Reps. Sara Jacobs, Joaquin Castro Push For Answers on Civilian Casualties from U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela

Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Founder and Co-Chair of the Protection of Civilians in Conflict Caucus, and Rep. Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs’ Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, demanded answers about the reported civilian casualties resulting from U.S. military operations in Venezuela in January. In a letter to SOUTHCOM Commander General Frances Donovan, the lawmakers requested information on SOUTHCOM’s mitigation and response plans for civilian casualties broadly and specifically regarding Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela.

Read the Letter Here

The lawmakers wrote:

Dear General Donovan:

We write to express our concerns around reported civilian casualties during U.S. Operation Absolute Resolve in Caracas, Venezuela on January 3 and to inquire about SOUTHCOM’s policies, procedures, and staffing related to civilian harm mitigation and response (CHMR).

At least seven civilian deaths or injuries were publicly reported by multiple independent media outlets after Operation Absolute Resolve. According to civilian harm watchdog Airwars, at least two civilian women and two civilian men were reported killed across separate U.S. strikes, with additional reports of serious injuries to at least one elderly civilian woman. Extensive damage was also identified to civilian infrastructure, including almost complete destruction of civilian homes.

It is Department of Defense policy to receive reports of civilian harm and conduct civilian harm assessments to assess whether civilian harm occurred, enable learning to improve DoD operations, and facilitate acknowledgements and other appropriate responses to civilians harmed by U.S. military operations. This policy was mandated by Congress on a bipartisan basis in 2019 and developed largely under the first Trump Administration. In accordance with this policy, combatant commands developed new positions to advise commanders on key civilian harm issues. Kinetic combatant commands such as CENTCOM and AFRICOM also developed civilian harm assessment cells to receive, assess, respond to, and learn from civilian harm reports from their operations.

Military leaders have validated the strategic value of these efforts and resourcing. Retired four star General Joseph Votel, former Commander of US CENTCOM, stated, “If you cause so many civilian casualties and you cause so much civilian harm here, it can actually undermine the mission that the military has been sent in to do… In my view, I think the benefit to be gained by supporting these [CHMR] positions, I think it outweighs the movement of resources to other places.” SOCOM Commander General Bryan Fenton told the Senate Armed Services Committee last year that protecting civilians is “part of who we are and what we stand for,” and these efforts have supported SOCOM’s operations. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine also told the Committee that “the combatant commands see positive impacts from the [CHMR] program,” including the creation of a CHMR workforce, updates to doctrine, and ongoing education and training.

However, it is our understanding that due to broader Department-wide cuts to the CHMR workforce, SOUTHCOM currently has only one contractor assigned to CHMR, down from at least four staff. Additionally, as a Command that was not previously engaged in kinetic operations, SOUTHCOM does not have an established civilian harm assessment cell. Therefore, we request information on your plans for mitigating and responding to civilian casualties from U.S. military operations in the SOUTHCOM area of responsibility and to supporting their implementation. Specifically, we request your answers to the following questions by March 20:

How many full-time staff does SOUTHCOM currently have dedicated to civilian harm mitigation and response (CHMR)? What are their roles?

What steps is SOUTHCOM taking to implement DoD Instruction 3000.17, “Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response”?

What resources does SOUTHCOM require to fully implement DoD Instruction 3000.17 and improve its capacity to mitigate and respond to civilian harm?

What steps did SOUTHCOM take to anticipate, prevent, and mitigate civilian harm during Operation Absolute Resolve?

Is SOUTHCOM aware of reports of civilian harm from Operation Absolute Resolve?

How many civilians does SOUTHCOM assess were killed, injured, or suffered property damage during Operation Absolute Resolve? Please list the incidents, including locations.

How does SOUTHCOM plan to receive, assess, learn from, and respond to reports of civilian harm from Operation Absolute Resolve? Does SOUTHCOM plan to establish a Civilian Harm Assessment Cell (CHAC)?

How can individuals or civil society organizations with information about civilian harm incidents report these to SOUTHCOM?

How does SOUTHCOM plan to respond to credible instances of civilian harm, including through acknowledgements, apologies, and ex gratia payments?

U.S. law requires the Department of Defense to annually report to Congress on civilian casualties caused as a result of U.S. military operations. CENTCOM and AFRICOM also regularly report on civilian casualty assessments and findings as a matter of policy in periodic public press releases. When does SOUTHCOM plan to publicly report on the status of its civilian harm assessments?

What is SOUTHCOM’s relationship with the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence (CPCOE)? What is the role of the CPCOE in supporting SOUTHCOM's civilian harm mitigation and response efforts?

DoD Instruction 3000.17 emphasizes the role of DoD engagement with civil society organizations and humanitarian groups to enhance understanding of civilian presence and risks. What is SOUTHCOM’s relationship with civil society organizations? What steps is SOUTHCOM taking to expand meaningful engagement with civil society actors operating in the SOUTHCOM area to better mitigate and respond to civilian harm?

We respectfully request this information and documentation no later than March 10, 2026. Thank you for your attention to this important matter and we look forward to your response.


Scalise on Democrats’ DHS Shutdown: Dangerous for America

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Yesterday, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on NewsNation's Katie Pavlich Tonight to discuss President Trump confronting Iran, Markwayne Mullin’s nomination to Secretary of Homeland Security, and Democrats refusing to fully fund the government while America is on high alert.

Image


Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens Statement on Dismal March Jobs Report

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) released the following statement in reaction to stunning job loss numbers in February:

“Today’s dismal jobs report finally catches up to what Michiganders have been feeling for months: workers and businesses are finding it harder and harder to get by thanks to Donald Trump’s reckless tariffs. Rather than listen to warnings from top economists, pleas from Michigan families, and orders from the Supreme Court, Donald Trump is doubling down and working to force more pain on Americans at the pump, at the checkout counter, and at the dealership. I will keep fighting to lower costs, end Trump’s painful tariffs, and create more opportunities for Michiganders to get good-paying jobs.”

###


Stevens, Feenstra Reintroduce Legislation to Ensure Cutting Edge Quantum Computing Research Brings Benefits to Main Street America

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) and Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) reintroduced the Quantum in Practice Act, legislation that would ensure quantum molecular simulations and modeling are included in the National Quantum Initiative.

Quantum molecular simulations and modeling will enable scientists to study chemical elements and reactions with unprecedented precision. By harnessing the power of quantum computing, researchers can better understand molecular behavior, including nitrogen fixation, a key process in producing fertilizer for our agriculture industry.

“Michigan is where advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge research drive innovation,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “By expanding federal research on quantum simulations and modeling, we can power breakthroughs in automotive technology, battery development, and advanced materials. The Quantum in Practice Act is about making sure Michigan’s workers, manufacturers, and researchers lead the way and turning scientific discovery into economic growth.”

“Representing one of the largest agricultural districts in the nation, it is my priority to ensure that our farmers have access to the tools and technologies they need to succeed,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Breakthrough research in quantum computing has the potential to lower input costs for farmers, improve energy storage capabilities, and produce safer, more effective medications. I am proud to reintroduce this important legislation to ensure that our Main Streets, farmers, and small businesses can benefit from these cutting-edge advancements. By investing in quantum research, we can strengthen our agricultural sector, streamline fertilizer production, and enhance quality of life across Iowa’s Fourth District.”

This legislation is supported by IBM, Infleqtion, D-Wave, Quantinuum, the NSF Institute for Robust Quantum Simulation, and the NSF IUCRC Center for Quantum Technologies.

“The passage of the Quantum in Practice Act would mark a pivotal moment for U.S. leadership in quantum science and its translation into real-world impact,” said Gretchen Campbell, Associate Vice President for Quantum Research and Education at the University of Maryland. “At the University of Maryland, we are committed to advancing quantum research and preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers and practitioners. This legislation will accelerate that mission and help ensure that quantum innovations conceived in our labs can become the technologies that power tomorrow’s economy.”

“By including the Quantum in Practice Act in the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) reauthorization, we believe that the U.S. government will strengthen the emphasis on applied sciences across its quantum efforts,” said Allison Schwartz, D-Wave’s Senior Vice President, Global Government Relations and Public Affairs. “It’s critical that government collaborate with industry to identify the most complex public-sector challenges and leverage the strengths of each approach to quantum computing — annealing and gate-model quantum computing. Annealing quantum systems can provide solutions to challenging optimization problems today, while gate-model systems will be able to tackle other problems sets like quantum chemistry in the future. We strongly support efforts to reauthorize, expand, and advance the NQI to accelerate modernization and support holistic U.S. quantum programs.”

“Indiana University is grateful to Representative Feenstra for continuing to champion this important legislation,” said Russ Mumper, Vice President for Research at Indiana University. “The Quantum in Practice Act helps ensure that federal research policy supports tools that IU researchers are already using today to better understand how molecules and materials behave at the smallest scales. That means scientists can more accurately predict how chemicals will react, how new materials might perform, or how to design better technologies before ever stepping into a lab. This legislation helps accelerate that progress and keeps the United States competitive in a rapidly advancing field."

“We strongly support the Quantum in Practice Act, which would allow experts to leverage quantum computing to study chemical reactions with increased accuracy and strengthen our nation's research leadership,” said Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO of Quantinuum. “This legislation, and the larger Reauthorization of the NQIA, is an important step for U.S. leadership in quantum science and comes at a moment of growing geopolitical urgency. We applaud Representative Feenstra for his leadership in this area."

