CHAIRMAN CARLOS A. GIMENEZ HOLDS HEARING ON U.S. COAST GUARD SPECIAL FORCES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Chairman Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security held a hearing to examine “Frontline Defenders: How the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces Combat Narcoterrorists and other Maritime Threats on the High Seas.”

“For far too long, narcoterrorists and foreign adversaries have exploited weaknesses along our maritime borders to flood our country with deadly drugs, poison American communities, and undermine the rule of law. That era is over. Under President Donald J. Trump’s leadership, border security on land and at sea are once again a top national priority,” Chairman Carlos Gimenez said. “Operation Absolute Resolve delivered a decisive blow to a criminal narco-regime with the swift capture of Nicolás Maduro and set in motion the restoration of democracy and the rule of law throughout the Western Hemisphere. The United States Coast Guard plays a unique and indispensable role in defending our homeland in this region. As threats from Communist Cuba and Communist China continue to grow, we must ensure our Coast Guard has the specialized workforce, real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated strength, and cutting-edge capabilities needed to confront these threats head-on and keep America safe.”

Watch the full hearing HERE.

Read Chairman Gimenez's opening statement as prepared for delivery below:

Good morning, everyone, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today. I appreciate you both being here despite a partial shutdown, including for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). I am hopeful we can reach a deal this week to reopen DHS so they can return to their

important work protecting and serving the American people.

Today’s hearing will focus on the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces, and particularly their role in halting maritime narcotrafficking, smuggling of illicit goods, and related threats from Communist dictatorships.

For far too long, Venezuela’s export of sanctioned oil and drug cartels has prolonged the regime of Nicolas Maduro, harming both the Venezuelan people and the security of the United States.

On January 3rd, Operation Absolute Resolve marked a turning point in dismantling Venezuela’s regime with the swift capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife. This powerful operation begins to restore democracy for the people of Venezuela and upholds the rule of law. I commend President Trump, our military, and diplomatic leaders for their coordinated efforts to complete this successful operation. This decisive action sent a clear message to adversaries worldwide: The United States

must not be trifled with.

This operation is personally significant to me, as my family fled to America from the Cuban Communist regime over seventy years ago. The United States is the shining light of democracy, and through this Operation, can support a future of democracy in Venezuela. America is a

leader in peace through strength and must continue to confront threats around the world.

Cuba must be considered next: Just the other day, I echoed President Trump’s executive order to impose strict tariffs on all countries that send oil to Cuba’s dictatorship, to end the Castro regime once and for all. I have called for the immediate end of oil shipments to Cuba that fund the

corrupt communist regime and crush the Cuban people.

It’s why I am eager to hold today’s hearing on the Coast Guard’s role in protecting our homeland from Venezuela’s actions, which helped pave the way for the success of Operation Absolute Resolve. Securing our maritime front by halting and disrupting these sanctioned oil tankers

from Venezuela is key to unlocking security and freedom in our corner of the Western Hemisphere. We are grateful for the Coast Guard’s bravery and exceptional tactical operations to properly conduct these right-of-visitation boardings and seize vessels found in violation of U.S. and international law.

This hearing will highlight the Deployable Specialized Force’s historic drug interdiction results, seizing nearly 510,000 pounds of cocaine in Fiscal Year 2025. We also have the opportunity to hear how the Deployable Specialized Forces have become one of the most tactically capable maritime forces of the United States, and what their future holds amid an ever-increasing maritime threat landscape.

We appreciate GAO for being here to testify to its review of the Coast Guard’s Deployable Specialized Forces and areas for improvement. Congress should consider GAO’s recommendations and provide further direction for the future of the Coast Guard. We should also consider the

initiatives laid out in the Coast Guard’s recently released Force Design 2028, which calls for a Deployable Specialized Forces Command.

We are grateful to have the witnesses here today to discuss this important topic, and also appreciate the Coast Guard’s willingness to work with us in order to continue this dialogue in a classified setting in the near future, so Members can learn more about the specifics of these oil tanker seizures off the coast of Venezuela. Hearing directly from operational leaders from the Joint Interagency Task Force South would be beneficial for Members to receive further details on operational impacts, emerging threats, and any ongoing challenges.

Thank you, and now I recognize the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Carter, sitting in for Ranking Member McIver today, for his five minutes for an opening statement.

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Goldman, Warren, Lawmakers Push for Expedited Probe of ICE's Violence After Watchdog Confirms Investigation

Lawmakers Urge Independent Inspector General To Fast-Track Investigation Following Horrific Videos, Witness Statements, Reports Of Masked Immigration Agents Using Aggressive Force In Communities Across America

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) and Lou Correa (D-CA), along with U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ed Markey (D-MA), led colleagues in pressing the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to expedite its investigation into Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents' use of force. The Congressional push follows violent ICE operations in Minneapolis that resulted in the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti last month, in addition to reports of ICE agents using increasingly aggressive tactics and entering homes without a warrant.

“Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have gotten out of control, using needlessly violent force against community members who are exercising their First Amendment rights and pose no threat,” wrote the lawmakers.

The DHS OIG is responsible for conducting independent oversight of the agency to identify instances of misconduct and reporting findings directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security and Congress. Since the start of the Trump Administration, ICE’s tactics have become increasingly aggressive, with reports and bystander videos showing immigration agents placing people in chokeholds during arrests, tackling people to the ground, releasing tear gas and flashbang grenades at close range, smashing windows and breaking doors, and brandishing guns.

Last month, these aggressive tactics led to the shooting deaths of two U.S. citizens: a mother named Renée Good and ICU nurse Alex Pretti.

“These events underscore the urgent need for the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General to conduct an expeditious review of ICE’s and Customs and Border Protection’s brutal tactics and share its findings with Congress and the public as soon as possible,” wrote the lawmakers.

OIG audits typically take over a year to complete, even as ICE continues to cause severe harm on the ground. Given the urgency — and the growing risk to public safety and civil rights — the lawmakers urged OIG to expedite its audit, provide interim briefings and preliminary findings to Congress, and use escalation tools — including Management Alerts and 7-day letters — if ICE refuses to comply with OIG’s data access requests.

Recent comments from the Trump administration raise concerns that ICE agents are being told to behave illegally when conducting immigration enforcement. President Trump has consistently downplayed ICE agents’ actions, claiming that it is “inevitable” that agents will be “too rough” and “make mistakes sometimes,” while White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has suggested that ICE agents have blanket “federal immunity” when carrying out their duties. DHS recently circulated an internal memo advising agents that they could enter homes without a judicial warrant in certain circumstances.

“Given the urgency of this situation — with communities facing severe, and sometimes fatal, harm from ICE’s tactics on American streets every day — we request that your office conduct this review expeditiously and share any preliminary findings with Congress and the public on an expedited basis,” wrote the lawmakers.

The lawmakers also requested that, as part of this review, the OIG provide answers to a series of questions on ICE’s and CBP’s practices, including use-of-force claims, use of warrants in arrests, detentions and arrests of American citizens, recruitment, vetting, and training, and their process for handling professional misconduct.

The letter was also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA), along with Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Greg Casar (D-TX), Katherine Clark (D-MA, Madeline Dean (D-PA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), Al Green (D-TX), Val Hoyle (D-OR), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Bill Keating (D-MA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Richard Neal (D-MA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Scott Peters (D-CA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Adam Smith (D-WA.), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Lori Trahan (D-MA), and James Walkinshaw (D-VA).

The full text of the letter is available here or below:

Dear Inspector General Cuffari:

We write following horrific videos, witness statements, and other reports of masked immigration agents using aggressive force in communities across America. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have gotten out of control, using needlessly violent force against community members who are exercising their First Amendment rights and pose no threat. Reporting and bystander videos indicate that immigration agents have placed people in chokeholds during arrests, tackled people to the ground, released tear gas and flash-bang grenades at close range, smashed windows and broken doors, drawn guns, and most alarmingly, shot and killed two U.S. citizens, a mother named Renée Good and ICU nurse Alex Pretti this month alone.

These events underscore the urgent need for the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to conduct an expeditious review of ICE’s and Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) brutal tactics and share its findings with Congress and the public as soon as possible.

On June 11, 2025, members of Congress requested that you conduct an investigation into ICE’s aggressive use of force. The OIG initially responded that DHS was “in a better position” to answer our questions.

Seven months later, after a slew of reports of brutal ICE raids throughout the country, on January 8, 2026, the OIG announced a new audit to “determine whether ICE investigates allegations of excessive use of force and holds personnel accountable in accordance with applicable Federal laws, DHS policies, and ICE directives.”

The OIG also announced audits into DHS’s processes for determining U.S. citizenship during enforcement operations and into CBP’s interior enforcement.

While we are pleased that the OIG is investigating these matters, we are concerned about the OIG’s timeline for completing this audit. DHS OIG’s standard benchmark is to complete audits within 397 days, and the Government Accountability Office recently found that the OIG is not even meeting that goal on a consistent basis. Given the urgency of this situation — with communities facing severe, and sometimes fatal, harm from ICE’s tactics on American streets every day — we request that your office conduct this review expeditiously and share any preliminary findings with Congress and the public on an expedited basis.

