Wittman, Brownley Introduce Advancing Water Research and Collaboration (AWRC) Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) and Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) introduced the Advancing Water Research and Collaboration (AWRC) Act — legislation that would reauthorize the Water Resources Research Act (WRRA) from Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2029 and increase the appropriations authorization for the program from $15 million to $16 million per year.

“As vice chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, I remain committed to conservation efforts that improve soil health, reduce runoff, and enhance water quality,” said Rep. Wittman. “The AWRC Act strengthens the critical partnership between states and the federal government to coordinate, plan, organize, and conduct research that addresses state and regional water problems. I am proud to introduce this legislation, which will ensure essential water research continues for years to come.”

“Across the country, the intensifying climate crisis is pushing our water systems to the breaking point,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “When access to clean water is at risk, the health, safety, and economic security of our communities are also in jeopardy. That is why we must invest in the research and innovation needed to address growing water supply challenges. To that effect, I am working with Representative Wittman to reauthorize the Water Resources Research Act Program, which will help secure the federal investments states need to protect and strengthen our water systems. Together, we will keep working to ensure every community has access to safe, clean, and affordable water for generations to come.”

"In Virginia, WRRA funding drives research on the water challenges that matter most to our communities, from nutrient pollution in the Chesapeake Bay to 'forever' chemical contamination of our drinking water. With demands on water resources growing from all directions including population growth, agriculture, and the rapid expansion of data centers and AI infrastructure, this research has never been more urgent. Reauthorization of this program is essential to keeping that work moving forward. We are grateful to Congressman Wittman for championing this legislation and ensuring Virginia and the nation remain at the forefront of water science for a secure and resilient water future," said Dr. Kevin McGuire, Director of the Virginia Water Resources Research Center.

“For more than 60 years, the Water Resources Research Act (WRRA) has supported locally driven, nationally significant research to address the most pressing water challenges facing our states and territories. From safeguarding drinking water supplies and reducing nutrient pollution to addressing emerging contaminants and the growing water demands of advanced manufacturing, data centers, and artificial intelligence infrastructure, the need for sound water science has never been greater. Reauthorization of the WRRA program ensures that every state has the capacity to respond to its unique water challenges while contributing to a stronger, more resilient national water future. We are deeply inspired by Congressman Wittman’s keynote speech at the NIWR annual conference on February 23, 2026, as a legislative leader and a fellow scientist. We are grateful to his leadership in advancing this bipartisan legislation and for recognizing the critical role of university-based water research in protecting our communities, economies, and future generations nationwide.” - Yu-Feng Forrest Lin, President of the National Institutes for Water Resources (NIWR)

Background:

The Water Resources Research Act Program, authorized by section 104 of the Water Resources Research Act of 1984, established a network of Water Resources Research Institutes (WRRIs) in each state that work to address state & regional water challenges with federal funds. The AWRC Act would reauthorize this network of research institutes to address state & regional water challenges with federal funds. These research institutes are typically housed at major research universities, ensuring each state is well-equipped to manage its unique water challenges. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) have introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate.


Sen. Banks Joins IndyCar, Penske at Freedom 250 Grand Prix Press Conference on the National Mall

WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) attended a press conference on the National Mall announcing the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an upcoming race that will take place in Washington, D.C. in August as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

The race will be August 22nd and 23rd, 2026 in Washington, D.C. The race will be free to the public and Secretary Duffy expects more than 1 million spectators to attend. The race path is a 1.7-mile, seven-turn layout through the city of Washington, D.C. The route includes a sweeping 0.4-mile frontstretch along Pennsylvania Avenue, framed by the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. The pit lane area will be on Pennsylvania Avenue, between Turns 1 and 2 on the circuit design.

See more details about the Freedom 250 Grand Prix here.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is going to be a historic event for America! There is no better motor sport than IndyCar to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday. Thank you to President Trump and his administration for putting together a celebration we will cherish for years to come!”

In attendance were the following:

Sean Duffy, U.S. Secretary of Transportation

Doug Burgum, U.S. Secretary of the Interior

Ambassador Monica Crowley, Chief of Protocol of the United States

Muriel Bowser, Mayor of Washington, D.C.

Bud Denker, President of Penske Corporation & Freedom 250 GP Chairman

Ted Leonsis, Founder, Chairman, Managing Partner & CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment

Eric Shanks, CEO of Fox Sports

Josef Newgarden, INDYCAR and Indy 500 champion driver

View more photos from the press conference here.

See part of the press conference below or listen here.

Josef Newgarden, INDYCAR and Indy 500 champion driver: “I want to thank Senator Banks from the great state of Indiana. Thank you for being here. Great to see you as always. I am a Tennessee guy. I live in Nashville, Tennessee, but the state of Indiana and Indianapolis is basically my second home. And I’m going to kind of wrap that into the point that I wanted to make today. What I find so great about this event and what I hope people take from it is the inspiration of automobile racing.”

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Booker Statement on DOJ Settling Live Nation-Ticketmaster Case

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, issued the following statement in response to the announcement of the Department of Justice’s settlement with Live Nation-Ticketmaster:

The Department of Justice’s announcement today that it reached a settlement with Live Nation-Ticketmaster rather than seeing through its suit to break up an illegal monopoly is the latest example of this Administration putting corporate interests ahead of American consumers. Instead of working to lower prices like he promised, the Trump Administration walked away with a weak deal that does nothing to make it easier for Americans to see our favorite artists.

Music is a part of the fabric of American culture. Going to concerts and live events with friends and family are often some of our most cherished memories. But because of greedy corporations these experiences have become out of reach for most Americans. Live Nation uses dynamic pricing, excessive fees, and exclusivity deals to pad its profits while consumers have little choice but to pay up if they want to see their favorite artists.

It’s obvious the Administration did not get a fair deal for American consumers. It appears Ticketmaster will remain intact, Live Nation will still dominate the amphitheater market, and fees at festivals and arenas are not capped. And after years of anticompetitive behavior--squeezing fans, artists, and venues alike--the company will pay $280 million. That is a slap on the wrist for a company generating over $20 billion in revenue in 2025.

A bipartisan group of state Attorneys General, have already rejected the deal and pledged to continue the lawsuit. DOJ failed to notify them of the agreement—or the court, or even its own trial attorney handling the case.

Like every other antitrust matter under this Administration, DOJ must be transparent about how it reached this deal. Congress will scrutinize it for abuse of influence and political favoritism. I also renew my call for President Trump to release the Antitrust Division and FTC report on ticket pricing which the White House has had since last summer and stop hiding it from the American public.


BOOKER ANNOUNCES Keep Your Pay Act

NEWARK, N.J. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the Keep Your Pay Act, a new proposal that cuts taxes for working Americans and unrigs America’s tax system by requiring the wealthiest few and big corporations to finally pay their fair share.

The centerpiece of Booker’s plan is a straightforward idea: the first $75,000 of income would be tax-free for households filing jointly, with proportional tax relief for single filers and heads of households. The plan would more than double the standard deduction for all taxpayers. This means the majority of all taxpayers will pay no federal income tax on the first $75,000 of their earnings.

Booker’s plan also includes an expansion of tax credits that put more money in the pockets of working families, like the Child Tax Credit, and would be fully paid for by closing unfair tax loopholes used by the ultra-wealthy and big corporations and requiring them to pay their fair share.

“New Jerseyans are working harder than ever, but they’re struggling to get by because they’re facing out of control costs and an economy that is stacked against them—so we need big ideas to start making the American Dream possible for everyone again,” said Senator Cory Booker. "No income tax on the first $75,000 families earn would be a game changer for working people. This tax cut would immediately put more money in your pocket every month to deal with the high price of everyday expenses, an unexpected emergency, or to plan for the future. This plan can be fully paid for by unrigging our tax system – so that the wealthiest few and the biggest corporations that are getting rich by keeping prices high finally start paying their fair share. This idea will ensure Americans who work for a living keep more of their paychecks, help restore tax fairness, and start making America a country where working people can get ahead again.”

Under Booker’s proposal, the median American family would see their taxes cut by roughly 85 percent.

Today, Senator Booker is also unveiling a new tax calculator on his website, available here, allowing individuals to calculate how much taxes they would save under Booker’s proposed legislation.

For years, Booker has championed the expansion of tax benefits for working and middle class American families. In 2019, he introduced the American Families Act and the Working Families Tax Relief Act that would permanently expand the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit for children and low-income families. In 2021, Booker joined a bicameral coalition that succeeded in including a historic expansion of the Child Tax Credit in the American Rescue Plan Act. Though the CTC expansion ultimately expired, multiple studies found that this expansion of the CTC cut the child poverty rate in the United States in half when in effect.

Additional Details about Booker’s Keep Your Pay Act:

The Keep Your Pay Act would:

Increase the standard deduction to $75,000. The plan makes the first $75,000 of income tax free for those who are married filing jointly, and includes proportional tax relief for heads-of-households and single-filers, more than double the standard deduction for every American.