“As quantum technologies mature, the focus is increasingly shifting from research to real-world deployment,” said Dr. Pranav Gokhale, CTO, Infleqtion. "Efforts that explore how quantum computing can be applied to practical industrial challenges, including areas like advanced materials, energy systems, and agricultural inputs, reflect an important step in understanding where these technologies can deliver meaningful impact. Continued collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions will be essential to translating quantum innovation into measurable economic and societal value.”

By ensuring federal quantum research efforts to include quantum molecular simulations, the legislation supports scientific breakthroughs across multiple industries, including:

Next-Generation Fertilizers – Modeling the nitrogen fixation process used by bacteria to develop synthetic fertilizers with significantly lower energy and material costs than current production methods.

Safer, More Effective Medicines – Designing medications with improved efficacy while minimizing harmful interactions and side effects.

Advanced Energy Storage – Developing new materials that increase battery capacity and enable more powerful, efficient energy storage technologies.

Stronger, Lighter Metals – Engineering advanced metals with improved strength-to-weight ratios for industrial and commercial applications.

Enhanced Protective Gear – Creating more durable and resilient materials for law enforcement and military personnel.

Next-Generation Conductors – Accelerating the discovery of new superconducting materials to improve energy transmission and advanced technologies.


Reps. Subramanyam, Bilirakis Reintroduce Bipartisan HEALTHY BRAINS Act to Advance Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the Harmonizing Environmental Analyses and Launching Therapeutic Hubs to Yield Bolstered Research And Innovation in Neurological Science, or HEALTHY BRAINS Act. The announcement was made at a press conference at the U.S. Capitol with former Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, and other advocates.

“We know far too little about the environmental factors that may increase the risk for neurodegenerative disorders,” Rep. Subramanyam said. “These diseases rob individuals of their mobility, memory, independence, and most importantly, time. This bill will ensure vital research is conducted so we can get answers for patients and their families. Thank you to my friend and mentor Jennifer Wexton, the original author of the HEALTHY BRAINS Act.”

“We know that research is the key to developing a better understanding of disease and holds the promise of more effective treatments - and ultimately, cures,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Through the HEALTHY BRAINS Act, we are investing in research that will help us better understand the environmental factors that may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. I am optimistic that this work will lead to improved health outcomes for millions of Americans who are suffering from these devastating conditions.”

The HEALTHY BRAINS Act directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish Collaborative Centers for Neurodegenerative Disease Environmental Research. These Centers will:

Conduct and support research specifically targeting environmental risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases.

Partner with researchers, health professionals, nonprofits, patients, and caregivers.

Encourage the development of a nationwide neurodegenerative disease data system and a public clearinghouse for environmental risk factor knowledge.

“The reintroduction of the HEALTHY BRAINS Act in the House marks an important step toward safeguarding the brain health of millions of Americans,” said Dan Feehan, Chief Policy and Government Affairs Officer at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. “Parkinson’s disease and atypical parkinsonisms are the fastest-growing neurological conditions in the world, affecting more than 1.2 million Americans today. By investing in dedicated research centers and strengthening collaboration across sectors, this bipartisan legislation advances a smarter, more coordinated federal response to understanding and addressing environmental risk factors for these diseases. The Michael J. Fox Foundation applauds Representatives Bilirakis and Subramanyam for championing this effort and extends special thanks to former Representative Jennifer Wexton for her support. We look forward to continuing our together to protect brain health for current and future generations.”

“The HEALTHY BRAINS Act advances research into not only what causes ALS, but how to prevent it,” said Calaneet Balas, president and CEO of the ALS Association. “This innovative legislation accelerates research into the environmental and occupational factors that may cause ALS and includes people living with ALS in the process. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Subramanyam and Congressman Bilirakis for their leadership in the fight against ALS.”

“Most experts agree that Parkinson’s disease is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors,” said Parkinson’s Foundation Executive Vice President & Chief Strategy and Policy Officer, Andi Lipstein Fristedt. “The Healthy Brains Act would help us better understand how toxic exposures and other risk factors contribute to brain diseases like Parkinson’s. We are grateful to the leadership of Representatives Subramanyam and Bilirakis for leading this important work.”


Rep. Tokuda Votes to Rein in President’s War Powers, Protect Servicemembers

Washington D.C. - Today, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) stood up for the Constitution and the lives of American servicemembers by voting in favor of H.Con.Res.38, a resolution prohibiting the President from using U.S. Armed Forces against Iran without explicit Congressional authorization. Following the vote, Rep Tokuda issued the following statement:

“I voted ‘Yes’ today because Congress cannot abandon its core responsibility under Article I of the Constitution to declare war. Make no mistake—the Iranian regime is a brutal and destabilizing force, which is why I also voted today on a resolution affirming that Iran remains the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism.

However, the ongoing strikes on Iran were taken unilaterally by the President, without clear justification presented to Congress and the American people, I cannot support entering what could become a prolonged conflict while the lives of our servicemembers and civilians are already at risk. Today’s vote wasn’t about politics; it was about the oath we took and the lives of Americans we represent. I will keep fighting to make sure that no administration exceeds its constitutional authority when it comes to matters of war.”

###


Rep. Tokuda Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Hawaiʻi’s Second District

Hawaiʻi - Today, U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02) announced that her office is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. This annual nationwide contest invites high school students from across Hawaiʻi’s Second Congressional District to showcase their artistic talents, with this year’s theme titled “Reflections of Hawaiʻi.”

The competition provides a unique platform for local students to express what Hawaiʻi means to them by reflecting on the past, present, and future of the islands. The first-place artwork from the district will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol’s Cannon Tunnel, a high-traffic corridor used daily by Members of Congress and thousands of visitors from around the world.

“Our keiki have a profound way of capturing the spirit and stories of our islands and people through their art,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda. “With this year’s theme, ‘Reflections of Hawaiʻi,’ I am eager to see how our young artists interpret our shared history and their vision for our future. This competition is more than just a contest; it is an opportunity to bring aloha to the halls of Congress and share the vibrant culture with the entire nation.”

In addition to the display at the U.S. Capitol, the winning piece will be featured on House.gov, as well as the Congresswoman’s official website and social media platforms.

The Congressional Art Competition is now open; a photo of the completed art and completed student release form must be emailed to TokudaHawaiiOffice@mail.house.gov by Wednesday, April 8, 2026, and the physical artwork must be mailed or delivered to the Hawaiʻi District Office at 1001 Bishop St., ASB Tower Suite 1503, Honolulu, HI 96813 by Friday, April 10, 2026, no later than 5:00 p.m. HST.

Students interested in participating should review the 2026 contest rules and download the required student release form. For specific questions about the Congressional Art competition, please contact the Hawaiʻi District Office at (808) 582-9843.

###


Rep. Tokuda Honors the Legacy of Colleen Hanabusa: A Trailblazer, Fighter, and Friend

Hawaiʻi— Today, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) released the following statement honoring the legacy of her friend and colleague, Colleen Hanabusa, remembering her as a mentor, a trailblazer, and a fierce advocate for the people of Hawaiʻi.

“Colleen was a mentor and good friend. When I was first elected to the Hawaiʻi State Senate, she became the very first woman to lead the body. As Senate President, she led with her heart and incomparable smarts. She stood by me during some of my toughest battles; as a young mother in the chamber, she never once questioned that I could both lead and nurture. In so many ways, she was a trailblazer and a fighter who left an indelible mark in Washington D.C., during her time in Congress. We are all better because of her leadership and service.

To the Hanabusa and Souza ʻohana, thank you for sharing Colleen with all of us, and may we seek to live and lead like she did.”

###


Rep. Tokuda to Host Town Halls on Oʻahu and Across Maui County

Hawaiʻi — Next week, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) will continue her series of annual statewide town halls in Kāneʻohe and across Maui County to discuss federal policies affecting Hawaiʻi, address concerns regarding the Trump administration, and answer questions from community members.

Kāneʻohe

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Windward Community College, Hale ʻĀkoakoa Conference Room

(45-720 Keaʻahala Rd, Kāneʻohe, HI 96744)

Please RSVP: https://bit.ly/kaneohetownhall26

Lahaina

Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Lahaina Civic Center Social Hall

(1840 Honoapiilani Hwy. Lahaina, Maui 96761)

Please RSVP: https://bit.ly/lahainatownhall26

Molokai

Saturday, April 11, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Mitchell Pauʻole Center

(90 Ainoa St. Kaunakakai, Molokai 96748)

Please RSVP: https://bit.ly/molokaitownhall26

Lānaʻi

Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

ILWU Local 142

(840 Ilima Ave. Lānaʻi City, HI 96763)

Please RSVP: https://bit.ly/lanaitownhall26

For more information regarding Rep. Tokuda’s town halls, please visit the Events section on her website at tokuda.house.gov.

###


Congressman Van Drew: Cape May Remains the Heart of Coast Guard Recruit Training

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew highlighted the continued strength of U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May following the Coast Guard's announcement that it plans to establish an additional training center in Alabama to help meet growing national training needs.

