Miller-Meeks Bill to Detect and Prevent Cancer Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, legislation led by Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) that would help detect and prevent cancer was signed into law by President Trump as part of a historic spending package.

The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act establishes Medicare coverage for Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) screening tests, ensuring seniors will soon have access to cutting-edge diagnostics that can identify multiple cancers from a single test.

“As a doctor, I’ve seen firsthand how early detection can change the trajectory of a patient’s life,” Said Miller-Meeks. “This legislation ensures seniors have access to cutting-edge screening technologies that can detect cancer earlier, improve outcomes, and reduce suffering for patients and their families. It’s a meaningful step forward in the fight against cancer and I'm so proud that it has now been signed into law by President Trump.”

More on the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act:

Establishes Medicare coverage for FDA-approved multi-cancer early detection (MCED) screening tests beginning in 2028.

Defines MCED tests as those that can detect multiple cancer types across different organ systems from a single specimen.

Limits tests to one annually per beneficiary.

Implements age-based eligibility limits that increase over time.

Sets reimbursement rates through 2030 at parity with current multi-target stool DNA tests.

Allows CMS to reduce costs in 2031 and beyond using the clinical laboratory payment system.

Clarifies that coverage of these tests will not displace existing cancer screenings.

Provides CMS funding to implement coverage and oversight effectively.

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Miller-Meeks Votes to Fund Government, End Reckless Biden-Pelosi Era Spending

February 3, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) voted to pass the remaining appropriations bills, reopening the federal government and funding it under regular order for the first time in years. With President Trump’s signature, Republicans have now completed 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills, ending the Biden-Pelosi era of reckless spending, massive omnibus packages, and endless continuing resolutions.

“House Republicans kept the promise we made to the American people,” Said Miller-Meeks. “For too long, Washington has relied on last-minute deals and trillion-dollar spending sprees that ballooned the debt and ignored fiscal responsibility. Today we changed that. We reopened the government and funded it the right way, under regular order, with transparency and discipline. I fought hard to secure more than $19 million in Community Project Funding for roads, water systems, workforce programs, and infrastructure right here in Southeast Iowa. At the same time, three of my bipartisan health care bills are now law, improving care for kids and giving seniors better access to life-saving cancer screenings. This is Iowa First leadership: responsible budgeting, real results for our communities, and no more excuses for wasteful Washington spending.”

Miller-Meeks Bills Signed Into Law:

Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act - Allows states to streamline the process for out-of-state pediatric care providers to enroll in another state’s Medicaid program, while also safeguarding important program integrity processes. The legislation enables smooth coordination across state lines by clarifying the process by which state Medicaid programs can cover this care regardless of where the child lives and where their care is received.

Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act - Establishes Medicare coverage for Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) screening tests, ensuring seniors will soon have access to cutting-edge diagnostics that can identify multiple cancers from a single test.

Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Reauthorization Act - Would prevent burnout among healthcare providers and improve workforce retention by authorizing funding for mental health and well-being programs in the healthcare industry.

Community Project Funding Secured by Miller-Meeks:

Included in these funding bills is over $19 million in Community Project Funding that Rep. Miller-Meeks fought to secure for Southeast Iowa, funding major road, water, workforce, and infrastructure projects across the district.

$6 Million for the City of Burlington Cascade Bridge Project

$3 Million for the 110th Street FDR and Asphalt Paving Project in Jefferson County

$2 Million for the Papoose Creek Redundant Force Main in Muscatine

$2 Million for the Iowa County, Route W21 Pavement Improvement in Iowa County

$1 Million for the Keokuk County, Iowa Route G13 Pavement Improvement Project

$1 Million for the U.S. Highway 6/Deer Creek Road Intersection Project in Coralville

$1 Million for the North River Drive Connector Project in Clinton

$1 Million for the Montgomery Drive Improvement Project in Tipton

$1 Million for the Lee County Career Center Project

$750,000 for the Veterans District Sewer Project in Knoxville

$500,000 for the SAFECity Initiative in Oskaloosa

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Issues:Delivering Results


Moulton Votes No on Funding Package, Citing DHS Funding Stopgap Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) issued the following statement regarding his decision to vote No on today’s government funding package, which includes a stopgap funding bill for Homeland Security appropriations.

“Today I voted No on the government funding package, which includes the DHS funding stopgap bill.

"Holding the Department of Homeland Security and this administration accountable must be our priority. We need to fight—and that means using every bit of leverage we have to put a stop to ICE and CBP’s abuses of power. ICE should not receive further funding; the agency as it exists today is broken beyond repair and cannot continue. ICE must be prosecuted for its blatant violations of the law.

“The killing of U.S. citizens, the obstruction of local investigators, and the ongoing presence of masked thugs in neighborhoods continue to fuel fear and chaos in communities across America. It’s unacceptable. We cannot and should not blindly fund a department that is enabling state-sponsored violence against its own citizens and eroding public trust in law enforcement.”

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Mrvan Statement on Black History Month

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan Today, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan released his statement recognizing Black History Month.

A video of his remarks on the House floor is available here, and the text of the full statement is below.

“Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere admiration that I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2026 theme – A Century of Black History Commemorations. This year marks a century of national commemorations of Black history.

“I would like to take this time to honor Retired Army Sergeant 1st Class Oscar Primm Jr., a 104-year-old veteran from Northwest Indiana whose service is an inspiration to all. Over the course of his heroic military career, Oscar served in three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It is because of the sacrifices of veterans just like Oscar that we are able to live in a free, democratic country.

“Oscar grew up in Arkansas and moved to Gary, Indiana, to work in the steel mills. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1942 and remembers the church bells ringing in the street when World War II ended. In 1946, Oscar returned home to continue working in the steel mills and remained in the Army Reserve. He went to school to learn how to repair cars and opened his own body shop at the intersection of 25th Avenue and Broadway serving the local community in Gary. When Oscar was called to serve again in the Korean War and the Vietnam War, he put his new skills to work as the head mechanic for a trucking company responsible for repairing vehicles for the battlefield.

“In 1967, Oscar retired from the Army as a maintenance sergeant. He and his family briefly relocated to Chicago, where he drove a CTA bus for 14 years. Now, Oscar is a proud member of the Greater Gary AMVETS Squadron Post #6. He can frequently be found at the post playing dominoes, bringing veterans of all ages together, and supporting veterans throughout Northwest Indiana as they return home from service. In November, the Greater Gary AMVETS Squadron Post #6 recognized Oscar with the Lifetime American Hero Award to honor his achievements and military service.

“Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating Black History Month and a century of national Black History Commemorations by recognizing the selfless service, bravery, and patriotism of Retired Army Sergeant 1st Class Oscar Primm Jr.”

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Ways and Means Democrats Seek Information on Backlog of Retirement Processing for IRS Employees

SPRINGFIELD, MA—Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement...

by: Nick Antonakas, 22 News HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – President Trump announced Tuesday that U.S. military operations...

WATCH HERE by: Nick Antonakas, 22 News HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – U.S. Rep. Richard Neal toured Holyoke High School to...

By Jim Kinney | jkinney@repub.com SPRINGFIELD — With work on MBTA subway cars ready to ramp up...

SPRINGFIELD, MA—Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement...

LISTEN HERE New England Public Media | By Adam Frenier Springfield U.S. Representative Richard Neal said Tuesday...

LISTEN HERE New England Public Media | By Adam Frenier There's been some confusion whether there are talks going on...

(As prepared for delivery) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s been over a year of the Republican trifecta in...


Congressman Neguse Condemns Racist “Death Cards” Found in Eagle County, Demands Independent Investigation into ICE Activities

Lafayette, CO — Yesterday, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse joined Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, as well as the Democratic members of Colorado’s House delegation in condemning alarming reports that families in Eagle County, Colorado, found “death cards” left in the cars of family members taken by ICE agents. These specific cards had the address and phone number of the Aurora ICE detention facility printed on them. The lawmakers called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General to open an investigation and requested a full DHS briefing on the incidents and steps taken to prevent further intimidation of Latino communities.

“As the son of immigrants and the father of two young children, I am horrified by the abuses being committed by the Trump administration — from the streets of Minneapolis to right here in Eagle County. These outrageous, aggressive intimidation tactics are meant to stoke fear among our neighbors, and it is immoral and wrong. This administration must be held accountable, and we cannot allow this to continue unchecked,” said Congressman Joe Neguse.

Congressman Neguse has expressed extreme outrage regarding the Trump administration’s cruel and violent immigration policies. He joined Colorado’s democratic delegation in demanding an investigation into the murder of Alex Pretti, calling the shooting of the 37-year-old Minnesotan by an ICE agent, and the prior shooting of Renee Good, “horrific” and “abhorrent.”

Neguse also sued the Trump administration for blocking Members of Congress from unannounced oversight visits to federal immigration detention facilities. Yesterday, a federal court granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in the case — Neguse et al. v. ICE et al. — reaffirming Congress’s constitutional authority to investigate detention conditions and ensure accountability.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Dear Secretary Noem,

We are writing regarding disturbing reports about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in Eagle County, Colorado. Reportedly, ICE agents in unmarked vehicles with attached sirens conducted imitation traffic stops and ultimately detained ten Latino individuals who are now being held at the Aurora Detention Facility. Additionally, according to multiple news reports and local community organizations, family members of the detained individuals found ace of spades cards inside multiple abandoned vehicles, printed with the address of the Aurora Detention Facility:

We are deeply concerned by the allegations that the federal agents were utilizing sirens to falsely act as local law enforcement. This behavior leads individuals to believe they are lawfully required to pull over for a traffic violation when in reality, the federal government has no authority over local or state traffic regulations. Federal agents acting in disguise as local law enforcement is misconduct and should be treated as such.