Furthermore, we request that you use all proactive tools available to immediately put Congress, the American public, and DHS itself on notice about any urgent issues you uncover. Such tools could include issuing a Management Alert “to inform senior DHS managers of significant matters that may pose a serious, imminent threat” to the safety and health of communities and sending a 7-day letter to Congress if ICE or CBP refuses to comply with the OIG’s data access requests.

Since our June 11 letter, ICE’s enforcement actions have escalated sharply, sparking public outcry and underscoring the need for rapid and rigorous oversight by the OIG. For instance, reports describe an incident in St. Paul, Minnesota in which federal immigration agents allegedly forced entry into the home of a longtime U.S. citizen without a warrant, detained him at gunpoint, and led him outside in sub-freezing weather wearing only underwear and a blanket, before later confirming his citizenship and releasing him “an hour or two later.” In addition, immigration agents have allegedly used dangerous neck restraints and chokehold-like techniques during arrests, including in encounters involving U.S. citizens and minors.16 Immigration agents are using chemical sprays on peaceful protestors, breaking car windows, and dragging citizens out of their cars. Most tragically, federal immigration agents fatally shot Renée Nicole Good during a large-scale enforcement operation in Minneapolis and, just days later, shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, in another Minneapolis encounter — appalling and preventable incidents that underscore the urgent need for rapid, independent oversight.

Yet, the Trump Administration has done nothing to rein ICE in. Instead, President Trump has shrugged these atrocities off, saying immigration agents are inevitably going to be “too rough” and “make mistakes sometimes,” while White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has incorrectly suggested to ICE officers that they have blanket “federal immunity” when carrying out their duties. Meanwhile, DHS recently circulated an internal memorandum advising immigration officers that they may assert broad authority to enter homes without a judicial warrant in certain circumstances, raising concerns that enforcement personnel are being instructed to operate outside of their constitutional limits.

Accordingly, we ask that the OIG complete these audits as expeditiously as possible, issue public findings on an emergency basis, and keep our offices apprised of any significant preliminary observations — including through interim updates or briefings — particularly where the OIG identifies urgent deficiencies implicating public safety or compliance with constitutional Protections.

Due to the recent string of violent attacks by ICE and CBP in American cities, we ask that the DHS OIG, as part of its ongoing reviews,22 seek to provide answers to the following questions, along with the questions in our prior letters that have not been answered:

Use of Force

1. Please confirm whether the fatal shootings of Renée Nicole Good, Alex Pretti, and other shooting victims since January 20, 2025 are within the scope of any of the OIG’s existing audits and, if not within scope, explain whether the OIG will conduct a separate targeted review or issue interim recommendations related to those shootings. If not, please explain why.

2. How many use-of-force claims has the OIG elected to investigate since January 20, 2025, and how many has it declined to investigate?

3. What guidance, authorization, or other instructions (regardless of how they are communicated) have ICE and CBP agents been given about permissible uses of force? Do these instructions differ from DHS’s published Policy on the Use of Force in effect prior to January 20, 2025? Please provide a copy of all iterations of use-of-force guidelines that have been in effect for ICE and CBP agents at any time since January 20, 2025, including those currently in effect.

a. What are ICE’s and CBP’s operational standards for using less-than-lethal devices like pepper ball guns, tasers, teargas canisters, etc.? Please provide a copy of those instructions, policies and guidance.

b. Please describe how agents are being instructed on use of force during trainings and preparations for enforcement surges?

4. How many use-of-force complaints have been filed directly through the OIG’s hotline since January 20, 2025?

5. Does the OIG currently have access to ICE and CBP databases used to track use of force and other claims involving ICE and CBP personnel? How many use-of-force claims have been logged in those databases since January 20, 2025?

Warrants

1. Please provide the breakdown of the percentages of ICE arrests since January 20, 2025 that were performed with: a judicial warrant; an administrative warrant; no warrant. Please provide the same breakdown for each of the three years before January 20, 2025.

2. What is DHS’s legal justification for suggesting that an administrative warrant satisfies the Fourth Amendment protection against unauthorized entry into a residence without a signed judicial warrant?

a. How has DHS’s policy regarding searches and seizures at residences changed since January 20, 2025? Please provide a copy of any instructions or guidance currently in effect on this subject.

3. Since January 20, 2025, how many times have DHS personnel entered individuals’ homes based on only an administrative warrant?

a. How many of those incidents resulted in DHS personnel arresting a U.S. citizen?

Detentions and Arrests of Citizens

1. With respect to the OIG’s citizenship determination review:

a. What is DHS’s current process for verifying citizenship during enforcement operations?

b. What safeguards exist to prevent wrongful arrests and detentions of citizens?

c. What metrics will the OIG use to evaluate whether ICE is improving its handling of encounters with U.S. citizens?

2. How many U.S. citizens have been arrested, detained, or ordered deported since January 20, 2025?

a. Of those, how many were detained based on an incorrect assessment of their immigration status, and how many were detained for allegedly impeding law enforcement officers?

b. Of those detained for alleged criminal offenses, how many has DHS referred to DOJ for prosecution? How many of those cases has DOJ declined to prosecute?

3. What is the average length of detention for someone detained for immigration enforcement purposes and later determined to be a U.S. citizen?

4. Please describe and provide ICE’s and CBP’s policies governing collateral arrests and encounters with bystanders. How does DHS track and remediate collateral arrests based on mistaken identities or other factors? How have these policies changed since January 20, 2025?

Recruitment, Vetting, and Training

1. Please describe ICE’s and CBP’s current hiring standards, background check/vetting process, and onboarding process, and any ways in which those standards and processes have changed since January 20, 2025.

a. How many ICE and CBP agents hired since January 20, 2025 underwent an expedited or abbreviated hiring process? How many were hired with no background check or an abbreviated background check? Please provide the same data for the year prior to January 20, 2025.

b. What vetting is conducted to identify whether ICE and CBP applicants have prior criminal convictions, misconduct, extremist affiliations, or involvement in incidents resulting in use-of-force complaints or civil rights violations?

i. How many applicants with a record of such conduct have been accepted as new CBP or ICE hires since January 20, 2025? Please provide a breakdown for each type of record.

ii. Have any vetting requirements been waived or narrowed since January 20, 2025?

c. Have any hiring practices changed to proactively recruit people with particular political affiliations?

d. How (if at all) is artificial intelligence used in the process of screening and vetting applicants for ICE and CBP?

2. Please describe the training, guidance, or other instructions that ICE and CBP agents receive regarding use of force, deescalation, crowd control, and constitutional rights, including related to encounters with bystanders, journalists, legal observers, and individuals recording enforcement activity. Please explain the trainings’ length, format, and topics covered, and provide copies of such materials currently in use.

a. What are ICE’s and CBP’s training materials, guidance, or other instructions (regardless of how they are communicated) regarding responding to activities protected by the First Amendment, including protections for freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of association? Please provide a copy of any such materials.

3. Please describe the training, guidance, or other instructions that ICE and CBP agents receive related to body-worn cameras, including requirements for camera activation, deactivation, footage retention, and supervisory review?

a. Have ICE or CBP modified their body-worn camera policies or practices since January 20, 2025? If so, please describe those changes and provide copies of any updated guidance.

4. Please describe the training, guidance, or other instructions that ICE and CBP agents receive related to interactions with motor vehicles, including where agents should position themselves in relation to vehicles and how agents may and may not attempt to remove occupants from vehicles. Please describe how these instructions have changed since January 20, 2025, and provide a copy of any such materials.

5. Please describe how agents are instructed, incentivized or otherwise encouraged to meet enforcement quotas, and how such guidance has changed since January 20, 2025.

6. Please describe the training, guidance, or other instructions that ICE and CBP agents receive related to enforcement actions at sensitive locations (schools, hospitals, courthouses, places of worship)?

Investigative Processes & Responding to Misconduct

1. Please evaluate ICE’s and CBP’s handling of professional misconduct matters involving their agents. As part of this reply, please include an evaluation of the following questions related to CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), which has assessed the killing of Alex Pretti.25

a. How many complaints has CBP’s OPR received since January 1, 2025? How many of those complaints are currently open and how many have been resolved?

b. What is the typical length of time CBP OPR takes to resolve complaints, and does OPR have any maximum length of time in which it must resolve a complaint?

c. What is OPR’s process for determining which complaints to investigate and for internally resolving complaints?

d. What is OPR’s current staffing level and how many OPR members, if any, have been detailed to other DHS components?

2. Has the OIG faced difficulty accessing any ICE or CBP databases in the course of its audits and investigations since January 20, 2025? Please describe any database access issues.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

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Rep. Gomez Votes NO on DHS Bill That Continues Funding for ICE and CBP

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) voted NO today on both the Department of Homeland Security Continuing Resolution, which funds ICE and CBP, and the five-bill appropriations package.