"This is good news for Cape May, good news for the Coast Guard, and good news for our country," said Congressman Van Drew. "Cape May is the main training center for the entire nation, and that is not changing. With the $495 million in federal investments we have secured, the Training Center Cape May is thriving and stronger than it has ever been. This includes the single largest federal investment in the history of South Jersey, and the Coast Guard has given us a written commitment ensuring these funds come solely to our Training Center. The Coast Guard even plans to increase Cape May's capacity to train about 5,000 more recruits each year. We are seeing a renewed interest in serving our country. As more young Americans step forward to defend our nation, we need to keep expanding our capacity so we can keep our Coast Guard strong and ready. That is what this second training center is about: building on Cape May's success and preparing for the future."


WATCH: Vasquez Stands Up to Protect New Mexico's Tribal Gaming Industry and Sovereignty

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 4, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) pushed to protect New Mexico’s Tribal gaming industry by calling for all types of bets on sports to be treated as sports betting. Congressman Vasquez proposed an amendment to the Farm Bill to ban prediction market companies from offering sports betting services. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which is responsible for regulating crops and commodities, is currently turning a blind eye to illegal event contracts under its purview.

The House Agriculture Committee refused to vote on Rep. Vasquez’s amendment, failing to close the loophole that allows prediction market companies to evade state and Tribal gaming laws, including those that protect kids and individuals with gambling addictions. Failure to act also allows these out-of-state companies to siphon revenue from the Tribal gaming industry that supports education, public safety, and local priorities and erodes Tribal sovereignty. However, he secured a commitment from the Chairman of the Agriculture Committee to take up this issue in future committee sessions.

“Let’s be honest—allowing companies to bypass state and Tribal gambling rules by calling bets on sports ‘event contacts’ or ‘prediction markets’ is a direct violation of Tribal sovereignty, and it’s stealing revenue from the New Mexico Tribes who are playing by the rules,” said Vasquez. “In New Mexico, Tribal gaming is the foundation of rural and Native economies. Without it, jobs, housing, and the fabric of the local community come under threat.”

“I am disappointed that the Committee will not take up this amendment and will continue to let these companies infringe on Tribal sovereignty and steal from our states,” concluded Vasquez.

WATCH THE CLIP HERE.

This amendment would prohibit the listing or trading of sports and casino-style event contracts on federally regulated commodity exchanges.

Rep. Vasquez’s amendment was supported by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Laguna Pueblo, and the Indian Gaming Association.

“The Mescalero Apache Tribe stands in full support of Representative Vasquez’ amendment to put a stop to online sports betting through the CFTC,” said Thora Walsh Padilla, President of the Mescalero Apache Tribe. “These prediction markets on sports betting are not financial investments. They are in fact illegal unregulated gambling that violate the CFTC’s own regulations and threaten the careful balance of gaming in New Mexico set forth in our tribal-state gaming compact.”

"So-called Prediction markets are offering illegal nationwide online sports gambling. They trample on tribal and state governmental sovereignty and disrespect the hard work and investments that we have made to protect consumers and the integrity of American sports,” said David Bean, Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. “Congress never intended the CFTC to replace the comprehensive regulatory system for gambling that we have developed with our state counterparts. The Indian Gaming Association and all of Indian Country extends our full support for Rep. Vasquez’ common sense amendment to reaffirm respect for local decision-making authority over important decisions to regulate or prohibit gambling and protect consumers.”

“We appreciate Congressman Vasquez’s leadership in defending tribal sovereignty and protecting the integrity of regulated gaming by offering this critical amendment,” said Harry A. Antonio, Jr., Governor of the Pueblo of Laguna. “On behalf of the Pueblo of Laguna, I applaud his clear intent to shut the door on unregulated sports and casino-style event contracts. Congressman Vasquez is again showing deep respect for tribal governments, our laws, and the communities that depend on gaming revenues for essential services."

“CNIGA applauds Rep. Gabe Vazquez for offering an amendment clarifying that sports event contracts are illegal under federal law,” said James Siva, Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA). “Congress must not stand idly by while its intent in prohibiting sports event futures is disregarded by unscrupulous operators who encourage insider trading and change betting rules to boost their own profits. We agree with the over 40 state Attorneys General who have taken legal action to protect their consumers: prediction markets offering sports event futures are nothing more than illegal betting operations. We are confident that we will ultimately succeed in restoring integrity to futures markets, and we will work through Congress, the administration, and every other avenue to do so until the rule of law is restored.”

###


Walkinshaw and Randall lead 42 Democrats in Demanding Answers from OPM Over Decision to Eliminate Coverage for Medically Necessary Trans Health Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) and Congresswoman Emily Randall (WA-06), co-chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, led a letter alongside 42 Democratic members to the Office of Personal Management (OPM) strongly opposing the agency's decision to eliminate coverage for medically necessary care for transgender individuals under the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) for plans beginning in 2026.

This decision to eliminate coverage of this care, regardless of age, was made by OPM via a carrier letter in August 2025 and members of Congress have heard from federal employees who were unaware of this change until after enrollment. This change has resulted in federal employees no longer having access to FEHB and PSHB health insurance plans that cover the medically necessary care they or their family members need. This sudden exclusion of such care has likely resulted in interrupted treatment, forced discontinuation of prescribed medications, increased mental health crises, and significant financial hardship for affected individuals and families. In the letter, the members also demand detailed information regarding the process and impacts of OPM’s decision to eliminate coverage.

“By categorically eliminating coverage for certain medical care, such as puberty-delaying medication and hormone therapy, for transgender people but allowing them for non-transgender people, this categorical exclusion violates Title VII’s prohibition on sex discrimination in employer-provided healthcare plans,” the members wrote. “Not only was this act unlawful, it was implemented without sufficient transparency to ensure that federal employees could make informed decisions during open enrollment.

The members continued: “OPM made the announcement in August 2025, and the change took effect for the 2026 plan year, covering selections made during the 2026 Open Season from November 10 to December 8, 2025. During the 2026 open enrollment period, many employees may not have fully understood how the change would affect their prescribed or ongoing care until after enrollment closed. This is unfair and unacceptable.”

In the letter, the members point out that eliminating care by categorically excluding coverage for medically necessary care for transgender people is a clear violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Title VII prohibits employers, including the federal government, from discriminating in employment—including in “compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment”—on the basis of sex, among other protected characteristics.

The members also request that OPM provide written responses to the following questions by March 18, 2026.

Before issuing carrier letters 2025-01a and 2025-01b, did OPM conduct or rely on any legal analyses regarding its authority to categorically exclude coverage for gender-affirming care and its obligations under federal civil rights laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act Please provide all relevant legal analyses conducted or relied on by OPM.

How was the decision to eliminate this coverage developed and implemented within OPM, including the timing of the decision, the offices or officials involved, and any alternative approaches that were considered? Please provide all relevant documents and communications related to this decision making, including all documents and communications relating to the decision to expand the categorical exclusion in carrier letter 2025-01a to include adults (as memorialized in carrier letter 2025-01b)

What steps did OPM take to notify FEHB and PSHB enrollees of this coverage change prior to and during the 2026 open enrollment period, and how did OPM determine that this notice was adequate?

Did OPM make any attempts to calculate how many FEHB and PSHB enrollees would be affected by the elimination of this coverage? If yes, please provide all relevant documents and the results.

Did OPM conduct any assessments of the medical, workforce, or civil rights impacts of this policy prior to implementation, and if so, what were the findings?

How does OPM reconcile the exclusion of gender-affirming care with federal nondiscrimination obligations, particularly given that FEHB and PSHB plans continue to cover comparable hormone therapies for other medical diagnoses?; and

How is OPM ensuring that covered plans include the exception process described in Carrier Letter Number 2025-01b?

Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (D, VA-11) and Congresswoman Randall (D, WA-06) were joined by Congressional Equality Caucus Chair, Rep. Mark Takano (D, CA-39), and Representatives Robert Garcia (D, CA-42), Sarah McBride (D, DE-AL), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D, IL-08), Mark Pocan (D, WI-02), Becca Balint (D, VT-AL), Angie Craig (D, MN-02), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Sara Jacobs (D, CA-51), Eric Sorensen (D, IL-17), Delia C. Ramirez (D, IL-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D, DC-AL), Paul Tonko (D, NY-20), Lateefah Simon (D, CA-12), Dan Goldman (D, NY-10), Rashida Tlaib (D, MI-12), Deborah K. Ross (D, NC-02), Jerrold Nadler (D, NY-12), Stephen F. Lynch (D, MA-08), Shri Thanedar (D,MI-13), Andrea Salinas (D, OR-06), Suzan K. DelBene (D, WA-01), Dave Min (D, CA-47), Summer L. Lee (D, PA-12), Laura Friedman (D, CA-30), Sylvia R. Garcia (D, TX-29), Frederica S. Wilson (D, FL-24), Steve Cohen (D, TN-09), Judy Chu (D, CA-28), Suzanne Bonamici (D, OR-01), Jan Schakowsky (D, IL-09), LaMonica McIver (D, NJ-10), Kevin Mullin (D, CA-15), Sam T. Liccardo (D, CA-16), Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), James P. McGovern (D, MA-02), Ayanna Pressley (D, MA-07), Jahana Hayes (D, CT-05), Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr. (D, CA-31), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (D, VA-08), Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-10) and Luz M. Rivas (D, CA-29) in sending the letter.

The full text of the letter is available here.

###


Wasserman Schultz Files No Escaping Justice Act to Hold Global Figures Implicated in Epstein Files to Account

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) announced her new bill to impose sanctions on foreign nationals incriminated in the Epstein files, the No Escaping Justice Act. Video of the announcement can be found here (6:30).