Expand the Child Tax Credit under the American Family Act. The credit would increase to $3,600 per child aged 6 to 17 and $4,320 for children under six, with an additional $2,400 “baby bonus” in the year a child is born to help families meet the high upfront costs of welcoming a new child. The credit would be made refundable, ensuring that no families are left behind for having too little income.

Expand the Earned Income Tax Credit through the Tax Cut for Workers Act, delivering tax relief to workers without children in the home by expanding eligibility to younger workers aged 19 to 24 and older workers aged 65 and above, groups that are currently excluded from the full benefit, while also tripling the value of the credit.

Booker's proposal would be fully paid for by closing unfair tax loopholes used by the ultra-wealthy and big corporations and requiring them to pay their fair share. This will include —raising the corporate tax rate, strengthening the corporate tax rules, increasing taxes on stock buybacks, tightening limits on executive compensation deductions, and other measures to return fairness to our tax system.


Booker Announces Keep Your Pay Act Alongside New Jerseyans With Kitchen Table Discussion

BLOOMFIELD, NJ – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) unveiled the Keep Your Pay Act alongside New Jerseyans with a roundtable discussion. The proposal would cut taxes for working New Jerseyans and unrig America’s tax system by requiring the wealthiest few and big corporations to finally pay their fair share.

The centerpiece of Booker’s plan is a straightforward idea: the first $75,000 of income would be tax-free for households filing jointly, with proportional tax relief for single filers and heads of households. The plan would more than double the standard deduction for all taxpayers. This means the majority of all taxpayers will pay no federal income tax on the first $75,000 of their earnings.

Booker’s plan also includes an expansion of tax credits that put more money in the pockets of working families, like the Child Tax Credit, and would be fully paid for by closing unfair tax loopholes used by the ultra-wealthy and big corporations and requiring them to pay their fair share.

“The New Jerseyans I met with this morning were loud and clear: They’re working harder than ever, but struggling to get by because they’re facing out-of-control costs and an economy that is stacked against them,” said Senator Cory Booker. “These are our communities’ health care professionals, teachers, and salespeople. They’re parents and grandparents, and unrigging the tax system would be a game changer for working people in our state and across the country. My bill would guarantee no income tax on the first $75,000 families earn. This tax cut would immediately put more money in New Jerseyans’ pockets every month and allow them to deal with the high price of everyday expenses, an unexpected emergency, or to plan for the future. This plan can be fully paid for by closing the loopholes that benefit the wealthiest few and most profitable corporations. This idea will ensure Americans who work for a living keep more of their paychecks, help restore tax fairness, and start making America a country where working people can get ahead again.”

KEEP YOUR PAY ACT

The Keep Your Pay Act would:

Increase the standard deduction to $75,000. The plan makes the first $75,000 of income tax free for those who are married filing jointly, and includes proportional tax relief for heads-of-households and single-filers, more than double the standard deduction for every American.

Expand the Child Tax Credit under the American Family Act. The credit would increase to $3,600 per child aged 6 to 17 and $4,320 for children under six, with an additional $2,400 “baby bonus” in the year a child is born to help families meet the high upfront costs of welcoming a new child. The credit would be made refundable, ensuring that no families are left behind for having too little income.

Expand the Earned Income Tax Credit through the Tax Cut for Workers Act, delivering tax relief to workers without children in the home by expanding eligibility to younger workers aged 19 to 24 and older workers aged 65 and above, groups that are currently excluded from the full benefit, while also tripling the value of the credit.

Booker's proposal would be fully paid for by closing unfair tax loopholes used by the ultra-wealthy and big corporations and requiring them to pay their fair share. This will include —raising the corporate tax rate, strengthening the corporate tax rules, increasing taxes on stock buybacks, tightening limits on executive compensation deductions, and other measures to return fairness to our tax system.


U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins The Conversation with Dasha Burns on Politico

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined The Conversation with Dasha Burns on Politico, discussing President Trump’s military actions against the Iranian regime, DHS funding negotiations, her leadership role in the United States Senate, and more.

Senator Britt discussed Trump’s leadership on Iran, praising him and calling the strikes “the definition of America First”: “Well first, my heart is broken for our fallen service members, and their families and loved ones. Certainly, so grateful for their service, for their ultimate sacrifice, and I know that countless American lives are going to be safer as a result…

“I had an opportunity obviously to speak to Secretary Rubio, amongst others, but making sure that Iran’s capabilities have diminished greatly both from a nuclear perspective, which we know there it’s about not being able to reconstitute nuclear weapons and or uranium enrichment … and I am glad, for one, that the Ayatollah is no longer here … What I am grateful for is that we actually have a president who does what he says he’s going to do … He gave opportunity for the Iranians to come to the table when they chose not to … give up their desire for [nuclear] enrichment, when they chose to continue to fund this terrorist activities all across the region that are putting our own troops in harm’s way and Americans back here at home. President Trump is going to act. And to me, that is the definition of America first.”

The Senator discussed ongoing legislative priorities and wins: “If you look at the Working Family Tax Cuts that we passed last year, I think a lot of people are starting to see the effects of that as they file their taxes and start to learn of all of the good work that we did. And one thing in there, Dasha, that I was really proud to lead the effort on was child care. So, affordability and accessibility of child care, it’s something that I not only hear from the people that I serve and I hear it from our largest businesses and our mom and pop in the small towns … but I’ve lived it myself … and so for the first time since 1986, we actually changed the tax code … we created a permanency in that … That is just the tip of the iceberg. You’ve heard us talk about Trump accounts. There’s a lot of things that are coming out and I think that the more people learn, I think the more they’re going to be impressed.”

Senator Britt discussed the ongoing DHS shutdown and the consequences it poses: “We need to be vigilant right now and that means every single component of Homeland Security, whether it is the U.S. Coast Guard, whether it’s CBP, whether it is ICE, whether it’s HSI, you know, whether it’s Secret Service, whether it’s CISA… TSA. These people don’t need to worry about their next paycheck. We don’t need to be asking them to fulfill their mission, which is to keep the American people and our homeland safe while they’re worried about making their wife’s cancer treatment payment or having to sleep in their car… And so, my thought is that elected leaders, people who were sent here by their people of their state, need to get in a room and have a conversation and try to figure out a pathway forward. We owe it to the people we serve and certainly owe it to the country that we love.”

The Senator highlighted her close working relationship with President Trump and role in the Senate: “He [President Trump] is focused on what he can do for the American people, then okay, what do we need to do and then how do we actually do it? … When you’re on the phone with him, nothing is off limits. And so, you can talk about any issue or anything, and you know, he’s got a very … purposeful and thoughtful direction in many things … Nobody gets the President to do anything. The President makes decisions about where he wants to go and where he wants to focus policy. It’s about giving him information that then he can utilize to help fulfil the mission he’s put in front of the American people, and he campaigned in front of the American people … when you look at the achievements of this administration, they are vast, I mean they are significant. He wants all the tools in his toolbox to be effective for the people he serves.”

Senator Britt discussed her bipartisan leadership on social media legislation, including the Kids Off Social Media Act: “I’m a mom … I don’t have to ask people what it’s like to raise a family. I’m actually living it right now. I see the effects of social media, not just on our community at large … but really on our kids and our next generation … We know the rate of depression more than doubled amongst young people. It perfectly coincides with the rise in social media between 2011 and 2019. And so, I feel passionate that we must do something … I mean, we have a crisis on our hands, and I think it is incumbent upon us to actually fix it.”

On her approach to working across the aisle: “You don’t have to agree to show someone respect. And I think if we as a nation went back to a place where that was the case, I think we would be so much better off. And I am trying to conduct myself in this body in a way that allows me to lead, allows me to fight for our values, fight for our people. Create opportunity, and tackle challenges … But I’m hopeful that the more that we can have these kinds of dialogues and hopefully create solutions in some spaces, I think it gives people both permission and hope to do that themselves. And it doesn’t mean you back away from your values or that you stand down on things that matter to you.”

The Senator discussed her perspective on leadership and how she stays focused on fulfilling her promises to deliver for Alabamians: “I have found in this job that it is important for me to be laser focused on how I can help the people of Alabama. And if I start kind of wading into everything everyone has to say about me, like or dislike, I think you lose focus on your purpose. And for me, it’s, you know, God’s purpose and plan. How can I be a vessel for Him and His kingdom? How can I make sure that I’m serving the people who sent me here? I said when I ran, I want the unseen to be seen. I want to close the gap between the have and have-nots. I want the people to see Alabama through the lens that I do.”

You can watch the Senator’s full interview here.

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WTAS: Senator Britt Plays Leading Role in U.S. Coast Guard Selection of Birmingham-Southern College for New Training Center

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and her fellow Alabama delegation members Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) and Representative Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.) in announcing the selection of the former Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) campus to serve as the new USCG training center.

In the announcement, Senator Britt said in part, “I am deeply proud to have advocated directly to Secretary Noem for a new training center in Birmingham to support our outstanding Coast Guard personnel, especially as the USCG continues to recruit servicemembers to combat 21st century threats … As chair of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue fighting to give the Coast Guard the resources and tools needed to fulfill its critical mission and keep Americans safe.”