The DHS Continuing Resolution keeps pouring money into ICE and CBP even as immigration enforcement grows more aggressive and dangerous. ICE operations have escalated into violent encounters, and people have been killed during federal enforcement actions, including Renée Good and Alex Pretti. This legislation does nothing to slow that trajectory or demand a change in conduct. Instead, it keeps the money flowing and sends a clear signal that ICE can continue operating exactly as it has been, no matter the human cost.

“I voted against the DHS funding bill because it keeps feeding an out-of-control ICE and CBP,” said Rep. Gomez. “Trump already has a $175 billion anti-immigrant slush fund to terrorize families, and now Republicans want to keep giving checks to agencies that are operating with zero restraint. I will not be giving Donald Trump's personal national police force one more cent.”

The larger five-bill appropriations package also increases military spending at a time when the Trump administration is openly threatening military action against the U.S.'s closest allies and has already conducted a major military operation in Venezuela without getting congressional authorization.

Rep. Gomez has introduced legislation to rein in Trump's immigration enforcement funding and redirect those resources toward programs that would make housing affordable. Specifically, his bill would claw back Trump's $175 billion enforcement slush fund and put that money toward lowering housing costs and helping working families afford a place to live. It reflects a simple choice between funding fear and funding solutions.

Rep. Gomez has also taken direct action to hold DHS leadership accountable. He is a co-sponsor of articles of impeachment against Kristi Noem for her role in overseeing immigration enforcement abuses and the systematic disregard for human life and the rule of law. Gomez has been clear that Congress cannot continue funding agencies that operate with impunity while refusing to hold their leaders responsible.


Goodlander Calls on Public Utilities Commission to Reconsider Eversource Rate Hike

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) – a founding member of the Lowering Utility Bills Caucus – sent a letter to the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission in support of the Office of the Consumer Advocate’s petition to reconsider the approved 43.4% rate hike for Eversource customers. The American Economic Liberties Project (AELP) also submitted a letter in support of the petition.

“New Hampshire ratepayers continue to pay significantly higher electricity rates than the national average – consistently hovering in the top 10 most expensive states,” wrote Congresswoman Goodlander. “As the commissioners of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), you are empowered to reconsider both the original decision on the merits (the July 25, 2025 Order) as well as those newly articulated in the December 31, 2025, decision on rehearing (the First Rehearing Order).”

The congresswoman continued, “My constituents – your ratepayers – are unquestionably hurting. Across the country, more than a quarter of U.S. households have been unable to pay their utility bill in full at least once over the last 12 months. Meanwhile, Eversource, which is a monopoly, has been awarded a premium, driving up rates. New Hampshire residents and businesses simply cannot bear to pay more than is absolutely necessary to attract investment in the system.”

You can read the Congresswoman’s full letter here.

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Rep. Grijalva Statement on Government Appropriations Package, Funding for DHS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva released the following statement after voting against an appropriations package that included a Continuing Resolution for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which funds Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“ICE, and the mandate it serves, has been corrupted to the core. That corruption needs to be rooted out and dismantled,” said Congresswoman Grijalva. “I cannot in good conscience support funding that enables violence, racial profiling, and the terrorization of communities across the country, including of the people I represent in Arizona. While reforms like mandating body cameras, banning masks, protecting sensitive locations, and requiring judicial warrants are necessary, they are also the bare minimum. All federal agents should already be respecting the Constitution and the rights it guarantees. Compliance with constitutional protections and basic standards that apply to every other local law enforcement officer in the country should not be up for debate.

“The killings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti should be an inflection point for Congress to think critically about what our immigration policies seek to achieve. Do we want to be a country that celebrates diversity, rewards hard work, and protects the rights and dignity of all? Or are we content with the status quo — maskless raids in our neighborhoods, families torn apart, and civilians shot to death?”

“ICE has already been handed $75 billion through Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill — paid for on the backs of working families and children who are losing access to SNAP and Medicaid. Congress should rescind this taxpayer slush fund that is being used by DHS to attack our communities, and DHS must end the militarization of cities across the country.”


Chairman Guthrie Leads Effort to Eliminate Fraud in Federal Health Programs

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing, examining fraud in Medicare and Medicaid. This hearing follows the largest Department of Justice health care fraud bust in history and the widely reported allegations of welfare fraud in states like Minnesota.

Oversight of federal health programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, falls under the jurisdiction of Chairman Guthrie’s committee. In addition to launching the investigation that led to today’s hearing, the Committee also recently sent a letter seeking answers about alleged Medicare fraud in Los Angeles County.

Chairman Guthrie’s opening statement as prepared for delivery:

Good morning and thank you, Chairman Joyce, for holding this hearing on Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

Today’s hearing sounds the alarm on the tremendous loss of taxpayer dollars to fraud – and the real consequences for patients, providers, and public trust.

Together, Medicare and Medicaid provide health coverage to more than 140 million Americans, including seniors, people with disabilities, low-income families, pregnant women, and children. These programs are lifelines, not abstract budget figures. When they are exploited and plundered, Americans lose access to care, confidence in the system, and resources intended to improve health outcomes.

Each year, tens of billions of dollars are lost to fraud, waste, and abuse. But financial loss is not the only consequence of these fraud schemes. When providers bill for services never rendered or criminals flood Medicare or Medicaid with fake claims, the system becomes harder to oversee, less responsive to legitimate patients, and financially unstable. Health care costs rise for everyone, and trust in these critical programs erodes.

Operation Gold Rush illustrates the growing scale of the problem. This recent, nationwide enforcement action by the Department of Justice was the largest health care fraud takedown in history. This operation targeted several health care fraud schemes leading to criminal charges against 324 defendants in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the U.S. The various schemes involved over $14.6 billion in intended loss.

Twenty-nine of those defendants were charged for their roles in transnational criminal organizations that used stolen identities of over one million Americans—spanning all 50 states—to submit over $10 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicare for durable medical equipment that patients never ordered or received. Many seniors learned their Medicare or other personally identifiable information had been compromised only after being denied legitimate care.

This was not an administrative error—it was organized crime exploiting our nation’s health care programs. We must ensure taxpayer dollars are used for quality health care, not siphoned off by criminal enterprises. Republicans took steps to this end in HR 1, and we must continue the effort to preserve Medicare and Medicaid for those who need these programs.

I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today. With that, I yield back.

Chairman Guthrie's full opening statement can be found here.

Chairman Guthrie’s five minutes of questioning can be found here.

Additional highlights from today’s hearing provided by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce can be found here.


Guthrie Secures Over $76 Million in Community Project Funding for Kentucky’s Second District

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) issued the following statement after the final passage of H.R. 7178, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. This bill included funding for the final two of 13 total community projects requested by Congressman Guthrie, totaling $76.65 million in funding for projects across the Second District.

“One of my most important jobs in Congress is developing legislation that encourages economic development, fosters an environment to spur job creation, and improves the quality of life for all Kentuckians,” said Congressman Guthrie. “I’m proud that after months of work, I was able to secure $76.65 million for projects across our district. I am confident that these projects will make meaningful impacts for hardworking Kentucky families for years to come.”

Community Project Funding Secured by Congressman Guthrie

– $14,000,000 – Edmonson County Water District Treatment Plant, Brownsville

This project will provide for the replacement and upgrade of intake structures and tower at the Edmonson County Water District’s Brownsville facility, ensuring more reliable access to the Green River, a primary source of potable water for residents in Edmonson, Hart, and Grayson Counties.

– $2,000,000 – Green River Valley Water District, Hart County

This project will upgrade existing water lines to increase water supply from Bonnieville to Priceville to meet the area’s rising demand.

– $2,000,000 – City of Lewisport Water Treatment Plant

This appropriation will help construct a new regional Water Treatment Plant to help ensure long term quality service for all Lewisport citizens as well as those households outside of the city limits that the plant services.

– $1,500,000 – City of Clarkson Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion

The funding will help upgrade the current wastewater treatment system, as it is currently at capacity. It will also expand the system to allow for new users in the city of Clarkson.

– $2,130,750 – Meade County Water District System Upgrades

This project will install a new transmission main, along with a new interconnect, tank, and pump station, to help provide a more reliable and consistent supply of water to more than 5,000 rural customers in Meade County.

– $675,000 – New Haven Asbestos Water Line

This project will allow the LaRue County Water District to replace approximately 4,500 linear feet of existing asbestos cement water lines in the City of New Haven with a six-inch PVC pipe, to improve water quality throughout the city.

– $50,000,000 – Fort Knox ARAC Aviation Support Facility

This funding will support the Army Reserve rotary wing aviation maintenance mission at Fort Knox.

– $817,491 – Vine Grove Water Line Improvements

This funding will improve and replace undersized waterlines in Vine Grove, improving water pressure, reliability, and providing highly effective fire flow protection for the community.

– $854,400 – Greenville Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation

This funding will support infrastructure upgrades at the Greenville Wastewater Treatment Plant.

– $750,000 – Bullitt County Collection System Rehabilitation

This project will rehabilitate the wastewater collection system for Louisville Metropolitan Sewer District, previously the Bullitt County Sanitation District, that serves the cities of Hillview, Pioneer Village, Fox Chase, Hebron Estates, and Hunters Hollow.

