sponsorship agreements that involve financing, ownership, or participation from entities of covered foreign nations.

Bans universities, athletic conferences, media rights distributors, or bowl or post-season football organizations from certain activities covered by foreign nations. These activities include:

Naming rights to athletic conferences

Selling or licensing of broadcasting rights

Conference-wide or institutional sponsorship agreements

Joint ventures of capital investment related to athletic, media, data, or content platforms

Hosting an amateur tournament, competition, contest, or match (both competitive and exhibition).

Exempted foreign nations include members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Australia, New Zealand, and the Republic of Ireland.

Read the full bill here.

###


Scott Presses Secretary Collins on Staffing Failures at VA Chesapeake North Battlefield Clinic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins demanding answers and transparency on the continued low staffing levels at the VA North Battlefield Outpatient Clinic in Chesapeake, Virginia that opened in April 2025. Secretary Collins has repeatedly stated that the facility would be fully staffed by January 2026.

“When the North Battlefield Outpatient Clinic first opened on April 17, 2025, with only 150 of the authorized 550 staff, I expressed concern that the clinic would be opening with only 25-30 percent of the staff needed,”the letter states. “You have repeatedly stated that the North Battlefield Outpatient Clinic would be fully staffed and operational by January 2026. Unfortunately, as of January 28, 2026, the North Battlefield Clinic has only hired 340 employees, or 62 percent, of the staff required to operate at full capacity.”

Congressman Scott also highlighted the Trump Administration’s relentless attacks on the federal workforce.

“This lack of focus on adequately staffing VA’s clinics and hospitals in Hampton Roads comes after nearly a year of attacks on the federal workforce,” wrote Congressman Scott. “In just the first 100 days of this administration, Donald Trump took radical steps to cut services to the VA and institute a hiring freeze across the system. He then further squeezed our federal workforce and fired more than 6,000 veterans from their jobs. On August 7, 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced it would terminate collective bargaining agreements for most VA bargaining-unit employees. I am concerned that further efforts to diminish and reorganize the VA workforce will exert additional strain on the Department and further exacerbate ongoing hiring challenges at the North Battlefield Outpatient Clinic.”


Bresnahan Announces Funding for Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center

WILKES-BARRE, PA: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) announced the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center has been selected for critical infrastructure upgrades as part of a nationwide initiative by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These improvements will directly benefit veterans across Northeastern Pennsylvania, helping ensure the facility remains safe, reliable, and able to deliver the high-quality care our veterans have earned.

“The Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center is a vital resource for our district, serving veterans across our community,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “These upgrades will ensure the facility can continue providing the care our veterans deserve and give each of them the support and resources they need today and in the years ahead.”

“Under President Trump, VA is putting Veterans first, and this historic investment underscores that fact,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “Improved facilities, equipment and infrastructure mean better care for Veterans, and these funds will enable VA to achieve that goal.”

This announcement is part of a $5 billion nationwide VA infrastructure initiative, and the focus for our region is ensuring veterans in Northeastern Pennsylvania benefit first-hand from these improvements. You can read more here.

The Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center has been selected for Quarter 1 of Fiscal Year 2026 to receive a series of critical upgrades, including:

Renovations to the 9th Floor Mental Health unit

Boiler plant safety improvements

Repairs to the salt shed

Replacement of fire doors

Garage upgrades


Buchanan, Bilirakis Introduce Bill to Strengthen Travel and Tourism Under USMCA

“For Districts Like Ours That Welcome Millions of Visitors Each Year, Tourism Isn’t Just an Industry, It’s a Driver of Jobs and Economic Growth.”

Legislation Directs USTR to Establish a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group During the Upcoming USMCA Joint Review

WASHINGTON — Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and a senior member of the Trade Subcommittee, recently joined Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) to introduce theUSMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen travel and tourism ties among the United States, Canada and Mexico. With America’s 250th anniversary expected to drive historic levels of domestic and international travel, the bill ensures the travel and tourism industry has a formal voice in North American trade discussions.

The bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to advocate for the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group during the upcoming joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), ensuring that travel and tourism are formally represented alongside other major industries.

“For districts like ours that welcome millions of visitors each year, tourism isn’t just an industry, it’s a driver of jobs and economic growth,” said Buchanan. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, ensuring seamless, efficient travel between the United States, Canada and Mexico is essential to keeping our tourism industry strong. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act to ensure travel and tourism are fully represented during the upcoming USMCA joint review and to keep our economy open for business.”

“Travel and tourism are major drivers of the U.S. economy, supporting millions of jobs, generating significant export revenue, and strengthening communities across the country,” said Bilirakis. “As we prepare to welcome the world for America’s 250th anniversary, establishing a dedicated Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group will provide a focused forum to address trade barriers, expand market access, and enhance cooperation, ensuring this critical sector continues to contribute to economic growth, competitiveness, and resilience.”

The USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act would establish a working group with representation from the Departments of Commerce, State, Homeland Security, Interior, Labor and Transportation, working under the umbrella of USTR. The working group would seek input from travel and tourism stakeholders and develop strategies to enhance the international competitiveness of North America’s travel and tourism industry, support job creation and promote economic growth.

Buchanan has been a strong advocate for fair trade and supporting American businesses. As the former Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee on Ways and Means, Buchanan helped oversee negotiations for the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). He recently co-signed a letter to President Trump encouraging him to negotiate new trade agreements that boost American agricultural exports. Buchanan also previously introduced the Defending Domestic Produce Protection Act to help Florida fruit and vegetable growers combat illegal seasonal dumping and Mexico’s unfair trade practices.

###


Carter, Allen, Bishop introduce bipartisan fix to hurricane insurance program for farmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), alongside Reps. Rick Allen (R-GA) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA), today introduced the Farmers’ AID Relief Act, amending the Hurricane Insurance Protection - Wind Index (HIP-WI) program to better serve farmers affected by hurricane damage.

The HIP-WI program is a wind-based insurance option managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and designed to protect farmers impacted by hurricanes. The program relies on storm-tracking data systems to determine eligibility for the program; however, those systems are vulnerable to inaccuracies, leaving many farmers who experienced significant crop losses without federal protection.

For example, during Hurricane Helene, the data used for HIP-WI showed the storm traveling through the middle of Georgia. In reality, Helene shifted east, causing widespread damage to farms in the southeast and eastern parts of Georgia. Unfortunately, USDA is required to use the inaccurate data set when determining HIP-WI eligibility, causing unnecessary financial hardship for Georgia’s farmers.

The Farmers’ AID Relief Act updates HIP-WI so the program better reflects real-world storm paths and protects farmers affected by damage.

“By enacting this common-sense fix to the HIP-WI program, farmers will be adequately insured and protected against hurricanes that ravage crop yields. We must learn from the failures of Hurricane Helene and protect our farmers from future losses,” said Rep. Carter. “Agriculture is Georgia’s number one industry, and amending this program will strengthen food security and protect our farmers who feed the nation.”

“After the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, many of Georgia’s farmers were unfairly denied the relief they needed and deserved. The Farmers' AID Relief Act directs the USDA Secretary to expand the data considered and identify alternative methods for determining eligibility for indemnity payments under the Hurricane Insurance Protection–Wind Index endorsement. I am proud to co-lead this bill and will continue working diligently to deliver real solutions for our farmers," said Rep. Allen.