Moreover, the ace of spades card has long been known as the “death card” and has been used by white supremacist groups to inspire fear and threaten physical violence. It is unacceptable and dangerous for federal law enforcement to use this symbol to intimidate Latino communities. This behavior undermines public trust in law enforcement, raises serious civil rights concerns, and falls far short of the professional standards expected of federal agents.

We appreciate that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) condemned this conduct and directed the DHS Office of Professional Responsibility to investigate the incident. To ensure that ICE conducts operations in a professional manner that does not include racially-motivated intimidation tactics that undermine public trust in law enforcement, we request:

A formal and detailed briefing on ICE activities in Eagle County

A written report detailing the findings of the ongoing DHS investigation into the incident

An independent investigation by the DHS Office of Inspector General into the activities of the Denver Field Office, which oversees ICE activity in Eagle County

Written confirmation of any disciplinary or corrective actions taken

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We respectfully request a response by February 13.

Sincerely,

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Newhouse Votes to Advance Government Funding Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon House passage of the Senate amended H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, and the Continuing Resolution for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"While I preferred the Senate send these final government funding bills to President Trump’s desk, the responsibility fell on the House to finish the job," said Rep. Newhouse. "My colleagues and I on the Appropriations Committee, as well as House Leadership, worked hard to get us to this point, and passing all twelve funding bills remains the top priority. Shutting down the Department of Homeland Security makes us vulnerable to the threats in front of us and prevents FEMA from responding to natural disasters and severe weather events. I encourage swift and good faith negotiations on the path forward for on one of our most important national security agencies."

Background

On January 14, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7006, the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Acts, and sent it to the U.S. Senate.

On January 22, the House passed H.R. 7148, which included the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations bill, the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, and the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

The same day, the House separately passed H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act.

The Senate planned to package all of these bills together, however, due to the shooting of Alex Pretti in Minnesota, the Senate and White House came to an agreement to pass all but the DHS bill and opted for a Continuing Resolution (CR) until February 13, 2026, for that agency's funding. The House passed this package today.

This package and CR will go to President Trump's desk for approval.

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Congressman Norman Bill Passes the House, Moving Vietnam Veteran One Step Closer to Receiving Medal of Honor

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Ralph Norman’s (R-SC) bill, H.R. 3377, to authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr., for acts of valor as a member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

Major Capers distinguished himself through repeated acts of valor while under intense enemy fire. Despite sustaining severe wounds, he refused evacuation, continued to lead his Marines, and repeatedly exposed himself to danger to protect those under his command. His actions saved lives and exemplified the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the Armed Forces.

For decades, Major Capers’ efforts went without the recognition he so rightly deserved. Congressman Norman is proud to lead the effort to correct that injustice and ensure this American warrior receives the nation’s highest military honor.

The Medal of Honor is reserved for those who go above and beyond the call of duty at the risk of life itself. Major Capers’ courage to his Marines embodies the very spirit of this award.

“With the House passage of this bill, we take an important step toward giving Major Capers the recognition his service and sacrifice have long deserved,” said Congressman Norman. “At a time when too many Americans have grown distant from the cost of freedom, Major Capers’ story reminds us that liberty is secured by men and women willing to sacrifice everything for those beside them and for the country they love. We owe him more than gratitude. We owe him our respect and our commitment to see this effort through.”

“Since I came to Congress in 2019, I have worked tirelessly to help secure the Medal of Honor for Major James Capers, Jr., a highly decorated veteran of the United States Marine Corps, for his heroic actions in the Vietnam War,” said Congressman Greg Murphy (R-NC). “It has been a pleasure to work alongside my friend and colleague, Congressman Norman, to ensure Mr. Capers is duly recognized for his sacrificial service to our nation. I remain committed to this effort and look forward to this honor bestowed upon him.”


Norton Releases Remarks from DC Vote Press Conference on Disapproval Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton released her remarks ahead of this morning’s press conference with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and DC Vote opposing the disapproval resolution that the House is expected to vote on tomorrow. The live stream will be available for viewing here.

“The resolution before the House tomorrow, which would overturn a duly enacted local tax law of the District of Columbia, is nothing short of deliberate administrative and fiscal sabotage of the nation’s capital,” Norton said.

Norton’s full remarks follow.

Remarks of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) at DC Vote Virtual Press Conference

2/3/2026

The resolution before the House this week, which would overturn a duly enacted local tax law of the District of Columbia, is nothing short of deliberate administrative and fiscal sabotage of the nation’s capital.

The D.C. law at issue did three straightforward things: It restored D.C.’s child tax credit, strengthened an existing earned income tax credit, and decoupled the District’s tax code from selected provisions of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act. None of this is radical. None of it is unprecedented. Nearly half the states, red and blue alike, have passed laws decoupling their states’ tax codes from portions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Yet Congress has chosen to single out the District for punishment.

This resolution is not about oversight or fiscal discipline. It’s about power – who wields it, and who is denied it.

Congress has never overturned a revenue-raising law for D.C. Doing so now would be a reckless escalation with real and lasting consequences. It will threaten D.C.’s credit rating, forcing it to pay higher interest rates and costing taxpayers millions. Last year, when Congress cut D.C.’s local budget by one billion dollars, D.C.’s rating was put on negative watch. This disapproval resolution poses an even greater danger. It will sow chaos in the middle of tax filing season, likely forcing the District to halt tax filings altogether while it scrambles to rewrite forms, systems, and guidance.

That is not oversight. That is not governance. It is sabotage, and the damage would be severe and intentional.

The D.C. law targeted by this resolution is projected to generate six hundred million dollars in local revenue over the next four years. If Congress overturns it, the District will be forced to fill that hole by cutting critical programs that residents rely on every day.

This resolution doesn’t merely target the District’s government or its adult taxpayers. It would wipe out D.C.’s child tax credit, a policy projected to cut child poverty by 20%. Republicans are aware and are proceeding anyway. They’re willing to harm children in the nation’s capital to score political points, and the public should understand that clearly.

More than 700,000 residents of Washington, D.C., the majority of whom are Black and Brown, are worthy and capable of self-government. If D.C. residents disagree with the decisions of their elected council, they can vote their leaders out. That's how democracy works. Members of Congress from distant states, who don’t live or pay taxes in D.C. and are not accountable to D.C. voters – and who often don’t even understand how D.C. functions – have no business overriding local laws and stripping District residents of their right to self-government. Free D.C.

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At Start of Black History Month, Norton Introduces Bill to Award Congressional Gold Medal the First 13 African American Officers in the U.S. Navy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – At the beginning of Black History Month, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) reintroduced a bill to award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to the “Golden Thirteen,” which were the first 13 African American officers in the United States Navy. In 1944, 16 African American men completed the required training course to become officers and passed their exams. Twelve of those men were commissioned as officers and a 13th was made a chief warrant officer, while no reason was given by the Navy as to why the remaining three men did not receive the commissions they had earned.

“These officers passed their exams with high marks, despite being given half the standard amount of training time,” Norton said. “When the group was accused of cheating and were forced to retake their exams, these men passed once again and scored higher on the exam than the first time, ultimately earning the highest average of any class in Navy history at the time. These men served their country honorably, even with the challenges against them. They oversaw all-Black units and the training of Black recruits. It’s time now that we honor these brave men with a Congressional Gold Medal to thank them for their service.”

Norton’s introductory statement follows.

Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

on the Introduction of the Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act

February 2, 2026

Today, I introduce the Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act. This bill would award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to the 13 men who became the first African American commissioned and warrant officers in the United States Navy.

In 1944, the Navy began officer training for 16 African American men. At that time, there were no African American officers in the Navy. These 16 men were expected to complete their officer training in eight weeks, even though officer training was normally 16 weeks.

These 16 men supported each other, including by placing blankets over their windows and studying as a group by flashlight at night. Each brought to the group his own expertise to help the others.

When their officer training was completed, all 16 passed their exams. With some claiming that the group must have cheated, the group was forced to retake certain exams, and the group scored even higher. The average grade for the group was 3.89 out of 4.0, the highest average of any class in Navy history at that time.

Even though all 16 men passed their exams, the Navy commissioned only 12 of the men, and a 13th was made a chief warrant officer. Three returned to the enlisted ranks, with no reason given by the Navy.

During the men’s careers, they oversaw all-Black units or the training of Black recruits. One would go on to make his career in the Navy after World War II, with the rest returning to civilian life. In the 1970s, Captain Edward Secrest, a former instructor, gave the group the name the “Golden Thirteen.”

I urge my colleagues to support this bill to honor the first African American officers in the Navy: Jesse Walter Arbor; Phillip G. Barnes; Samuel Edward Barnes; Dalton Louis Baugh, Sr.; George Clinton Cooper; Reginald Ernest Goodwin; James Edward Hair; Charles Byrd Lear; Graham Edward Martin; Dennis Denmark Nelson; John Walter Reagan; Frank Ellis Sublett, Jr.; and William Sylvester White. The three men who passed their exams but were not made officers were Augustus Alves; J.B. Pinkney; and Lewis “Mummy” Williams.