In addition to her leadership in USCG’s decision to establish its new training center in Birmingham, Senator Britt has worked tirelessly to strengthen Alabama’s leadership in military excellence, by advocating directly to President Trump to permanently base Space Command headquarters at its rightful home in Huntsville, supporting a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers, or working to secure over $169.4 million for military construction at Alabama Bases alone in the FY26 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act.

Here is what they are saying about Senator Britt’s efforts to locate a new USCG training center in Birmingham:

Danile B. Coleman, BSC’s 16th and final president: “U.S. Sen. Katie Boyd Britt, who chairs the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, was instrumental in securing top-level approval of the project. We are deeply grateful to Sen. Britt for her leadership and her tireless efforts – along with U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville and U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, who is a graduate of the College – to ensure that this project remained a top priority in Washington.”

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin: “We’re very excited to announce that 1,000 jobs are on their way Birmingham. The U.S. Coast Guard has agreed to purchase the Birmingham-Southern College campus for use as a training facility, bringing long-term economic growth to our city. Major thanks go out to BSC President Daniel Coleman for working to keep the campus viable and attractive for this next phase of use, as well as Senator Katie Britt. And a big shout out to the residents of Bush Hills and the western corridor of Birmingham. This is your victory as well. This investment delivers real, lasting economic impact to our city and ensures future growth.”

Representative Aderholt: “As a proud alumnus of Birmingham-Southern, it is important to me that this campus continues to serve those seeking to learn and improve their lives. I’m confident the United States Coast Guard will do exactly that. I want to thank Senator Britt for her partnership as we worked together to encourage the Coast Guard and the White House to ensure this campus remains an important footprint in Alabama.”

Yellowhammer News: Katie Britt announces U.S. Coast Guard purchase of former Birmingham-Southern campus for new national training hub: ‘Huge day for Birmingham’

“As chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds Homeland Security, Britt drove the effort.

…

“The project has been in motion for months as the Coast Guard, under its Force Design 2028 blueprint, has pursued a major expansion of training capacity due to record-breaking recruiting numbers.

…

“Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem billed today’s Birmingham announcement as proof that ‘this is the most exciting time to join the Coast Guard in 235 years.’

…

“USCG and DHS selected the BSC campus for the new facility, saying it far exceeded the necessary criteria.”

Alabama Daily News: Coast Guard to buy Birmingham-Southern for new training center

“U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., said she advocated directly to Noem for the Birmingham site to be chosen for the new hub.

“‘It was actually an idea that I came up with alongside my team, knowing as the subcommittee chair for Homeland Security Appropriations, knowing the needs of the Coast Guard, and then uniquely being situated to know the assets and opportunities that we have in the state of Alabama,’ Britt told Alabama Daily News. “We thought… this may be a great match.’”

1819 News: Birmingham-Southern College campus to become U.S. Coast Guard training facility

“In celebrating the decision, nearly everyone acknowledged that Britt spearheaded the effort through her role as chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds DHS and USCG.

…

“Britt also celebrated the decision while reiterating her support for the U.S. Armed Forces.

“‘This is a huge day for Birmingham, our great state, and the U.S. Coast Guard. I have long been dedicated to strengthening Alabama’s military installations and the warfighters they serve. This exciting announcement further positions Alabama as a national leader in supporting our incredible U.S. Armed Forces and law enforcement personnel,’ Britt exclaimed.”

AlaDefense: The U.S. Coast Guard will use former Birmingham-Southern campus for its newest training center, as Alabama scores another big win

“U.S. Sen. Katie Britt led the parade of public officials in making the announcement today, joined by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, Rep. Robert Aderholt, Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

“Homeland Security, and not the War Department, oversees the Coast Guard, although there are many aspects the two departments share, such as protecting the American mainland and U.S. interests at sea.

“Britt is chair of the Senate’s Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds DHS and the Coast Guard.

…

“Britt was quick to highlight Alabama’s critical role in serving the War Department and Homeland Security in providing the nation with service.”

WBRC: Sen. Britt says Coast Guard training center at former Brimingham-Southern campus will be ‘special partnership’

“U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, who serves as subcommittee chair for the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations, said she encouraged Birmingham-Southern to enter the open bidding process when the Coast Guard began searching for a new facility.

“‘They had outgrown their facility there in New Jersey, which they will maintain, but they needed places to put new cadets and new people to drill down and get the training they need to protect our nation,’ Sen. Britt said.

“Sen. Britt said national defense and security are priorities for Alabamians and called the partnership between Birmingham and the Coast Guard significant.

“‘To have one of these branches here, particularly the Coast Guard, which is often overlooked, and they play such a critical role in making sure our homeland is safe and that Americans have an opportunity to live the American dream,’ Sen. Britt said. ‘So for Birmingham to get to own this and for Birmingham to get to embrace this branch, I think, is going to be a very special partnership.’

“Sen. Britt anticipates the training center will house 1,200 recruits. The Department of Homeland Security expects training missions to begin on campus later this year.

“‘We’re doing everything we can to make sure this facility is ready to go and that we’re training the men and women of the Coast Guard in a way to continue to keep our nation safe,’ Britt said.”

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Cassidy Introduces Bill to Protect U.S. Markets from Fraud

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Securing Accountability in Foreign Entries (SAFE) Act, which would ensure the U.S. customs system provides fair and enforceable conditions for reliable trade partners to access the U.S. market.

“American markets should be safe from foreign fraudsters,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re making it easier to do business with the partners we trust, and harder for those we don’t.”

“President Trump has taken decisive action to confront unfair global trade practices, but Congress must do its part to close loopholes that allow foreign companies – often backed by adversaries like China – to skirt U.S. trade enforcement,” said U.S. House of Representatives Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19). “My Securing Accountability in Foreign Entries (SAFE) Act requires every Importer of Record to have a real and verifiable presence in the United States and subjects them to enforcement by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). I’m proud to support the President’s America First trade agenda by leading this effort to safeguard taxpayer dollars and ensure a level playing field for American businesses and workers.”

BACKGROUND

For decades, U.S. customs law allowed foreign entities—without a meaningful U.S. presence—to act as importers of record (IOR). The SAFE Act ensures that only verifiable and accountable parties can serve as importers of record across all entry types, aligning bonding requirements with current trade system while recognizing the significant trading relations with trusted allies and partners. The bill enhances the integrity of the U.S. customs system and levels the playing field for compliant companies.

The SAFE Act is supported by the Coalition for a Prosperous America, Flexport, the International Trade Surety Association, the Alliance for Trade EnforcementNOW, and the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association.

“CPA strongly supports Senator Cassidy’s Securing Accountability in Foreign Entries Act because it rewinds a disastrous undermining of core customs principles. The concept of a ‘Non-Resident Importer’ is incompatible with the core principle of customs law that whomever is making customs declarations to an officer is someone that can be arrested for lying. Overseas, judgment-proof vendors should not be able to act as importers,” said Jon Toomey, President of the Coalition for a Prosperous America

“Right now, the U.S. is the only major economy that allows foreign companies to import without meaningful accountability. That creates a huge enforcement gap and an uneven playing field for businesses that are doing things the right way. The fix here is actually pretty simple. We should continue allowing foreign companies to import into the U.S., but require basic accountability—like establishing a U.S. subsidiary, having at least one local employee, and a U.S. bank account. That’s a common-sense standard that would weed out bad actors while still supporting open trade,” said Ryan Petersen, Founder and CEO of Flexport

“The International Trade Surety Association recognizes the need for new legislation and enhanced CBP processes to meet the increasingly fraudulent use of Non-Resident-Importer privileges and the ability to easily create new importers of record that later are found to be insolvent shell companies. This legislation provides new tools important for protecting US revenue and enforcement of law,” said the International Trade Surety Association

“The Alliance for Trade EnforcementNOW supports the Securing Accountability in Foreign Entries (SAFE) Act. The Alliance’s platform reflects the lived experience of companies and industry associations that operate in compliance with trade laws and rely on effective enforcement to compete fairly and sustain their businesses. Importer transparency, traceable financial responsibility, and clear jurisdictional accountability are not only practical requirements for a fair trading environment – they are necessary conditions for the viability of American industry,” said David Rashid, Founding Member of the Alliance for Trade EnforcementNOW

“The Northern Border Customs Brokers Association appreciates the opportunity to participate in the dialogue surrounding the ‘Securing Accountability in Foreign Entries Act’ legislation and thanks Senator Cassidy and his staff for the engagement with stakeholders. We are particularly supportive of the legislation’s recognition of reciprocal relationships with trusted trading partners, including Canada. As an organization representing customs brokers operating along the northern border, we see firsthand the importance of reciprocity in promoting efficient, secure, and predictable cross‑border trade. Aligning treatment for reciprocal programs strengthens supply chains and reinforces longstanding economic and security partnerships between the United States and Canada,” said Brian Barber, President of the Northern Border Customs Brokers Association

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Cassidy, Lankford, Republican Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop Fraud, Protect Taxpayers

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and James Lankford (R-OK), and a group of Republican colleagues introduced the Stop Unemployment Fraud Act to strengthen safeguards against fraud in the unemployment insurance system and protect taxpayer dollars.