“I am glad to work with Congressman Carter and Congressman Allen to introduce today's bill which will apply the lessons we learned from Hurricane Helene so that when the next storm hits us, we are better prepared to help farmers in need,” said Rep. Bishop. “When an area is hit by a storm, the Hurricane Insurance Protection - Wind Index, or HIP-WI, is used to determine if agricultural producers can get a portion of the deductible for underlying crop insurance covered as part of disaster relief. When storms knock out the weather monitoring equipment used to measure HIP-WI, we want to make sure our producers are not left behind because these crucial data systems may be down.”

“This legislation ensures that when hurricanes strike and official weather data falters, reliable numbers from trusted sources step in to guarantee that insured farmers aren’t left stranded. It strengthens the promise of the program by providing a commonsense safeguard so Georgia farmers can count on fair assistance when storms hit hardest. We appreciate Congressman Carter's continued focus on this issue and wholeheartedly encourage its expedited progress towards becoming law," said Tom McCall, President, Georgia Farm Bureau.

This bill will:

Direct the Secretary of Agriculture to create an alternate dataset for HIP-WI determinations to be used in the event of an incomplete data set.

Set uniform standards for the collection and use of the alternate data set.

Read full bill text here.


Bynum Introduces Bill to Lower Cost of Building New Housing

Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the Supporting Projects to Unleash Residential (SPUR) Housing Act to make it less expensive to build new housing developments. The bill will increase the housing supply by establishing a five-year $1.5 billion grant program through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide funds to housing developers to offset state and local impact fees. Eligibility for the program would require state and local governments to also match half of the project taxes or fees.

Oregon has the second highest average development costs. In 2019, the state’s average cost was $16,712 per household. The SPUR Housing Act would provide cost relief and cut red tape to make it affordable for Oregonians to build more homes.

“First-time home buyers should not have to wait 20-plus years to afford a home,” said Rep. Bynum. “This bill will make crucial progress toward making it easier, faster, and more affordable to build a home. I will keep working to make sure that any Oregonian who wants to buy a home can buy a home."

“Addressing the shortage of affordable housing should be a top priority of everyone in Congress, and I’m committed to finding common sense ideas that will increase supply and lower costs,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m pleased to introduce this legislation which creates a new grant program to reduce building project costs and speed the development of new housing.”

This bill is part of Rep. Bynum’s K-30 initiative, a 16-bill package focused on improving public education, strengthening the job market, and lowering the cost of housing. Included in the package are proposals to lower the cost of housing by addressing workforce gaps, affordability barriers, and pathways to homeownership.

This bill is endorsed by the National Association of Realtors.

You can find the full text of the bill here.


Bynum, Wyden, Merkley, Celebrate $3.8 Million in Federal Funding for Expansion of Redmond Airport

Yesterday, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) along with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) andJeff Merkley (D-OR), announced $3.8 million in federal funding to kickstart the expansion of Redmond Airport.

"Expanding the Redmond Airport is a big win for Central Oregon," said Rep. Bynum. "This funding will improve access to travel, support our local economies and businesses, and help the region compete and grow. I’ll keep advocating for the investments our rural communities need to thrive.”

"My visit to the Redmond Airport last fall showed me firsthand how this funding is a solid and key investment in infrastructure and economic growth in Central Oregon,” said Sen. Wyden. “From small businesses to fishing and hiking, this expansion will give more people the opportunity to explore the Oregon Way. I will continue pushing for more vital resources that promote growth and quality of life in rural communities across Oregon.”

"Our regional airports are vital hubs for Oregonians, supporting local businesses and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” said Sen. Merkley. “Investing in Redmond Municipal Airport’s terminal expansion will strengthen its infrastructure and help more Oregonians fly where they need to go safely. I’ll continue pushing for federal investments to improve the efficiency and reliability of Oregon’s airports, benefitting the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”

This investment from the Federal Aviation Administration project expands the existing terminal to increase accommodations for airline travelers and improve the local economy.

“The City of Redmond is very grateful for the $3.8 million-plus from the Federal Aviation Administration for the Airport Terminal Expansion now underway,” said Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch. “As has occurred so many times in the past, awards such as these are the result of long hours and much work by Senator Wyden, Senator Merkley, Congresswoman Bynum and their staffs. Once completed, the Redmond airport terminal expansion will enable the city to provide better service, obtain new destinations and help improve our local economy.”

Bynum, Wyden, and Merkley have long been fighting for improvements to airports in Oregon. In June 2025, Wyden, Merkley, and Bynum announced $9.7 million for rural airports across Oregon.


Cammack Leads Florida Delegation Calling for USDA Disaster Declaration After Historic Freeze

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Kat Cammack and all 29 members of Florida’s bipartisan congressional delegation are urging U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to immediately approve a USDA Disaster Declaration for Florida counties devastated by historic freezing temperatures in late January and early February.

The freeze struck during peak production for many of Florida’s major commodities, causing widespread and catastrophic losses across the state’s agricultural sector. A disaster declaration would unlock critical federal assistance for farmers and ranchers facing severe and ongoing recovery challenges.

“Florida supplies fresh produce to nearly 150 million Americans during the winter months, and when Florida agriculture is hit, the entire country feels it,” Cammack said. “This is a national security issue. A nation that cannot feed itself, cannot secure itself. This freeze caused widespread, historic, and devastating damage. Farmers are facing wiped-out crops, lost income, and months or even years of recovery through no fault of their own. A USDA Disaster Declaration is essential to get relief on the ground now and protect Florida agriculture and America’s food supply from collapsing under this blow,” said Congresswoman Cammack.

Agriculture is Florida’s second-largest economic sector, producing more than 300 commodities and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. During the late January and early February freeze, temperatures shattered long-standing city and county records. According to the USDA’s National Free On-Board Review, central Florida is already experiencing a strawberry shortage following extreme cold on February 2–3, 2026.

Beyond strawberries, significant losses are expected across a wide range of commodities, including citrus, vegetables, sugar cane, nurseries, apiaries, and aquaculture operations. Some impacts are expected to last months and, in some cases, extend into future growing seasons. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson estimates the freeze caused more than $1 billion in crop damage statewide.

In their letter, the bipartisan Florida delegation stressed the urgency of deploying disaster assistance and called on USDA and the Administration to work with Congress to ensure adequate funding to help producers recover.

Full text of the letter can be found here.

###


Congressman John Carter Secures $9.68 Million for Connell Street Widening and Reconstruction Project in Belton

Belton, Texas — Congressman John Carter announced that he secured $9,680,000 in federal funding to support the Connell Street Widening and Reconstruction Project, a major infrastructure investment aimed at improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting continued growth in Belton.

Connell Street serves as a key north–south corridor for the community and plays an important role in daily travel for families, businesses, and first responders.

“Roads are one of those things people notice immediately when they’re not working — when traffic backs up, when intersections feel unsafe, or when growth outpaces infrastructure,” said Congressman Carter. “This project is about fixing problems before they get worse and making sure Connell Street keeps up with the people who rely on it every day. I’m proud to work alongside local partners who are planning ahead and taking care of their community. When projects like this get put off, they only get more expensive — and today, we’re making sure that doesn’t happen.”