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Nunn Praises Treasury’s 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit Guidance

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued long-awaited guidance on the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit—a critical step toward restoring certainty for Iowa farmers and biofuel producers and unlocking new investment in rural communities.

The guidance brings clarity after months of uncertainty and will help strengthen rural jobs, expand domestic energy production, and reinforce American supply chains.

“I fought to secure the 45Z credit so Iowa farmers and biofuel producers would have the certainty they need to invest, plan, and grow,” said Rep. Nunn. “By strengthening domestic supply chains and recognizing the sustainable farming practices Iowa producers are leading the world in, Treasury’s guidance gives our producers the confidence to move projects forward, grow good-paying rural jobs, and ensure Iowa remains a cornerstone of American energy dominance.”

While this guidance marks meaningful progress—particularly in prioritizing domestic production—Rep. Nunn stands ready to work with Treasury to ensure the final rule reflects the needs of Iowa producers.

“I am grateful the Treasury Department is providing farmers and producers with the clarity they’ve been asking for,” continued Rep. Nunn. “I look forward to continuing to engage with Secretary Bessent to ensure the final rule puts Iowa producers first and delivers the certainty our rural economy depends on.”

The full guidance is available here.

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Olszewski to Vote - Again - Against ICE Funding Without Safeguards

(Washington, DC) – Maryland Congressman Johnny Olszewski issued the following statement ahead of his vote against a two-week extension of funds for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees immigration enforcement agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP):

“As Americans, it is time that we say ‘enough’ to ICE – which is why I will again vote no on legislation that funds its operations without any new accountability measures.

Under the Trump Administration, ICE has repeatedly undermined public trust — including through wrongful arrests, the deportation of U.S. citizens, and a routine disregard for widely accepted law enforcement standards. Most recently, this reckless conduct has turned deadly, with two U.S. citizens – Alex Pretti and Renee Good – killed during federal enforcement operations in Minnesota. These tragedies were entirely preventable and demand our immediate action.

House Democrats put forward commonsense reforms that Americans overwhelmingly support: prohibiting the detention or deportation of U.S. citizens, requiring federal agents to clearly identify themselves, mandating body-worn cameras, establishing clear use-of-force standards, and protecting sensitive locations like schools and places of worship. These are basic safeguards that law enforcement agencies across the country already employ.

These reforms would provide DHS funding while also restoring some accountability and protections for civil liberties. Unfortunately, Republican leaders continue to reject these proposals, and as a result, I will be voting no.

Our message has been clear and consistent: no guardrails, no money—not for two weeks. Not for two days. Fundamental rights cannot wait to be part of a future negotiation: they must be provided now.

I support funding the government and avoiding shutdowns. However, I cannot justify, and will not vote in support of, writing a blank check to an agency whose actions are terrorizing communities, trampling on the Constitution, and putting lives at risk. Baltimore and cities across America deserve better.”

Congressman Olszewski added that he will continue working with colleagues from both parties to responsibly fund the government while ensuring DHS and ICE operate within the law and are subject to meaningful oversight and reform.

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Pallone Encourages Young Artists in NJ’s Sixth District to Enter Congressional Art Competition

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced the launch of the 2026 Sixth Congressional District High School Art Competition, part of the national Congressional Art Competition: An Artistic Discovery program. This annual contest provides young artists an opportunity to showcase their talent and have their work recognized at the national level.

High school students residing in New Jersey’s Sixth Congressional District are encouraged to participate through their schools. The submission deadline is March 13, 2026.

“The Congressional Art Competition is a great opportunity for young artists to gain recognition and share their creativity with a wider audience,” said Congressman Pallone. “Each year, I am impressed by the incredible talent of students in our district, and I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions.”

Winners will be selected in April and honored at a Sixth Congressional District Awards Ceremony. The first-place artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year alongside winning pieces from across the country.

For more information, including submission guidelines and entry forms, students and teachers can visit Congressman Pallone’s website or contact his district offices.


Rep. Panetta Statement Following Second No Vote on Department of Homeland Security Funding Bill

Washington, DC - Rep. Panetta released the following statement:

"I will not be complicit in untrained and unaccountable actions by any ICE and CBP agents anywhere in our country. That is why, today, I voted against the appropriations continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"Now is the time for serious negotiations between Democrats and Republicans to rein in ICE and CBP and hold DHS leadership accountable. Moreover, Congress must use the power of the purse to be a proper constitutional check on this Administration.

"In the meantime, I continue to work with community leaders and law enforcement in our 19th Congressional district to coordinate on any activity by ICE and CBP in our region. We continue to work hard at the federal level to prevent further recklessness and ruthlessness by DHS, and we will continue to work together at the local level to prepare and protect our communities."


Congressman Patronis & Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson Issue Statements on Blackwater River State Forest Fires

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis and Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson issued a statement regarding the Blackwater River State Forest Fires in Santa Rosa County. Both leaders urged area residents to stay vigilant, listen to area officials, and make fire safety a top priority as areas throughout the Florida panhandle are dry and susceptible to fires.

“Colder temperatures don’t eliminate wildfire danger. Dry air and seasonal winds can create conditions that allow fires to spread rapidly,” said Congressman Patronis. “Thanks to Florida’s prescribed burn program, this fire was far less intense than it could have been. That proactive approach is paying off by protecting lives, property, and our natural resources. We are heading into what is shaping up to be an active wildfire season statewide. I urge residents to reduce debris around their homes, remain alert to fire conditions, and follow all burn restrictions. I want to thank Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service for their strong leadership and continued commitment to responsible land management and wildfire prevention across Florida.”

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson said, “These fires are a reminder that wildfire risk is a reality across Florida, especially under dry and windy conditions. I’m proud of our folks with the Florida Forest Service and the local first responders who are working tirelessly to contain multiple fires and protect nearby communities. Florida’s prescribed fire program – the best in the world – plays a critical role in reducing fuel loads and helping limit the intensity of wildfires, and it’s one of the reasons these fires are being managed effectively. As dry conditions persist statewide, I urge Floridians to follow burn restrictions, stay alert, and take wildfire prevention seriously.”

At midnight on February 2, 2026, a wildfire was reported in Blackwater River State Forest near Milton. The incident includes two active burn areas, a 260-acre fire north of I-10 and east of Avalon Boulevard, and a separate 30-acre fire located on an island in the Blackwater River. Santa Rosa County first responders and the Florida Forest Service responded immediately, and thanks to their bravery and dedication, the primary fire is now 80% contained.

Wildfires are uncontrolled fires burning in natural areas like forest, grassland, or a shrubland that are extremely dangerous to the public and natural environments.

Top three causes of wildfires in Florida are:

Arson/Incendiary

Escaped Debris Burning

Lightning

For more information on Florida wildfires, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services HERE and BeWildfireReadyFL.com.

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Congressman Patronis Speaks at 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast in Pensacola

PENSACOLA, FL - Congressman Patronis delivers remarks at the 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, joining community leaders, elected officials, and residents from across Florida's First Congressional District. The Proclamation was submitted to the Congressional Record yesterday.

This year marked a milestone anniversary for the longstanding event, which for five decades has brought together leaders of all backgrounds to reflect on the role of faith, service, and moral leadership.

“I was honored to be a part of this year’s annual prayer breakfast, a meaningful tradition that reminds us why we serve and who we serve," said Congressman Patronis. “At a time when division dominates headlines, this breakfast stands as a powerful reminder that faith, humility, and unity still matter in public service.”

This year’s God in Government Award was presented to Gulf Breeze Mayor JB Schluter.

This event was hosted by a volunteer committee representing several area churches, the Waterfront Rescue Mission, and Women for Responsible Legislation.

Proclamation to Honor the 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast

WHEREAS, the Governmental Prayer Breakfast in Pensacola, Florida, marks its 50th anniversary, reflecting a half-century tradition of bringing together citizens, faith leaders, and public servants in a spirit of prayer, unity, and reflection; and

WHEREAS, prayer has long served as a source of strength, guidance, and moral clarity for individuals, families, and communities, particularly during times of uncertainty and challenge; and

WHEREAS, the United States of America was founded on the principle that all people are created with inherent dignity and worth, endowed by God with unalienable rights that no government may grant or take away; and

WHEREAS, the freedom to live out one’s faith openly and without fear remains essential to the character of our Nation and the vitality of our democratic institutions; and

WHEREAS, faith communities play a vital role in fostering compassion, service, and responsibility, strengthening families and supporting those who serve in positions of public trust; and

WHEREAS, elected officials, members of the judiciary, law enforcement, military personnel, and civic leaders bear significant responsibility in serving their communities with integrity, wisdom, and humility; and

WHEREAS, the Governmental Prayer Breakfast serves as an opportunity to pause from the demands of public life to seek guidance, express gratitude, and reaffirm a shared commitment to the common good;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast in Pensacola, Florida, is hereby recognized and commended for its enduring contribution to the spiritual and civic life of the community; and

BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED, that this occasion stands as a reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and moral conviction in public service, and the value of unity, humility, and service to others; and

BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED, that all participants are encouraged to continue praying for our Nation, our State, our community, and all those entrusted with the responsibilities of leadership, that they may serve with wisdom, courage, and compassion.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this proclamation is issued in recognition of the 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast and the enduring role of faith in strengthening our community and our country.