“The unemployment system should benefit Americans who are looking to get back on their feet, not scammers,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re eliminating the waste, fraud, and abuse in the system, saving taxpayer dollars and serving people who actually need it.”

“Making the government more efficient isn’t a partisan issue, it’s an American issue,” said Senator Lankford. “During COVID, fraudsters exploited loopholes in the unemployment system and stole billions while taxpayers were left with the bill. This legislation strengthens verification, improves coordination between states, and ensures benefits go to the Americans who actually qualify, not criminals exploiting the system.”

The Stop Unemployment Fraud Act would:

Strengthen identity verification requirements for unemployment claimants

Require states to cross-check claims using fraud detection systems to prevent duplicate or improper payments

End the “pay and chase” model by ensuring benefits are not issued before eligibility is verified

Strengthen work-search requirements and federal oversight of state compliance

Allow states to retain a portion of recovered overpayments to invest in fraud prevention and program administration

Cassidy and Lankford were joined by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Steve Daines (R-MT) and U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-16), Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Max Miller (R-OH-07), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Mike Kelly (R-PA-16), Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01), Carol Miller (R-WV-01), Vince Fong (R-CA-20), and Aaron Bean (R-FL-04) in introducing the legislation.

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Senator Collins Celebrates Progression of Camp Ellis Jetty Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the Maine Army Corps of Engineers has awarded the construction contract for Camp Ellis to construct a spur jetty.

Senator Collins secured $23 million to prevent erosion at Camp Ellis in Saco in 2025. The funding supports the construction of a 750-foot spur jetty and the replenishment of an estimated 300,000 cubic yards of sand fill. The first phase of construction is expected to be completed in August of 2027.

“The awarding of a construction contract is a key step in building a spur jetty at Camp Ellis,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this funding, which will protect against the severe erosion that has destroyed dozens of residents’ homes over generations, and restore the receding shoreline.”

“On behalf of the City of Saco, we cannot be more thankful for the hard work, dedication and most of all the support of Senator Collins in her attempt to bring this project to reality. She has been a never-ending advocate in our partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers to secure our jetty in an attempt to protect our shoreline and all the residents who live there,” said Jodi MacPhail, Mayor of Saco.

Background:

Over 150 years ago, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a jetty extending out from the Saco River, adjacent to Camp Ellis Beach, and expanded it in the 1950s. This jetty altered the pattern of currents and sand deposition and is the primary cause of the severe erosion of Camp Ellis, washing away 38 homes. The 1998 shoreline was 400 feet from where the shoreline stood in 1908.

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Cornyn Questions ATF Deputy Director on Bureau’s Hiring Plans, Efforts to Clarify Ambiguous Law, Protect Gun Owner Privacy

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today sent a letter to Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Deputy Director Robert Cekada following up on his Senate Judiciary Committee testimony last month with further questions regarding the Bureau’s plan to hire more agents, if it will address the Supreme Court’s decision in Bondi v. VanDerStok, as well as questions related to gun owner privacy. Sen. Cornyn’s questions are below, and full text of the letter is here.

At your confirmation hearing, you stated that the ATF is in the process of hiring up to 800 additional ATF agents. However, Congress cut ATF’s budget in its last two funding bills. Can you please provide information on how ATF plans to hire these new agents, where funding will come from, and who authorized the hiring plan?

In 2022, the Biden administration issued a Final Rule on the “Definition of ‘Frame or Receiver’ and Identification of Firearms.” See 87 Fed. Reg. 24652. After multiple parties challenged the legality of the Rule, the Supreme Court upheld it in Bondi v. VanDerStok, 604 U.S. 458 (2025). Unfortunately, the Court’s opinion failed to fully understand the nuanced legal issues at play in the case, and left gun owners without any real guidance on what types of privately made firearm products are legal. Are you committed to repealing or otherwise fixing the nightmare scenario gun owners face because of this opinion in a timely manner?

In 2021, ATF revealed to Congressman Michael Cloud that it had 920,664,765 records of guns and gun owners contained in a digital, searchable registry. ATF has not responded to Representative Cloud’s request for an updated record request for over a year, and we suspect that there are now over a billion records in ATF’s database, despite Congress banning gun registries under 18 U.S.C. § 926(a). Last Congress, former ATF Director Dettelbach testified that this database is not a registry because ATF pays Adobe Acrobat extra money to remove search-by-name functionality. Is this database an illegal gun registry? What steps do you plan to take to address this registry? Will ATF respond to Congressman Cloud’s inquiry?

Until recently, firearms dealers were required to keep certain records of firearms transactions for twenty years. President Biden, however, changed ATF regulations to require that firearm transaction records be kept permanently—effectively creating a registry of every gun sold from 2002 onwards. However, the national time-to-crime is less than ten years, and ATF reports very few traces which implicate firearm records that are older than twenty years. Do you oppose the Biden Administration’s permanent gun record keeping scheme? What will you do to ensure gun owner privacy?


On U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, Cornyn Calls for Renewed Emphasis on Texans David Barnes, Austin Tice

AUSTIN – On U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) called for renewed emphasis on the cases of Texans David Barnes, who has been wrongfully detained in Russia for more than four years, and Austin Tice, a Marine veteran who has been held captive in Syria for more than 13 years:

“For too long, innocent Texans like David Barnes and Austin Tice have been held in foreign countries under horrific conditions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “As we recognize U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, I urge President Trump and Secretary Rubio to continue their efforts to bring all hostages and wrongfully detained Americans home.”

Background:

In 2015, David Barnes was accused by his ex-wife of sexually abusing his two sons in Texas, one of whom has Russian nationality. An investigation found the accusation to not be credible, and no charges were filed against Barnes in the United States, and in 2022, Barnes traveled to Russia to regain contact with his sons and was arrested by Russian police, who had been informed by his ex-wife of the child sexual abuse accusations in Texas. In 2024, a Russian judge sentenced Barnes to 21 years in prison. Sen. Cornyn has been in contact with the State Department regarding Barnes’ case and has remained in consistent communication with Global Reach, an advocacy organization that is working to call attention to this case and sent a letter to President Trump last year.

While covering the Syrian Civil War as a journalist in 2012, Austin Tice was abducted in Syria by the Assad regime. Sen. Cornyn has been drawing focus to Tice’s case for more than a decade, including after the fall of the regime.


Senate Unanimously Passes Legislation to Provide Credit Monitoring Services for All Service Members

***Click here to download audio.***

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Servicemembers’ Credit Monitoring Enhancement Act on Thursday, giving servicemembers an effective tool to protect their credit and their financial peace of mind. The legislation, which now heads to the House, expands free credit monitoring to all service members, including non-active duty reservists and traditional National Guard members. Current eligibility is limited to active-duty service members and full-time National Guard members.

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the Servicemembers’ Credit Monitoring Enhancement Act in July 2025.

“Look, our service members put so much on the line to protect us and our way of life. And yet, it’s actually their sacrifices that leave them more vulnerable to financial fraud,” said Cramer. “We just want to ensure the men and women of the military have full access to credit monitoring services that will certainly help keep their information secure. The passage of the Servicemembers’ Credit Monitoring Enhancement Act is an important step to protecting the financial security of the members of our armed forces. I urge the House to pass this legislation before the end of the Congress.”

“Servicemembers are heroes who put their lives on the line for our nation and we must support them in every way we can,” said Klobuchar. “By making free credit monitoring available for every single member of our armed forces, this bipartisan legislation will improve the financial security of military families and give them greater peace of mind.”


Curtis, Coons Introduce Legislation to Protect Tropical Forests and Coral Reef Ecosystems

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Chris Coons (D-DE), introduced the Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the debt-for-nature swap program that allows developing countries that meet certain criteria to be relieved of debt owed to the United States in exchange for protecting and preserving tropical forests and coral reefs. Since its inception in 1998, this program has helped protect more than 67 million acres of tropical forests, which has not only preserved native wildlife and ecosystems, but has also helped protect the environment by sequestering over 50 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, which is the equivalent of taking more than 11 million cars off the road.

“Ecosystems like coral reefs and tropical forests are essential for the health of wildlife and the sustainability of our planet,” said Senator Curtis. “By partnering with developing nations on efforts to protect these habitats, our bipartisan legislation will help sustain biodiversity, uplift local economies, and strengthen global security against coercive economic influences.”

“From tropical rainforests to coral reefs, our global ecosystems sustain irreplaceable plants and wildlife while regulating our climate,” said Senator Coons. “The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation program has succeeded in saving millions of acres of those precious natural spaces, giving local communities control of their own futures while keeping our air and water cleaner and our futures brighter. I look forward to working with my colleagues here in the Senate to deliver this bill to the president’s desk.”