“Belton is one of the communities I’m proud to represent and call home. As our region continues to grow, we have to stay ahead of the transportation challenges that come with it. Expanding and reconstructing Connell Street will strengthen an existing alternative to I-35 and help keep our community moving as major projects like the I-14 Extension Project moves forward,” said Representative Hickland. “I’m very grateful to the City of Belton for their continued advocacy on behalf of our community, and to Congressman Carter for securing funding for this critical project and for his tireless advocacy for Central Texas and the communities that make this region a great place to live.”

The City of Belton completed the planning and design work for the project, positioning it to move forward once funding became available. Through the Community Project Funding process, Congressman Carter was able to secure federal support to help bring the project across the finish line.

The project will widen Connell Street from two lanes to four lanes and includes roadway reconstruction, drainage improvements, updated traffic signals, sidewalks, and a shared-use path to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety. The corridor also serves as an alternate route to Interstate 35, helping relieve pressure on the region’s busiest roadway.


Protecting the persecuted in NigeriaSmith, Moore introduce the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, and Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV), along with the backing of an impressive team of leading foreign affairs lawmakers, today introduced new legislation that would require the U.S. Secretary of State to compile and submit to Congress a comprehensive report on U.S. efforts to address the ongoing religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria.

Garnering the early support of House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast (R-FL), House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), Appropriations Vice Chairman Mario Diaz Balart (R-FL), and Foreign Affairs South and East Asia Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), the new Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 (HR 7457) is expected to move through the House quickly and gain widespread support. President Trump has engaged in the issue extensively and has been leading the global charge to end the systemic religious persecution occurring in Nigeria.

“The Nigerian government’s blatant denial of the religious persecution occurring within its borders has only enabled the religious-based violence in the country to fester, with Christian deaths and church attacks reaching unprecedented numbers,” said Rep. Smith, who has chaired 13 congressional hearings on the religious persecution crisis in Nigeria.

“Now that President Trump has rightly redesignated Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC), the United States has a responsibility to do its due diligence in ensuring that the Nigerian government is taking the proper steps to address and punish the systemic violence against Christians and non-radical Muslims by Islamist extremists, such as Boko Haram and Fulani terrorists,” he noted.

“For years, Christians in Nigeria have faced unspeakable violence—churches burned, villages destroyed, families slaughtered—while the global community looked away. As part of the investigation President Trump asked me to lead, I visited Nigeria and witnessed firsthand the horrors our brothers and sisters in Christ face and saw the security challenges Nigeria faces,” stated Rep. Moore, the author of legislation to condemn the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and support President Trump’s CPC designation.

“That is why I am proud to introduce the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 with Representative Chris Smith. This legislation makes clear that the United States stands with our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ and seeks to help Nigeria address its many challenges,” he continued.

“The free world cannot stand by as Christians face mass murders, kidnappings and brutal assaults at the hands of terrorist thugs and armed militias in Nigeria. The Nigerian government must do their part to eliminate the scourge of religious persecution plaguing the country,” said House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast. “This bill aligns with President Trump’s steps to hold them accountable and signal to the world that the U.S. stands firm in defending religious freedom.”

“Defending religious liberty in Nigeria and worldwide is both a moral duty and a vital American interest. Moreover, this bill, as well as President Trump’s ongoing efforts, does just that,” stated House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole. “The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 makes it clear: religious persecution will not be tolerated.”

The U.S. Secretary of State-issued report mandated by the Smith-Moore bill requires the following components:

An assessment of Nigeria’s compliance with the International Religious Freedom Act, including specific actions taken, or not taken, by the Government of Nigeria to prevent persecution, prosecute perpetrators, repeal blasphemy laws, protect vulnerable communities, and facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons.

Identification of all individuals and entities sanctioned, or under consideration for sanction, under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act or the Entities of Particular Concern list.

A description of co-investments and collaborative efforts between the Governments of Nigeria and the U.S. to provide and deliver humanitarian assistance to Christians displaced by the attacks from Fulani-ethnic militias, through faith-based or nongovernmental partners, including amounts, recipients, type of assistance provided, and measurable outcomes.

An evaluation and description of historical, ongoing, and planned U.S. security assistance to Nigeria, and a comprehensive assessment of whether such assistance risks enabling or exacerbating religious persecution.

An investigation into whether the Nigerian government is taking appropriate steps to cease enforcement of blasphemy laws, and to look into instances of non-Muslims, Muslims, and dissenters being subjected to Sharia law or blasphemy laws.

An assessment of internally displaced persons (IDP) conditions, including safety, humanitarian needs, and prospects for return.

Recommendations for further executive actions or congressional authority deemed necessary and most helpful to halt the religious persecution and mass atrocities occurring in Nigeria.

An evaluation of any steps taken by the Government of Nigeria during the reporting period to address religious persecution, dismantle extremist networks, prosecute attackers, reform security forces, or improve protection for at-risk communities.

“I applaud the Nigerian government for working in coordination and cooperation with the Trump Administration to address the security challenges throughout the country. I stand ready to continue working to deepen and strengthen our relationship with Nigeria, as we work to save Christian lives,” said Rep. Moore.

“Inaction on the parts of both the Nigerian and U.S. governments only emboldens these radical Islamist thugs to inflict even more misery, suffering, and death upon Christians and non-radical Muslims in Nigeria. That is why it is paramount that the United States remain steadfast in its mission to promote and protect religious freedoms throughout the globe—by ensuring that we are doing all that we can to end this crisis, we set an important example for the rest of the international community,” concluded Rep. Smith.

###


Daily Caller article on new Smith-Moore Nigeria bill'EXCLUSIVE: GOP Reps Unveil Bill To Tackle Heart Of Christian Persecution In Nigeria'

By Derek VanBuskirk

Published February 10, 2026 at 10:20 AM ET

House Republicans have introduced a bill Tuesday to prompt U.S. action to document “religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria,” the Daily Caller first learned.

The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 calls on the Secretary of State to give the foreign affairs committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate an annual report on U.S. efforts to address Christian persecution. It also calls on the secretary to consider whether to designate the Fulani ethnic militias a Foreign Terrorist Organization, take a look at sanctioned individuals and weigh whether U.S. assistance in Nigeria encourages Christian persecution.

New Jersey Republican Rep. Chris Smith, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee; Oklahoma Republican Rep. Tom Cole, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee; and West Virginia Republican Rep. Riley Moore co-sponsored the bill. It would continue actions already taken by the legislative and executive branches to combat Nigerian terrorism.

The bill also calls on the secretary of state to counter “the hostile foreign exploitation” of illegal Chinese mining operations in Nigeria.

The bill has already garnered support from other House Republicans, including Florida Rep. and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, Florida Rep. and Appropriations Vice Chairman Mario Diaz-Balart and Michigan Rep. and House Foreign Affairs South and East Asia Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga, according to a statement sent to the Caller from Smith.

The bill is expected to move through the House quickly and points to actions already taken by President Donald Trump to combat the persecution in Nigeria, according to the statement.

In November 2025, Trump designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, which allows the executive to use economic and diplomatic tools against Nigeria. He also conducted coordinated strikes with the Nigerian government against the perpetrators on Christmas Day.

Smith said that the U.S. has a responsibility to follow Trump’s lead by pressuring the Nigerian government to take steps to “address and punish” systemic violence against Christians and non-radical Muslims by Islamist extremists.