While Congress cannot punish individual Americans who the President and Attorney General refuse to prosecute, the No Escaping Justice Act would take immediate action to hold foreign nationals whose involvement in sex trafficking has been revealed in the Epstein files to account for exploiting young girls in the United States and failing to report Epstein's crimes to American law enforcement.

“After House Democrats successfully forced the Trump Administration to release the Epstein Files, there remains a glaring absence of real transparency and a total lack of accountability,” said Wasserman Schultz. “Trump's Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, is too focused on covering up Trump's relationship with Epstein and refuses to investigate the wealthy, powerful individuals who were clearly complicit in these abuses. This is a first step to bring some measure of justice for foreign nationals who conspired with Epstein to sexually exploit American children.”

The bill would require the Administration to provide Congress with a list of foreign nationals who engaged in the following practices, based on credible information in the possession of the U.S. government, including evidence from the Epstein Files:

sex trafficking of minors;

aiding, abetting, or facilitating trafficking in persons;

benefiting financially from participating in such activities; or

obstructing investigations into these crimes

These individuals would then be subject to a visa ban, prohibiting them from being admitted into the U.S., as well as asset-blocking sanctions. If the President seeks to exempt one of these individuals from sanctions based on national security, he must report his complete reasoning to Congress.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

####


Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Bill to Study Impact of AI Data Centers on Local Communities

Today, Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) introduced the Data Center Community Impact Act, legislation that would authorize a federal study on the environmental, economic, and public health impacts of data centers, with a focus on communities of color and low-income communities.

Due to the ongoing AI boom, we will continue to see more data centers pop up across the country. With this development, we need to protect and safeguard our communities from negative repercussions. The impact of large data centers on surrounding communities is not well understood. The Data Center Community Impact Act would authorize a federal study that would provide the data and analysis needed to inform responsible policymaking and protect communities that have too often been overlooked.

“Infrastructure projects, like the AI data centers being built, are important to the success of industry and economic growth in this country, but we must first protect the health of people and the planet,” said Watson Coleman. “Communities of color and low-income neighborhoods are often over-burdened and disproportionately impacted by large-scale infrastructure projects. For example, for decades the consequences of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 exposed Black and Brown communities to toxic air pollution causing lasting health effects. Congress has the responsibility to make sure to not make the same mistake.”

The Data Center Community Impact Act is endorsed by Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Climate Justice Alliance, GreenLatinos, Food & Water Watch, and Climate Revolution Action Network.

“As billionaires and big tech manipulate and control more and more of our everyday lives, it’s critical that communities have access to the real impacts of data center infrastructure on their pocketbooks, health and environment," said Legislative Director of Climate Justice Alliance Mar Zepeda Salazar. "We appreciated the opportunity to work with Representative Watson Coleman’s office on the Data Center Community Impact Act which we believe will help ensure that frontline communities, those hit first and worst by new data center construction, have the ability to hold industry, elected officials, and our federal government accountable. This bill is an important step forward in ensuring our federal government takes a more proactive position when it comes to safeguarding the public health and well-being of all communities.”

"We thank Representative Coleman for introducing the Data Center Community Impact Act to help ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of public health, community stability, or environmental justice,” said GreenLatinos Sustainability Program Manager Roberto Madrid. “As more and more Data Centers are being built in low-come minority communities like Santa Teresa, NM where Project Jupiter, a $165 billion data center campus was approved in less than a month, over the objections of a predominantly Latinos working-class community that has spent decades fighting for basic safe clean drinking water. Our community already lives with legacy of arsenic contaminated water from utility companies that failed us and now our already low precious water resources are being offered to power billion dollar AI data centers that will produce 500 tons of NOx emissions annually from the two separate power generating microgrids each producing 249.97 tons per year.”

"Data centers are expanding at a breakneck pace, but our understanding of real-world impacts is not keeping up. What we are seeing in real time from this data center boom are increasing pollution, massive amounts of water usage, and more dirty energy," said Jim Walsh, Policy Director at Food & Water Watch. "Representative Watson- Coleman’s legislation is an important part of stopping this unchecked buildout of data centers by requiring a hard look at the impact of these massive projects. Good policy on data centers starts with information to ensure communities and the public are not left paying the price for Big Tech’s profit driven schemes with their wallets, health, and drinking water."

“Across the country, communities are waking up to the reality that data centers bring enormous demands for electricity, water, and land. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman is stepping up at the right moment to make sure we understand who is bearing those costs," said Ben Dziobek, Executive Director of Climate Revolution Action Network. "As artificial intelligence infrastructure rapidly expands, we need transparency and accountability so that working families and historically marginalized communities are not left paying the price."

The Data Center Community Impact Act is cosponsored by Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Summer Lee (PA-12), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), and Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07).

Text of the bill can be found here.

Related Files


Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Legislation to Nullify President’s Expensive Restrictions on H-1B Workers

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) introduced legislation to nullify President Trump’s September 2025 proclamation, which imposed rigid wage level requirements and $100,000 fees for employers of H-1B workers. The Welcoming International Success Act would reaffirm the nation's commitment to lawful, well-regulated immigration policies that strengthen our economy.

The H-1B program encourages talented workers from abroad to work in industries in the United States that experience labor shortages, including technology, engineering, healthcare, and education.

“Trump’s shortsighted proclamation has created significant barriers for U.S. employers, universities, hospitals, and research institutions that rely on highly-skilled professionals,” said Watson Coleman. “The H-1B program does not replace the domestic workforce; it serves as a bridge between U.S. talent and global talent that fuels U.S. economic growth.”

A combination of an aging workforce, COVID-related burnout, restrictions on H-1B visas, and the Trump Administration’s recent limitations placed on federal student loans for nursing degrees has created a perfect storm for a nursing shortage in the coming years. The Welcoming International Success Act would ease this burden as demand for qualified healthcare professionals increases."

The Welcoming International Success Act is cosponsored by Reps. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04).

Full text of the bill can be readhere.


From the Front: March 6, 2026

From the Front Newsletters
From the Front: March 6, 2026
Share on Facebook
Share on X
Print this Page
Share by Email
Washington,
      March 6, 2026
Click here to read this edition.
Read more.
JOIN MY EMAIL LIST
SUBSCRIBE


Baldwin, Budd Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent DOT from Using Technologies China Uses to Spy on America

WASHINGTON, D.C.– U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act. This bipartisan legislation would prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from purchasing or deploying light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technologies from malign foreign actors, including China, that could be used for military or industrial espionage.

“We cannot allow our adversaries like China to get their hands on Americans’ sensitive data. Period. I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to cut off potential avenues for countries like China to surveil us and our infrastructure and keep Wisconsin families, servicemembers, and communities safe from foreign threats,” said Senator Baldwin.

In recent years, LiDAR sensors have become a critical technology for automation and surveillance applications used in U.S. infrastructure, including: autonomous vehicles, smart city systems, border security, and perimeter defense.

Chinese LiDAR deployed in the U.S. collects vast amounts of data on American geography and behavior, enabling Chinese military companies to acquire sensitive information and highly detailed mapping of U.S. infrastructure. In 2024, a Chinese spy ring was caught using LiDAR sensors to map Philippine and U.S. military installations and homeland security operations.

Section 164 of the FY25 NDAA prohibited the Department of Defense (DoD) from operating, procuring, or utilizing LiDAR technologies from certain foreign countries, including China. However, DOT currently has no restrictions on the purchase or use of LiDAR from China.

Specifically, the Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act would prohibit the DOT from:

Procuring LiDAR produced or provided by a covered LiDAR company.

Contracting with entities using LiDAR from a covered LiDAR company.

Providing loans or grants to entities using LiDAR from a covered company.

Covered LiDAR companies include:

Any entity on the Consolidated Screening List maintained by the International Trade Administration of the Department of Commerce.

Any entity designated as a Chinese military company on the 1260H list by the Department of Defense

In addition to Senators Baldwin and Budd, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE).

The Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act is endorsed by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

“AUVSI commends Senator Budd and cosponsors Senators Baldwin, Cotton, and Blunt Rochester for their leadership on the Securing Infrastructure from Adversaries Act of 2026. Alongside its companion bill in the House, this legislation takes a critical step toward protecting America’s transportation networks and infrastructure from adversarial risk. As LiDAR becomes increasingly central to autonomous transportation systems, securing trusted sources for this technology is essential to our national and economic security,” said Michael Robbins, President and CEO of AUVSI.

Full text of the bill is available here.

###


Bennet, Hickenlooper, Curtis, Hurd Work to Preserve Grand Junction Uranium Disposal Site, Avoid Spending Millions to Ship Waste

Without federal action, Colorado’s only long-term storage facility for uranium waste will begin to close this year, would cost millions to ship to next-nearest site

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators John (D-Colo.) Hickenlooper and John Curtis (R-Utah), as well as Representative Jeff Hurd (R-Colo.), to introduce the bipartisan Responsible Containment Reauthorization Act to keep Colorado’s only long-term uranium disposal site open, avoiding millions of taxpayer dollars in additional costs and ensuring community safety. The Grand Junction disposal site will initiate shutdown procedures this year unless Congress acts.