In addition to Senators Curtis and Coons, the legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

“The introduction of legislation to reauthorize the Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act is an important step toward unlocking innovative financing for the world’s most vulnerable tropical forests and coral reef ecosystems,” said Kerry Cesareo, Senior Vice President for Forests and Freshwater at World Wildlife Fund. “By strengthening this proven approach, we can help nations reduce debt burdens while investing in the natural systems that protect communities, support biodiversity, and promote our prosperity. We welcome this bipartisan commitment to solutions that deliver lasting environmental and economic benefits.”

“Senators Coons and Curtis are applauded for their leadership in introducing legislation in the U.S. Senate to renew the Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act,” said Kelly Keenan Aylward, Executive Director of Federal Affairs & Policy for the Wildlife Conservation Society. “This innovative policy converts eligible debt into long-term financing for on-the-ground conservation helping to protect intact forest and coral reefs while strengthening governance in the natural resource sector.”

“Thanks to the leadership of then-Representative Rob Portman, and to the support of the International Conservation Caucus Co-Chairs in the Senate & House for the past 20 years, the Tropical Forest Conservation Act (now the Tropical Forest & Coral Conservation Act) is responsible for conserving 126,000,000 acres globally,” said David Barron, ICCF Group Chairman. “Debt-for-nature swaps are the best investment America could make in setting aside land for local people and their economies.”

“The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act has helped conserve vital forests and coral reefs that have both local and global significance,” said Tom Cors, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs for The Nature Conservancy. “The law additionally paved the way for innovative conservation funding, leveraging public funding with private and philanthropic investment to help advance U.S. foreign policy interests globally. The Nature Conservancy is grateful to Senator Coons and Senator Curtis for their bipartisan leadership in introducing this important reauthorization.”


Duckworth, Durbin, Warnock, Booker and Blunt Rochester Introduce Resolution Honoring the Late Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr.

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) today introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr. The resolution recognizes his significant leadership during the Civil Rights Movement and his decades of advocacy in pursuit of justice, equality and human rights. Duckworth and Durbin attended Reverand Jackson’s homecoming service in Chicago last Friday.

“The great Reverend Jesse Jackson was a barrier-breaking civil rights giant who spent his life working to improve lives by helping patch America together into a great quilt of unity and common ground,” Duckworth said. “He leaves behind a legacy Chicago and our nation will never forget—we are better because of him, and I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to honor his life and work. While Reverend Jackson will be missed by so many, myself included, it’s now up to each of us to keep his hope and vision for the future alive for generations to come.”

“Reverend Jesse Jackson committed his life to the fight for civil rights. I counted him as an ally on many issues of social justice—and his legacy is alive and growing. I’m honored to introduce this resolution in the Senate for my friend,” said Durbin.

“Reverend Jesse Jackson spent his life working to ensure our nation lives up to its highest ideals,” said Warnock. “With an eloquence and rhythmic rhetoric all his own, he reminded America that equal justice is not inevitable; it requires vigilance and commitment, and for freedom fighters, sacrifice. His legacy will remain a beacon for generations to come, and I pray it inspires us to continue the work he started.”

“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a trailblazer and giant of the civil rights movement who spent his life on the front lines standing up for a more just and united America,” said Booker. “Through decades of activism, he inspired generations, proving that when people from every background come together with love, courage, and conviction, there is no limit to what we can achieve. His life stands as a lasting reminder that we all must come together and never stop fighting for a better America.”

Full text of the resolution is available on the Senator’s website.

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As Gas Prices Continue To Rise, Durbin Criticizes President Trump’s War Of Choice On Iran

Durbin: “President Trump found billions of dollars to wage his war against Iran, but cannot spare a penny to help Americans afford their groceries, mortgage, or health insurance.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor today criticizing President Trump for entering a war on Iran with no clear strategy and despite the President campaigning on “no new wars” if he were elected.

Durbin said, “President Trump has tried to position himself as the ‘Peace President,’ but his actions tell a different story. In the last year alone, he has conducted military operations across three continents and threatened to militarily takeover several countries, including Greenland from our NATO ally Denmark. With Iran, he [has] spiked gas prices, American lives lost, and [he created] risk and uncertainty in a difficult region. All, I worry, without a clear strategy or end game.”

“In the first six days of this war with Iran, the Administration and the White House announced six different reasons and rationales for the war. It’s apparent when you look at the reports of the countless Americans stranded in the Middle East that this Administration did not prepare a proper evacuation plan,” Durbin said.

Durbin also criticized President Trump for his harmful rhetoric regarding the war. Just last week when he was asked if we should be worried about retaliatory attacks on America, he responded “I guess.”

“This is a chillingly callous statement when faced with the prospect of American casualties. And recent briefings from this Administration did little to address the same concerns I had when I was one of 23 Senators in October 2002 to vote against the war in Iraq. When I listened to the rationale from the Trump Administration for our invasion of Iran, it sounds like the echo of the argument made in Iraq… Simply, it is easier to get into a war than it is to get out, and the President is going to discover that,” Durbin said.

Durbin then noted the cost of war. During the Iraq War, Durbin visited Walter Reed Hospital many times to see soldiers who had just returned from combat.

“I will never forget the rows of beds of young men and women with terrible injuries from roadside bombs and IEDs in the Iraq War. Many of these brave service members are still grappling with the wounds of war, whether from traumatic brain injuries or PTSD that they sustained in combat. That is the real cost of war—a war that this Administration cannot explain. The President said, ‘When you go to war, some people will die,’ [and] sadly he is telling us the truth,” Durbin continued.

Since entering the war, gas prices have continued to rise, and Americans are feeling the brunt of the financial costs of war.

Durbin continued, “Americans are not asking for yet another foreign entanglement. They are asking for a president who puts the American people first in terms of real challenges—[such] as the cost of living… President Trump found billions of dollars to wage his war against Iran but cannot spare a penny to help Americans afford their groceries, mortgage, or health insurance. My constituents are already paying more on their gas and energy bills because of the President’s chaos in the Middle East, and that will likely get worse.”

Durbin concluded, “There is no love lost between me and the Iranian regime. For decades, it has been a menace to the region and its own people. It is a worthwhile objective to prevent them from sponsoring terrorism and building nuclear weapons. But impulsive military attacks carry tremendous risk, uncertainty, and costs that may confront us and the region for months and years to come.”

Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

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Durbin, Duckworth, Warnock, Booker, And Blunt Rochester Introduce Resolution Honoring The Late reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr. The resolution recognizes his significant leadership during the Civil Rights Movement and his decades of advocacy in pursuit of justice, equality, and human rights. Durbin spoke on the late Reverend Jackson on the Senate floor a few weeks ago and attended his homecoming service in Chicago last Friday.

“Reverend Jesse Jackson committed his life to the fight for civil rights. I counted him as an ally on many issues of social justice—and his legacy is alive and growing. I’m honored to introduce this resolution in the Senate for my friend,” said Durbin.

“The great Reverend Jesse Jackson was a barrier-breaking civil rights giant who spent his life working to improve lives by helping patch America together into a great quilt of unity and common ground,” Duckworth said. “He leaves behind a legacy Chicago and our nation will never forget—we are better because of him, and I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to honor his life and work. While Reverend Jackson will be missed by so many, myself included, it’s now up to each of us to keep his hope and vision for the future alive for generations to come.”

“Reverend Jesse Jackson spent his life working to ensure our nation lives up to its highest ideals,” said Warnock. “With an eloquence and rhythmic rhetoric all his own, he reminded America that equal justice is not inevitable; it requires vigilance and commitment, and for freedom fighters, sacrifice. His legacy will remain a beacon for generations to come, and I pray it inspires us to continue the work he started.”

“Reverend Jesse Jackson was a trailblazer and giant of the civil rights movement who spent his life on the front lines standing up for a more just and united America,” said Booker. “Through decades of activism, he inspired generations, proving that when people from every background come together with love, courage, and conviction, there is no limit to what we can achieve. His life stands as a lasting reminder that we all must come together and never stop fighting for a better America.”

“In the days since his passing, I’ve been reflecting on Reverend Jesse Jackson’s legacy and what he meant to our country,” said Blunt Rochester. “As we confront this challenging moment in our nation’s history, may we all find inspiration in Rev. Jackson’s moral clarity and insistence that everyone deserves equality, dignity, and respect. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing this resolution to honor the life of this civil rights giant.”

Full text of the resolution is available here.

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Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Grant Ranch Grub & Pub

RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Grant Ranch Grub & Pub of Keokuk County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.

“Grant Ranch Grub & Pub is a shining example of how Iowa hospitality, family tradition, and entrepreneurial perseverance can be sandwiched together to make a big impact,” said Chair Ernst. “Through exceptional service, Danette Meyer and her team are serving up hometown flavor one plate at a time.”