– $656,000 – Auburn Cast Iron Water Line Replacement

This funding will provide for the replacement of 3,000 linear feet of galvanized water lines that have been in service since 1938 in Logan County.

– $470,617 – Barren County Sheriff’s Technology Improvements

This funding will support the Barren County Sheriff’s Department to purchase critical technology improvements such as body and cruiser cameras, software for cell phone recovery and access technology to expedite criminal investigations, license plate identification management equipment, a firearm training simulator, thermal imaging equipment, and digital speed monitors.

– $796,528 – Daviess County Sheriff's Office Community Response and Safeguard Initiative

These dollars will support the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office Community Response and Safeguard Initiative to purchase critical equipment and provide tactical services that are needed to safeguard the public.

Listed below are additional community projects in KY-02, funded through the FY2026 appropriations process, requested and secured by Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee:

– $250,000 – Elizabethtown Regional Airport (EKX)- Transportation Planning, Research, and Development

– $9,000,000 – Elizabethtown Regional Airport (EKX)- Grants-in-Aid for Airports

– $6,600,000 – Owensboro Family YMCA- Owensboro and Daviess County Community Childcare Center

– $20,000,000 – Barren County- Cave City Area Agriculture Exposition Center

– $352,000 – Warren County Fiscal Court- Law Enforcement Technology and Equipment

– $9,256,000 – Edmonson County Water District for Water Treatment Plant Modernization- STAG – Drinking Water State Revolving Fund

– $1,350,000 – Rural Community Facilities Program- Ohio County Healthcare Hospital Infrastructure Improvement

– $2,500,000 million upgrade Ft. Knox’s railhead facilities that support the installation’s role as a Mobilization Force Generation Installation

– $8,000,000 – Fort Knox- Emergency Services Railroad Overpass: Minor Construction

– $4,500,000 – Fort Knox- Warrior Dining Facility: Design


Guthrie, McConnell, Meredith Secure Nearly $30 Million for Improvements for Edmonson County Water District

Washington, D.C. – Following the final passage of H.R. 7178, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) and Senator Mitch McConnell (KY) announced that they have helped to secure more than $23.25 million in federal funding to support much-needed upgrades for the Edmonson County Water District. This federal funding is in addition to the $6.5 million state funding secured by State Representative Michael Meredith (HD-19) as part of House Bill 1 in the 2024 Session of the Kentucky General Assembly.

“I am proud to have been able to help secure over $23 million in federal funding towards these important projects,” said Congressman Guthrie. “For years, my team and I have worked to provide reliable and practical solutions to the water quality issues facing Edmonson County Water District. Today’s milestone could not have been possible without the collaboration with Senator McConnell, Kentucky Senator Givens, State Representative Meredith, and all other local stakeholders involved in this project. I look forward to seeing this funding directly benefitting the lives of hardworking Kentuckians well into the future.”

“This critical federal investment for Edmonson County’s water and wastewater infrastructure will protect public health and ensure the community can continue to grow. Investing accordingly is among the core responsibilities of the Congress, and I’m proud to join Congressman Guthrie and local leaders to support essential federal funding that will help strengthen the quality of life for Kentuckians,” said Senator McConnell.

"This is truly wonderful news for our community! Thanks to federal funding, along with the state resources we were able to secure, Edmonson County’s water system will finally receive the long-overdue upgrades it needs. This achievement reflects years of dedicated collaboration among state, federal, and local officials and stands as a testament to the commitment that Congressman Guthrie and Senator McConnell have consistently shown for our community. Kentuckians rightly expect their elected leaders to work together—and to ensure taxpayer resources are invested in ways that will improve the quality of life for generations to come," said Representative Meredith.

“There are no words that can say what this will mean to the customers of Edmonson County. After many years of limited system improvements, we will be able to upgrade our water treatment plant with the technology needed in today’s world of new regulations,” said Edmonson County Water District General Manager Kevin Shaw. “A very large portion of these funds will be used toward upgrading the water intake in Green River after the flow of the river was changed during the recent removal of the lock and dam below the current intake. My hat goes off to everyone who worked to make this funding available to the County Water System. These funds will greatly reduce the loan amount needed to complete these projects for the community," said Edmonson County Water District General Manager Kevin Shaw.

Community Project Funding Details

$14,000,000 – Edmonson County Water District Green River Intake Structures

This project will provide for the replacement and upgrade of intake structures and tower at the Edmonson County Water District’s Brownsville facility, ensuring more reliable access to the Green River, a primary source of potable water for residents in Edmonson, Hart, and Grayson Counties.

This project was requested and secured by Congressman Guthrie as a part of H. R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act.

$9,256,000 – Edmonson County Water District for Water Treatment Plant Modernization

This project will modernize the water district’s aging water treatment plant in Brownsville to meet future demand and improve long-term reliability.

This project was requested and secured by Senator McConnell as a part of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act.

An additional $6.5 million in state funding towards improvements for projects within the Edmonson County Water District was secured by Representative Meredith as a part of House Bill 1 in 2024. This funding was shepherded through the appropriations process by Kentucky Senate President pro tempore David Givens (SD-09). Funding included:

$1,000,000 for the installation of a water line and booster pumping station.

$2,000,000 distributed to the Edmonson County Fiscal Court to provide an emergency infrastructure grant to the Edmonson County Water District. This funding required a $1,000,000 local match.

$3,500,000 to support operations and federal matching dollars towards the completion of upgrades at the Green River Water Intake if federal funds become available.


Congresswoman Gwen Moore Pushes for Meaningful Change at Department of Homeland Security

“My constituents are concerned about ICE’s increasingly cruel tactics directed at too many communities around the country, including our neighbors in Minnesota. I echo their concerns, which is why I voted ‘No’ on a full year DHS funding bill last month, and this legislation to keep funding DHS through February 13, 2026, without any meaningful reforms.

DHS is rogue and needs meaningful change, and unfortunately, simply maintaining the status quo will not meet the moment or respond to the cries from our communities.

I will continue to push for legislation that actually helps make our communities safer and bring real accountability and reforms to DHS.”


Representative Gwen Moore Joins Colleagues in Reintroducing Bipartisan Legislation to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

Washington, DC— U.S. Representative Gwen Moore joined her colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2026 (FVPSA). The bill will reauthorize and expand funding for programs focused on supporting survivors and preventing family and domestic violence. These programs are the only federal funding sources under the Department of Health and Human Services dedicated to providing domestic violence prevention services.

The legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and Young Kim (R-CA-40).Companion legislation is led by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE).

“In the face of danger and distress, many victims are left defenseless with no secure place to turn. This bipartisan bill would reauthorize several critical federal efforts to prevent domestic violence and support survivors, including to provide access to temporary shelter for those who need it the most. I will continue to be a champion for survivors, to work to end domestic violence, and call on policymakers from both sides of the aisle to support the Family Violence Prevention Services Improvement Act of 2026,” said Rep. Gwen Moore.

“The anguish of far too many survivors of domestic violence is a painful and unshakeable reminder of our fundamental need to put an end to it. We must do all we can to keep children and families safe, and we are long past due for a reauthorization of these vital programs,” said Rep. Lucy McBath. “This bill helps provide survivors a way up, a way out, and a way forward—answering the call of state, local, and tribal leadership for more resources and increased funding to help end domestic violence. I thank my colleagues for their continued support."

“This bill strengthens our response to domestic violence by increasing funding, updating outdated policies, and making sure more survivors can actually access help,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “It supports Tribal communities and culturally specific organizations, and ensures hotlines and local programs have the tools they need to meet growing demand. Most importantly, it helps survivors find safety, stability, and a path forward—no matter where they live. I’m proud to reintroduce the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act to ensure victims and their children can access the help they need.”

“More than 10 million Americans experience domestic violence annually. It impacts every state, city, and community across our nation,” said Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. “I’m proud to stand with this bipartisan and bicameral coalition to reintroduce the Family Violence Prevention Services Improvement Act and support programs focused on prevention, protection, and support.”

The Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2026:


Congressman Rogers Secures Nearly $95 Million for Southern and Eastern Kentucky Road Projects, Water Systems, Emergency Operations and Economic Development

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives ended a short partial government shutdown on Tuesday, with passage of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148. The comprehensive package provides federal funding for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development; Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services; Financial Services; and National Defense and Department of State through the 2026 fiscal year. It also includes stopgap funding for two weeks to continue negotiations for the Department of Homeland Security. President Trump signed the full package into law on Tuesday afternoon.

“Despite Democrat-led attempts to continue a government shutdown, we successfully passed this critical federal funding for a second time to put America first,” said Congressman Rogers, a cardinal member of the House Appropriations Committee. “I’m grateful to have another major round of federal funding, especially the nearly $95 million in Community Project Funding, heading directly to Southern and Eastern Kentucky. This package also provides vital funding for rural health programs and rural hospitals, curbs harmful prescription pricing practices, strengthens counterdrug operations, and invests in community development projects and better housing opportunities.”