Photos from the 50th Annual Governmental Prayer Breakfast are below:

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CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN VOTES AGAINST BILL FUNDING ICE’S UNCONSTITUTIONAL OVERREACH AGAIN, SPONSORS ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT AGAINST DHS SECRETARY KRISTI NOEM

Ryan first voted against funding Trump’s DHS two weeks ago, citing the fact that ICE already has a budget larger than most militaries and is operating without federal oversight in cities across the country

The Hudson Valley community has made their opposition to current ICE operations clear; hundreds joined Ryan last week at a rally in Chester, and more than 20,000 community members – and counting – have signed onto Ryan’s petition opposing ICE moving into Orange County

The Administration has continuously refused to hold ICE accountable, including after an ICE agent shot and killed another US citizen – a VA nurse – in Minnesota; Ryan sponsored articles of impeachment against DHS Secretary Noem for her clear violations of the Constitution and betrayal of the public trust

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan once again voted no on a bill that funds ICE without imposing any guardrails or restrictions on the agency’s behavior.

The Trump Administration has continuously refused to hold ICE accountable – including as ICE agents shoot and kill Americans in the street Minnesota, kidnap children and hold them a thousand miles from home, and illegally enter people’s homes without warrants.

The Hudson Valley has made their opposition to current ICE operations clear. Last week, hundreds of community members joined Ryan in Chester, where ICE is trying to use a warehouse as part of a larger ICE plan to house 80,000 immigrants nationwide. The community immediately voiced and demonstrated their strong backlash, and Ryan released a petition in opposition to the proposal which has gained more than 20,000 signatures.

“ICE already has a budget that is larger than most countries’ militaries. The Administration absolutely refuses to hold the agency accountable – giving them the green light to use excessive force to move into our communities, terrorize our neighbors, and make us all less safe. It’s dangerous, un-American, and the exact opposite of everything our community stands for,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “It’s why I voted against this funding two weeks ago, it’s why I’m sponsoring articles of impeachment against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, and it’s why our community is coming out in droves against the agency’s proposal for a mass detention center in the Hudson Valley. The President promised to focus on deporting violent criminals, but instead we’re seeing innocent civilians harassed, detained, and even killed. We’re seeing children kidnapped and held a thousand miles from home. Now they’re claiming they can enter Americans’ homes without warrants – a blatant violation of the Constitution. With this vote, our Hudson Valley community is continuing to send a strong, united message: we strongly reject ICE’s abuse of power.”

Despite the massive expansion of enforcement authority, Republicans refused to include common-sense safeguards, including:

Requiring ICE agents to obtain judicial warrants before making arrests

Mandating the use of body-worn cameras during enforcement operations

Prohibiting masks or face coverings during routine enforcement

Establishing clear, enforceable use-of-force standards

Explicitly banning the detention or deportation of U.S. citizens

Community members are still encouraged to sign this petition in opposition to the proposed facility as Hudson Valley-wide backlash to DHS’s plan to move ICE into Chester continues to grow.

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AS HUDSON VALLEY FAMILIES FACE HEALTH CARE CUTS AND RISING PRICES, CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN CONTINUES DELIVERING DIRECT ASSISTANCE AND RELIEF WITH FEBRUARY C.A.R.E.S. VAN EVENTS

With the C.A.R.E.S. Van, Ryan and his team deliver one-on-one assistance navigating federal programs and accessing benefits including Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare directly to constituents in their own community

Ryan’s team has visited every community in NY-18 with the Van and secured over $40 million in casework assistance for NY-18 constituents

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan announced the schedule of February events for his mobile office, the Constituent Advocacy Resources Empowerment Services (C.A.R.E.S.) Van, across the Hudson Valley. Congressman Ryan’s C.A.R.E.S. Van, staffed by his team of highly-trained caseworkers, will bring direct assistance with federal agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and IRS to Hudson Valley families right in their own community. Ryan’s C.A.R.E.S. Van team will continue to be all hands on deck to aid constituents hurt by the nonstop cuts to critical federal programs, closures, and uncertainty – in particular regarding health care. The C.A.R.E.S. Van has become a staple at community events and celebrations since June 2023.

“I’ve heard the heartwrenching stories from countless Hudson Valley families who can no longer afford health care coverage or aren’t sure how they’re going to put food on the table. My team and I are leaving no stone unturned to make sure they get every bit of relief they can.,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Whether you are worried about finding new health care coverage, need help tracking down a long overdue tax return, or have questions about receiving your federal benefits, my team is all-hands-on-deck to help however we can in every corner of the Hudson Valley.”

Congressman Ryan’s C.A.R.E.S. Van assists constituents of NY-18 in accessing earned benefits, such as Veterans’ Affairs benefits and Social Security, federal grant funding, passports and visas, immigration and naturalization services, and resolving issues with federal agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service.

“For months and months, I heard absolutely nothing back from the VA and was getting so frustrated. When I saw the Congressman's C.A.R.E.S. Van flyer, I was so excited,” said Helen Adams of Wallkill. “Within just a few weeks, I got a letter in the mail back telling me that I was approved for benefits! I can breathe easier now knowing that I will finally be getting the VA benefits I am entitled to. Thank you to Congressman Ryan for caring about seniors like me and having a team who can help us navigate the agencies that we depend on to be able to survive.”

“Congressman Ryan’s team was extremely polite, professional, and emphatic towards my situation as a disabled veteran,” said Middletown veteran Nicholas White. “They contacted me to inform me of everything and what they could do to assist. I was granted 100% P&T disability compensation. My wife and I couldn't be happier. Thank you!”

“We are so grateful for the excellent assistance we received from Congressman Ryan’s office,” said David Friedman of New Paltz. “For two years we have been trying to resolve a problem with the IRS, and because of the intervention of his office, the issue has been properly resolved, and we actually received interest on an amount due from the IRS! It took something special to get this matter looked at and Congressman Ryan’s office provided that!”

“My 2022 tax return was held up by the IRS for nine months,” said Robert Warhola of Kingston. “I had plans for my refund. The case worker assured me this problem could be resolved in two weeks. As promised, I received my refund electronically. It is nice to see our government working efficiently.”

“Thanks to Congressman Ryan’s office, the IRS finally issued refunds this spring for 2 returns I filed back in 2021,” said Stacy Quinn of Rhinebeck. “ After a very frustrating year of follow up – including an appointment at the IRS regional office in Poughkeepsie, multiple IRS assurances that I would hear back but never did, and a request for help from a senator’s office that was ignored – I was about to lose hope. Congressman Ryan’s office responded immediately, however, provided frequent updates, and I received the missing refunds in 6 weeks.”

The C.A.R.E.S. Van’s casework team meets and listens to community members and answers and offers assistance with federal programs and benefits including, but not limited to:

Social Security, Veterans Affairs (VA), Medicare, Medicaid, federal student loans, federal grants for local governments, small businesses and organizations, and households, IRS taxes and tax returns, passports, immigration services, military records and awards, the Office of Personnel for federal workers, connecting with Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and the military community in the Hudson Valley, U.S. Service Academy nominations, and more!

In March of 2024, the C.A.R.E.S. Van completed its first district tour, visiting every one of the 82 cities, towns, and villages in NY-18 in under 10 months. During the first district tour, the Van reached over 1,500 constituents and logged 3,341 miles to bring assistance directly to Hudson Valley families where they are at. The Van has been critical in assisting Ryan’s team in securing over $40 million in casework assistance for NY-18 constituents.

The C.A.R.E.S. Van has also been mobilized for specialized events, resource fairs, community events, and to deliver emergency response resources including, but not limited to:

Bringing direct assistance from the Social Security Administration back to Ulster County following closure of the county’s only Social Security Administration office.

Partnering with dozens of community organizations, the Social Security Administration, the Center for Medicare, local governments from across the Hudson Valley for Senior Resource Fairs.

Partnering with Veterans Service Organizations, local governments, and the Hudson Valley military community to deliver Veterans and Military Families Resource Fairs and for Congressman Ryan’s Veterans Week of Action that made stops in every county in NY-18.

Mobilizing a coalition of community partners, emergency response organizations, and local governments to bring direct relief to communities impacted by the catastrophic flooding events of July 2023.

Partnering with the New York State Comptroller’s Office of Unclaimed Funds to connect constituents with money owed to them by the State.

Delivering direct assistance with federal agencies to community events including the Dutchess County Senior Picnics, National Night Out in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, community Trunk-or-Treat Halloween celebrations, community farmers’ markets, Kingston’s Mexican and Central American Independence Celebration, Warwick’s Mental Health Awareness Celebration, the Orange County Veterans’ Picnic, and more!