Originally founded in the late 1960s by Duane and Mary Grant, the Grant Ranch name has long been associated with tradition and community. After changing locations over the decades, the name was revived in 2003 by their daughter, Sherry Fisher. Today, the Grant family’s first grandchild, Danette Meyer, continues the legacy and runs Grant Ranch Grub & Pub on Sigourney Square. Offering a full-service dining experience, the small business has quickly become a local favorite.

Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award.

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Gallego and Liccardo Demand Answers from Trump Administration on Russia Sanctions Relief

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16) demanded answers from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over recently announced sanctions relief for Russia—an active adversary currently providing Iran with intelligence to target and kill U.S. troops.

“The administration’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil now allows our enemies to profit from an estimated 145 million barrels of previously blockaded oil,” the lawmakers’ letter to Secretary Bessent reads. Meanwhile, Americans face skyrocketing prices at the pump as a direct result of Trump’s unauthorized attack on Iran.

“Even more troubling than the rise of oil prices is the lifeline the United States has given to Russia just as U.S. officials confirmed Russia is providing Iranian forces the locations of American military assets, including warships and aircraft. By providing this waiver, you have signaled that the United States will reward attacks on our troops, not deter them,” the lawmakers continue.

Hours after the news of Russian-Iranian collaboration surfaced, Secretary Bessent told Fox Business, “We may unsanction other Russian oil.”

“Trump just green-lit a waiver so India can keep buying Russian oil, going soft on Putin at a time when Russia is feeding Iran intelligence to target American troops. This is the result of a President who recklessly dragged our country into a war with Iran without a strategy, an endgame, or any clear understanding of the consequences,” said Senator Gallego.

“The American people deserve answers on why our warfighting women and men should perish while Russia profits,” said Rep. Liccardo. “This sanctions relief, framed as an effort to calm global energy markets, exposes this Administration’s lack of planning for its Middle East adventurism. Regardless of intent—whether knowingly supporting a country aiding and abetting Iran or merely shooting from the hip to appease the markets—this decision imperils American soldiers. Secretary Bessent must explain this decision and clarify whether this administration puts America—or Russia—first.”

Secretary Bessent has until March 14 to respond to the inquiry from Gallego and Liccardo. Both lawmakers sit on committees with jurisdiction over the U.S. Treasury—Banking in the Senate and Financial Services in the House—and plan to push for hearings.


Gallego, McCormick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Require VA Study Psychedelic Treatments for Veterans

WASHINGTON – Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and David McCormick (R-PA) introduced the Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that would increase federally funded research on innovative therapies to treat Veterans experiencing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder, and depression.

“When I came back from Iraq, I saw my fellow Marines, like so many other veterans, struggle to get the help they needed,” said Senator Gallego. “Our veterans sacrificed so much for this country. We owe it to them to explore every treatment that can help them heal, including therapeutic uses of psychedelics that may finally break through when others haven’t. I’m proud to lead this bill to help the VA study promising alternative therapies that can save lives.”

“Our veterans face disproportionately high rates of PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders due to combat exposure, trauma, and challenges that follow them home. Every day, 17 of them die by suicide. That must change,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “The Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act will ensure the VA keeps pace with the private sector by expanding access to cutting-edge treatments, like MDMA-assisted therapy, promoting ongoing research on veteran health outcomes, and closing gaps in treatment services for our veterans who need it most. We owe them nothing less than our very best.”

In December 2024, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced funding for a study on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD and alcohol use disorder among Veterans. This is the first time the VA has funded research on psychedelics since the 1960s. The Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act builds on this funding announcement by creating dedicated centers to study the therapeutic uses of psychedelic substances to treat a variety of conditions.

Specifically, the bill would:

Create at least 5 innovative therapies centers of excellence that would be designated by the VA.

Direct centers to conduct research on innovative therapies, including MDMA, ibogaine, ketamine, and psilocybin to treat anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, depression, Parkinson’s disease, PTSD, and substance use disorder in Veterans.

Require the VA to submit a report on findings and recommendations to improve the delivery of innovative therapies to Veterans.


Capitol Hill Report, 03-09-26

Audio from this afternoon’s call is available HERE.

Topics include: Iran, the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, the SAVE Act, Grassley’s 99 county meetings and the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.


Heinrich Demands Secretary Rubio Ramp Up Crisis Efforts to Safely Evacuate Americans Left Stranded by Trump's War of Choice Against Iran

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) sent a letter demanding that U.S. Department of State Secretary Marco Rubio immediately ramp up communication and efforts to safely evacuate American citizens who have been left stranded in a crisis of President Trump’s own making in the Middle East.

Even after President Trump admitted that there was no evacuation plan for Americans in the region when he launched his reckless and unconstitutional war of choice against Iran, Secretary Rubio continued to insist that the State Department is doing everything it can to help Americans abroad. Yet there are growing reports of frustrated and scared Americans who continue receiving conflicting guidance to both shelter in place and to immediately depart — all while airports and airspace remain closed.

Since President Trump launched his war, Heinrich has helped New Mexicans stranded abroad to return home. If you or a New Mexican you know are stranded abroad and need help evacuating safely, please call Heinrich’s office: +1 202-224-5521.

“We urge you to immediately ramp up your efforts to communicate and coordinate with the Americans who are caught in this widening conflict by opening a crisis intake form to facilitate better, direct communication with Americans who are seeking to leave the region to get to safety. Although we have seen announcements from various administration officials that assisted departure plans are in progress, our constituents remain in the dark,” Heinrich and colleagues wrote in a letter to Secretary Rubio. “Americans deserve a government that steps up to help them through times of crisis, not turn their back on them to fend for themselves.”

In the letter, Heinrich also noted that the rapidly changing situation has created an increased risk to U.S. Embassy personnel and their families across the Middle East after the State Department has been forced to close Embassies and navigate possible departures.

Heinrich also underscored his outrage at this clear lack of planning and preparedness: “The rapidly changing Embassy statuses raises questions of your department’s ability to effectively enable our own people to depart to safety or whether diplomats remain at risk alongside their families, despite being directed to urgently leave.”

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). Alongside Heinrich, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Chris Van Hollen (D-M.d.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii).

The full text of the letter is here and below:

Dear Secretary Rubio:

We write to demand you urgently initiate appropriate crisis response and assisted departures to ensure the safety and protection of American citizens who are now caught against their will in the fallout of President Trump’s reckless war of choice against Iran that has triggered retaliatory attacks against military and civilian targets in multiple countries. As President Trump himself admitted in the Oval Office yesterday, there was no evacuation plan for Americans in the region because “it happened all very quickly.” As a result, American citizens across the Middle East have been left without adequate support or communications and without viable options to leave the region as your department provides conflicting guidance to both shelter in place and to immediately depart via commercial means—which appear to be largely out of reach for most of our impacted constituents.

We urge you to immediately ramp up your efforts to communicate and coordinate with the Americans who are caught in this widening conflict by opening a crisis intake form to facilitate better, direct communication with Americans who are seeking to leave the region to get to safety. Although we have seen announcements from various administration officials that assisted departure plans are in progress, our constituents remain in the dark. You must take more concrete steps to facilitate the departure of these citizens in danger. While we have seen our friends and allies facilitate charter flights and your department has made announcements about facilitating charter flights, our constituents have experienced conflicting information about how to access evacuation support and if that support is available. Americans deserve a government that steps up to help them through times of crisis, not turn their back on them to fend for themselves.

The rapidly changing situation has also created increased risk to our U.S. Embassy personnel and their families across the Middle East, as your department has been forced to close Embassies and abruptly shift between authorized and ordered departure statuses. Although these options can be standard responses to unpredictable crises, this crisis is of President Trump’s own making, and the regional reaction has appeared to spin outside your control and has compounded the risks to our people. The rapidly changing Embassy statuses raises questions of your department’s ability to effectively enable our own people to depart to safety or whether diplomats remain at risk alongside their families, despite being directed to urgently leave.

Accordingly, we request you not only quickly take these actions but also provide the following information for us no later than March 6, 2025.

Please confirm when you will open a crisis intake form and what decisions led to the delay between relying on STEP only and moving to crisis intake.

What is the status of planned charter flights to facilitate departure for American citizens across the region? How are you determining which countries in the region require assisted departures to evacuate private U.S. citizens?

Are you planning to facilitate assisted departure from all 14 of the countries and regions from which the Department has advised immediate evacuation?

What metrics are you using to evaluate use of charter flights versus military flights to support assisted departures?

Given frequent airspace closures, describe what other avenues, such as ground transport, you are considering for facilitating potential evacuation support for American citizens.

Describe what planning you did for Embassy personnel and their families to facilitate their timely evacuation in the lead up to being placed on authorized or ordered departure.

Provide the status of Missions on authorized and ordered departure and to what extent those personnel and families seeking to depart have been able to do so.

How many Americans are currently in the 14 countries and regions from which the Department has advised immediate departure? How many Americans in these locations have requested departure assistance from the Department?

Sincerely,

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Heinrich Leads N.M. & Texas Colleagues to Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Rate Cuts for Veterans’ Essential Homecare Services

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich led U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) to urge U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to reverse the Trump administration’s cuts to reimbursement rates for essential home health care services for veterans across New Mexico and parts of Texas.