“The Responsible Containment Reauthorization Act will support Western Colorado as the region continues to clean up low-level radioactive materials,” said Bennet. “Currently, the Grand Junction Disposal cell is the only facility of its kind in Colorado, and this bill will allow this critical site to continue operating until it reaches capacity, protecting public health, lowering disposal costs, and limiting environmental risk.”

“Closing the Grand Junction disposal site before it even reaches capacity would risk the health and safety of the surrounding area and waste millions of dollars in the process,” said Hickenlooper. “It’s common sense to make sure the disposal site continues to safely manage the uranium waste and protect the community.”

“Uranium has helped power Colorado’s economy and strengthen our national security, and we have a responsibility to manage legacy cleanup waste the right way,” said Hurd. “The Grand Junction disposal site is Colorado’s only long-term uranium disposal facility, and it’s a proven, safe place to store this material while keeping costs down for taxpayers. Reauthorizing the site allows Colorado to continue disposing of cleaned-up tailings here at home until the disposal cell reaches capacity. This bipartisan bill provides certainty for local governments and ensures this important work can continue without interruption.”

Beginning in the 1940s, sand-like uranium mill tailings were given away for free and used in construction across Western Colorado before it was understood that these tailings emit hazardous radon gas and gamma radiation. As Western Colorado continues to clean up tailings, a proper disposal site is needed for this low-level radioactive waste.

Without the Grand Junction site, 6,000 cubic yards of waste would have to be shipped to a private site in Utah every two to three years, costing the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment more than $16 million each cycle.

The bipartisan bill would reauthorize the disposal site until the cell reaches full capacity. The site was most recently reauthorized with broad support in 2019 through legislation led by former Rep. Tipton.

The legislation is supported by Mesa County, La Plata County, the City of Grand Junction, the City of Durango, the Town of Fruita, and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

The text of the bill is available HERE.


Bennet, Schmitt, Duckworth’s Bipartisan Bill to Boost U.S.-Taiwan Space Ties Passes Commerce Committee

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, joined U.S. Senators Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) to announce that their bipartisan Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act (TASA) passed out of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation as part of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Authorization Act of 2026 and will now head to the Senate floor. TASA addresses gaps in NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s ability to partner with Taiwan on space efforts including satellite programs, space exploration and atmospheric and weather research.

“Taiwan is a vibrant democracy, a key economic partner, and an increasingly capable space player. This legislation will enable NASA and NOAA cooperation with Taiwan’s Space Agency, strengthening our joint ability to tackle shared challenges in space,” said Senator Bennet. “I look forward to working with my bipartisan colleagues to pass this bill into law and further deepen the U.S.-Taiwan partnership.”

“As space exploration and satellite operations continue to evolve, they are becoming central to our national security,” said Senator Schmitt. “Cooperating with our allies in the region to share the best and most advanced technology will help the United States gain key insights into space activities in the Indo-Pacific and counter malign influences such as China, our chief adversary. I’m glad to see this bill move one step closer to becoming law, and I will continue working to strengthen our relationship with Taiwan.”

“As the United States continues to be the global leader in space exploration and in expanding new, innovative technology for space and satellite operations, it’s crucial that we work with our partners in the Indo-Pacific to advance and prosper,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to reintroduce our bipartisan bill that would help our nation work with Taiwan to utilize new technologies and improve our work in the space domain.”

Specifically, the TASA Act would:

Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NASA;

Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NOAA;

Enable the voluntary exchange of NASA and NOAA personnel to the Taiwan Space Agency;

Extend cooperation to satellite program development, space exploration, as well as atmospheric and weather programs; and

Require NASA, NOAA, and the State Department to report to Congress on implementation of such expanded cooperation.

Bennet has long advocated for stronger U.S.-Taiwan ties, and repeatedly warned that allowing Russian President Vladimir Putin to claim victory in Ukraine would embolden autocrats everywhere – emboldening China’s President Xi Jinping to consider military action against Taiwan.

In December 2025, the President signed into law, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act, Bennet’s legislation requiring the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a strategy to strengthen U.S.-led multilateral efforts to deter China’s aggression in the Indo-Pacific, including in the Taiwan Strait. In the same month, the President also signed into law Bennet, Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.)’s Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act requiring regular State Department reviews of and updated guidelines on U.S. engagement with Taiwan. Additionally, the Senate passed Bennet, Coons, and Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.)’s legislation to streamline U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.

Bennet and colleagues have also introduced legislation to strengthen Taiwan’s international standing; support Taiwan’s diplomatic partnerships in Latin America and the Caribbean; and deter China’s aggression against Taiwan by identifying targets for sanctions the United States could rapidly impose if China moves against Taiwan – all of which have passed out of committee. Bennet also cosponsors legislation to provide expedited double-tax relief on U.S.-Taiwan cross-border investment.

Bennet played a leading role in securing the April 2024 passage of the national security supplemental package, which included $8.13 billion for Indo-Pacific partners including Taiwan.

The text of the bill is available HERE.

###


Blackburn, Hassan Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Access to Specialty Care for Female Veterans

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) released the following statements after introducing the bipartisan Women Veterans Specialty Care Access Act to improve access to specialty care, including gynecology, obstetrics, maternity, and postpartum care, for female veterans.

“Female veterans are one of the fastest-growing populations served by the VA, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure they receive the care they have earned in a timely manner,”said Senator Blackburn. “Our Women Veterans Specialty Care Access Act would allow female veterans to directly schedule an appointment for women’s specialty care without requiring them to get a referral from a VA primary care provider.”

“This bipartisan bill permanently removes the needlessly time-consuming step of requiring women veterans to receive a referral form from their primary care provider to access women’s health care,” said Senator Hassan. “This commonsense bill will help make it easier and faster for women veterans to receive the care that they need, have earned, and deserve.”

BACKGROUND

On December 4, 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that women veterans would no longer require a referral from their VA primary care providers to make appointments with VA gynecology specialists, allowing these women to make appointments directly with VA gynecologists.

Requiring women to first obtain a referral from their primary care provider to access gynecology and related specialty services can delay preventive and time-sensitive care, create unnecessary administrative burdens, and complicate access to maternity and postpartum services.

WOMEN VETERANS SPECIALITY CARE ACCESS ACT

Senators Blackburn and Hassan introduced the Women Veterans Specialty Care Access Act to make this policy change permanent by codifying it into federal law and expanding it. This bill would:

Allow any covered veteran to directly schedule an appointment for women’s specialty care, including gynecology, obstetrics, maternity, and postpartum care, without requiring a referral from a VA primary care provider;

Ensure direct scheduling is available at each VA medical center or clinic that offers women’s specialty care and through all scheduling modalities used by the VA, including telephone and online tools;

Prohibit any additional approval, referral, or screening requirements as a condition of accessing women’s specialty care; and

Preserve existing eligibility and community care standards.

Click here for bill text.

RELATED

Blackburn, Schiff, Grassley Introduce Legislation to Improve Access to Care for Veterans with Hearing Loss

Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bicameral “Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act”


Blumenthal & Democratic Senators Demand Trump Reinstate Protections for Northeast Canyons & Seamounts Marine National Monument

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) wrote to President Trump calling on him to restore vital protections for the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. Last month, Trump issued a proclamation rolling back protections for the Monument, opening the Atlantic Ocean’s only marine national monument to commercial fishing.

Located off the coast of New England, the Monument is a spectacular seascape with underwater canyons that rival the Grand Canyon in size and scope and mountains that are as high as the Appalachians. The Senators highlighted the detrimental environmental impact of eliminating protections, writing “These distinctive characteristics make the Monument a living laboratory and hotbed for scientific research that has led to new deep-sea discoveries about our marine resources. Allowing fishing in this special place could hamper future scientific findings, kill or harm rare creatures that are unique to our waters, including some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, and cause irreparable damage to the Monument’s seascape.”

The Senators also cited how opening the Monument to commercial fishing does not actually support our nation’s fishermen, writing “In an era where fish stocks are shifting and being depleted, fishing communities need our support more than ever, but selling out the Monument to earn political points does nothing to actually help fishermen. Instead of senselessly allowing commercial fishing in one of our country’s most unique places, this administration should fully staff the National Marine Fisheries Service and all other National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) programs to ensure fishermen have access to the data needed to sustainably catch the maximum number of fish possible.”

“Aside from its illegality, reintroducing commercial fishing to the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts is a monumental mistake. With no clear benefit for fishermen or any American, it will needlessly risk vital habitats that support ocean health and provide lasting benefits for coastal communities in New England. We implore you to reverse course and immediately reinstate critical protections for this national treasure,” concluded the Senators.

The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear President Trump,

We write to express our strong opposition to the elimination of vital protections for the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument (Monument) and demand that the administration immediately reverse course. This action is in clear violation of the Antiquities Act of 1906 and will harm a priceless and vital ecosystem meant to be safeguarded for current and future generations.

Established by President Obama under the Antiquities Act and located about 130 miles off the coast of New England, the Monument is the only marine national monument in the U.S. Atlantic Ocean. The Antiquities Act empowers presidents to create national monuments, but it does not provide them with the authority to diminish or revoke monuments.[1] That power remains with Congress.