The schedule for the C.A.R.E.S. Van’s February events is as follows, and updates will be provided via social media.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4:

10:00AM - 12:00PM

Wawayanda Town Hall

80 Ridgebury Hill Road

Slate Hill, NY 10973

2:00PM - 4:00PM

New Windsor Town Hall

555 Union Avenue

New Windsor, NY 12553

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11:

10:00AM - 12:00PM

Town of Ulster Town Hall

1 Town Hall Drive

Lake Katrine, NY 12449

2:00PM - 4:00PM

Esopus Town Hall

1 Town Hall Way

Ulster Park, NY 12487

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18:

10:00AM - 12:00 PM

LaGrange Association Library

1110 State Rte 55

Lagrangeville, NY 12540

2:00PM - 4:00 PM

Beekman Town Hall

4 Main Street

Poughquag, NY 12570

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Congresswoman Pou Introduces CLEAN-UP Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) have introduced the bipartisan Coordinated Leadership for Environmental and Aquatic Needs–Unified Planning Act (CLEAN-UP), legislation that would expedite the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) ability to remediate contaminated sediments for water projects by granting indemnification waivers to USACE when following an EPA-approved remediation plan.

“For too long, communities have struggled to have their rivers and waterways cleaned up because of federal backlogs,” said Congresswoman Pou. “These delays have enabled continued flooding, kept pollutants in waterways, and left communities languishing. We must expedite the government’s ability to help our residents while working with agencies to ensure that sediments are cleaned up faster. Our new bipartisan legislation will help speed up the relief our constituents need.”

Under the bill, the USACE would be required to follow an EPA-approved cleanup plan that would outline the scope of work, roles and responsibilities, disposal methods, funding sources, and applicable federal cleanup requirements, to relieve USACE of indemnification. USACE would have to consult with state and local government stakeholders, solicit public input, document contamination, and attempt to identify potentially responsible parties. However, the federal government would still retain its authority to recover cleanup costs from liable parties to ensure accountability.

The inability to move forward on waterway projects has been particularly relevant to the Ninth District’s Lower Saddle River, which has been subject to consistent flooding. Despite Water Resources Development Act authorization in 1986, the river’s remediation has been unable to move forward due to indemnification concerns by the USACE in dredging to remediate the basin.

The text of the bill can be found here.

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Congresswoman Luz Rivas Announces Additional $10 Million in Community Project Funding for CA-29

February 3, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) announced that the new appropriations package signed into law includes over $10 million in federal dollars for new Community Project Funding (CPF) for California’s 29thCongressional District.

“With this latest action, over $10 million in federal funding is on its way to California’s 29th District,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “These critical funds will support projects that improve disaster preparedness, strengthen public transportation resources, and make sure our community is ready to host the 2028 Olympic Games. I am excited to see constituents and visitors to CA-29 benefit from these projects. I will continue fighting for federal funding that will support and uplift all constituents and visitors.”

Background:

On February 3, the appropriations package for Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development was signed into law. This package includes 12 of Congresswoman Rivas’ 15 CPF requests totaling over $10 million. This brings the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 amount of Congresswoman Rivas’ CPFs signed into law to nearly $15 million.

Information about each project can be found below:

$2,000,000: Los Angeles Mission College (Pacoima Center Land Acquisition Project): This project is to purchase a lot for Los Angeles Mission College to develop a parking facility that will support the growing demand for workforce training programs in the Northeast San Fernando Valley.

$2,600,000: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Regional Bus Stop Enhancement Program): This project is to purchase vital infrastructure upgrades to bus shelters and bus stops which will increase public transportation usage, safety and accessibility to economic opportunities for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) and across Congressional District 29.

$968,000: Los Angeles County Fire Department (Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Pacoima Warehouse Renovation): This project is to purchase materials for essential renovations to the Pacoima Warehouse for the Los Angeles County Fire Department to provide lifesaving supplies and tools to over 300 fire department locations throughout Los Angeles County.

$850,000: The City of Los Angeles, Council District 7 (Sylmar Fire Station): This project is to purchase building material to construct a new fire station in Sylmar that will provide first responders with the necessary tools, resources, and logistical support needed to address any emergency crisis in Sylmar.

$850,000: The City of Los Angeles, Council District 6 (Pacoima Wash Bridge Mitigation Project): This project is to purchase upgrades and secure critical bridges for the Pacoima Wash which will improve public safety, reduce fire, and health hazards.

$250,000: The City of Los Angeles, Council District 6 (Wakefield Sidewalk Improvement Project): This project is to purchase and install curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) -compliant ramps, signage, and crosswalks to improve local infrastructure, increase pedestrian safety, and accessibility to employment and educational opportunities for residents.

$250,000: The City of Los Angeles, Council District 2 (Colfax Ave. Pedestrian Improvement Project): This project is to purchase and install a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk beacon to improve pedestrian safety for families, students, and community members near Colfax Charter Elementary School.

$250,000: The City of Los Angeles, Council District 6 (Parthenia Place Median Improvement Project): This project is to purchase of native, drought-tolerant landscaping, shaded elements, signage, and other safety features to improve public safety for the 10,000 residents of North Hills East.

$750,000: Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) (Parthenia Place Computer Lab Renovation & Tech Upgrades Project): This project is to purchase computer and technology upgrades for HACLA to fully renovate the Parthenia Place community’s computer lab center to expand workforce and educational opportunities for the community.

$850,000: HACLA (San Fernando Gardens-Energy Efficiency Project): This project is to purchase and install energy efficient air conditioning units and new cool roofs across multiple affordable housing units for HACLA to assist residents with the growing impacts of extreme heat.

$850,000: The City of Los Angeles (Sepulveda Basin Pedestrian Safety & Access Improvements): This project is to purchase and installation of various Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) -compliant curb ramps, pedestrian crosswalks, lighting, signage, and signals for the City of Los Angeles to ensure safe access to the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Center.

$250,000: The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works (Reseda Green and Accessible Medians and Shaded School Routes): This project is to purchase and install accessible medians, bioswales, and shade improvements for the community of Reseda to improve local infrastructure in areas that suffer from extreme heat, increasing public safety, and accessibility to public transportation.

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Congresswoman Luz Rivas Votes “Hell No” – Again – on Short-Term Funding for ICE, DHS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Luz Rivas, the first Latina to represent California’s 29th Congressional District, once again voted against additional funding for President Trump’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Krisit Noem’s actions:

“Just as I did two weeks ago, I voted ‘hell no’ on the short-term funding bill for DHS and ICE. No agency should get a free pass to operate in the shadows and terrorize children, families, and our most vulnerable – but that is exactly how DHS has operated during the Trump Administration. DHS and ICE continue to torment my constituents in the San Fernando Valley and violate the Constitutional rights of our most vulnerable.

“DHS’s actions have resulted in chaos and harm in cities across the country and have led to the murders of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti. Innocent lives will continue to be in danger if DHS is allowed to continue operating without increased oversight and accountability. With the safety of my constituents and community in mind, I – again – cast my vote against giving another dollar to DHS and ICE.”


Rep. Kelly votes against funding for Department of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), who is leading articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, voted against the funding package that includes a two-week funding deal for the Department of Homeland Security. The funding package passed 217-214.

“Secretary Kristi Noem is taking taxpayer dollars to weaponize her agency and unleash her Gestapo agents in cities across the country,” said Rep. Kelly. “Instead of exercising our considerable power of the purse to rein in ICE, Speaker Johnson would rather bow to the President’s whims. It is imperative to put guardrails around ICE, so civil rights are no longer trampled. We need to dismantle ICE, and it starts with the head. Secretary Noem must be impeached.”


Ross Joins Over 50 Lawmakers in Calling for Answers on Trump Ripping Legal Status Away from Haitian Workers

Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), along with Representatives Diana DeGette (CO-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and 52 members of Congress in writing to the nation’s leading elder and home care organizations, asking them to share how the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for people from Haiti would affect the health care, elder care, and disability care workforce and patients.

“We are gravely concerned that the end of TPS for Haiti will threaten access to health care, elder care, and disability care for American families,” wrote the lawmakers.

To date, about 1.5 million people on TPS have been stripped of legal immigrant status by the Trump administration. The termination of TPS for Haiti—scheduled for February 3, 2026—would affect over 300,000 Haitians residing legally in the United States. However, a federal judge blocked the Trump administration from stripping TPS for up to 350,000 Haitans.

Haitian immigrants are heavily represented in the U.S. health care workforce. In hospitals, nursing homes, and home-care settings around the country, many Haitians on TPS perform vital care-related services, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and transferring patients, which allows older adults and people with disabilities to live with dignity.

Experts have warned that TPS terminations will contribute to “serious disrupt[ions]” of “health care facilities, which already struggle to hire enough workers.” Care facilities have already lost or are preparing to lose critical Haitian immigrant workers due to President Trump’s immigration policy changes. For example: in 2025, an elder care facility in Florida had to fire dozens of Haitian employees who represented almost 10 percent of the staff; a Boston hospital that relies heavily on Haitian Certified Nursing Assistants is bracing for staffing shortages; and a senior housing and health care facility in Virginia was forced to lay off Haitian employees and then struggled to fill their roles.

“This trend of de-legalizing legal immigrant workers will not make Americans safer. It will simply leave our communities with fewer options for quality, affordable care,” wrote the lawmakers.

The lawmakers asked the organizations to provide data and stories about the impact of the TPS termination on the health care workforce and patients by February 17, 2026.

Text of Letter (PDF)

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Rep. Sara Jacobs Secures Over $14 Million for 14 San Diego Projects

Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) secured $14,184,000 in federal funds for 14 local community projects in San Diego in an appropriations package passed by Congress. These projects were submitted by local governments and non-profits across California’s 51st district, from Lemon Grove to Linda Vista to Miramar. The Congresswoman’s office prioritized projects that would build housing and support people experiencing homelessness, expand access to child care, spur innovation, and support children and families.

Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Since President Trump took office, local communities like San Diego have seen critical federal funds slowed down, frozen, redirected, or canceled altogether – stalling essential projects and forcing our local governments, non-profits, and organizations to do more with less despite the growing need. That’s why I’m especially proud that I’m bringing home over 14 million federal dollars to California’s 51st district for projects that expand access to child care, support housing that’s affordable, build necessary infrastructure, and much more. I’m so excited to see how these federal dollars translate into progress and opportunity in San Diego.”

Rep. Sara Jacobs Secured $14,184,000 for These 14 San Diego Projects:

$2,000,000 for the San Diego Housing Commission for the Linda Vista Affordable Housing - Via Las Cumbres Redevelopment Project. The project will reconstruct and redevelop an existing public agency-owned housing property to provide additional affordable housing units.

$1,500,000 for San Diego State University to acquire and make improvements to a facility that will provide child care services for parents who are former foster youth.

$1,200,000 for the City of San Diego to expand the Safe Sleeping Pilot Program across San Diego and purchase the facility infrastructure needed to operate these safe sleeping sites.

$927,000 for the University of San Diego for JusticeForward: Safer Students Workforce Initiative. This project will prepare students impacted by the criminal justice system to move into careers within the criminal justice system itself, allowing their first-hand experiences to contribute to safer communities and lower rates of recidivism.

$1,031,000 for Youth Empowerment’s Finest to fund the I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Afterschool Program. This program will serve local youth in grades 6-12 through daily group mentoring and weekly individual sessions, with a focus on steering them away from potential gang activity.

$850,000 for San Diego County Office of Education for the Linda Vista Innovation Center to replace windows on the building and redesign classrooms to include interactive components, preparing students for San Diego’s priority sector jobs.

$850,000 for San Diego Unified School District to transform decommissioned school buses into mobile washer and dryer units to address the hygiene needs of San Diego’s unhoused population.

$500,000 for San Miguel Consolidated Fire Protection District for one aerial apparatus – a specialized fire service vehicle equipped with a hydraulically operated, extendable boom or ladder designed to provide elevated access, water stream delivery, and rescue capabilities at height.

$250,000 for the City of Lemon Grove for infrastructure improvements to support the safety and convenience of students walking and biking to school and to local institutions in the San Miguel Elementary area.

$250,000 for the City of El Cajon to build the El Cajon Public Works Administration Building.

$826,000 for Greater Than Tech to expand programs that offer hands-on training and workforce development for students to enter the STEM industry.

$1,000,000 for San Diego State University Research Foundation to create an artificial intelligence (AI) programming training center to democratize the use of AI models.

$2,000,000 for the City of San Diego to expand affordable child care facilities by improving and securing prefabricated modular structures to house licensed child care on City of San Diego Parks and Recreation space.

$1,000,000 for San Diego State University to expand a child care facility that will help more families, especially those with children with disabilities, access safe and reliable care.

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Scalise: House Republicans Will Be the Responsible Party, Once Again

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), and Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) to discuss Democrats’ opposition to funding the government and Republicans' efforts to prevent another long, painful Democrat shutdown.

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


Scanlon, Judiciary Democrats Demand DHS and ICE Rescind Memo Authorizing Warrantless Home Raids

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today joined Reps. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee; Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement; and Lucy McBath, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance on a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons demanding that the agencies immediately rescind a memorandum authorizing federal agents to enter homes without a judicial warrant, in violation of the Fourth Amendment.

Earlier this month, whistleblowers within the agency provided Congress with a May 12, 2025, memorandum signed by Acting Director Lyons that purports to allow federal immigration enforcement officers to violate the Fourth Amendment and forcibly enter homes without review or permission from a federal judge. The memo has led to unlawful, forced home entries in Minnesota and across the country.

“ICE does not have the authority to overturn any law, let alone one of the foundational constitutional rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights. You must rescind this memo and adhere to the requirements of the Fourth Amendment by ensuring your agents obtain a judicial warrant prior to making any non-consensual entry into a private residence,” wrote the Ranking Members.

During recent enforcement operations in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, federal agents have repeatedly forced their way into private homes without judicial warrants or consent.

In one disturbing case, masked agents broke into the home of U.S. citizen ChongLy “Scott” Thao in St. Paul, refused to review his identification, held him at gunpoint, and removed him from his home in freezing temperatures while he was wearing only sandals and underwear. After realizing they had entered the wrong home and that Mr. Thao was a citizen with no criminal record, agents returned him and left without apology. The man ICE intended to arrest in this operation was already in prison.

In another incident, agents forcibly entered the home of Garrison Gibson, a Liberian man, without producing a warrant. A federal judge later ruled that his arrest violated his Constitutional rights and ordered his release.

ICE’s own training materials acknowledge that warrantless home entries typically violate the Fourth Amendment and that administrative warrants do not require criminal probable cause.

DHS General Counsel Jimmy Percival has pushed unsubstantiated claims that non-citizens are not protected by the Fourth Amendment. No precedent has held or even suggested such a reading of the Fourth Amendment, and the amendment’s text specifically refers to the rights of “people” rather than “citizens.”

“The law is clear: ICE does not have the authority to overturn any legal precedent, let alone ignore one of the foundational constitutional rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights,” concluded the Ranking Members.

The Ranking Members are demanding that DHS and ICE immediately rescind the May 12 memo and ensure that agents obtain judicial warrants before entering private residences without consent.

You can read the full letter here.

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SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON DHS FUNDING VOTE

WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement on government funding:

“Last month, I voted for five funding bills to ensure our government is working for our people and against giving DHS another penny.

“Today, I again voted against giving another penny to DHS as it continues its reign of terror across our country.

“Our nation is being tested. Two Americans were gunned down by federal officers in Minneapolis. ICE and CBP officers are terrorizing our communities, tearing five-year-olds from their homes and hardworking people from their families. This is not who we are.

“We have to stay focused on the main thing -- and the main thing is protecting our communities and ending the abuses of ICE, CBP, and DHS in general. We need to get ICE and CBP out of our communities. We need to install real measures that hold federal officers accountable for their behavior.

“This Administration, and in particular DHS under Kristi Noem, is undermining our Constitution and tearing up the Bill of Rights, right in front of our eyes.

“Instead of targeting hardened criminals, they are arresting hardworking neighbors, coworkers, and friends. They are arresting journalists—trashing the First Amendment while trying to hide their injustices and criminal actions from exposure. They have targeted, mobbed, and gunned down American citizens in the streets.

“Congress cannot look away. Every single step we take must be focused solely on reforming a Department of Homeland Security that is absolutely out of control.

“I remain laser-focused on legislation that reins in DHS. That gets ICE and CBP out of Minneapolis. That takes masks off these agents and puts body cameras on. That ends warrantless arrests and stops the targeting of courts, schools, and churches. That demands an independent investigation into every DHS shooting. And that stops the deportation of U.S. citizens.”

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Congresswoman Schrier Votes to Keep Government Operating, Fund Vital Programs and Projects for Eighth District

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congresswoman Schrier (WA-08) voted to pass a funding package that will keep the government operating and fund vital programs and projects for Washington’s Eighth District.

The package rejects the Trump Administration’s proposed $163 billion in cuts to public services, ensures programs such as Head Start, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and mental health services can continue operating, and includes over $4 million in Community Project Funding (CPF) requests that Schrier secured. The package also sets a ten-day deadline for Congress to negotiate a bill that puts strong guardrails on the way that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operates as a condition of any future funding.

“The passage of this package keeps our government operating, helps keep our schools funded, and keeps other vital services that so many depend on up and running. This package also secures millions in funding for projects that will improve local infrastructure in the Eighth District, said Congresswoman Schrier. “This bill imposes a deadline to create rules that will rein in ICE and the chaos they are causing. I have called for DHS Secretary Noem’s removal, and will not vote for any long-term funding for DHS until serious reforms are put in place to rein in ICE’s outrageous abuse of power.”

Last month, Congresswoman Schrier voted against the DHS appropriations package, noting that “ICE is out of control and needs to be reined in through substantial measures that build accountability, transparency, and restore trust–especially in the wake of the horrific killing of a U.S. citizen that we saw in Minnesota.”

More information about the community funding projects can be found here:


Rep. Sewell Celebrates Black History Month on the House Floor, Condemns Recent Attacks on Black Americans

Washington D.C. — U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to celebrate Black History Month and condemn the Trump Administration's recent attacks on Black Americans.

Watch on YouTube here.

Rep. Sewell: Mr. Speaker, I rise with my Congressional Black Caucus colleagues in celebration of Black History Month 2026, a time to recognize the extraordinary contributions that African Americans have made to the history and culture of America.

Black History Month is an opportunity to acknowledge the inventors, artists, changemakers, and everyday citizens who built this nation and who continue to shape our shared destiny.

As the Representative of Alabama's Civil Rights District. I stand on the shoulders of visionary leaders who risked everything for a vision and a dream bigger than themselves. Leaders like Rosa Parks, our former colleague, the Honorable John Lewis, Dr. King, Amelia Boynton Robinson, and so many others.

As a daughter of Selma, I know that their sacrifices brought us the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, daring this nation to live up to its highest ideals of equality and justice for all.