People gather around burnt cars near St Theresa Catholic Church after a bomb blast in the Madala Zuba district of Nigeria’s capital Abuja on December 25, 2011. (Photo by SUNDAY AGHAEZE/AFP via Getty Images)

“The Nigerian government’s blatant denial of the religious persecution occurring within its borders has only enabled the religious-based violence in the country to fester, with Christian deaths and church attacks reaching unprecedented numbers,” Smith said.

The bill cites the destruction of churches, mass kidnappings, rape and attacks on villages and estimates that 50,000 to 125,000 Christians were martyred from 2009 to 2025.

“As part of the investigation President Trump asked me to lead, I visited Nigeria and witnessed firsthand the horrors our brothers and sisters in Christ face and saw the security challenges Nigeria faces,” Moore said in the statement, adding that the bill shows that “the United States stands with our persecuted.”


Opening statement of Chairman Smith at DRC-Rwanda hearingAdvancing Peace in DRC and Rwanda through President Trump’s Washington Accords – Part II

The following are excerpts of Chairman Chris Smith’s (R-NJ) opening statement at the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee’s February 10th hearing—his fifteenth hearing chaired exclusively on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda—entitled “Advancing Peace in DRC and Rwanda through President Trump’s Washington Accords – Part II”:

My engagement in supporting peace between Rwanda and the DRC—like my good friend and former colleague, Ambassador Tony Hall, who will testify today—spans more than three decades, from a focus on the 1994 Rwandan Genocide to the current “Washington Accords.”

This skillfully and brilliantly brokered peace deal signified a new era in the region, one where peace through strength is brought to bear to end the lengthy, bloody, and costly conflict.

Bringing both parties to negotiate at the same table was historic in itself—the first time in modern history where such progress has been made on this conflict. Yet, the deals that have been agreed to, and the economic and security benefits they will unleash for the DRC, Rwanda, and the United States, are extraordinary.

Ensuring that all sides follow through on the commitments made at the signing in December is not only in the U.S. national interest, but above all, for the millions of people who have suffered and continue to suffer in the war. This is for the present and future generations of Congolese and Rwandan children, and for the memories of the six million dead from this decades-long conflict, a human toll that is both staggering and intolerable.

The urgency of this mission was brought home to us with devastating clarity just days ago. The cowardly attack in Kisangani serves as a grim reminder that peace has enemies. This violence, targeting a city that has long yearned for stability, was a calculated attempt by spoilers to shatter the hope generated by these Accords. It underscores exactly why this hearing is necessary. We cannot allow the progress we have made to be hijacked by those who profit from chaos.

Regrettably, past hearings have revealed that the international and U.S. response has often been half-hearted and indifferent, especially in the face of such violence. Today, things are changing; under President Trump and his cabinet’s leadership, the response is strong, sustained, and durable.

I have called this hearing today because there continue to be spoilers to the peace process. The Kisangani attack is a symptom of this lingering rot. Our goal today is to ensure that all parties and all people understand the benefits of the Washington Accords, and that the governments of Rwanda and the DRC are clear on the steps that must be taken to get there.

The incentives are spelled out clearly in the Regional Economic Integration Framework, mandating that the DRC and Rwanda develop a structured roadmap for economic integration—covering mineral supply chains, infrastructure, energy, and tourism.

Critically, the Washington Accords include a four-phase “concept of operations” that both parties agreed to. This is essential for Rwanda agreeing to pull its troops back, but only if the DRC follows a synchronized schedule to eliminate the FDLR militia. While the FDLR’s genocidal ideology continues to be Rwanda’s primary national security concern, we also expect M23 and Rwanda to take measures to demobilize combatants under their control.

Durable peace cannot be built by governments alone. It requires the moral authority and ground-level engagement of civil society, particularly faith-based groups, as I described in my House Resolution 586. Their networks provide the truth-telling we need to ensure that the benefits of peace reach the poorest, rather than just enriching the powerful.

As such, we must recognize the indispensable role of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), together with the African Union. Time and again, when political solutions faltered, CENCO and ECC stepped in. We remember their pivotal leadership in brokering the Saint-Sylvestre Agreement on New Year's Eve 2016, which prevented the total collapse of the state, and the 2025 Social Pact for Peace and Living Together to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and violence in the region.

Today, as we implement the Washington Accords, groups like CENCO and ECC are not just observers, they are the key to facilitating an inclusive national dialogue in the DRC—which includes all the actors of civil society movements, religious confessions, political parties, and armed groups—to promote social cohesion, national unity, and principles of good governance.

In fact, I just met with their leadership this morning—and hope that this national dialogue will start this month, with the assistance of the Chair of the African Union and President of the Republic of Angola, President Lorenzo. It would demonstrate a commitment to peace.

It is critical that voices are heard and respected and that the personal security of civil society actors are protected.

As we implement these agreements, the United States is also breaking its dependence on minerals that finance the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—often extracted through forced labor, including the exploitation of children—and stopping the indirect support of the CCP’s efforts to fuel instability and regional conflicts in Africa.

President Trump’s Executive Order for “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production” was a crucial step toward strengthening our domestic supply chains, as is the Washington Accords.

In 2023 and 2025, I held hearings that highlighted that the greatest beneficiaries of the conflict and critical minerals system—China’s state-owned mining companies—remain silent, refusing to confront an undeniable reality: from dirt to battery, from cobalt to cars, the entire supply chain is built on violence, exploitation, and corruption. This must change—and the time for change is now.

In response to these challenges, I reintroduced HR 2310, the COBALT Supply Chain Act, which ensures that goods made using or containing cobalt refined in the People's Republic of China do not enter the United States market, under the presumption that the cobalt is extracted or processed with the use of child and forced labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Washington Accords is a culminating event designed to end suffering and war.

###


Rep. Chu Slams SBA’s Discriminatory and Economically Reckless Decision, Says Ban on Green Card Holders Betrays American Dream

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) released the following statement after the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that, effective March 1, green card holders would no longer be eligible to apply for its primary small business loan programs.

“This decision unfairly targets immigrant communities and will harm not only immigrant small business owners, but the American economy as a whole.

“In the San Gabriel Valley and across the country, immigrant entrepreneurs fuel our local economies. They work hard, pay taxes, and employ millions of people across the nation – including countless American citizens. But under the Trump administration’s new rule, even if 1% of a business is owned by a non-citizen, it would be ineligible for an SBA 7(a) or 504 loan.

“For so many, access to capital is what makes it possible to start a business, keep the doors open, and keep workers employed. And programs like 504, 7(a), and the Community Advantage program, which I’ve long championed because it specifically supports loans and technical assistance to the most underserved small businesses, ensure that underinvested communities are not left behind by traditional banks. And crucially, these loans are not a handout because the programs operate with zero subsidy, meaning they do not cost the taxpayer a dime.

“This is not just bad policy. It reflects a broader pattern of singling out immigrant communities for punishment at the expense of citizens and noncitizens alike. It is xenophobic, economically reckless, and a betrayal of the very promise of opportunity that defines the American Dream. And, it will cause businesses to close their doors and more people to lose their jobs.”

This change further tightens SBA’s December 19th guidance, which made businesses with more than 5% ownership by a foreign national, green card holder, or U.S. citizen living abroad ineligible for these loan programs. That guidance also eliminated all eligibility for businesses with any ownership by Chinese nationals, which include many Chinese American immigrants who have lived in the United States for decades.

The Facts:


Reps. Chu, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Access to Postsecondary Education for Foster Youth

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) introduced the bipartisan Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act, legislation that would improve access to postsecondary education for older and transition-age foster youth by strengthening and modernizing the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) program under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (“Chafee program”).