The Monument is about the size of Connecticut and comprises three undersea canyons – one of which rivals the depth of the Grand Canyon – and four undersea mountains comparable in height to the Appalachians.[2] The Monument was established to protect this unique undersea environment and the countless species that call it home. The seamounts and canyons are home to deep-sea corals and frequented by endangered whales, sea turtles, tunas, crabs, lobsters, billfish, sharks, seabirds, and so much more. Some of these organisms were first discovered in the Monument. The potential for additional significant ecological exploration of our natural heritage remains.[3] Moreover, some of the fragile, deep-sea corals found here are thought to be thousands of years old.[4] These distinctive characteristics make the Monument a living laboratory and a hotbed for scientific research that has led to new deep-sea discoveries about our marine resources. Allowing fishing in this special place could hamper future scientific findings, kill or harm rare creatures that are unique to our waters, including some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, and cause irreparable damage to the Monument’s seascape.

New Englanders largely favor the establishment of permanently protected ocean areas, but you baselessly justify this proclamation and its devastating environmental impacts by claiming that it will benefit commercial fishermen.[5] The science suggests otherwise. Multiple studies show that creating well-managed marine protected areas that prohibit fishing has little to no harmful economic impact on commercial fishermen.[6],[7] When your administration opened the Monument for fishing in 2020, 99% of fishing activity still took place outside of the Monument.[8] In an era where fish stocks are shifting and being depleted, fishing communities need our support more than ever, but selling out the Monument to earn political points does nothing to actually help fishermen. Instead of senselessly allowing commercial fishing in one of our country’s most unique places, this administration should fully staff the National Marine Fisheries Service and all other National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) programs to ensure fishermen have access to the data needed to sustainably catch the maximum number of fish possible. In that same vein, your administration should support climate research and advance interagency coordination so that stakeholders and relevant management bodies can effectively and efficiently address conflicts caused by shifting fish stocks. Thus far, your administration has gutted NOAA and shuttered climate research – directly harming our nation’s fishing community.

Aside from its illegality, reintroducing commercial fishing to the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts is a monumental mistake. With no clear benefit for fishermen or any American, it will needlessly risk vital habitats that support ocean health and provide lasting benefits for coastal communities in New England. We implore you to reverse course and immediately reinstate critical protections for this national treasure.

Sincerely,

-30-

[1] Mark Squillace et al, “Presidents Lack the Authority to Abolish or Diminish National Monuments,” Virginia Law Review 103 no. 55 (2017): 55, accessed May 12, 2025, https://virginialawreview.org/articles/presidents-lack-authority-abolish-or-diminish-national-monuments/.

[2] “Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument,” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, accessed May 12, 2025, https://www.fws.gov/national-monument/northeast-canyons-and-seamounts-marine/about-us.

[3] “Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument,” NOAA Fisheries, last modified May 31, 2024, https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/habitat-conservation/northeast-canyons-and-seamounts-marine-national.

[4] Ibid.

[5] Memorandum from Edge Research to Conservation Law Foundation, “New England Public Opinion on the State of the Ocean,” May, 2023, Conservation Law Foundation, https://www.clf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/CLF_2022-New-England-Ocean-Attitudes-Survey_Summary-of-Findings.pdf

[6] Lynham, J. Fishing activity before closure, during closure, and after reopening of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. Sci Rep 12, 917 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-03394-6.

[7] Lynham, J., Nikolaev, A., Raynor, J. et al. Impact of two of the world's largest protected areas on longline fishery catch rates. Nat Commun 11, 979 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-14588-3.

[8] Lynham, J. Fishing activity before closure, during closure, and after reopening of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. Sci Rep 12, 917 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-03394-6


Blumenthal Introduces Bicameral Bill to Restore Trump-Shuttered DOJ Transnational Crime Unit to Crack Down on Fentanyl

[Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced the Protect Law Enforcement Task Forces Act, legislation to restore the Department of Justice’s shuttered Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. DOJ’s OCDETF program helped arrest fentanyl traffickers, seize hundreds of tons of narcotics, and confiscate billions in dirty money. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.) first introduced this legislation in the House of Representatives in November 2025.

“This bill would reverse the Trump Administration’s reckless, dangerous decision to dismantle a proven program designed to disable organized crime. By restoring the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, this legislation would reinstate a unique, prosecutor-led task force that has taken down crime lords, drug trafficking networks, and money laundering rings,” said Blumenthal.

“The OCDETF program was a key tool America deployed in the ‘clash of civilizations’ between American rule of law and international corruption. The Trump Department of Justice’s decision to shutter this successful crime-fighting program was a gift to cartels and fentanyl traffickers,” said Whitehouse.

“Shutting down OCDETF isn’t just reckless, it undermines the very public safety principles our government is supposed to uphold,” said Morelle. “OCDETF is a proven initiative that continues to help reduce crime in cities across the country, including my hometown of Rochester, New York. I’m proud to join Senators Whitehouse and Blumenthal in introducing legislation to protect OCDETF and ensure it can continue doing this critical work for years to come.”

Established in 1982, OCDETF served as the centerpiece of the U.S. Department of Justice’s strategy to combat transnational organized crime and reduce the availability of illicit narcotics nationwide. OCDETF oversaw coordination of thousands of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials to implement a national strategy to dismantle transnational drug cartels, the financial networks that support them, and the flow of drugs from these cartels into the United States.

The OCDETF program was the largest anti-crime task force in the country. Despite bipartisan objections from Congress, the Trump Department of Justice disbanded the program in 2025.

In June 2025, Blumenthal, Whitehouse, and Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Chris Coons (D-DE) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi questioning the Department of Justice’s plan to end the successful OCDETF program.

Many OCDETF investigations targeted the cartels’ financial networks, an often-overlooked component of the U.S. strategy to combat drug-trafficking organizations. OCDETF was one of the best returns on investment in federal law enforcement, bringing in $524 million and $423 million in Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023.

The full text of the bill is available here.

-30-


Blumenthal Statement on $256 Million Contract for F135 Engines

[Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on the U.S. Navy’s announcement that RTX was awarded a $256 million contract to support the production of F135 engines.

“This contract modification is yet another boost for the talented workforce at Pratt & Whitney. With this $256 million in federal funding, Pratt’s highly skilled workers will be equipped to produce more F135 engines for fighter jets. Our servicemen and women deserve the very best tools to do their jobs and protect national security, and I am thrilled to see yet another vote of confidence for Connecticut made,” Blumenthal said.

-30-


Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 2/27/2026-3/6/2026

Slamming President Trump’s War of Choice in Iran

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement after the U.S. attacks on Iran this past week:

“War must always be a last resort and never a first choice. The Trump Administration seems to be engaging in a war of choice that rejects opportunities for diplomacy. A nuclear-armed Iran is unacceptable and Iran’s malign activities throughout the region pose a severe danger, but President Trump has failed to explain to the American people his objectives, end game, or exit strategy – risking another forever war. This attack fits a pattern of unilateral action without accountability to the American people. I believe that Congress should come back into session, demand answers on behalf of Americans, and act on the Iran War Powers Resolution. My foremost concern is the safety and wellbeing of the men and women in our armed forces and their families who are in harm’s way.”

Blumenthal spoke on the Senate Floor to condemn President Trump’s unauthorized military action in Iran. Blumenthal’s remarks came ahead of the Senate vote on legislation to reclaim its authority under the War Powers Act.

“We have said countless times that war must be a last resort, never a first choice. And yet, the administration seems to be engaging in a war of choice that is needless and reckless, conducted chaotically, and most alarmingly, spreading and widening throughout the region. It is no longer a conflict involving only the United States and Iran or the United States and Israel with Iran. It is now a regional conflagration,” said Blumenthal.

“The simple fact is Donald Trump is workshopping a war. He’s making it up as he goes along in real time. He is inventing and then discarding and then reviving objectives, as though he were a child playing with a puzzle, trying to fit the pieces into a coherent hole,” Blumenthal continued.

A video of Blumenthal’s remarks is available here.

Blumenthal echoed his remarks on the Floor and further highlighted how Trump is endangering American troops with his war in Iran on Twitter/X.

“On the Senate floor, I made it clear that Trump has thrust us into a widening war of choice, & a deeply dangerous path toward possible American boots on the ground,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal joined MS NOW to discuss Trump’s widening war in Iran threatening American troops.

“I fear we are at the precipice of a major expansion that would involve putting American troops on the ground in Iran. The reason I fear it is that the objectives continue to be undefined, confused and contradictory. The Administration seems to be making it up as it goes along, test marketing a war that is going to be deeply unpopular when the casualties tragically mount,” said Blumenthal.

Blumenthal also joined CNN to discuss the war in Iran after Senate Republicans voted to block the War Powers resolution.

“I have emerged from classified briefings deeply concerned and very fearful that we are on the precipice not only of an escalating conflict in that region, but also our putting American troops on the ground, our sons and daughters, in harm's way—because that is almost inevitably the path that the Administration’s chosen by its current tactical approach. And the vote yesterday rejecting the War Powers Resolution was by no means a final green light to the President. The Republicans are going to be held accountable, but so is the President, because the American people don't want this war, don't understand it, because the Administration has failed to explain.” said Blumenthal.

Holding Kristi Noem & the Department of Homeland Security Accountable

Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement after President Trump announced that Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem had been fired from her position:

“Kristi Noem’s firing is well-earned. The atrocities she oversaw, the falsehoods she peddled, and the corruption she committed – all richly deserve her discharge. President Trump should have made it explicit, rather than disguising it with another position of public trust. Whoever follows her must institute commonsense reforms that the American people have demanded and police forces around the country routinely follow. Changing only the top official is inadequate without changing the practices and power structure in the department.”