Sadly, we live in a time when Black history and Black Americans are under attack. Old battles have indeed become new again.

Throughout the past year, our communities have been at the center of the chaos and destruction that this president and his administration has visited upon the American people. President Trump has tried to whitewash our history. He has cut our health care while giving tax breaks to billionaires. He has canceled Black History Month celebrations at the White House and has targeted Black immigrants with racist smears. And he has waged an all-out assault on the right to vote.

Just this week, the Trump Administration arrested two Black journalists who were simply doing their jobs. And right now, President Trump's cronies are fighting in the Supreme Court to undo what remains of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Their actions threaten to take us back to a time before the Civil Rights Movement, a time when Black Americans were second-class citizens and discrimination was the law of the land.

In my home state of Alabama, Trump's attacks on Black Americans are on full display. Last year, his executive order led to the removal of the brave Tuskegee Airmen from the Air Force Training Manual. Just two months later, his administration tried to sell off the site of the Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery, Alabama.

And while both of these decisions were eventually reversed, it was only because our community, the African American community, spoke up and refused to be silent.

Mr. Speaker, these tactics are not new. They are borrowed from the same tired playbook that has been used for centuries to silence our voices and dilute our power.

In these troubling times, we should take a lesson from the Foot Soldiers of the Civil Rights Movement. Shortly before his passing, Congressman John Lewis gave us a marching order. He was frail, riddled with cancer. But he went back on that bridge one last time, and he told us to never give up, to never give in, to keep the faith, and to keep our eyes on the prize.

So, my friends, my fellow Congressional Black Caucus colleagues, we can be tired. We can be frustrated. We can be downright mad. But what we cannot do is give up.

We need to use our voices and call out injustice wherever it hides. We need to demand better from our elected officials. We must vote like we've never voted before.

I want to thank my colleagues of the Congressional Black Caucus for hosting this special hour and I want to thank my colleague from Virginia for her tireless leadership in these efforts.

This Black History Month must be more than just a celebration. It must be a call to action. Generations of Americans, past and present and future, are counting on us to meet this moment with the urgency it demands.

We must do so in the name of our foremothers and our forefathers. We must do so in the name of the future leaders of this nation. We must do so because it is always right to do what is right.

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Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Revised Government Spending Package That Excludes Full-Year DHS Funding

Package includes remaining full-year FY26 funding bills, excluding DHS

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of a bipartisan funding package to end the partial government shutdown and provide full-year funding for the remaining federal agencies, with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which houses Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The package includes a two-week continuing resolution for DHS while Democrats negotiate stronger guardrails against misconduct by ICE agents.

"After the horrifying and deadly events in Minnesota, Americans across the political spectrum agree that ICE under the Trump Administration has gone too far and needs serious reform," said Rep. Sewell. "This bill gives Democrats greater time and leverage to negotiate with Republicans on a set of guardrails to curb ICE’s reckless conduct while keeping other services up and running that are essential to the safety and well-being of the American people."

"To be clear, this bill does not increase ICE’s budget by a single penny," continued Sewell. "It does, however, keep air-traffic controllers and TSA agents on the job and disaster assistance flowing to communities in need. The package also includes our bill to expand access to cancer screenings and $5.5 million that I secured for local projects in our district."

The package includes bipartisan legislation led by Reps. Sewell and Arrington to expand access to cancer screenings for America's seniors. The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act would create a pathway for Medicare to cover MCED tests once FDA-approved.

The package also includes $5.5 million that Rep. Sewell secured for nine local projects in Alabama's 7th Congressional District, including:

$250,000 for improvements to Craig Field Airport in Selma, including upgrades to the precision approach path indicating system, taxiway and runway signage, and parking asphalt repairs;

$1,656,000 for the City of Selma to revitalize Alabama Avenue by assessing, renovating, and converting fourteen existing buildings;

$500,000 for Auburn University to construct ten prototype "resilient homes" in Selma made from high-performance materials to withstand extreme weather elements;

$850,000 for the Bessemer Housing Authority toward construction of a multi-purpose community center;

$250,000 for the City of Homewood to upgrade and expand culvert capacity in the neighborhoods surrounding Edgewood Elementary School;

$250,000 for the Jefferson County Greenway Commission to upgrade and renovate the entrance and guest parking lot of Red Mountain Park;

$700,000 for the City of Pleasant Grove to install 2.57 miles of new sidewalks, strategically add pedestrian lighting, and repair 1.26 miles of deteriorated sidewalk;

$850,000 for the City of Hueytown to improve roadways and walkways in the community by resurfacing streets and installing new sidewalks; and

$250,000 for the City of Tuscaloosa toward upgrades and renovations to the infrastructure of the Tuscaloosa Public Library.

Rep. Sewell successfully led the effort to restore and increase appropriations for pancreatic cancer research in the FY26 defense bill after funding for the program was completely eliminated in FY25 under Republicans' continuing resolution. Sewell secured a historic $20 million for the program, a $5 million increase from FY24 funding levels.

The package also:

Increases funding for NIH by $400 million, including research to develop treatments and cures for cancer, Alzheimer's, ALS, Diabetes, and other diseases;

Rejects proposed cuts to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), increases funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by $15 million and State Opioid Response Grants by $20 million;

Increases funding for Child Care and Head Start by $170 million, helping provide hard-working families access to early childhood education and childcare;

Provides $66.6 billion in funding for rental assistance programs, rejecting President Trump’s efforts to slash funding for these programs by 50 percent;

Provides $18.6 billion for the FAA, an increase of $1.6 billion, including funding to expand the air traffic controller workforce by 2,500 personnel, improve facilities and equipment, and modernize the nation’s air traffic control towers;

Increases funding for medical research by $1.7 billion, including $1.3 billion for Congressionally Directed Medical Research Projects (CDMRP) that support efforts to develop treatments for cancer, disease, and service-related injuries; and

Fully funds the 3.8 percent pay raise for military personnel.

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Sherman Secures Funding for 9 Additional Valley & Westside Projects

Sherman Oaks, California – Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) announced that over $12 million in federal funds for projects in the San Fernando Valley and parts of the Westside have been included in legislation signed into law. These 9 projects are in addition to 4 other projects that were signed into law two weeks ago. Sherman has secured funding for nearly 200 earmarks in appropriations bills and transportation reauthorizations throughout his time in Congress totaling more than $168 million for the district.

"These funds will address vital needs across our community including improvements to our local fire stations, public parks and infrastructure, as well as additional resources to address homelessness and services for those in need," said Congressman Sherman.

The community projects signed into law this week were:

Los Angeles Fire Department Station Renovations – Los Angeles Fire Department

Amount: $2,000,000

This funding will be used for needed repairs to Los Angeles fire stations in the San Fernando Valley and the Westside. The life expectancy of a fire station is 50 years, and 15 fire stations in CD32 are close to or older than 50 years.

Labor Community Services Food Bank Equipment Needs – Los Angeles County

Amount: $1,200,000

This funding will be used to modernize and upgrade the Labor Community Services (LCS) Food Bank Warehouse equipment.

Southwest Valley Park Improvements Project – City of Los Angeles

Amount: $850,000

Funds to LA City to improve parks in the Southwest San Fernando Valley.

Los Angeles River Greenway Studio City Habitat Restoration, Beautification, and Safety Project – City of Los Angeles

Amount: $250,000

This project will occur along the south bank of the Los Angeles River from Whitsett Avenue to Laurel Canyon Boulevard in Studio City and include new, native landscaping to replace existing, non-native plantings. The project will also install public lighting along the path, access pathways, and seating areas.

Community Engagement & Enrichment Center at LA Pierce College – Pierce College

Amount: $250,000

Grancell Village Affordable Senior Housing – City of Los Angeles

Amount: $850,000

This funding will assist in building affordable senior housing at Grancell Village, supporting low-income and disabled seniors.

West Los Angeles VA Modular Home Construction – Los Angeles County

Amount: $850,000

Modular homes to provide temporary housing for homeless veterans.

Malibu Canyon Road and Kanan Dume Road Tunnel Lighting Upgrade Project – Los Angeles County

Amount: $250,000

Sepulveda Basin Park Improvements – City of Los Angeles

Amount: $850,000

In addition, the following projects were signed into law two weeks ago:

Santa Monica Mountains Brush Clearance & Wildfire Mitigation – Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA)

Amount: $1,031,000

Lands within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) are in need of restoration, in particular brush clearance and the removal of invasive plant species. This project is critical for preserving the wildlife habitat and reducing wildfire risk as the Palisades and neighboring communities recover from the 2025 LA Fires.

High Bay Structural Test Lab – California State University, Northridge

Amount: $1,031,000

The technology and equipment in this 1,100-square-foot lab will expand research and student educational opportunities, through testing on structural systems using different weight loads that reflect real-world conditions. In addition, the laboratory provides workforce training to CSUN students in STEM pathways as the lab’s projects have real-world applications.

Crisis and Incident Response through Community–Led Engagement (CIRCLE) Program - City of Los Angeles

Amount: $2,062,000

The funding will be used to help expand the Crisis and Incident Response through Community-led Engagement (CIRCLE) program, a 24/7 unarmed response program that deploys trained teams to address non-urgent LAPD calls related to homeless individuals.