“Education and Training Vouchers (ETVs) provide essential financial support to foster and transition-age youth pursuing postsecondary education. However, the value of these vouchers is too low, and current data shows that only about one-third of eligible youth who attend college even receive an ETV,” said Rep. Judy Chu. “By strengthening the value of these vouchers and addressing the barriers we know youth face in accessing them, this bill will make meaningful progress in ensuring all foster youth can obtain a degree and follow their dreams.”

"I'm proud to co-lead the Foster Youth Postsecondary Education and Success Act with Congresswoman Chu. This legislation makes much needed improvements to the Chafee program by increasing the annual education vouchers amount from $5,000 to $12,000 and allow states the ability to establish a grace period for youth. These budget-neutral, common-sense policies recognize the challenges foster youth face and seek to remedy them to ensure foster youth have the resources to pursue their calling in life,” said Rep. Nathaniel Moran.

Under the Chafee ETV program, states may provide vouchers towards the cost of attendance of postsecondary education for eligible foster youth. However, the maximum value of the voucher has not changed since the program was created in 2001 and has not kept pace with costs. Additionally, foster youth continue to face undue barriers to accessing ETVs, including challenges navigating the application process and maintaining their eligibility for the voucher for the full duration of their education. Moreover, too many foster youth are not aware of the ETV program, which can adversely impact their decision or ability to pursue postsecondary education.

To address these challenges, the Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act would:

Increase the maximum allowable value of the voucher from $5,000 to $12,000 per year.

Allow states to establish a grace period during which students can continue to receive their voucher if reasonable circumstances have temporarily prevented the student from meeting their state’s satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements. This would enable students to get back on track instead of losing their ETV.

Require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to consult with youth who’ve experienced foster care in order to develop model guidance for states on implementation of the grace period.

Require that the form youth use to apply for ETV be simplified, user-tested, easy to understand, and available electronically.

Require states to make reasonable efforts to ensure eligible youth are aware of ETV and its benefits.

Allow states to use their general Chafee program funds toward ensuring eligible youth are aware of ETV, including by conducting outreach.

This bill is endorsed by the National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI), FosterClub, Journey to Success, Child Welfare League of America (CWLA), and the National Association of Counties (NACo).

"Belief in the potential of foster youth and transition age youth must extend beyond words. Real commitment means putting resources, policies, and accountability behind that belief. The Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act does exactly that, strengthening pathways to higher education while investing in the future of our nation’s workforce. We thank Rep. Chu for her continued leadership and for setting a standard for translating commitment into lasting systems change for foster youth,” said Rebecca Louve Yao, CEO, National Foster Youth Institute.

“Foster youth have the same college dreams as their peers but fewer supports. Education and Training Vouchers help level the playing field, and this bill expands access. We’re grateful to Representatives Chu and Moran for listening to young people,” said Celeste Bodner, Executive Director of FosterClub, the national network for youth in foster care.

“This bipartisan bill takes a long-overdue step toward modernizing the Education and Training Voucher program so it works for today’s students. By increasing the value of the voucher, simplifying access, and ensuring eligible youth are aware of the support available, Congress is addressing real gaps that have held too many foster youth back. These practical fixes will help more young people build stable futures by creating success in school and work,” said Hope Cooper, campaign manager, Journey to Success.


CLARKE CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF HER BILL, THE MAGNUS WHITE AND SAFE STREETS FOR EVERYONE ACT, IN E&C MARKUP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 10, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Clarke released the following statement celebrating the passage of her legislation, the Magnus White and Safe Streets for Everyone Act of 2026, in the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade markup by voice vote.

“Tragedies like the loss of Magnus White should not have happened, and Congress has a moral responsibility to work towards a future where they never do again. Today, we are closer than ever before to fulfilling our essential obligation. This victory represents a remarkable step forward for families like the Whites who know the heart wrenching pain of a preventable accident taking their loved one, as well as for the countless other families who are now that much closer to the assurance of safety and security every American deserves in the presence of motor vehicles. I am heartened to have had Jill and Michael with us to mark this tremendous moment, and I look forward to continuing this moral work at their side until the bill that bears their son’s name becomes the law of the land.”

Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Joe Neguse (CO-02) introduced the Magnus White and Safe Streets for Everyone Act of 2026 earlier this month, legislation that would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to amend the current motor vehicle standard for automated emergency braking systems to ensure these systems can detect cyclists and other vulnerable road users regardless of clothing color or skin tone in both day and night and at the speeds NHTSA has previously determined in the existing AEB rule. This bill represents a critical step toward safer streets, fewer fatalities, and a transportation system that works for everyone.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

###


Congressman Cleaver Applauds House Passage of Landmark Bipartisan Housing Package

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, led by Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Chair Mike Flood (R-NE), House Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-AR), and Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-MO), passed the full U.S. House of Representatives by a strong bipartisan vote of 390-9.

This bipartisan housing package addresses the housing shortage facing America and the need to build more homes by cutting red tape, modernizing the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and unlocking financing to boost supply. Included in the Housing for the 21st Century Act are multiple reforms introduced by Rep. Cleaver, including the HOME Reform Act, Choice in Affordable Housing Act, Housing Supply Expansion Act, Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act, HUD Accountability Act, and legislation making long-overdue improvements to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Housing Service.

The Housing for the 21st Century Act takes historic steps to expand the development and preservation of affordable housing in communities across the country, ensuring lower housing costs and more opportunities for hardworking families to achieve the American dream,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “I’m proud of the overwhelming support we were able to obtain with this comprehensive housing package, which underscores the bipartisan nature of the legislation and the broad support for the reforms that will drive down costs. As we move toward negotiations with the Senate, I’m confident that we can achieve a bicameral agreement that will address our national housing affordability crisis and lead to relief for the American people."

Chairman Hill said, “Owning a home has been the cornerstone achievement many Americans have equated with attaining the American Dream,” said Chairman Hill. “This dream has unfortunately grown increasingly out of reach after years of inflationary Biden-era policies and housing supply falling short of demand. Our Committee has been laser-focused on creating solutions and today, we delivered for the American people. The passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act includes real, bipartisan solutions to expanding supply, lowering costs, and providing families with more options. I commend Ranking Member Waters, Subcommittee Chair Flood, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Cleaver on collaborating on this legislation and I look forward to ultimately bringing a bicameral product to the President’s desk.”

Ranking Member Waters stated, “For far too many families across the country, the American Dream is slipping further out of reach as the number of safe and affordable places to call home dwindles and costs continue to soar. That struggle is not abstract. Working families, young children, seniors, teachers, veterans – these are the faces of the affordable housing and homelessness crisis throughout our nation. The passage of H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, is a historic first step toward confronting a housing crisis that is squeezing families and communities nationwide. While more must be done, including real federal investments to meet the scale of this housing crisis, H.R. 6644 provides a strong foundation to build on. I commend Chairman Hill, Housing and Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver, and Subcommittee Chair Flood for working with me to put families first and advance this important legislation. I will continue to work with urgency to deliver a strong bicameral bill to the President’s desk as we owe it to the millions of renters and homeowners who need us to act now.”