Due to the Trump Administration’s cuts, as of January 1, 2026, the reimbursement rate for veterans’ home care services in New Mexico fell by nearly 20 percent, which could result in fewer veterans receiving necessary home services. Approximately 68,000 New Mexico veterans over the age of 65 rely on VA health care, and nationally, one in ten of these veterans use at least one home health care service.

The rate cuts come as the Trump administration is reportedly spending nearly $900 million a day on their war in Iran — putting their reckless war of choice above caring for veterans.

“Our country’s veterans answered the call to serve and defended our freedoms. They should have access to the care they have earned and need to live in dignity. Your cuts directly threaten that, particularly in New Mexico and Texas,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to Secretary Collins. “Veterans receiving home health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs have serious disabilities and conditions. To put it simply, the homecare services provided to these veterans are not luxuries.”

The lawmakers continued, “Impacts from the rate cuts are already being felt. Since the new rates went into effect on January 1, 2026, homecare providers in our states have had to lay off staff. That is undoubtedly resulting in less veterans receiving the care they have earned and deserve, particularly given that our states have high numbers of elderly veterans requiring high levels of care.”

“We urge you to reverse the reimbursement rate cuts and return these rates to 2025 levels immediately,” the lawmakers concluded.

Last week, Heinrich met with veteran-serving health care providers to discuss the impacts of the Trump administration’s rate cuts for veterans’ essential homecare services.

For additional background on Heinrich’s efforts to support New Mexico veterans, click here.

The full text of the letter is here and below.

Dear Secretary Collins,

We have serious concerns about your recent cuts to essential home health care services for veterans, and we urge you to reverse them. Our country’s veterans answered the call to serve and defended our freedoms. They should have access to the care they have earned and need to live in dignity. Your cuts directly threaten that, particularly in New Mexico and Texas.

Veterans receiving home health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have serious disabilities and conditions. To put it simply, the Homemaker/Home Health Aides (homecare) services provided to these veterans are not luxuries. They are nothing less than lifesaving services for disabled and elderly veterans. Homecare providers ensure veterans take the right medicines, are fed a hot meal every day, receive fresh clothes and clean sheets, and assist with many other activities for daily living. These providers ensure that veterans are cared for and not forgotten. Without them, many veterans would have nowhere to turn.

The decreased payment rates issued by the VA on November 25, 2025, however, are making it untenable for existing homecare providers to retain adequate staff in New Mexico and Texas. Under these new rates, which differ by locality, New Mexico’s reimbursement rate fell from $16.75 to $13.50 – a nearly 20% decrease. Similarly, certain rural regions of Texas received a 43% cut to home health reimbursement. These are the only two regions facing such significant changes.

These cuts are on top of the disproportionate impact to homecare providers in our states. That’s because the VA’s reimbursement rates do not include time and money spent for commuting. And homecare providers in the impacted areas of Texas and New Mexico often must travel long distances through rural and remote areas to deliver care to veterans in their homes.

Impacts from the rate cuts are already being felt. Since the new rates went into effect on January 1, 2026, homecare providers in our states have had to lay off staff. That is undoubtedly resulting in less veterans receiving the care they have earned and deserve, particularly given that our states have high numbers of elderly veterans requiring high levels of care.

Given our concerns, we request answers to the following questions:

What methodology did the VA use to calculate the reimbursement rates for these two regions?

Why are these two regions disproportionately facing significant decreases to home health reimbursement, as compared to other regions?

Does the VA plan to adjust these rates before the end of 2026?

What steps is the VA taking to ensure continuity of care to veterans receiving home care services in these regions?

How many veterans in New Mexico and Texas have lost or been unable to receive needed home care services since the new rates went into effect?

This administration decided to drastically cut reimbursements for home health providers in New Mexico and Texas. That decision was unacceptable and irresponsible. In addition to answering our questions, we urge you to reverse the reimbursement rate cuts and return these rates to 2025 levels immediately.

We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

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Hickenlooper, Reed Push to Ban Online Gambling on Military Operations

Demands come after several online prediction market users made millions in profit on bets surrounding Iran military operations

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Jack Reed sent a letter to Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chair Michael Selig calling on the CFTC to prohibit gambling contracts on events tied to U.S. military operations. The letter follows reporting that users on Polymarket profited off the timing of U.S. strikes in Iran and the death of Iranian Ayatollah, Ali Khamenei.

“To address dangerous national security, market integrity, and immoral outcomes, the CFTC must enforce the law and immediately halt trading in event contracts tied to U.S. military operations. Given the high potential for insider trading and evidence that insider trading did in fact occur in the “Iran strike” contract on Polymarket, we urge the CFTC to investigate this matter on platforms that the agency regulates and ultimately bring big cases to punish significant wrongdoers,” the senators wrote. “These contracts are so dangerous to the national security of the United States and so offensive to U.S. values that they far outweigh any legitimate risk-management purpose.”

Online prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket function like online casinos, allowing users to wager directly on real events such as sports, elections, corporate earnings, economic data, award shows, and more in a user-friendly setting under the guise of financial trading language.

The CFTC regulates prediction markets in the U.S., and under current law, regulated prediction markets in the U.S. cannot allow users to place bets on wars or assassinations. While Polymarket is headquartered in the United States, its current operations are exclusively overseas and its platform is purportedly not open to U.S. users. By contrast, Kalshi is a CFTC-regulated prediction market available to U.S. retail investors but has exploited loopholes to allow users to place bets. Both platforms have hired Donald Trump Jr. as a formal advisor and his venture capital firm has made multi-million dollar investments in Polymarket.

In the past year, there have been multiple instances of suspicious betting activity on military operations. For instance, ahead of the July 2025 day war between Israel and Iran, an anonymous Polymarket user correctly predicted the timeline for that 12-day war and profited more than $150,000 before going dormant for six months. That account became active again just before last weekend’s U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Hickenlooper previously sent a letter to the Trump admin demanding their plan to combat manipulation and fraud in prediction markets. This letter followed reports that just hours before the U.S. raid that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a newly created Polymarket account wagered over $30,000 that Maduro would be out of office by the end of the month – netting more than $400,000 in profit.

Full text of the letter HERE and below:

Dear Chairman Selig:

We write to urge the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to prohibit event contracts tied to U.S. military operations and investigate whether any insider trading has occurred in connection with recent military strikes against Iran.

Event contracts are derivatives that provide anyone with the chance to wager on whether something will occur. Under the Dodd-Frank Act and the CFTC’s rules, event contracts that “involve, relate to, or reference assassination or war” are prohibited. This category includes event contracts that predict whether a U.S. adversary will no longer be in office, such as Ayatollah Khameini in Iran, Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, or Miguel Diaz-Canel in Cuba. Because these leaders are so entrenched and protected by vast military forces, their continued leadership is perceived to be completely insulated from removal except by armed intervention. As a result, event contracts referencing their ouster “involve or relate to” war.

These contracts are so dangerous to the national security of the United States and so offensive to U.S. values that they far outweigh any legitimate risk-management purpose. Traders with inside information that specific geopolitical events will occur or who can directly influence such events can easily buy event contracts. Given the high potential for insider trading, a surge in buying activity and a rapid price increase can signal that the reference event will occur. Such a pattern could tip off our adversaries that U.S. intervention is imminent. By contrast, speculation in traditional financial instruments that may be linked to geopolitical instability, such as oil, gold, and currencies, do not send direct and specific signals that an attack in one specific country is imminent. And the ability to trade event contracts tied to violent geopolitical events could create financial incentives for someone to actually commit violence for profit.

Activity in prediction markets regarding the war with Iran that began on February 28 demonstrates how event contracts tied to U.S. military operations are morally repugnant and provide no social benefit. On offshore platform Polymarket, which is not regulated by the CFTC, at least six wallets made more than $1 million in profits in just hours by betting that the U.S. or Israel would strike Iran by that date. According to reporting by Bloomberg, this activity is the “hallmark” of insider trading. An investigation is already underway by Israeli authorities. On CFTC-regulated platform Kalshi, traders bet whether Ayatollah Khameini would be “out as Supreme Leader” by that date. Kalshi was still promoting the Khameini market as its “featured market” throughout the day of military strikes, encouraging speculation on war or death. After Khameini died, the platform “clarified” that payouts under the contract would be limited and announced that some trading fees would be refunded. Despite these efforts, many traders still apparently profited from price appreciation after the strikes had started but before Khameini’s death was confirmed. The contract resolved when Khameini died, providing strong evidence that this is a death market and that traders profited directly from speculation on war.

Insiders face little risk of penalty under the CFTC’s current enforcement program. The insider trading laws for commodities markets are underdeveloped compared to analogous laws in securities markets. To date, the CFTC has not brought a single enforcement case involving prediction markets. All the CFTC has done is issue a press release highlighting two minor infractions that were addressed internally under Kalshi’s own terms and conditions, one involving $246.36 in illicit profits and another involving $5,397.58. That signals a lax oversight regime and will not deter insider trading.