West LA Real Time Crime Center – Los Angeles Police Department

Amount: $1,031,000

The funding will be used to install a Real Time Crime Center in the West Los Angeles LAPD Division and expand the camera network around the community to reduce burglaries.

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Brown Votes No on Funding ICE

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) today voted No on legislation to fund the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and other federal agencies.

WATCH: Rep. Brown Floor Speech on ICE and Springfield, Ohio

“In the last week, I have attended vigils in Cleveland and Cleveland Heights mourning people killed by ICE. I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with constituents who want justice and accountability, not violence and mayhem – and I stand with them today.

“The current situation with ICE is a disgrace, and I refuse to fund this out-of-control agency for even two more weeks. I voted No because I do not support one penny more for agencies that continually and purposefully violate rights, terrorize communities, and escalate violence,” said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.

Congresswoman Brown also voted No on an earlier funding bill for ICE in January.

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Congresswoman Simon Introduces RIDER Safety Act, Legislation to Support Transit Ambassadors and Public Safety on Transit

OAKLAND, CA – On January 30, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) announced her new legislation, H.R. 6069, the Rapid Intervention and Deterrence for Enhanced Rider Safety Act, or the RIDER Safety Act. This legislation would support transit ambassador, or transit support specialist, programs at public transit agencies across the country. This legislation is based on Congresswoman Simon’s work at Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) to create a first-in-the-nation Transit Ambassador Program, which previously earned a prestigious nationwide award for “Innovation in Public Safety.”

Congresswoman Simon announced the introduction of the bill at a press conference at the 19th Street BART Station alongside BART leaders and other supporters.

Safe, reliable transit for riders and operators is essential to thriving communities and a strong economy. The RIDER Safety Act would allow public transit agencies to hire transit ambassadors trained in de-escalation, crisis response, and rider education and engagement. Acting as a visible, non-enforcement presence to deter low-level incidents and reduce conflict, transit ambassadors ease the burden off law enforcement and enhance public safety. This bill would also create jobs provide meaningful work, training opportunities, and a pathway for career growth in local communities. In the House of Representatives, the bill is also co-led by Representatives Shomari Figures (AL-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), and John Garamendi (CA-08).

“I am incredibly proud to champion the RIDER Safety Act in Congress and continue my work to ensure transit is safe, accessible, and affordable to everyone. We have seen the success of the transit ambassador programs here in the East Bay, and I am dedicated to bringing this proven public safety model to the rest of the country,” said Congresswoman Simon. “These are strong local jobs for people who want to support public safety on transit and serve as a resource to individuals who may be in crisis or in need of services,” she continued. “Strengthening safety on transit benefits us all and helps ensure our public transportation systems remain places of opportunity, dignity, and trust.”

“Improving safety on public transportation will make it easier to get to work, school, and home for people across Alabama and America,” said Congressman Shomari Figures. “As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee I am proud to be an original cosponsor of Congresswoman Simon’s RIDER Safety Act, which gives transit agencies the resources to put trained support specialists on the ground.”

“This bill is critical to ensure the safety of every passenger who relies on public transportation across the country,” said Congresswoman Nellie Pou. “The RIDER Safety Act builds on successful transit models already implemented in communities, including the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) through the leadership of Congresswoman Lateefah Simon during her time as BART President. By providing transit stations with medically-trained, unarmed personnel, we can strengthen safety standards, reduce fare evasion, and give riders a greater peace of mind when getting from one place to the next.”

“Ensuring public transportation is not only convenient and efficient, but also safe and secure is critical to decreasing commute times and improving quality of life in the Bay Area and across the country,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. “I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Simon and my colleagues in bringing forth legislation that would support transit agencies in improving rider and operator safety through commonsense reforms.”

“You cannot have public transportation with the public’s trust and safety,” said Congressman John Garamendi. “The Rapid Intervention and Deterrence for Enhanced Riders (RIDER) Safety Act will provide critical support to transit agencies like BART to keep commuters and transit operators safe. This bill will make our communities better places to work, travel, and live. I thank Congresswoman Lateefah Simon for her leadership on this issue, and I am proud to stand with my colleagues in fighting for safer transit and safer communities.”

A copy of the legislation can be found here. A copy of the one-pager can be found here.

Congresswoman Simon is the first congenitally blind person to serve in Congress, and she has been a long-time advocate for transit accessibility. She previously served on the BART Board of Directors as a Member and later as President of the Board from 2016 to 2024. In Congress, Congresswoman Simon has consistently advocated for accessible transportation, stable transit funding to ensure reliable and accessible service, and for transportation modernization investments.

More information on the RIDER Safety Act, including cosponsors and endorsements can be found below:

The bill is co-led by Representatives Shomari Figures (AL-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), John Garamendi (CA-08). Cosponsors in the House include Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Dina Titus (NV-01), Steve Cohen (TN-01), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Valerie Foushee (NC-04).

The RIDER Safety Act is endorsed by the BART, LA Metro, AC-Transit, SF-MTA, Amalgamated Transit Union, Transport Workers Union, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO (Transportation Trades Department), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers Transportation Division, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and Transportation Communications International Union.

“At BART we are listening to our riders, and they have been loud and clear that we need to be safe, clean, and reliable,” said BART Board President Melissa Hernandez. “Our overall crime rate dropped by 41% compared with the previous year. Traditional officers and unarmed staff are working together to provide a visible safety presence that is working to deter unwanted behavior.”

“A big reason why BART Police Department has one of the fastest response times to emergencies of any police agency in the Bay Area is because it has non-sworn staff that can respond to lower-level safety concerns before they escalate,” said BART District 7 Director Victor Flores. “This frees up resources to handle emergencies that are more appropriate for a traditional sworn officer.”

“Safety is about more than enforcement. It’s about presence, partnership, and creating an environment where all riders feel comfortable using BART,” said BART Police Department Chief Kevin Franklin. “The combined efforts of our officers and non-sworn staff are ensuring we are doing all we can to make BART welcoming for all.”

“We are in deep support of this bill. We look forward to working with Congresswoman Simon to get it across the finish line, said Joel Young, At-Large Director on the AC Transit Board of Directors. “It will be an important step for our agency, for our passengers, but more importantly for our employees. We have already decided that when this bill is passed, we will use the Federal Transit Administration funds to hire ambassadors and put them right on our Tempo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line right here in Oakland. On behalf of AC Transit, our board, our General Manager Salvador ‘Sal’ Llamas, thank you for the work you are doing.”

“I want to thank Congresswoman Simon for her staunch advocacy for including transit service across the region, across the Bay Area, undertaking the important work and prioritizing safety on transit systems,” said Acting Director of Transit, Chief Transportation Officer of SF-MTA, Brent Jones. “We can’t provide safe, frequent reliable service without programs like the School Safety programs and transit ambassadors. These efforts are not just important to our customers, but also our employees. None of this is possible without fierce advocacy by Congresswoman Simon, who continues to fight for us as we continue to fight every single day to deliver great transit services.”

"The Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) strongly supports the RIDER Safety Act, H.R. 6069,” said Chris Avila, Transport Workers Union, California State Conference Chairperson. “This bill would provide transit agencies the resources needed to improve safety, hire additional security personnel, and strengthen crime‑prevention measures. A visible security presence is one of the most effective ways to deter assaults and protect both workers and riders. We need urgent action from all levels of government and from employers to keep transportation workers, riders, and passengers safe.

“42 workers per day are assaulted nationwide, that’s over 11,000 workers nationwide. So, Congresswoman Simon’s legislation goes towards the riders and the workers,” said Chris Finn, President of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1555. “We greatly appreciate your legislation and thinking of the workers and the riders. ATU International is proud to endorse and support this legislation.

"It's a sad reality that the operators who serve our communities are frequently confronted by agitators on the job," said Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO. "We are proud to support the RIDER Safety Act, which will utilize proven solutions and prop up trained professionals dedicated to de-escalating these dangerous encounters."

“On behalf of the nearly 700,000 TCU/IAM members nationwide, we want to thank Congresswoman Simon for this [bill.] We fully support it; this bill recognizes a critical truth on rider safety and system reliability,” said Josh Ott, President and Legislative/Political Representative of Transportation Communications Union /International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers (TCU/IAM) Local 1315. The Rider Safety Act is a smart, balanced investment in public safety, workforce support, and transit reliability. Its impact will be long-lasting –benefiting riders, workers, and the communities that rely on safe, accessible transportation. You have our full support. You’re in the fight, and we’re very in with you.”

“By making public transportation systems eligible for federal operational grants, this bill recognizes a simple truth: safety isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s also about staffing and investing in the workers who keep our infrastructure running,” said President of AFSCME Local 3993 BART, Sal Cruz. “The RIDER Safety Act will allow BART to hire more qualified transit support specialists who are trained professionals that can engage with riders, respond to crises, and intervene before situations escalate. This means frontline workers can focus on doing their jobs safely, instead of being pulled into roles they were never properly resourced to handle.”

“No one should have to face violence, intimidation, or disorder simply to get to work or to do their job. This legislation takes a smart, practical approach to improving safety on public transit, one that reflects the realities of transit workers every day,” said Donald Roach, the Alternate National Safety and Legislative Director of SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD). By allowing federal safety transit dollars to fund these transit support specialists – this bill emphasizes prevention, visibility, and early intervention. On behalf of the members of the SMART Transportation Division, we call on Congress to support the RIDER Safety Act.”

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