Congressman Rogers secured the following Community Project Funding requests in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill:

$37 Million for the Somerset Northern Bypass to connect the US 27/Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway Interchange to the KY 461/KY 80 Interchange in Pulaski County, providing a vital artery for state and regional economic growth.

$36.5 Million for completion of the Mountain Parkway Extension Project, including construction of 12.6 miles between Salyersville and Prestonsburg.

$5 Million for the new Wolfe County Search & Rescue Emergency Operations Center, which will include emergency training, 911 operations, rescue equipment and a landing pad for medical helicopters.

$2 Million for a new Northern McCreary County Firehouse, which will help serve more than 17,300 residents in rural southern Kentucky.

$6 Million for the City of Pikeville to construct a new industrial building at the Kentucky Enterprise Industrial Park, which is estimated to create up to 100 new jobs in the region.

$2 Million for the London-Corbin Regional Airport to renovate the airport’s aging terminal to improve safety, security, energy efficiency and functionality.

$4 Million for the Harlan County Water System Improvements Project, which will provide critical infrastructure improvements for safe and reliable clean drinking water in Harlan County.

$1.03 Million for the Clay County Livestock Marketplace, which will provide an economic boost for Clay and surrounding counties.

Congressman Rogers also voted in support of Senator McConnell’s funding requests, which included the following projects in Kentucky’s Fifth Congressional District:

$20 Million for the Hal Roges Parkway Improvement Program for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to widen approximately 59 miles of the parkway between London and Hazard.

$11 Million for the McCreary County Heritage Foundation to facilitate planning, design, and construction improvements to foster economic development in the community.

$1.45 Million for the Somerset Pulaski Economic Development Authority to construct an overpass to connect an emerging business park with Kentucky Highway 80, Hal Rogers Parkway, via Barnesburg Road.

For more information about Kentucky wins in the bill, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.

Bill Text:

Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148

Bill Summaries:


PERMITTING REFORM: Harder Announces Bipartisan Introduction of Tech-Neutral Permitting Certainty Legislation

FREEDOM Act delivers faster review, new permit protections, and enforcement mechanisms to unleash American energy

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) led the bipartisan introduction of tech-neutral legislation to deliver permitting certainty across the energy industry. Led with Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17), Adam Gray (CA-13), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) the Fighting for Reliable Energy and Ending Doubt for Open Markets (FREEDOM) Act expedites judicial review, creates new protections for fully-permitted projects, establishes enforceable deadlines, and mandates de-risking programs and compliance reporting.

Energy projects face catastrophic financial losses from permit revocations, unreasonable agency delays, and yearslong processing times, even after sponsors invest millions based on approvals. This regulatory uncertainty deters critical infrastructure investment across all energy technologies and undermines America's energy security. Harder, who serves as Chair of the bipartisan Build America Caucus, has been leading calls to establish long-term permitting certainty in the energy industry and protect critical projects from political attacks.

“Working families across the country are facing soaring energy prices because we’ve made it too hard to build new energy projects,” said Rep. Harder. “The FREEDOM Act delivers the smart, pro-growth certainty that critical energy projects desperately need by cutting delays, fast-tracking approvals, and holding federal agencies accountable. This is a common sense solution that will mean more energy projects being brought online in the short term and lower energy costs for our families for the long run.”

How the FREEDOM Act delivers tech-neutral permitting certainty:

Faster Review and Enforcement – Empowers project sponsors to file court petitions with expedited review and limits non-project sponsors from extended legal challenges.

Permit Protections – Federal agencies cannot revoke permits, issue stop-work orders, or halt construction on fully permitted projects that do not meet a narrow set of extreme circumstances.

Consequences for Delays – Non-negotiable timelines that, when missed by agencies, empower project sponsors to hire qualified contractors to complete administrative work at no cost to the project.

Loss Protections – Insurance-style program under the Department of Energy (DOE) to protect developers from losses due to federal actions or inaction.

Compliance Reporting – Mandatory GAO reporting to Congress 180 days and annually on agency deadline compliance, unfair treatment, and industry success.

“America's energy security depends on our ability to build critical infrastructure efficiently and responsibly,” said Rep. Lawler. “The FREEDOM Act cuts through regulatory delays that have stalled vital energy projects across the country. By establishing clear timelines and accountability for federal agencies, this legislation protects investments, creates jobs, and ensures NY-17 can power its future with reliable, affordable energy.”

“Projects in my district are being held up by a dysfunctional permitting system that takes years to process simple applications,” said Rep. Gray. “It's long over-due for Congress to act. I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan FREEDOM Act with Reps. Harder, Bacon, and Lawler to ensure America can build reliable infrastructure, quickly.”

“Energy projects should not face years of uncertainty that undermine our energy security after sponsors have invested millions by following the rules and securing permits,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m pleased to co-lead the bipartisan FREEDOM Act to bring common-sense timelines, protect permitted investments, and ensure the permitting process is fair, predictable, and applied equally.”

“To bring down utility costs, we need to cut red tape and protect promising energy projects from losing their permits without explanation,” said Rep. McDonald Rivet. “Streamlining permitting processes and providing certainty for new and existing projects will give a much-needed boost to American energy production and lower energy costs at a time when working families need it most.”

“Both parties have watched administrations weaponize the permitting process against disfavored energy sources,” said Thomas Hochman, Director of Energy & Infrastructure Policy at the Foundation for American Innovation. “The FREEDOM Act would fix that, creating a level playing field so that energy technologies succeed or fail based on their merits, rather than politics.”

“NOIA strongly supports bipartisan efforts like the FREEDOM Act, which delivers enforceable permitting deadlines, robust protections for fully permitted projects, expedited judicial review, and a de-risking compensation program to provide certainty and decision durability for all forms of offshore energy development, including oil and gas, offshore wind, carbon capture and storage, ocean mineral exploration, and emerging technologies,” said National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito. “We commend Representatives Josh Harder, Mike Lawler, Adam Gray, and Don Bacon for their leadership in advancing this critical legislation, which limits delays, safeguards investments from revocations or inaction, and ensures fair treatment across energy sources. By establishing predictable timelines, accountability mechanisms, and financial safeguards, efforts like the FREEDOM Act are essential to restoring investor confidence, unlocking capital, accelerating offshore infrastructure development, and building the all-of-the-above energy future America needs for security, economic growth, and affordability.”

"Both parties agree: critical American manufacturing is too-often hindered by our antiquated and cumbersome permitting process," said New American Industrial Alliance. "The FREEDOM Act will cut the red tape by streamlining processes with hard deadlines, expediting reviews, and protecting fully permitted projects from abrupt cancellations. We strongly endorse this bill and thank Reps. Harder, Lawler, Gray, Edwards, McDonald Rivet, and Bacon and the Build America Caucus for their leadership in supporting American manufacturing. NAIA backs the builders and so does the FREEDOM Act."

"To meet rising energy demand, developers need certainty that political officials will not weaponize the permitting process," said Alec Stapp, Co-CEO of the Institute of Progress. "The FREEDOM Act provides it, ensuring certainty across the permitting process. The bill is built to work even if an administration bends or breaks the rules, with each reform backed by enforceable remedies. IFP commends Representatives Harder, Lawler, Gray, Bacon, Edwards, and McDonald Rivet for their leadership on this issue."

The Build America Caucus has been working around the clock and across the aisle to build momentum around passing comprehensive permitting reform. In December, the Caucus hosted a permitting roundtable with Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and more than a dozen lawmakers to build support for a bipartisan deal on permitting reform.

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Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Reopen the Government and Advance FY26 Funding

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted in favor of H.R. 7148, legislation to reopen the federal government and advance funding for Fiscal Year 2026 after the Senate amended a previously negotiated appropriations package.

“House Republicans passed our appropriations bills and did the work required by the Constitution,” said Congressman Harrigan. “The Senate changed the deal, triggered a lapse in funding, and left the House with a choice between reopening the government or letting federal workers, service members, and families pay the price for Washington dysfunction. I voted to reopen the government and keep critical operations running.”

The legislation adopts the Senate amendment to H.R. 7148, fully funding five of the remaining six FY26 appropriations bills, including Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, while placing the Department of Homeland Security under a short-term continuing resolution through February 13, 2026. It also restores government operations following the lapse in appropriations and ensures federal employees and service members receive pay and benefits owed.

With this vote, the government is reopened and FY26 funding is finalized, with only a short-term extension remaining to complete the Department of Homeland Security bill.


RELEASE: HILL VOTES FOR APPROPRIATIONS BILLS TO END DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, by a vote of 217-214:

“In less than six months, Congressional Republicans have ended a second Democrat shutdown and passed 11 of the 12 appropriations bills needed to fund the government through the end of FY26. I am confident that Speaker Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Thune will soon get the Department of Homeland Security appropriations across the finish line as well, again demonstrating that one party is focused on governing responsibly and delivering for the American people, while the other continues to play political games.

“These bills deliver for our troops and their families, strengthen national security, fund important medical research, and invest in critical infrastructure, all while saving taxpayers money. This is another step toward restoring fiscal discipline and making sure the federal government is working for the people of Arkansas and the country.”