Subcommittee Chair Flood added, “America's significant housing shortage is locking entire generations out of home ownership. As the Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, I’m proud of the broad support this housing package received every step of the way. Today’s vote shows that bipartisanship is still alive in Washington and continues to be crucial to solving our shared challenges. Now that the legislation has passed the House floor, I look forward to working with our colleagues in the Senate to get housing affordability legislation to President Trump’s desk swiftly."

This comprehensive approach to expand the supply of affordable housing by streamlining federal programs, updating outdated and unnecessary regulations, and providing local flexibility rather than a one-size-fits-all solution would be achieved through key aspects of the package introduced by Representative Cleaver, including:

HOME Reform Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood, the legislation is the most significant reform to the HOME program since authorization in 1990 and would increase the supply of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing.

Rural Housing Service Program Improvements: The legislation includes sections of the Rural Housing Service Reform Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Representative Zach Nunn (R-IA), representing the most significant Rural Housing Service reforms in decades. The included sections would allow for greater use of the Rural Housing Service Section 504 Home Repair Program, including expanding participation to include more low-income families, among other provisions.

Choice in Affordable Housing Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY), the Choice in Affordable Housing Act is a major reform the HUD’s Section 8 program that would streamline the program and increase the number of private landlords participating in the program.

Manufactured Housing Innovations: The legislation includes the Housing Supply Expansion Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Cleaver and Rep. Rose (R-TN), which would update the federal definition of manufactured housing and allow for more efficient and cost-effective designs. Additionally, the housing package includes legislation introduce by Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver that would streamline energy efficiency and safety standards for manufactured housing.

HUD Accountability Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Rep. Lawler, the HUD Accountability Act requires the Secretary of HUD to testify on an annual basis before Congress.

Click here for the text of the bill.

Click here for a one-pager.

Click here for a section-by-section.

Further Background:

• On December 17, 2025, the Housing for the 21st Century Act passed out of the Financial Services Committee with a vote of 50-1.

• On December 11, 2025, Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters, Subcommittee Chairman Flood, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Cleaver introduced the Housing for the 21stCentury Act.

• On December 3, 2025, the full Committee held a hearing entitled “Building Capacity: Reducing Government Roadblocks to Housing Supply.” The Committee reviewed 41 bipartisan solutions to address barriers to affordable housing.

• On July 16, 2025, the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled “HOME 2.0: Modern Solutions to the Housing Shortage.”

• On June 12, 2025, the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled “Housing in the Heartland: Addressing Our Rural Housing Needs.”

• On May 14, 2025, the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled “Expanding Choice and Increasing Supply: Housing Innovation in America.”

• On March 4, 2025, the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled “Building Our Future: Increasing Housing Supply in America.”

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


Clyburn Delivers Floor Remarks Honoring Black Veterans and Servicemembers During The 100th Anniversary of Black History Month

Mr. Speaker,

We have come to the floor today to pay homage to the Black men and women of our armed forces whose service and sacrifices have far too often unrecognized and underappreciated. And to make matters worse, they have often been denied their proper benefits as veterans who have proudly served our nation. There has been no war fought by or within the United States in which Blacks did not participate.

The men and women who we are honoring tonight, as we commemorate the 100th year of celebrating Black History, made memorable and consequential contributions to the greatness of this country, and it should not be insulting to any red-blooded to hear about them, read about them, and learn about them in the same manner that we learn about others whose contributions were similar but their skin color made more worthy.

When we hear the story of the American Revolution, we don’t often learn of Crispus Attucks. Significant Black figures in the military, like Attucks, paved the way for America’s final victory in the war for independence.

In 1770, Crispus Attucks, a Black man, became the first casualty of the American Revolution, when he was shot and killed in what became known as the Boston Massacre.

Debated as a hero or a violent instigator, his murder stirred the revolutionary fervor and America’s fight for its liberation from the British.

The life of Crispus Attucks is far less documented than his death. Crispus escaped from slavery in Framingham, Massachusetts in 1750, and spent two decades on trading ships and whaling vessels. His death continues to serve as a reminder that African Americans took an active role in the path to American independence, not a passive one, and the first death in the American Revolution, belonged to a Black man.

In his 1994 book, We Can’t Wait, Martin Luther King, Jr. pays homage to Attucks for his courage and defining role in our textbooks. Why don’t our textbooks?

In his 1881 autobiography, Life and Times of Frederick Douglas, he said, “I urged every man who could to enlist to get an eagle on his button, a musket on his shoulder, the star-spangled banner over his head, and there is no power on earth which can deny that he has earned the right to citizenship in the United States…”

Douglas believed the Civil War offered the Black soldier an opportunity to gain his stripes, but he could not convince his friend President Abraham Lincoln to allow Blacks to serve. But in August 1862, a formerly enslaved Black man from South Carolina came here to Wahington and convinced Lincoln to allow Blacks to serve. History records that 170,000 Blacks joined the Union Army and 19,000 joined the Union Navy, and 40,000 died. Smalls became a Captain in that Navy, participated in 18 battles and was the only genuine hero of the Civil War. And in my not so humble opinion, the most consequential South Carolinian who ever lived.

In 1865, Abraham Lincoln acknowledged their value saying, “Without the military help of the Black freedman, the war would have been won.”

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American military aviators in the U.S. armed forces, flying over 15,000 combat missions that played a vital role in the Allied victory in WWII. Instead of being defined by the discrimination and the doubts of those around them, they became one of the most successful pursuit squadrons in our military. They went on to embody the true meaning of Black excellence.

They left a segregated country to fight in war, and painfully returned to one that was still segregated. They had movies made about them, but were not give their GI benefits.

On July 26, 1948 – President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981, desegregating the armed forces. Truman declared, “There shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or national origin.”

Many servicemen wrote to President Truman – perhaps the most pivotal letter written to President Truman came from Isaac Woodard, Jr., a World War II veteran who, hours after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, was dragged off a bus and beaten until blind by police in Batesburg, South Carolina.

In response to Woodward’s letter, President Truman declared, “When a Mayor and City Marshal can take a Negro Sergeant off a bus in South Carolina, beat him up and put out one of his eyes, and nothing is done about it by the State authorities, something is radically wrong with the system.”

In January 2025, President Trump made the decision to stop teaching Air Force recruits about the Tuskegee Airmen in the name of banning DEI initiatives.

Black soldiers returning home from World War II found themselves facing the same socioeconomic and racial discrimination they had faced before. Instead of being welcomed with open arms, they struggled to find jobs, get educated, and purchase homes.

We cannot undo the injustices of our past. But we can begin to restore the possibility of full economic mobility for those that the original G.I. Bill left behind. The G.I. Bill Restoration Act would bring us one step closer to that goal.

America can’t change what happened to these Black soldiers. We can’t change what happened to too many soldiers like Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. who went uncelebrated because our nation judged them by the color of their skin and not the content of their character. But we can do our best to make it right. And that begins with passing my legislation that I co-lead with Congressman Seth Moulton – the Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox G.I. Bill Restoration Act.

Just two years after Truman issued his Executive Order desegregating the Armed Forces – the Korean War put Truman’s Executive Order into action and was greeted with resistance. Truman’s 1948 executive order inspired many Black men to join, believing the military would provide an equality of opportunity the greater American society lacked.

It was in the Korean War, that African Americans were able to serve shoulder to shoulder with soldiers of all races and backgrounds for the first time. A message resounded throughout the nation – if people of different races could serve as comrades in combat abroad, they could live as neighbors at home.

The quest for racial equality extended far past the barracks or on the battlefield – but that same quest for racial equality returned home with Black soldiers.