To address dangerous national security, market integrity, and immoral outcomes, the CFTC must enforce the law and immediately halt trading in event contracts tied to U.S. military operations. Given the high potential for insider trading and evidence that insider trading did in fact occur in the “Iran strike” contract on Polymarket, we urge the CFTC to investigate this matter on platforms that the agency regulates and ultimately bring big cases to punish significant wrongdoers.

We would appreciate your immediate action on this important matter and look forward to your prompt reply.

Sincerely,

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Kelly, Barrasso Introduce Bill to Cut Red Tape on Rural Economic Development

Today, Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced bipartisan legislation to make federal grants more accessible for rural communities across the country. The EDA Short Form Application Act would require the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to work with leaders in rural communities to streamline and simplify the grant application process.

“Too many rural communities have great ideas to grow their local economies but get stuck navigating complicated federal paperwork,” said Kelly. “By creating a short form application and working directly with rural leaders, we’re making it easier for communities to access the resources they deserve to invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and small businesses.”

“Wyoming’s small businesses and rural communities keep our state’s economy going strong. We want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed,” said Barrasso. “Too many of Wyoming’s smaller communities miss out on federal grant opportunities due to the confusing, burdensome, and time-consuming application process. The EDA Short Form Application Act will bring economic development grants within rural Wyoming’s reach. Cutting red tape and creating a shorter, more relevant process will make it easier for Wyoming’s rural communities to successfully apply for these valuable grants.”

“Arizona’s rural communities should not be at a disadvantage when competing for federal opportunities,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “The EDA Short Form Application Act will cut through red tape and ease the burden on small cities and towns across our state. We appreciate Senator Kelly’s leadership and his commitment to supporting rural Arizona.”

“The Wyoming Economic Development Association supports the EDA Short Form Act because it would make federal programs more accessible and impactful for communities across our state. Smaller towns often lack the personnel to navigate lengthy federal processes and simplifying applications while empowering state partners like the Wyoming Business Council to design programs with input from economic development organizations and municipalities would ensure that resources reach communities of every size. Overall, this effort represents a positive step toward aligning federal investment with local capacity, strengthening Wyoming’s ability to grow businesses, support municipalities, and invest in workforce and infrastructure,” said Wyoming Economic Development Association Acting Administrator AshleyHarpstreith.

“The National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) strongly supports this legislation to establish the use of short form applications for rural communities applying for grant programs, through the Economic Development Administration (EDA). We believe that simplifying the EDA’s application processes, reducing requests for information that is already available in several other government datasets, and increasing transparency in review criteria will directly improve access to critical funding for small, under-resourced rural communities, enabling more participation in federal economic development programs. NREDA thanks Senator Barrasso for his leadership on this important issue and we urge Congress to pass this bill quickly,” said National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA).

“On behalf of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and the thousands of economic development organizations and professionals we serve across the country, I want to thank Senator Barrasso for his work and leadership on S.5241, the EDA Short Form Application Act. This legislation would help make federal economic development grants more accessible for rural communities across the country. By directing the U.S. Economic Development Administration to work directly with rural communities to streamline and simplify the grant application process, this bill recognizes the capacity challenges many communities face and takes a practical step to ensure federal resources can reach the places that need them most. IEDC appreciates Senator Barrasso’s continued leadership and commitment to advancing practical reforms that strengthen rural economies and improve access to economic development tools that drive economic prosperity,” said International Economic Development Council President and CEO Nathan Ohle.

TheEDA Short Form Application Actwould:

Require the establishment and use of short form applications for rural communities applying for economic development grant programs, and for other purposes.

Require the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to consult a representative group of rural stakeholders for input on the following criteria:

The length of the applications,

The information and documentation required or requested to be submitted as part of the applications,

The degree of applicability to rural communities of questions in the applications and information and documentation described requested, and

Any other considerations the Assistant Secretary determines to be necessary for the establishment of the short form application.


Kelly, Blumenthal, Pappas Introduce Bill to Immediately Lower Gas Prices at the Pump

In light of skyrocketing gas prices due to war in Iran, bill would temporarily suspend the 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax and provide families economic relief from high gas prices

Read: “US Senator Kelly proposes suspending federal gas tax through October 1”

Today, U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Gas Prices Relief Act to lower gas prices by temporarily suspending the 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax through October 1, 2026, providing much-needed relief for families in Arizona and across the country who rely on their cars to get to work, school, and run everyday errands. Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH-01) will introduce companion legislation in the House.

According to the American Automobile Association, gas prices in Arizona have risen an average of 54 cents in the past week, bringing the statewide average to $3.85 per gallon. This increase outpaces the national average, which rose 48 cents to $3.48 over the same period. Arizona is now among the ten most expensive gasoline markets in the country, according to AAA, reflecting broader increases in crude oil prices linked to instability in global energy markets because of the war in Iran.

“Families across Arizona are dealing with high costs on almost everything, and now gas prices are skyrocketing because Donald Trump started a war with Iran,” saidSenatorKelly. “Arizona families shouldn’t pay the price for Donald Trump’s bad decisions. Suspending the federal gas tax would help bring prices down and give families some much needed relief.”

“This legislation temporarily suspends the federal gas tax, lowering high gas prices squeezing consumers and bringing much needed financial relief to American families. Trump’s war of choice with Iran is driving up gas prices across the country—and Americans shouldn’t have to bear the additional economic burden of Trump’s reckless decision making. With the Gas Prices Relief Act, we address rising costs plaguing Americans and ensure they are not footing the bill for Trump’s war with Iran,” said Senator Blumenthal.

“As Granite Staters continue to grapple with high costs on groceries, housing, and health care thanks to this administration, the last thing they need is to pay even higher prices at the gas pump as a result of Donald Trump’s war in Iran,”said Congressman Pappas. “That is why I’m introducing legislation in the House to suspend the gas tax through October 1, 2026, and provide Americans with badly-needed relief from the historic increase in gas prices we have seen in just the last few days. The legislation would also hold oil companies accountable if they refuse to pass these savings along to consumers. I am grateful to Senator Kelly for leading this critical effort in the Senate, and I remain committed to using every resource available to bring down costs and ensure that families and small businesses are not paying the price for this administration’s reckless actions.”

The Gas Prices Relief Act of 2026 would lower gas prices and deliver economic relief to Americans across the country by:

Suspending the 18.4 cents per gallon federal gas tax through October 1, 2026, helping reduce the cost of filling up the tank for drivers across the country.

Ensuring savings reach consumers and not oil companies by directing the Secretary of the Treasury to monitor the program and use available authorities to help ensure that the benefits of the tax suspension are passed on to consumers at the pump.

Protecting critical infrastructure funding by requiring the Department of the Treasury to transfer funds from the general fund to the Highway Trust Fund and the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to keep these programs fully funded during the tax holiday.


King Leads Bicameral Amicus Brief Challenging Trump’s Plans for Illegal Monument on National Park Service Land

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, is joining several of his Senate and House colleagues in filing an amicus brief that would put a stop to President Trump’s plan to construct a commemorative arch on federal property. The amicus brief argues that the President’s plan is illegal unless Congress authorizes it. Joining Senator King as the House of Representatives leader in this challenge is Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA2), who serves as Ranking Member on the House Natural Resources Committee. The amicus brief supports a lawsuit brought by a group of Vietnam War veterans and a retired architectural historian to block construction of the proposed arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.

Specifically, the case concerns whether President Trump can bypass federal law requiring congressional approval for monuments on federal land in Washington, D.C. The Commemorative Works Act and 40 U.S.C. § 8106 both require express authorization from Congress before any monument or structure is built on federal reservations, parks, or public grounds in the nation's capital. The Independence Arch, slated for Memorial Circle in Lady Bird Johnson Park, has received no such authorization. In response to an inquiry from Senator King on this matter, the independent Congressional Research Service found that “the CWA would appear to govern the construction of the arch. Likewise, § 8106 would appear to require congressional authorization to construct a memorial arch in Memorial Circle.”

“This is a straightforward example of checks and balances, and an exercise of Congressional authority – the Commemorative Works Act could not be clearer: any structure on grounds like this must be approved by Congress on behalf of the American people,” said Senator King. “Whether it is an arch, an obelisk, a ballroom, or a statue, this is a decision that cannot be made unilaterally when it is on public lands and protected by statute.”

The Independence Arch would be constructed in Memorial Circle within Lady Bird Johnson Park, which falls under Area I of the Commemorative Works Act, requiring additional congressional approval for any new commemorative works. Since the CWA's enactment in 1986, Congress has authorized more than 40 commemorative works through the statutory process. The law establishes consultation requirements with expert commissions and multiple layers of review to ensure new monuments reflect lasting national significance and preserve the integrity of the city’s original layout.

In addition to King and Huffman, the amicus brief is being supported by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and U.S Representatives Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), and Maxine Dexter (D-OR).

The full text of the amicus brief can be found here. The full findings of the Congressional Research Service can be found here.

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