Background:

H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026,provides funding for the FY 2026 federal discretionary budget, including: Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; Financial Services and General Government; and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs. It also includes a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the Department of Homeland Security through February 13, 2026. The five appropriations bills in the minibus are identical to the funding bills that passed the House earlier this month

Here are a few items of note that were included in the four appropriations bills that passed the House today:


Himes Statement on Government Funding Package

Washington, DC— Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) today released the following statement:

“Last month, I voted against the Department of Homeland Security spending bill because it did not address the critical reforms needed to protect Americans against the agency’s lawlessness. By standing firm in our opposition, Democrats successfully forced a vote on a standalone DHS bill, which gives us the opportunity to negotiate meaningful changes and ensure accountability for the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. I will not support any long-term funding bill that fails to live up to these standards.

“I voted for today’s two-week continuing resolution because shutting down nearly 75 percent of the federal government while those conversations are ongoing would do nothing to restrain ICE officers, who are funded separately by Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. Instead, a shutdown would serve only to freeze pay for our troops and air traffic controllers, pause education programs like Head Start, and limit LIHEAP and other energy assistance programs amidst a devastating cold spell. We should not inflict this unnecessary harm on Americans, and should instead focus our efforts on enacting reforms that protect our communities against ICE’s criminal agenda.”


Hinson, Pingree Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Honor Women Ag Producers

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) has partnered with Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01) to introduce a bipartisan House resolution designating 2026 as the 'International Year of the Woman Farmer.’ The resolution honors the role women play in agriculture, celebrates their positive impact in the workforce, and supports women pursuing careers in agriculture. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced companion legislation, and it passed out of the Senate on Friday.

“Agriculture is more than just the backbone of our economy—it is a way of life. Women have always been at the center of that story. Nearly one-third of farmers in my district are women, leading operations, balancing the books, and strengthening our rural communities, often while raising families. I’m proud to lead a resolution making 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer because it’s long past time we recognize the vital role women play in feeding, fueling, and sustaining America." – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

“As a longtime farmer, I know both the opportunities and the challenges that women in agriculture face. I’m proud to come from the state of Maine, where more than 43 percent of farm operators are women. Designating 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives us a platform to highlight women’s leadership and create momentum that supports the next generation. This recognition is long overdue. Women have always been at the heart of agriculture although they have not always received equal support or visibility. It’s critical that we work together to remove barriers and build career pathways for women who want to farm, innovate, and lead.” – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree

“Every day, women across America work to feed, fuel, and clothe our world – and they should receive credit for incredibly demanding jobs. That’s why I am proud to partner with Senator Klobuchar in introducing this resolution to ensure that female ag producers receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work.” – Senator Deb Fischer

“We can’t have a strong rural economy without the contributions of the women farmers working every day to feed and fuel the world. By recognizing 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, we are celebrating the role of women in agriculture, encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in agriculture, and ensuring that women in agriculture have a seat at the table and supporting them once they’re there.” – Senator Amy Klobuchar

Background on the profound impact women have in agriculture:

Women lead and support the agriculture industry across boardrooms, research labs, co-ops, and farmland, making vital contributions at every level.

According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, the United States had 1.2 million female producers, accounting for 36% of the country’s total producers. Additionally, 58% of all farms had a female producer. These farms accounted for 41% of U.S. agriculture sales and 46% of total U.S. farmland. In 2022 alone, farms with one or more female producers sold $222 billion in agricultural products.

In Rep. Hinson’s district, almost one-third of farmers are women.


Hinson Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Preserve and Restore the Driftless Area

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) reintroduced bipartisan legislation alongside Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) to conserve and restore the Driftless Area across Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Driftless Area Landscape Conservation Initiative (DALCI) Act would support voluntary, farmer-led conservation efforts that reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and protect the region’s unique natural resources—while also strengthening recreation and tourism opportunities.

“DALCI was a proven conservation success during its authorization—measurably reducing soil erosion and flood risk, helping wildlife, and enhancing water quality by empowering local farmers and landowners with conservation tools. We have an opportunity to build on these successes by reauthorizing this program—at no cost to the taxpayer—and recommitting USDA resources to conservation in the Driftless Area. I’m proud to work across the aisle and across the river with Rep. Eric Sorensen to preserve this natural treasure for years to come." — Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

"The Driftless Area is unlike anywhere else in the country, and protecting it requires smart, locally driven solutions. The DALCI Act puts farmers and landowners in the driver’s seat with the conservation help they need to reduce flooding, protect clean water, and strengthen unique rural lands. By reintroducing this bipartisan legislation, we’re building on a proven program that delivers real results for Northwestern Illinois and the entire region.” — Congressman Eric Sorensen

Background:

Preservation of the Driftless Area is vital for flood prevention, soil health, and maintaining the natural landscape enjoyed by American families for generations.

The original Driftless Area Landscape Conservation Initiative (DALCI) program operated from 2012 to 2017, focusing on reducing erosion and restoring streams in the Driftless Area and throughout the Upper Mississippi River Basin.

The full bill text can be found here.

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Horsford Votes Against Senate Funding Bill Over Continuous Lack of ICE Oversight, Transparency, and Accountability

WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) voted today against the Senate-negotiated government funding package, citing its failure to include basic guardrails to ensure humane, accountable immigration enforcement and protect Southern Nevada communities.

Rep. Horsford noted that he previously voted in favor of bipartisan funding for the Departments of Defense; Financial Services and General Government; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies, underscoring his continued support for responsible, bipartisan government funding that meets community needs.

“I take every vote on government funding seriously because the decisions we make directly affect families and communities across Southern Nevada,” explained Rep. Horsford. “Over the past several weeks, I have met with students, educators, workers, faith leaders, business owners, and immigrant advocates across NV-04, who have shared deep concern about the fear and uncertainty caused by increased immigration enforcement activities throughout the Valley.”

“Kids are afraid to go to school. Workers are afraid to show up to their jobs. Seniors are afraid to seek care.” Rep. Horsford continued. “This fear is harming our community – and this bill does nothing to address it. I cannot support continued funding to the Department of Homeland Security without meaningful guardrails in place.”

While Rep. Horsford supports other funding priorities included in the package – including investments in local transportation projects – he said he could not support continued funding for the Department of Homeland Security without meaningful oversight, transparency, and accountability measures. Rather than adding tens of billions of dollars to immigration enforcement without clear standards, Rep. Horsford believes Congress should prioritize restoring Medicaid cuts and extending healthcare premium tax credits that help working families remain healthy and financially stable.

“Southern Nevada families deserve policies that strengthen safety, support economic stability, and use taxpayer dollars responsibly,” Rep. Horsford concluded. “This bill fails on all three, and that’s why I voted no.”

Based on direct conversations with students, educators, workers, and immigrant advocates, Rep. Horsford is calling for commonsense protections to be included in any funding package, including:

Protected community spaces: Clear, enforceable limits on immigration enforcement at schools, daycares, hospitals, places of worship, shelters, and social service providers.

Limits on data misuse: Strong safeguards against ICE’s use of DMV, health, education, and voter data, along with transparency around surveillance and AI tools.

Real oversight and accountability: Independent oversight of detention facilities, transparency around arrests and transfers, and reforms to programs that entangle local law enforcement in federal immigration enforcement.

Due process and child protections: Guaranteed access to counsel, fair bail and bond practices, and policies that treat children as children and keep families together.


Hoyer Floor Remarks in Support of the FY 2026 Appropriations Package

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks on the House Floor in support of the FY 2026 appropriations package to end the partial government shutdown. Below are a video and transcript of his remarks:

Click here to watch a video of his remarks.

“I thank the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Committee for yielding, and I thank the Speaker. There are five of these bills who are not controversial, or, I suppose, which are not controversial. I urge my colleagues to vote for them to keep the government operating, to make sure that our federal employees come to work and do their job for the American people and get paid for it. There is one bill in this package that is very controversial. There is one bill in this package that the overwhelming majority of our side thinks should not be in the bill. But I remind my colleagues, that bill is funded for the next ten days or six legislative days. And during that period of time, we intend to raise very substantial concerns about the operations that are being carried out not only in Minneapolis but in other parts of our country by the Immigration, Customs, and Border Patrol agents.

“The Constitution calls upon us to establish justice and ensure domestic tranquility. Many of my colleagues I know believe that voting against this bill will make a strong statement about the conduct that we see being carried out by the agencies I just mentioned. Let me suggest to them we need to have focus on that issue, because the other five issues that we face, the five appropriation bills [that] have yet to been signed by the President of the United States and will fund about 76% of the government are things that we have agreed upon. After they pass, after they're signed by the President, there will be a lot of time to debate the operations of Homeland Security and, in my view, the laws that they are breaking, the Constitution that they are not respecting, and the human rights that they are undermining. There will be time for that debate. There will be time for that action. Today is a time to fund the majority of government for the American people.