Earlier this week, Blumenthal grilled Noem about constitutional violations and abuses by federal immigration agents. At a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, Blumenthal questioned Noem about U.S. citizens who have been unlawfully detained and assaulted by federal immigration agents, calling on Noem to respond to her department’s treatment of three citizens present at the hearing—Leonardo Garcia Venegas, Javier Ramirez, and Marimar Martinez—all of whom were detained or assaulted by federal immigration agents.

Blumenthal pressed Noem on whether she had met with any U.S. citizens who have been unlawfully detained: “After hearings I conducted in the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations as the Ranking Member, you admitted finally in a letter written to me just last month, that in fact U.S. citizens have been detained and arrested… You put the number at 38. Far more American citizens have been arrested by ICE and CBP, probably in the hundreds, perhaps the thousands. Have you met with any of the American citizens who have been detained or arrested by your agency?”

After Noem refused to answer Blumenthal’s question, Blumenthal called on citizens who have been detained and who were present in the hearing room to stand: “I would like to introduce you to three of them. Leo, Javier, and Marimar, would you please stand? These three individuals, Madam Secretary, were arrested by your agency.”

Blumenthal questioned Noem about DHS agents’ violation of Leonardo Garcia Venegas’s constitutional rights: “Do you know what your agents did to Leo Venegas? I’ll tell you. On May 21 of last year, they entered the private property at a house that he was constructing without consent, without a warrant, illegally. Again, on June 12, they entered private property, a home where he was doing construction. He is a United States citizen, born in Florida. They seized him and ignored and disregarded his proof of citizenship.”

Blumenthal then pressed Noem about DHS’s unlawful detention of Javier Ramirez, a U.S. citizen who was refused medical care while in DHS custody: “Do you know what your agents did to Javier Ramirez? He was on his own private property when he was assaulted by masked agents—his own property—without a warrant, without consent. They said, ‘Get him, he’s Mexican.’ He was violently slammed into the ground while being handcuffed and taken into custody, despite telling officers that he is a United States citizen and even showing them his passport. And when he was asked what he was being arrested for, you know what they said? ‘We don’t know.’”

Blumenthal also questioned Noem about Marimar Martinez, a U.S. citizen from Illinois who was shot five times by federal immigration agents: “Marimar Martinez is with us as well. She is standing right behind you. She was on her way to donate clothing at her church when she came across an unmarked car. The agents sideswiped her car. Three masked agents in camouflage stormed out. One of them pulled out his gun and fired at her moving vehicle, hitting her five times. She almost bled to death.”

“I think we’re talking about an egregious illegality here, violations of rights and trust…The answers are very simple, and I would have hoped you could give better answers today to these three individuals,” Blumenthal concluded.

A video of Blumenthal’s remarks is available here.

Blumenthal further amplified the stories of Garcia Venegas, Ramirez, and Martinez on Twitter/X.

“Since Sec. Noem hasn’t met with any of the U.S. citizens violently detained by ICE, I took today’s hearing as an opportunity to introduce her to three of them,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal also slammed DHS’s policy permitting ICE officers to circumvent the privacy protections in the Constitution’s Fourth Amendment on Twitter/X.

“Sec. Noem disregards the need for judicial warrants & seems to see no problem with violating Americans’ 4th Amendment rights,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal, along with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), held a press conference following Noem’s testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Blumenthal, Padilla, and Schiff were joined by Garcia Venegas, Ramirez, and Martinez.

Blumenthal called out Noem for her inability to answer for the violent and brutal tactics of DHS on Twitter/X.

“Following Sec. Noem’s evasive, disingenuous testimony, I’m joined by U.S. citizens—victims of DHS assault & detention—setting the record straight,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal also wrote Noem demanding clarification of her apparently false testimony under oath before the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding the role of Corey Lewandowski in approving federal contracts.

During this week’s hearing, Blumenthal asked whether Lewandowski has a role in approving contracts at DHS and Noem responded, “no.” However, ProPublica reported that internal DHS documents show Lewandowski “personally approved a multimillion-dollar equipment contract at the agency last summer” and “has approved numerous contracts at DHS and often needs to sign off on large ones before any money goes out the door” according to current and former employees.

“The law requires and Congress expects witnesses to provide complete and truthful testimony. There are criminal penalties for knowingly and willfully making materially false statements or representations to Congress,” Blumenthal wrote. “Accordingly, I demand that you amend your testimony to clarify your previous answer, including a full explanation of Mr. Lewandowski’s role at DHS, and provide the basis for your clearly false statement on the record.”

The full text of Blumenthal’s letter is available here.

On the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee

Senate Republicans blocked two attempts from Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Blumenthal to advance the Major Richard Star Act—stalled bipartisan legislation to deliver more than 50,000 combat-injured veterans their full military benefits. Despite its overwhelming bipartisan support and importance for veterans, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) blocked the legislation saying “we simply cannot afford it.”

U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) first blocked Blumenthal’s motion to pass the legislation and fix this injustice for disabled veterans. In response, Senator Blumenthal offered a compromise motion that would have set up a single roll call vote on the bill at a 60-vote threshold. The motion would have waived all procedural votes to protect floor time and gave Republican Majority Leader Thune discretion to call up the vote at any point before August. Johnson also blocked this motion, denying a bill with 77 bipartisan cosponsors a single vote.

“The simple request for a vote has been denied, there are a variety of excuses that have been offered, like it cost too much. Well, as the National Commander for the [Veterans of Foreign Wars] said today, in supporting this bill, costs of providing for our veterans are part of the cost of war,” said Blumenthal. “We are in a war right now, real-time. And some of those combat-injured veterans will be sacrificing their disability or retirement pay because of this injustice…We can afford to right this injustice…it is a pittance compared to the cost of our national defense, which is close to a trillion dollars now. This country can afford to do the right thing by these combat-injured veterans, and we have a moral imperative to do so.”

Blumenthal rebuked Johnson’s claims for blocking action on the stalled legislation: “I am heartbroken for a nation that can afford to spend tens of billions of dollars, as we are doing right now, perhaps hundreds of billions, in a conflict far away putting American lives in harm's way, causing death, six at least so far, and casualties in real-time when we are failing to match their bravery with our own. It is unconscionable. A lot of words, a lot of numbers, a lot of fallbacks to Senate procedure process—meaningless.”

A video of Blumenthal’s remarks is available here.

Blumental further called out his Republican colleagues for blocking the Major Richard Star Act on Twitter/X.

“As American troops serve in harm’s way, Republicans unconscionably blocked my Unanimous Consent request to pass the Richard Star Act & finally provide full benefits to combat-injured veterans. It’s simple justice & a moral imperative, supported by 77 cosponsors,” wrote Blumenthal with an accompanying video on Twitter/X.

At a joint Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing with Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), Blumenthal highlighted the importance of veterans’ advocacy in producing legislative results and emphasized his commitment to passing the Major Richard Star Act after it was blocked by Johnson. Veterans Service Organizations have continuously cited the legislation as their top policy priority and called on lawmakers to advance the bill during hearings this week and last week.

“I went to the floor of the United States Senate and asked for unanimous consent to pass the Major Richard Star Act. Unfortunately, it was blocked. I asked, as a fall back, for a simple vote on the bill before August, it was blocked as well,” said Blumenthal. “…The Chairman just talked about promises. Promises are meaningless unless they are kept. We made a promise to these veterans that they would receive both retirement and disability benefits. We owe them both, and I promise you I will not stop fighting until we pass the Richard Star Act in this Congress.

Blumenthal also stressed the importance of veterans’ voices in pushing back against the Trump Adminsitration’s maligned workforce policies at VA. This follows recent reporting from The New York Times revealing how the Administration has cut thousands of roles for doctors and nurses at VA after its employees left in droves due to the Administration’s toxic culture and draconian policies: “…At our hearing last month, Secretary Collins said the VA needs more doctors. And yet, he has eliminated thousands of positions and jobs. We need your help. We need your advocacy. We need your voices and your faces. Which is why it's so important you're here today so that we can maintain, restore, and even grow the numbers of doctors, nurses, counselors, psychiatrists. All of the team, at VA health care that is so important to make sure that we have sufficient workforce to serve the needs of our veterans.”

A video of Blumenthal’s remarks is available here.

Blumenthal Bulletin

Blumenthal released a statement today on the U.S. Navy’s announcement that RTX was awarded a $256 million contract to support the production of F135 engines.

Blumenthal attended the Stratford Mayor’s “Ball for All.”

Blumenthal promoted his GRID Act and called on Big Tech companies to protect consumers.

Blumenthal introduced bicameral legislation to restore a Trump-shuttered Department of Justice transnational crime unit to crack down on fentanyl.

-30-


Budd, Warnock Introduce Bill to Create Task Force to Reform the Deployment of Federal Disaster Aid

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) introduced the bipartisan Disaster Recovery Improvement Act this week to establish the Disaster Recovery Improvement Task Force. The interagency task force would take input from local leaders, including county commissioners and governors, to evaluate necessary reforms needed to strengthen federal government programs responsible for providing disaster aid and resources to communities in the wake of major natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes.

“For well over a year, I have worked with DHS to unlock FEMA funding for Western North Carolina that has been stuck in longstanding regulatory bottlenecks. Through that work, I’ve also uncovered additional gaps in our federal disaster response, including programs run by other agencies that have slowed recovery efforts. This cannot continue. Reform is clearly needed to fix these programs which is why Senator Warnock and I have put forth a solution to establish a task force that would bring local, state, and federal officials together to eliminate hurdles holding back the deployment disaster relief,” said Senator Budd.

“When disaster strikes, Georgians should not have to navigate a confusing, bureaucratic maze to rebuild their lives. Lately, the federal government has not acted with the urgency our neighbors need when they are hurting, and Georgians have felt these delays,” said Senator Warnock. “This bipartisan task force Senator Budd and I are proposing would bring local and federal leaders to the same table so we can better deliver relief to the people who need it most.”

The Disaster Recovery Improvement Act is supported by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC).

“The voice of county leaders is critical in disaster recovery. We appreciate Senator Budd’s recognition of that fact by including county-level input in his proposed legislation, which seeks to craft meaningful reforms for disaster recovery programs that span numerous federal agencies outside of FEMA. Disaster recovery begins and ends at the local level. We must support those impacted by Helene while applying important lessons learned in the wake of the disaster to improve outcomes in future events,” said Wallace Nelson, President, NCACC.

Read the full bill text HERE.

BACKGROUND

The Disaster Recovery Improvement Act would:

Establish a task force:

Chaired by a senior official from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

A senior official from the following federal agencies that administer key disaster recovery programs: Small Business Administration, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Agriculture, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor, Department of Transportation, Department of the Treasury, Department of the Interior, Environmental Protection Agency, Army Corps of Engineers, and the Office of Management and Budget.

Four state governors

Four county commissioners

Identify gaps ignored by federal programs that are vital to recovery efforts by helping federal officials pinpoint where reform is most needed to strengthen recovery programs.

Develop recommendations to avoid future delays in deploying disaster relief aid during transitions between presidential administrations.

###


Capito Secures CDS Allocations for Water Infrastructure Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and a leader on the Senate Appropriations committee, announced Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) allocations for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) to support water infrastructure projects throughout West Virginia.

“The need for clean water across West Virginia is critical,” Senator Capito said. “These investments will go a long way in making sure communities across our state have more efficient water systems that better serve residents and businesses. By directing federal funding to projects like these, we are helping ensure stronger, healthier communities and a brighter future for all West Virginians.”

Individual allocation details listed below:

$10,000,000 CDS allocation to Huntington Sanitary Board (Cabell County, W.Va.) to rehabilitate and reconstruct the Four Pole Creek Sanitary Pump Station to prevent sewage overflows, protect public health, and ensure reliable wastewater service for residents.

$5,051,000 CDS allocation to Harpers Ferry Water Distribution System Project (Jefferson County, W.Va.) to support the rehabilitation of the town’s water distribution system. Senator Capito first announced this allocation in February 2026.

$2,500,000 CDS allocation to City of Pennsboro (Ritchie County, W.Va.) to replace aging infrastructure and non-operational water valves to increase fire-fighting capabilities and to reduce water loss.

$2,250,000 CDS allocation to Clarksburg Water Board (Harrison County, W.Va.) to replace problematic lead service lines and non-operational valves and fire hydrants.

$1,500,000 CDS allocation to Tucker County Commission (Tucker County, W.Va.) to create one regional collection system and wastewater treatment plant to meet the expanding infrastructure needs.

$1,500,000 CDS allocation to the City of Weston (Lewis County, W.Va.) to extend sewer service along Corridor H to better serve existing and future customers and support economic development.

$1,000,000 CDS allocation to the Town of West Hamlin (Lincoln County, W.Va.) to ensure reliable portable water to customers and support upgrades to the water treatment plant.

$1,000,000 CDS allocation to Buffalo Creek Public Service District (Logan County, W.Va.) to replace the failing wastewater treatment plant and make upgrades to the collection system extensions.

$750,000 CDS allocation to Boone County Public Service District (Boone County, W.Va.) to support water improvement and a pipeline extension to provide sanitary sewer service to more residents.


Cassidy Legislation to Protect Children and Teens Online Passes Senate

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the Senate’s passage of his Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection (COPPA 2.0) Act to ensure children and teenagers are protected online by updating online data privacy rules for the 21st century.

“Kids today grow up online. They should be protected when they do,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re giving parents peace of mind by protecting their kids’ personal information.”

The Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act would prohibit targeted advertising to children and teenagers. It would also establish data minimization rules and an “Eraser Button” for users to delete all collected information on a child or teenager. This legislation would revise and extend COPPA by banning internet companies from collecting sensitive information on users ages 13-16 without consent and closing compliance loopholes.

###


FEMA Awards Nearly $6 Million to North Dakota for Flood Mitigation, Storm Shelter Projects

BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded a total of $5,984,738 in federal funding for two projects in North Dakota. The funding will be distributed as follows:

$3,122,738 to fund Phase II of the Boom Lake flood mitigation project in Marion, focusing on construction to address persistent flooding risks. Phase II will implement final construction engineering to protect critical infrastructure, including a sanitary sewer lift station and nearby buildings, while reducing reliance on emergency levees. This project enhances community resilience, safeguards infrastructure, and mitigates flood risks for long-term protection.

$2,862,000 to fund the design and construction of four storm shelters located in state parks. Each shelter will be designed for windspeeds rated to at least 250 mph (EF-5).


ICYMI: Sen. Cramer Op-Ed: Why America Should Measure its Environmental Performance

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer’s (R-ND) commonsense effort to acknowledge the environmental performance of America’s workers and industry has been met with breathless hysteria exemplified by a recent piece by Michael McKenna in The Washington Times. As a result, this straightforward directive for the federal government to compare U.S.-made goods with those produced abroad has been mischaracterized as an “energy tax” destined to devastate American families and shutter factories.

This claim is false. The bipartisan PROVE IT Act acknowledges American excellence while protecting workers and businesses. The Trump administration can use the data to address unfair trade practices or as a shield against other countries that refuse to give us proper credit.

This matters now more than ever, as the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will soon impose emissions-based charges on certain American exports using Europe’s own assumptions and calculations. Without our own authoritative data, U.S. businesses will be subject to whatever numbers Brussels decides to apply.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times pushing back on the backwards, hysterical response to the passage of Cramer’s PROVE IT Act language.

Why America Should Measure its Environmental Performance

The Washington Times – March 4, 2026

My commonsense effort to acknowledge the environmental performance of America’s workers and industry has been met with breathless hysteria exemplified by a recent piece by Michael McKenna in The Washington Times (“Thanks to Sen. Kevin Cramer, Republicans vote for an energy tax,” Web, Feb. 11).

As a result, this straightforward directive for the federal government to compare U.S.-made goods with those produced abroad has been mischaracterized as an “energy tax” destined to devastate American families and shutter factories.

The claim is false. The language in question directs the Department of Energy to conduct a transparent study comparing the environmental footprints of American products (such as steel, cement and aluminum) with those of foreign producers. It requires consultation with experts, clear documentation of methodology and a public report.

That’s it. No taxes. No fees. No mandates. It’s about data to prove American production is the most efficient in the world. Why take my or their word for it? Read it for yourself:

“The Committee directs [the Energy Department] to consult with relevant agencies, institutions, academia, and think tank partners and to provide not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act a study to determine the average emissions intensity of certain goods produced in the United States compared to those from other countries.”

Calling this a tax is fearmongering. It’s part of a broader pattern of deliberate mischaracterization and ad hominem attacks meant to distract from the substance of the policy.

It’s a classic Washington play for when you’re losing: Invent an argument not based on reality and caricature the winning side’s motives to inflame rather than inform. When facts are inconvenient, distortion becomes the way.

Critics have accused me of doing this “surreptitiously.” This language mirrors the PROVE IT Act I introduced more than two years ago. The bill has been publicly available, debated in committees, covered in the press and even favorably voted out of committee.

It was in the House appropriations report in July 2024 and the Senate report in August 2024, in plain sight, like a billboard on the interstate, for more than 500 days. If these opponents didn’t notice until now, then that’s not stealth on my part; it’s incompetence on theirs.

Sadly, there are still Americans who want to give China a free pass. Backed by corporate America, which benefited from offshoring jobs, these mercenaries turn a blind eye to how countries such as China use lax manufacturing standards to dump goods on our markets while we play by the rules.

They oppose anything that might empower America to fight back, including tools aligned with President Trump’s vision.

The president has been crystal clear: America must stop tolerating one-sided trade relationships and emissions havens that undercut our workers. For decades, foreign competitors manipulated standards, erected barriers and benefited from America’s passivity, hollowing out U.S. manufacturing while flooding our markets with cheaper goods that do not meet the standards we impose on ourselves.

Those days are over.

Our bipartisan PROVE IT Act acknowledges American excellence while protecting workers and businesses. The Trump administration can use the data to address unfair trade practices or as a shield against other countries that refuse to give us proper credit.

This matters now more than ever, as the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will soon impose emissions-based charges on certain American exports using Europe’s own assumptions and calculations. Without our own authoritative data, U.S. businesses will be subject to whatever numbers Brussels decides to apply.

This study is not environmental activism; it’s economic intelligence. It gives America the hard facts needed to defend our industries, negotiate from a position of strength and resist unjustified taxes.

To the opponents, I say this: America should never fear facts, especially when those facts prove our strength. From the environment to labor and the finished product, our manufacturing and industrial base is without peer. We should be proud to prove it.