At just the age of seventeen, Charlie Rangel left school and joined the Army to help his mother support his family. Soon after his enlistment in 1948, he deployed to Korea for what he thought was a police action but soon realized it was a full scale war. With a fighting spirit, he found himself in combat during the Korean War and risked his life to rescue 40 soldiers from behind enemy lines.

Returning home to Harlem, NY, Rangel was first elected to Congress in 1970 and would go on to serve 23 terms in this body. For it not for Mr. Rangel – we would not be here today. Mr. Rangel is the proud co-founder of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Today, America is faced with a turbulent reality as the Trump administration is still trying to purge our U.S. Armed Forces of Black officers, diversity, and honoring Black history.

In February 2025, President Donald Trump fired General Charles “CQ” Brown, then chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The words Trump used to justify his firing, like “woke” and “DEI” — we know what they mean. He was the Air Force’s first Black commander of the Pacific Air Forces, and later its first Black Chief of Staff, making him the first African American to lead any branch of the U.S. military. Why would they apply the term “woke” to him?

In March 2025, Arlington National Cemetery erased from its website educational materials about the history of Black service members, including the Tuskegee Airmen and even General Colin Powell, the first Black Joint Chiefs chairman.

Let me clear — the White House and the so-called “Department of War” appear determined to undermine, discredit, and even erase the evidence of Black patriotism and Black servicemembers who have faithfully served our nation.

Against this backdrop, we must remain vigilant against these attacks on Black servicemembers and veterans, recognize their valor and sacrifice, and work diligently to offer them the promise of this country that they deserve.

In all too many instances, Black veterans have had to fight for equal access to benefits and respect upon returning home. Black veterans have struggled and died in a dual battle: fighting abroad in defense of country and fighting at home for opportunity, change, and their rights as American citizens.

Millions of Black Americans have answered the call to “serve and protect” the American people from all threats, both foreign and domestic. Today, 350,000 Black men and women serve in the U.S. military and there are over 2.4 million Black veterans.

Thank you, and I will now yield to my colleague – the gentlewoman of Ohio, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty.


Congressman Cohen Calls on TVA to Pause Vote on Changes to Kingston, Cumberland Fossil Plants Until Public Can Weigh In

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today sent a letter to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Board of Directors raising serious concerns about TVA’s recent issuance of Supplemental Environmental Impact Statements (SEISs) for the Kingston and Cumberland Fossil Plants, and urging TVA to postpone any vote on the proposals until the public has a full and open opportunity to review and comment.

In the letter, Congressman Cohen warned that TVA appears to have advanced the SEISs without public notice, public meetings, or an opportunity for public comment specific to the newly proposed alternatives.

“This process was conducted without public notice or opportunity for comment, which undermines the deliberate transparency that the National Environmental Policy Act is designed to ensure,” Congressman Cohen wrote. “The practical effect of this approach is to take the ‘public’ out of public power.”

Congressman Cohen noted that TVA previously made formal commitments—through duly noticed NEPA processes and Records of Decision—to retire coal units at Kingston and Cumberland and transition to replacement generation. He wrote that the new SEISs would effectively reverse that course by proposing continued coal operations alongside new gas generation at both sites and, at Kingston, abandoning previously approved on-site solar.

Congressman Cohen also raised concerns about costs and safety, warning that “Continuing to operate aging coal units while simultaneously constructing and operating new gas facilities is not a least-cost outcome. These coal plants are expensive to maintain, require significant ongoing capital investments to comply with environmental requirements, and expose TVA customers to fuel price volatility.”

Given that TVA is scheduled to consider these matters at its February 11 Board meeting, Congressman Cohen urged the agency to delay action until stakeholders—including local communities, environmental advocates, and elected officials—can review the proposals and provide input.

Click here to read the full letter.

Congressman Cohen has long worked to protect Memphis and Tennessee’s 9th District’s clean air, clean water, and public health, and has repeatedly urged TVA not to replace aging coal with fossil gas infrastructure that would lock communities into decades of volatile fuel costs and pollution. In 2024, he wrote to TVA and urged it to reconsider its focus on expanding gas-fired power generation. In 2023, he wrote to TVA urging them to chart a path to 100 percent clean energy by 2035. And in 2022, he wrote TVA urging them to reconsider plans tied to the Cumberland Fossil Plant—including new gas generation and a new pipeline—and instead prioritize energy efficiency, renewables, and storage while moving to retire coal units.

Congressman Cohen has introduced legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in TVA’s long-term power planning, including the TVA Increase Rate of Participation (IRP) Act, which would expand public participation in TVA’s Integrated Resource Plan process and require TVA to account for key reliability, affordability, and environmental factors in that planning.


Congressman Crenshaw Introduces the Stop Gender Trafficking of Minors Act

Legislation Targets Interstate Transport of Minors for Irreversible Gender Medical Procedures

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) today introduced H.R.7420 - The Stop Gender Trafficking of Minors Act, legislation to establish clear federal protections against the interstate transport of minors for irreversible gender transition medical procedures.

The bill makes it a federal offense to knowingly transport a minor across state lines to obtain gender transition procedures intended to alter a child's sex characteristics in a manner inconsistent with their biological sex, creates civil remedies for affected children and families, and ensures federal taxpayer dollars are not used to subsidize or shield such practices by states or municipalities characterizing themselves as "transgender sanctuaries."

"As some states are passing laws to protect children from gender mutilation procedures and harmful gender altering practices, other states and cities are declaring themselves as 'transgender sanctuary cities and states' for so-called 'gender affirming care,'" said Crenshaw. "Children should not be transported across state lines to undergo irreversible medical procedures that are abusive and harmful just to circumvent home state laws or keep parents and guardians in the dark. This bill draws a clear, defensible line: exploiting interstate loopholes to bypass state safeguards is unacceptable, and Congress has a responsibility to act."

The Stop Gender Trafficking of Minors Act uses Congress’s well-established authority over interstate commerce to address this gap, consistent with longstanding federal laws designed to protect children from interstate exploitation.

A growing body of international medical guidance has advised against the routine use of puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender altering surgeries for minors, absent long-term evidence of benefit and safety. The rise in detransition and regret among young adults who underwent such procedures as minors further underscores the need for robust federal safeguards. The Federal Government has a compelling interest in protecting minors from experimental and irreversible medical procedures that may result in long-term harm, including sterilization, loss of sexual function, and psychological distress.

“This isn’t about politics,” Crenshaw added. "It’s about child safety and ensuring federal law keeps up with the reality of radical leftist lawmakers at the state and local level creating loopholes to harm and exploit children with life-altering gender procedures."


Crow on Failed Indictment Attempt by Trump Justice Department

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) issued the following statement after a grand jury in Federal District Court rejected an attempt by the Trump Administration to indict him over a video simply restating the law:

“Donald Trump’s DOJ just tried—and failed—to indict me in front of a grand jury.

“Americans should be furious that Trump and his goons tried to weaponize our justice system again against his political opponents. His attempts to intimidate and silence us will always fail.

“We will continue to fight back against their rising tyranny, along with all Americans of good conscience. Courage is contagious.

“Don’t Give Up the Ship.”

###


Davids, Carter Host Congressional Briefing with United CEO on the Business Case for Sustainable Aviation

Washington, D.C. — Last week, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Buddy Carter (R-GA-01), co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus, hosted a Member briefing on the business case for sustainable aviation and the role of emerging technologies in strengthening the U.S. aviation sector.