“Minneapolis has shocked the conscience of America. We ought to be shocked, angry, and disgusted by the taking of [the] life of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. We the People want to end this violent occupation of our cities. We the People deserve answers. The Congress needs to rein in the Department of Homeland Security. That's why I voted and so many of my colleagues voted against funding the Department of Homeland Security. Not because we don't need homeland security, we do, but we need it done within the context of the Constitution and the laws of this country and of our states.

"This Congress needs to ensure the federal government can continue to provide vital services to the American people. Voting for this bill does that, and voting for this bill also gives us the opportunity to constrain six months, – six days, essentially, of funding [the] Department of Homeland Security. Unfortunately, out of the regular order, they're funded for the balance of the year in many recessions. So, this compromise bill serves the interest of funding our government for the American people and giving us the opportunity to constrain and to ensure that there are meaningful, substantive, substantial reforms and restraints placed upon the operations of the Department of Homeland Security, as it must be. It is essential that we unmask Trump's federal immigration agents, forcing them to abide by the local law enforcement standards for use of force and use [of] warrants.

“Throughout this year's appropriations process, we have seen Donald Trump and Russell Vought trample on this Congress's power of the purse. Some won't admit that, some will say it soundly. If there were ever a time for this Congress to exercise that power, it is now. So, let us pass five bills on which we have [an] agreement, and substantially restrain and stop the funding of DHS a week from this Friday, and then come to an agreement on honoring the Constitution, the laws of this country and the conduct of law enforcement. Let's pass this bill and then focus on that which the country wants us to focus on, like a laser for them, for the people. I yield back my time.”


Hoyer: Let Us Give the Ukrainians the Loud Voice of the Congress of the United States

WASHINGTON, DC – This morning, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) joined Members of Congress and Ukrainian leaders to deliver remarks at a press conference hosted by Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) to kick off the start of Ukrainian Week 2026. Below is a transcript of his remarks:

"Thank you very much, Marcy Kaptur and Mike Quigley, for leading this caucus and raising the banner of freedom that America has stood for over a century; 250 years, to be exact. Madam Ambassador, thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for representing an extraordinarily courageous people; people who have stood in the cold – much colder than this, as Mike Quigley pointed out – who are being attacked every day. The White House yesterday, I heard – not yesterday, but a few days ago, Mr. Witkoff said, ‘We were so appreciative that Mr. Putin has agreed to stop for a week the savagery that he is visiting on the Ukrainian people.’ Of course, he didn't keep that week.

“Ladies and gentlemen who stand before me, people who are watching, Ukrainians, Americans, and those of all nations who are committed to democracy, the Ukrainians have shown courage. The people in that House now need to show courage. We have had over 300 votes every time we have put a bill on the Floor to support Ukraine. Over half of the Republicans on every vote, save one of 12. We now have 214 Democrats who have signed – excuse me, 215 who have signed a petition which will bring to the Floor of that House the Ukrainian Support Act. That's not talk. That's action, which is what we need. You've heard it. We have two Republicans who have signed that, notwithstanding the fact [that] I believe there are hundreds more who say they support Ukraine. At this press conference, I ask one more, one more person to sign a discharge petition that says, ‘Support Ukraine.' Not with words, but with action, with an articulation of support, a commitment of money, a sanction on the aggressor: the criminal Putin.

“So, I am pleased to join all of you in raising high that banner. Talk to everybody in the Congress of the United States who have not signed that petition and say, ‘On this almost fourth anniversary, stand up, speak up, speak out. Sign the discharge petition.’ Let us give the Ukrainians the loud voice of the Congress of the United States [in] supporting their quest for freedom, democracy, and sovereignty. Thank you."


Hoyer Statement on FY 2026 Appropriations Package

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement today after voting to pass the FY 2026 appropriations package to end the partial government shutdown:

“I voted yes on the bill to fund more than 75% of our government through the end of the fiscal year and the Department of Homeland Security for only ten days.

“The bill ensures two things. First, it prevents a shutdown of the Health and Human Services Department, the Treasury Department, the Department of Education, the State Department, the Department of Defense, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Transportation, and most other government services. Second, it does not provide any funding for the Department of Homeland Security beyond February 13.

“I will continue to vote against funding for the Department of Homeland Security until we adopt legislation to curb federal immigration agents’ unconstitutional, unlawful, and unaccountable conduct. We must stop the violence inflicted on Renee Good, Alex Pretti, and others. That means adopting strong, substantive reforms that ensure federal agents abide by the Constitution, the law, and the standards we set for local law enforcement.”


Rep. Jackson Announces 2026 Art Competition

AMARILLO, Texas — The Office of Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. All high school students in Texas’ 13th Congressional District are invited to participate. The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, showcasing the talent and pride of Texas on a national stage.

Students must submit original artwork and a typed entry form to Rep. Jackson’s Amarillo, Wichita Falls, or Denton office between Monday, March 2, 2026 and Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 5:00 PM CT. Submissions can be mailed or dropped off at the Amarillo or Wichita Falls offices between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Drop-off at the Denton office is by appointment only.

Teachers and Students should carefully review the competition rules and regulations on Rep. Jackson’s website. For any questions, please contact Jennifer Hodges, Art Competition Coordinator, at Jennifer.Hodges@mail.house.gov.

This year’s theme is America 250, celebrating 250 years of American freedom, liberty, and the spirit that built our nation. Artwork must be two-dimensional, original in concept and execution, and must not exceed 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. The winning piece must be framed before being sent to the U.S. Capitol and must continue to meet size and weight guidelines.

Accepted Mediums:

Paintings: oil, acrylic, watercolor

Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (charcoal and pastels should be fixed)

Collages: must be two-dimensional

Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums, such as pencil, ink, watercolor

Computer-Generated Art

Photographs

Each entry must be original in concept, design, and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement) that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted. For more information on copyright laws, we recommend you visit the Scholastic website.


Jayapal Statement on DHS Funding “No” Vote

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Committee, released the following statement regarding her “no” vote on the continuing resolution to reopen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“I have been clear since the beginning of this funding fight: I will not be complicit in sending another dime to DHS as they continue their reign of terror on the Twin Cities and communities across this country.

“There is nothing that I am calling for today that I will not continue to call for over the next 10 days while Congress negotiates. We must immediately get these agents out of our cities. There must be due process, a requirement for judicial warrants and bond hearings, every agent must not only have a bodycam but be required to use it, take off their masks, and in cases of misconduct, there must be immediate, independent investigations. We cannot fold on our demands — our very democracy and people’s Constitutional rights are at risk.

“We cannot trust this DHS, which already has received an unprecedented funding spike for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), to operate within the bounds of our Constitution or our laws. And for that reason, we cannot continue to fund them without significant and enforceable guardrails.”


LEADER JEFFRIES ON PBS: “THEY STOLE FOOD FROM HUNGRY CHILDREN, SENIORS AND VETERANS IN ORDER TO GIVE DHS A $191 BILLION SLUSH FUND”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on PBS NewsHour, where he reiterated the strong House Democratic opposition to any funding bill that gives taxpayer dollars to the Department of Homeland Security without implementing safeguards that protect the American people from Kristi Noem and Donald Trump’s extremism.

GEOFF BENNETT: For more on the vote today ending the partial government shutdown, and the latest on the Epstein Files, I spoke earlier today with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. Leader Jeffries, welcome back to the NewsHour.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you for having me on.

GEOFF BENNETT: More than 20 House Democrats voted with Republicans to reopen the government. You voted against the measure. Why?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, what’s clear to me is that there needs to be dramatic change at the Department of Homeland Security. We supported the five bipartisan bills that are now on their way to President Trump’s desk because they are actually designed to promote the health, the safety and the economic well-being of the American people. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, did a tremendous job in negotiating those bills. The American people don’t want to see their taxpayer dollars, however, utilized to brutalize and kill American citizens. Taxpayer dollars should actually be used to make life more affordable for everyday Americans. And that’s going to be the genesis of the fight over the next 10 days as we approach the funding deadline on February 13 for the Department of Homeland Security.

GEOFF BENNETT: That’s right. And we should explain to folks who might be unfamiliar, this agreement kicks off this 10-day sprint now for Democrats and Republicans to agree on policy changes for how ICE should operate. What specific changes do you believe must be addressed before Democrats support longer-term funding?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Fundamentally, we believe that ICE should conduct itself like every other law enforcement agency in the country. Police officers don’t wear masks. Sheriffs don’t wear masks. State troopers don’t wear masks. There’s no justification for the manner in which ICE is conducting itself in terms of masks. They should be required to have body cameras. They should be required to obtain judicial warrants before they can rip everyday Americans out of their homes or out of their cars. We want to make clear there’s an explicit prohibition from ICE detaining or deporting American citizens, which we have seen examples of, unfortunately. We believe that if ICE agents break the law, they should be held accountable, and those investigations should be fair, complete and independent, which also means giving state and local authorities the ability to investigate violations of state and local law.

GEOFF BENNETT: The DHS Secretary, Kristi Noem, said this week that DHS will deploy body cameras to Minneapolis and other cities, as funding allows, for those agents who are working in those cities. Is that sufficient? Is that a good enough first step, a sign that the administration is at least open to changes?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, Kristi Noem has zero credibility. Certainly, it is the case that body cameras should be required. And we also know that the Department of Homeland Security has more than enough funding. In the One Big Ugly Bill, where Republicans enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history and at the same time stripped away about $186 billion in support for nutritional assistance, they literally stole food from the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans, in order to give the Department of Homeland Security a $191 billion slush fund, $75 billion of which went to ICE. So the funding clearly exists for every single ICE agent to have body cameras on and functioning at all times. And the fact that Kristi Noem is suggesting that there may be a funding shortfall indicates further the lack of credibility that she has. She should be fired. And if she’s not fired, I’ve indicated that the House Democrats are prepared to initiate impeachment proceedings against her.

GEOFF BENNETT: In the time that remains, I want to ask you about the Epstein Files, because the Justice Department last week released over three million pages of Epstein-related documents. Many of them were heavily redacted. There are legislators who say that not all of the relevant material has been disclosed. In your view, did the DOJ comply with the congressional intent and with the law in the way that it has gone about making these documents public.

LEADER JEFFRIES: The Department of Justice continues to hide documents from the American people in a manner that is entirely inconsistent with the law that was passed with huge bipartisan majorities and, of course, signed by Donald Trump. And the question has to once again be asked: What are the Department of Justice lawyers hiding from the American people, and who are they protecting? There are more than three million documents that have not been released. And as you indicated, several documents have been heavily redacted. And so the survivors of the Epstein crime spree have boldly and appropriately called for accountability and transparency. And the only way to achieve that is to make sure that the Department of Justice releases the Epstein Files in their entirety. They have failed to do that to date.

GEOFF BENNETT: Meantime, the Clintons have agreed to testify in this Republican-led inquiry. It’s led by the House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, as you well know. This appears to be an effort by the GOP to make the Clintons the face of this Epstein scandal, the Epstein investigation. The question I have for you, though, is about the precedent. If Democrats win the House come November, does this mean that future investigations will apply the same standard to presidents and political leaders of both parties?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I think that, you know, the Clintons have endeavored to enter into good-faith negotiations with a Republican majority that is clearly trying to create a political circus in order to try to distract from the accountability and lack of full transparency that the Trump administration has been blocking since the very beginning of this whole sordid matter. And so from our standpoint, I’m thankful that it appears that we’re now on a path toward the Clintons reaching an agreement with the House to provide their testimony. But I don’t believe that James Comer is a serious individual or that he’s seriously trying to actually get information that then can be presented to the American people as part of what we are trying to accomplish here, which is transparency and accountability. He wants to politicize things. He’s targeting the Clintons so he can distract from the fact that the Trump administration is failing to comply with the law, a law that Donald Trump himself signed.

GEOFF BENNETT: House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thanks again for your time this evening.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you so much.

Full interview can be watched here.

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LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON DHS FUNDING BILL AND ICE ACCOUNTABILITY

Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement:

The Trump administration has gone too far, ICE is completely out of control and the American people know it.

Taxpayer dollars should be spent making life more affordable for everyday Americans, not brutalizing and killing U.S. citizens and law-abiding immigrant families. Republicans enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history and ripped food from the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans in order to give DHS a $191 billion slush fund. That must change.

Democrats are united in our commitment to compel substantial reform at the Department of Homeland Security. Dramatic changes such as a mask ban, judicial warrant requirement, independent investigations when agents break the law, use of force protocols, mandatory body cameras and an end to the targeting of sensitive locations like houses of worship, schools and hospitals must be part of any full-year appropriations bill.

Americans from every corner of the country are demanding accountability and an end to the lawless, paramilitary tactics that ICE is using in our communities. Absent bold and meaningful change, there is no credible path forward with respect to the Department of Homeland Security funding bill on February 13.

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Kaptur Votes to Reopen Government, Protect NW Ohio Priorities, Presses for ICE and CBP Reforms and Constitutional Accountability


Kean Delivers Nearly $2 Million to Readington Township for Police Department Renovation

(February 3, 2026) READINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) presented $1,932,287 to Readington Township for the renovation of their police department headquarters last week. He secured this funding through the FY2026 Community Project Funding process to directly support local law enforcement.

The Readington Township Police Department currently operates out of an outdated facility, and this federal funding will support critical renovations to modernize infrastructure, technology, and resources. The project will add new offices, holding cells, briefing rooms, and training areas, along with a modern security system and upgraded technology to improve communication, data sharing, and emergency response.

“I am pleased to deliver nearly $2 million to Readington Township to modernize its police headquarters,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “I am committed to supporting our law enforcement, and this investment will provide officers with the tools they need to carry out their duties safely and effectively. These strategic upgrades will ensure the department is well-equipped to continue protecting and serving every family in the Readington community.”

“We welcome Rep. Tom Kean to Readington Township and thank him and his staff for providing us with this significant grant for our Police Department,” said Readington Mayor Juergen Huelsebusch. “Congressman Kean continually assists the Readington community through both support services and toward the overall preservation of quality-of-life issues facing our residents.”

"Congressman Kean has been a consistent and reliable partner to the residents of Readington Township, and this $1.9 million investment proves it," said Readington Deputy Mayor Vinny Panico. "In Readington, and with Congressman Kean, public safety is not a slogan, It's an ethos. It's a way of life. It's staffing. It's training. It's infrastructure. It's leadership that's willing to fight for resources for our men and women in blue."

“I am extremely grateful to Congressman Kean for his continued efforts and his unwavering support of law enforcement,” said Readington Police Chief Steve Rindock. “I look forward to maximizing every dollar of the award the Congressman has secured for the Readington Township police department and the citizens of Readington Township so they may continue to enjoy the safety and service they have become accustomed to.”

“Investments like these are critical to ensuring our local law enforcement agencies have the space, tools, and technology they need to serve residents effectively,” said Hunterdon County Commissioner Director John E. Lanza. “Congressman Kean’s dedication to securing this funding will strengthen public safety, improve day-to-day operations, and better support the officers who work tirelessly to protect our communities.”

Since taking office, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. has secured over $12 million for police departments across New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District through the Community Project Funding process, demonstrating a consistent, tangible commitment to backing the blue with real resources. Kean remains steadfast in ensuring local law enforcement officers receive the support and equipment necessary to keep our communities safe.

All 15 projects that Congressman Kean was allotted for the FY2026 Community Project Funding process have now passed the U.S. House of Representatives. View the full list of projects HERE.

Pictured: Readington Township Committee Member Adam Mueller, Hunterdon County Commissioner Director John Lanza, Readington Mayor Juergen Huelsebusch, Chief of Police Steve Rindock, and Deputy Mayor Vincent Panico.

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Kennedy Joins DC Protest to Demand Firing of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem

Democratic Lawmakers Call for Accountability After Fatal ICE Actions Threaten Public Safety and Rule of Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY‑26) joined members of the Congressional Tri‑Caucus and fellow Democratic lawmakers outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) headquarters in Washington, D.C. to call for the removal of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem. The demonstration highlighted a pattern of dangerous and unconstitutional actions by ICE and DHS leadership, including the recent deaths of American citizens at the hands of federal immigration agents.

“Secretary Noem’s continued tenure fundamentally undermines the Department of Homeland Security’s core mission to keep all Americans safe and secure,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “Under her failed leadership, she has cultivated a culture of lawlessness, emboldened anonymous masked agents to act with impunity, and repeatedly violated the Constitution. Anyone who willfully presides over and defends the killing of American citizens and the violation of civil rights must be removed from their position. Kristi Noem must be impeached.”

Kennedy, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, has signed onto H.Res.996, a resolution calling for Noem’s impeachment, following her repeated failures to uphold her sworn oath to preserve, protect, and defend the U.S. Constitution while leading DHS. During the past month alone, federal immigration enforcement operations have resulted in the deaths of U.S. citizens Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, raising serious concerns about the use of lethal force by ICE agents and the lack of transparent, accountable investigations. Additionally, under Noem’s watch, more people have died in ICE custody in 2025 than in any of the previous twenty years.

By defending these actions and resisting meaningful oversight, Secretary Noem has allowed a pattern of violence and constitutional violations to persist, threatening public safety and eroding trust in a critical federal agency. Her refusal to answer for these failures before the Committee on Homeland Security and the American public demonstrates a fundamental disregard for DHS’s mission to protect all Americans, making her removal from office necessary and just.

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Krishnamoorthi Calls on Trump Administration to Stop Blocking Year-Round E15, Cut Costs for Families and Farmers

WASHINGTON — As Illinois farmers stand ready to deliver cleaner, more affordable fuel, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi called on President Trump to end his administration’s obstruction of year-round access to E15 and allow lower-cost ethanol blends to reach consumers:

"Illinois farmers are ready to deliver cleaner, more affordable fuel—but the Trump Administration and its allies keep standing in the way. Guaranteeing year-round access to E15 would give corn growers the certainty they need, strengthen America’s energy security, and help families save at the pump. At a time when families are feeling squeezed by higher prices, this is a straightforward way to lower costs at the pump and put affordability first."