The briefing featured Scott Kirby, Chief Executive Officer of United Airlines, who discussed how investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), advanced air mobility, electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), hydrogen, and other innovations can reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and strengthen long-term competitiveness across the aviation industry.

“Building a more sustainable aviation system is about cutting emissions, lowering costs over time, strengthening our supply chains, and keeping the United States at the forefront of innovation,” said Davids. “United Airlines’ leadership in SAF and other advanced technologies shows what’s possible when industry and Congress work together to create a cleaner, stronger, and more resilient aviation future. I’m glad Members could better understand how smart investments can support good-paying jobs, national security, and a cleaner, more resilient transportation system.”

"We can cut aviation emissions without sacrificing efficiency or innovation, and United Airlines is proving that," said Representative Buddy Carter (R-GA-01). "SAF and other cutting-edge technologies offer unique opportunities for America to maintain its air dominance while planning for the future. I'm proud to work with my bipartisan colleagues on this caucus to create jobs, unleash our nation's full aviation potential, and build a safer transportation system for the next generation."

“We thank the Sustainable Aviation Caucus and the Climate Solutions Caucus for welcoming Scott Kirby to discuss the importance of SAF and other aviation related policy issues,” said Tom Michels, Director of Government Affairs, United Airlines. “Continued U.S. investment in SAF presents a significant market opportunity not only for U.S. fuel producers, but for the U.S. farmers and feedstock producers who make the building blocks of SAF. We are appreciative of the focus that the bipartisan Sustainable Aviation Caucus is bringing to policy solutions that will scale SAF and preserve U.S. leadership in clean aviation technologies.”

The Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus provides a bipartisan forum for Members to examine policies and technologies that improve aircraft efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance fuel supply resiliency. The Caucus has also highlighted the growing potential of advanced air mobility for passenger travel, air cargo, and other commercial applications.

The briefing included a discussion and Q&A with multiple Members, focusing on how sustainability, economic growth, and financial performance intersect in aviation, and what policy frameworks are needed to support continued innovation and deployment of proven technologies.


De La Cruz's Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act Passes the House Floor

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz's (TX-15) Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act passed the House floor.

The legislation addresses needed improvements for the Federal Reserve’s discount window operations and technology to better equip the mechanism to serve depository institutions, including community banks. This is De La Cruz's 8th bill passed off the House floor.

De La Cruz spoke on the floor to urge her colleagues to support the bill. Watch the full clip here.

"By improving efficiencies in the U.S. banking system, we are ensuring homeowners, small businesses, and farmers can access the capital they need. House passage is just the first step toward starting a comprehensive review and implementing improvements for the discount window. Next stop: the Senate!" - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

###


De La Cruz: Expanding Housing Affordability Through The Housing for the 21st Century Act

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) spoke in support of Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill's Housing for the 21st Century Act. The legislation increases the housing supply by reducing overregulation and modernizing Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs.

The legislative package includes three of De La Cruz's bipartisan provisions to update the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) mortgage insurance loan limits for residential multifamily construction to bring more homes on the market, to ensure Veterans are made aware of their eligibility for VA loan products, and to strengthen the coordination of our federal housing agencies to maximize the impact of our current federal housing programs.

De La Cruz's full floor remarks can be found here or read below.

"Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, sponsored by Chairman Hill.

This legislation includes dozens of common-sense, bipartisan housing solutions that meet the needs of the housing crisis everyday Americans are dealing with.

I am particularly proud to see three key provisions of mine included to update the FHA’s mortgage insurance loan limits for residential multifamily construction to bring more homes on the market; ensure Veterans are made aware of the VA loan products they are eligible for; and strengthen the coordination of our federal housing agencies to maximize the impact of our current federal housing programs.

H.R. 6644 is a critical step towards putting our housing sector back on the right footing and I urge my colleagues to join me in support.

Thank you, and I yield back."

###


DelBene, WA Delegation Celebrate Seahawks Victory with Congressional Resolution

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) led the Washington delegation in celebrating the Seattle Seahawks’ historic Super Bowl LX victory by introducing a congressional resolution.

“There’s no team more deserving of this year’s Super Bowl victory than the Seahawks. As our community and the nation watched this year’s game, it was clear from the onset that our Dark Side defense would stop at nothing to hold the Patriots back while Walker, Myers, Darnold, and our offense fought to clinch the win. This victory was 11 years in the making, and the 12s should savor every moment of it,” said DelBene.

DelBene was joined by Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (WA-05), Emily Randall (WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Adam Smith (WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10).

The text of the resolution is available here.


Deluzio Bill Would Make VA Whole Health Program Cheaper for America’s Veterans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced his new bill, the Whole Health for Veterans Act, which would cap or eliminate co-payments for all Veterans Health Administration enrolled veterans participating in the VA Whole Health program. The recent implementation of copays for this VA program has made it more expensive than most gym memberships and unaffordable for many veterans.

"My bill is simple: it lowers and cuts co-pays so more of my fellow veterans can participate in the VA Whole Health program,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I have seen this program in action at VA Pittsburgh—where it’s helping veterans stay healthy and can keep healthcare costs down—and veterans love it. Let’s get these co-pays down so that veterans aren’t priced out of this VA program.”

Specifically, Congressman Deluzio’s bill would make VA Whole Health participation free for veterans in VA priority groups 1-5 and would cap co-payments at $30 per month for priority group 6-8 veterans. Congressman Deluzio spoke in support of his Whole Health for Veterans Act in the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee on January 13, 2026.

VA Whole Health is about helping each veteran proactively identify and then achieve their unique fitness and health goals. Each VA Medical Center may offer slightly different services, which can include one on one coaching, nutrition plans, weight management classes, strength and mobility classes, alternative pain management therapies like massage and acupuncture, and more. This program builds on VA’s wholistic approach to healthcare, which views physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health as part of an interconnected network instead of separate and individual things.

More details on the VA’s Whole Health Program are available here.

The full bill text of Congressman Deluzio’s bill is available here.

###


Deluzio Comment Marking One Year Since Marc Fogel’s Release from Russian Detention

WASHINGTON, D.C. – One year after his Oakmont constituent Marc Fogel was released from Russian detention, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) put out the following statement:

“It’s been one year since Marc Fogel came home after more than 3 years of wrongful detention in Russia.

“I was proud to work with the Pennsylvania congressional delegation across parties, two administrations, and several years to help bring my Western PA constituent home.

“It was a long road for Marc, but every American should expect their representatives and government to fight for them if they are wrongfully detained—even if they aren’t famous or powerful.”

Congressman Deluzio was sworn into Congress in January 2023 and was committed from the start to bring Marc Fogel home. The following is a summary of the major actions that Congressman Deluzio did to help secure Marc’s release (in addition to substantial advocacy from him and his staff toward the State Department):


Deluzio Statement on Trump DOJ's Abuse of Power in Calling a Grand Jury Against Him, Fellow Colleagues

I will not be intimidated for a single second by the Trump Administration or Justice Department lawyers who tried and failed to indict me today. American citizens on a grand jury refused to go along with this attempt to charge me with a crime for stating the law in a way Trump and his enablers didn’t like. They may want Americans to be afraid to speak out or to disagree—but patriotism demands courage in this moment. DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP!