Luján, Murkowski, Schatz Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand and Modernize Native Housing Programs

Senators Push to Advance Housing Policy in NAHASDA’s 30TH Anniversary Year

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaiʻi), Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, introduced the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026 (NAHASDA Modernization Act), comprehensive legislation to reauthorize and modernize federal housing programs serving American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Original co-sponsors of the legislation include U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Mike Crapo (D-ID).

The bipartisan legislation updates and reauthorizes the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), the primary federal law providing funding to support affordable housing activities in Indian Country, through 2033. It includes key reforms that will increase flexibility for Tribes and Native Hawaiians, streamline federal requirements, and expand access to safe, affordable housing.

“For more than 25 years, Tribal housing programs have relied on NAHASDA to improve housing opportunities for Native communities,” said Senator Luján. “Reauthorizing and updating this legislation will strengthen self-determination, expand access to housing, and provide Tribes with the flexibility and resources needed to address local needs. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and ensure the federal government upholds its trust responsibility to Native families in New Mexico and across the country.”

“For more than a decade, I’ve worked on NAHASDA and heard directly from Native families about how the lack of safe, affordable housing affects every part of daily life. As Congress continues its efforts to address housing challenges around the country, we cannot leave Native communities behind. The federal government has a trust responsibility to ensure Tribes have the tools to meet the housing needs of their people,” said Chairman Murkowski. “I’m proud to have worked alongside Tribal leaders and stakeholders in Alaska and across the country to identify practical solutions. By cutting red tape and providing greater flexibility, we can help communities provide housing that fits their unique needs and supports long-term stability.”

“Over the past 30 years, NAHASDA has delivered billions of dollars in federal funding to improve Native housing in Hawai‘i and across the country,” said Vice Chairman Schatz. “Our bill reflects what Native communities asked for: better tools and flexibilities to make homeownership and stable housing a reality for more families. I thank Chairman Murkowski for her partnership and all the Native leaders and organizations who helped make this bipartisan legislation even stronger.”

“Montana is home to seven Indian Reservations, and it’s one of my top priorities to ensure that these communities have equal access and resources, including when it comes to housing. I’m proud to work with Senator Murkowski on the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026. This bill will help ensure that tribal communities have the resources and flexibility needed to address housing shortages in Indian Country,” said Senator Daines.

“Everywhere I go in our state, I hear from Alaskans struggling from the severe housing shortage and high construction costs. These challenges are especially acute in our rural and tribal communities,” said Senator Sullivan. “Our Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) are on the front lines responding to this crisis and will be essential partners in solving it. The Senate’s passage of the largest housing package in decades—the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act—is an important step to boost supply, cut red tape, and support locally driven solutions. But as we advance these reforms, we must ensure tribal communities are not left behind. The NAHASDA Revitalization Act reauthorizes key tribal housing programs, strengthens tribal self-determination and ensures tribes have the tools and resources they need to expand housing. For decades, NAHASDA has provided Alaska with the flexibility and self-determination to meet our state’s unique tribal housing needs, and its reauthorization will help to expand safe, affordable housing opportunities for all Alaskans.”

“As we work to address the housing crisis across our nation, it’s vital we consider the needs of Native communities,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to modernize federal housing policy impacting Native communities and expand access to affordable housing for Native families in Hawaii and across our country.”

“The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act would finally cut through bureaucratic barriers and empower Tribes with the flexibility they need to deliver safe, affordable homes for Native families in Idaho and nationwide,” said Senator Crapo.

“The growth of Native Communities without an increase in housing results in overcrowded conditions, which leads to social ills. Having to painfully wait each year to find out whether Congress will fund NAHASDA is detrimental to Native communities. The re-authorization of NAHASDA gives Tribes the funding stability they require to give the gift of stability to Native families. Providing families with stability through safe and adequate housing changes the mindset. It allows families to think beyond shelter and safety and strive for education and economic development,” said Francisco Carr, Executive Director of the Pueblo of Acoma Housing Authority.

“Across the Navajo Nation, and throughout Indian Country, housing shortages are a critical challenge in Tribal communities. Reauthorizing and strengthening NAHASDA will help Tribal housing authorities streamline housing development, reduce unnecessary delays, and move housing projects forward more quickly to house Native families. We value Senator Ben Ray Luján’s leadership in advancing this important legislation,” said Levon Henry, Interim CEO, Navajo Housing Authority.

“Reauthorization will strengthen Tribal housing policy, affirm the federal trust responsibility, and ensure that 575 tribal nations in the United States can meet critical housing needs with sustained federal support. The Pueblo of Jemez urges congress to act on the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) reauthorization. NAHASDA is not just a housing law; it is an affirmation of tribal self determination. Reauthorization modernizes and streamlines housing solutions that honor our culture, meet our people’s needs, and strengthen our sovereignty,” said the Pueblo of Jemez.

Representative Troy Downing (R-MT-02) and Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05) introduced the House companion bill to the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026.

Key provisions of the legislation include:

Reauthorizes the Indian Housing Block Grant and the Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant through 2033 to provide long-term stability and certainty for Tribal housing and Native Hawaiian housing programs

Streamlines environmental reviews, reporting, and federal requirements to reduce delays and accelerate housing development in Tribal and Native Hawaiian communities

Expands eligibility and flexibility for Tribal Housing programs, including allowing increased income eligibility for homeownership and enabling pathways such as lease-to-own

Codifies the Tribal HUD-VASH program and ensures dedicated resources for Native veterans experiencing or at-risk of homelessness

Enhances Tribal self-determination by providing greater control over procurement, rent policies, program design, and use of funds

Enhances access to private financing by reauthorizing and improving Section 184 and 184A loan guarantee programs and expanding lender participation

Expands Tribal access to federal homelessness programs, including the Continuum of Care program and new Tribal and rural housing initiatives

Establishes targeted pilot and demonstration programs to provide housing assistance and supportive services for Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians experiencing homelessness

This year, 2026, marks three decades since NAHASDA was signed into law. Building on that 30-year legacy, this legislation would build on years of consultation with Tribal leaders, housing authorities, and Native serving organizations, and reflect priorities identified by Native communities.

The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: National American Indian Housing Council, National Congress of American Indians, National NeighborWorks Association, Housing Assistance Council (HAC), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Native CDFI Network, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), Association of Alaska Housing Authorities (AAHA), Tlingit & Haida Regional Housing Authority, Copper River Basin Regional Housing Authority, Cook Inlet Housing Authority, Rasmuson Foundation, The Foraker Group, Alaska Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, Housing Alaskans: A Public-Private Partnership, Alaska Municipal League, Cold Climate Housing Research Center, Pueblo of Acoma Housing Authority, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), and the Navajo Housing Authority.

###


Luján Statement on DHS Funding Bill

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on funding parts of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, implementing the Senate Democrats’ plan to pay our TSA workers, Coast Guard, and more, while holding the line against funding for ICE and Border Patrol:

“I’m glad that the hardworking men and women of TSA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, and across DHS are finally getting paid. This crisis was entirely preventable.

“After 41 days of holding travelers hostage and blocking Democrats’ efforts to fund TSA, President Trump decided he had the authority to pay TSA officers all along. Senate Democrats offered legislation more than 10 times to pay TSA officers. Republicans blocked each effort.

“Under the Trump administration, ICE and CBP have spiraled into chaos without oversight. These untrained agents have killed two American citizens, executed warrantless searches, and terrorized our communities.

“We made a promise to the American people: no blank check for President Trump and Stephen Miller’s lawless ICE and CBP. That’s what we forced President Trump and Republicans to accept.

“But this is not over. ICE and CBP must be held accountable, and I will continue fighting for meaningful, common-sense changes that protect our rights and keep our communities safe. That’s what New Mexicans expect and deserve.”

Background from the Senate Appropriations Committee:

The funding bill released and passed by the Senate mirrors the bill that Senate Democrats introduced on March 5 – and that Democrats have repeatedly tried to pass through unanimous consent, but that Republicans have blocked on each occasion.

The bill funds all of the Department of Homeland Security, except for ICE and Border Patrol, which receive no new appropriations. It guarantees backpay to workers who went without pay during the shutdown, and retains the new accountability measures included in the legislation introduced in January.

Following major DHS scandals, Senator Luján introduced legislation to hold ICE and CBP accountable, increase transparency, and make communities safer.

Senator Luján opposed the confirmation of Senator Markwayne Mullin to serve as DHS Secretary. He also voted against Kristi Noem’s confirmation as DHS Secretary and successfully pushed for her ouster.

###


Senator Marshall Praises Trump Admin’s Historic Renewable Fuel Standard Rule

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), praised the Trump administration’s finalization of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) “Set 2” rule, calling it a historic victory for Kansas farmers and rural communities across America. Announced at the White House Great American Agriculture Celebration, the rule sets biofuel volume requirements for 2026 and 2027 at the highest levels in the program’s 20-year history.

“This is exactly what putting Kansas farmers first looks like. Thanks to President Trump and Administrator Lee Zeldin, our farmers now have more market access, more certainty, and a stronger future than ever before,” said Senator Marshall. “The RFS Set 2 rule is projected to generate $3 to $4 billion in new net farm income and create over 100,000 ag jobs — that’s real, tangible relief for the hardworking men and women who feed this nation. The Trump administration promised to put American agriculture first, and today they delivered.”

The EPA’s final rule requires a significant expansion of biodiesel and renewable diesel production — more than 60 percent above 2025 levels — driving renewed demand for Kansas soybean producers. The rule also maintains the 15 billion-gallon conventional biofuel standard, providing long-term certainty for corn growers and ethanol producers. Beginning in 2028, foreign fuels and feedstocks will receive half the RFS compliance value compared to American-made products, further prioritizing domestic agriculture.

Overall, the rule is expected to generate over $10 billion for rural economies and support $31 billion in value for American corn and soybean oil used in biofuel production in 2026 alone.

###


Senator Marshall’s Office Hosts Wildfire Recovery Roundtable with Agency Leaders & Local Producers

Garden City – On Wednesday, the office of U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), convened a meeting between Kansas agricultural agency leaders and local farmers and ranchers who lost livestock, hay, grazing stock, and structures to recent fires. Producers from counties across Southwest Kansas filled the Meade County Fairgrounds to ask questions and provide feedback in person, as they work through government program applications to recover some of their losses.

Agriculture agency leaders travelled from across the state to give overviews of available relief programs and take questions directly from producers. Along with state directors, many local FSA and NRCS directors were present as well.

Roundtable participants included:

David Schemm, FSA State Executive Director

Chad Volkman, NRCS Acting State Conservationist

Mike Beam, Kansas Department of Agriculture Secretary

Gimmie Jo Jansonius, USDA Rural Development State Director

Chris Mullins, Kansas Forest Service Acting Rural Forestry Program Coordinator

Bill Waln, Kansas Forest Service State Fire Management Officer

Senator Marshall’s office has been fielding questions from producers and assisting in the wildfires that swept across the region on February 17. Senator Marshall was in Southwest Kansas and witnessed the wildfires firsthand. He arrived in Ashland that evening as firefighters and producers worked against strong winds and high fuel loads.

For a directory of resources, producers can learn more HERE.

For follow-up questions or comments, Kansans can reach out to Senator Marshall’s staff at 620-765-7800.

###


Senators McCormick, Kim Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S. Global Nuclear Exports

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, yesterdayintroduced legislation to strengthen America’s competitiveness in the global nuclear energy market as part of the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). As global demand for reliable, clean energy grows, this bipartisan bill will strengthen the United States’ ability to compete for and win nuclear energy projects around the world. As part of the reauthorization process, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy, or ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026, would enhance the Export-Import Bank of the United States’ (EXIM) ability to support U.S. nuclear energy exports.

“The global demand for reliable nuclear energy is growing, and American nuclear technology is ready to meet the challenge. China and Russia are aggressively expanding their nuclear footprint in global markets, and the United States must respond by strengthening our ability to compete for commercial nuclear projects abroad,” said Senator McCormick. “The ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026 will drive America’s energy competitiveness and help make the United States the partner of choice. When American companies win these projects, they support a strong domestic supply chain—from Pennsylvania to communities across the country—creating jobs, strengthening our industrial base, and reinforcing America’s leadership in technology.”

“Electricity demand is surging worldwide, and China continues bankrolling its own nuclear exports while we leave ourselves without the tools to compete. The ACE Nuclear Energy Act changes that, giving American exporters the financing and talent they need to win. This is how we lead the global energy race, create good American jobs, and grow our economy,” said Senator Kim.

The initiative builds on momentum from the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which included the International Nuclear Energy Act, directing federal agencies to develop and implement a coordinated strategy.

As part of EXIM’s reauthorization, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy (ACE Nuclear Energy) provisions would address key barriers facing U.S. nuclear companies:

Unlocking Financing for Large-Scale Projects: Nuclear energy projects often require multi-billion-dollar investments. This legislation would create a targeted exemption from EXIM’s statutory default rate cap, ensuring a single project does not shut down the agency’s ability to approve new deals. This reform aligns EXIM with international counterparts, enabling support for projects in higher-risk, high-growth markets where private lenders often cannot operate.

Strengthening Workforce Competitiveness: The bill would expand EXIM’s ability to offer market-competitive pay for specialized staff,’ helping the agency attract and retain the expertise needed to compete globally—similar to peer institutions like the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.

The legislation positions the United States as a premier partner for countries seeking dependable, secure, and clean energy solutions while advancing American economic and strategic interests.

Read the full bill text here.

###


Watch: Senator McCormick Delivers Late-Night Floor Speech Last Night to Fund ALL of the Department of Homeland Security

“I rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) spoke on the Senate floor last night to call out Senate Democrats for refusing to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security — arguing that the decision undermines a critical agency responsible for protecting the country at a time of heightened domestic threats and ongoing operations in Iran.

Click here to watch the video.

Senator McCormick’s remarks below (as prepared):

“Mr. President, I rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe. Shutting down DHS to make a point on immigration is reckless, and it is devoid of basic, fundamental common sense. It weakens the agencies that protect the homeland. It punishes the men and women across TSA, CISA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, and the rest of DHS who stand watch every day over this country. And it burdens the Americans who depend on those public servants.

“So what has this shutdown accomplished? What has it brought us?

“First, it endangers America. It endangers Americans.

“Since combat operations have begun in Iran, the homeland has seen five major attacks: an ISIS-inspired bombing outside Gracie Mansion in New York City; a terrorist shooting in a classroom at Old Dominion; a vehicle attack at Temple Israel in Michigan; a terrorist shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas; and a pro-Iran cyberattack on Stryker, one of America’s great medical products companies, whose systems support patient care and hospitals across the country.

“These threats come on top of the violence already made possible by the Biden Administration’s disastrous, catastrophic border policies. Just last Thursday, we saw it on the television: an illegal immigrant shot and killed an 18-year-old Loyola Chicago student, Sheridan Gorman. The killer had crossed the border in 2023, was caught and released, and then — after a shoplifting arrest — was released once again. And now, sadly, tragically, a young woman is dead at his hands.

“That is why we must keep DHS fully operational, including ICE. We do not know what threats exist among the ten million illegal immigrants who entered our country during the Biden Administration. But we do know that those risks are growing — and they are made much worse because of the carelessness of Democrats in shutting down and refusing to fund DHS.

“And yet, in our moment of real national need, Democrats are choosing performance theater over the safety of the American people. It is irresponsible. It is callous. It is disgraceful. And it must stop. We are 40 days into this — it must stop.

“Second, it hurts the people who protect us.

“Shutting down DHS hurts the very people who step forward to protect us. The average TSA agent earns about $50,000 a year. Many live paycheck to paycheck — and those are the paychecks my Democratic colleagues chose to withhold to stage this stunt.

“Now, fortunately, President Trump earlier today intervened and directed the new Secretary of Homeland Security to find a way to pay these folks. But tragically, much of the damage has already been done. Too many Pennsylvanians are already paying the price. TSA officers in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports have had to rely on food banks to get by. The men and women standing between the traveling public and danger should not have to depend on charity because Congress cannot do its job.

“The consequences of this shutdown are mounting. Last Sunday, one in four TSA agents in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports called out — 25% didn’t come to work, because Democrats have forced them to work without pay. They cannot protect their families and report to work without being paid. Not many Americans can. And since the shutdown began, at least 450 TSA agents have quit — 450 trained professionals, gone. Replacing them will cost money, it will take time, and until then the risk facing the American people has gone up.

“Third, it imposes real costs and real vulnerabilities on the American people.

“We have all seen the images: airport security lines snaking out of the terminal into the parking garages. Families heading out on spring break, workers traveling across the country, people hitting the road for work — all victims of a politically manufactured crisis.

“And I wish I could say it was just the airports. But the consequences go far beyond. The World Cup security preparations in cities around the world, including Philadelphia, have already fallen behind. Security grants for houses of worship are tied up. Local communities are without critical DHS threat information sharing. Our cybersecurity readiness is diminished. And in Pennsylvania, firefighters and first responders have lost access to critical DHS training.

“The bottom line is this: this shutdown is petty political theater that is putting American lives at risk. It is unacceptable, and it has to stop.

“I reject the false choice between funding and reforms. We can address the legitimate concerns the American people have had about immigration enforcement while fully funding DHS. We can secure the homeland and insist on professionalism and competence. That is why I support the common-sense reforms that Republicans in Congress and the Administration have put forward: body cameras for ICE, funding for de-escalation training, increased transparency requirements, and regular inspections of detention facilities. These are common-sense proposals offered in good faith — and yet Democrats have turned away. Because they do not want a resolution. They want to use this as a political issue heading into the midterms. And the American people are suffering.

“I am confident that my former colleague Markwayne Mullin, whom we confirmed on Monday, will bring the leadership this moment demands. And whatever our differences in this chamber over policy, shutting down the government is never the right answer. As President Obama’s DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson said last week, we need to get out of the business of coupling policy disagreements with funding the government.

“Shutting down the Department of Homeland Security for the third time this Congress, amid major combat operations in the Middle East, is not merely wrong — it is reckless.

“I am proud that my friend and Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman agrees that shutting down the government is wrong. He and I can always be depended on to walk together for a better Pennsylvania. I urge others in the Democratic Party to do the same: fund DHS, protect America, pay the men and women who are defending us, and relieve the American people of these ridiculous, politically-imposed, unnecessary burdens.

“I yield the floor.

###


Merkley, Daines Pass Bipartisan Resolution to Designate National Asbestos Awareness Week April 1-7

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Montana’s U.S. Senator Steve Daines introduced and passed a bipartisan Senate resolution to designate the first week of April as National Asbestos Awareness Week, emphasizing asbestos exposure prevention, education, and the protection of public health.

“All Americans deserve a future free of asbestos exposure—a carcinogen that has killed far too many,” said Senator Merkley. “This National Asbestos Awareness Week, we commit to shining a light on this ongoing crisis and ending this dangerous public health threat once and for all.”

“Far too many Montanans have suffered because of toxic exposure to asbestos, especially in the towns of Libby and Troy. National Asbestos Awareness Week is an important way to call attention to the dangers of asbestos and protect the health and safety of our communities,” said Senator Daines.

Merkley has been a longtime advocate for banning asbestos and has championed bipartisan legislation that would keep this toxic poison away from workers and consumers. He previously chaired a hearing on his legislation to ban the manufacturing, processing, use, and distribution of commercial asbestos in the United States.

Merkley and Daines’ bipartisan resolution is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Cory Booker (D-NJ).

The bipartisan resolution is supported by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), American Public Health Association (APHA), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH), Environmental Working Group (EWG), Environmental Information Association (EIA), ASBESTONOMY, British Occupational Hygiene Society, Center for Environmental Health, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, Mesothelioma Hope, Mesothelioma UK, Occupational Knowledge International, Professional Abatement Contractors of New York, SOS Amianto, Toxic-Free Future, UK Asbestos Training Association, and Union Aid Abroad.

“Asbestos exposure is entirely preventable—and prevention saves lives,” said Linda Reinstein, President and CEO of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). “The bipartisan leadership of Senators Jeff Merkley and Steve Daines in designating the 21st National Asbestos Awareness Week reinforces a clear, science-based truth: there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Each year, tens of thousands of Americans die from preventable asbestos-related diseases, while legacy asbestos continues to threaten families and workers across the country. This resolution strengthens our shared commitment to education, prevention, and accountability. On behalf of ADAO and the global community we serve, we thank Senators Merkley and Daines for their leadership to protect public health and advance the goal of ending asbestos-related disease in the United States.”

“There is overwhelming consensus in the scientific community that there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos,” said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, CEO of APHA. “Asbestos causes mesothelioma and cancer of the lung, larynx, and ovaries. Exposure to asbestos is also strongly associated with asbestosis and pleural disease.”

“Occupational cancer continues to be the number one killer of fire fighters and the IAFF remains steadfastly committed to identifying, mitigating, and ultimately removing every known carcinogenic exposure to fire fighters form the fireground,” said IAFF’s Chief Medical Officer, Dan Whu, MD, MPH, FACPM, FAAMA, ABOIM, DNBPAS, CFO, PMD-T. “Asbestos fits squarely in this category as it is both a known human carcinogen (as classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer), and unnecessary, as there are safe alternative products in the market that can replace it.”

“No one in this country should be unsafe at work—period. For decades, the AFT and its local unions have fought for asbestos elimination to protect workers and the communities they serve, including educators and kids who spend their days in century-old classrooms. This year, during the Senate’s 21st Asbestos Awareness Week, we call on lawmakers to take this toxin seriously and act to ensure workers don’t get sick just from doing their job,” said Randi Weingarten, AFT President.

“Cancers caused by asbestos exposure can develop years after exposure, even if you don’t recall it happening. We must ban asbestos now to protect against this invisible threat. The International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH) has consistently advocated for a global ban on asbestos and the prevention of asbestos-related diseases,” said Seong-Kyu Kang, President, International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH).

“EWG commends Sen. Jeff Merkley and bipartisan Senate leaders for the unanimous passage of the 21st Asbestos Awareness Week Resolution, advancing a long-overdue effort to address the dangers of this deadly carcinogen in the United States,” said EWG President and co-founder Ken Cook. “For decades, asbestos exposure has taken a devastating toll, claiming countless lives and continuing to shatter thousands of families each year. It is past time to end this entirely preventable tragedy,” said Ken Cook, EWG President and co-founder.

“As we celebrate Global Asbestos Awareness Week – April 1- April 7, let us all remember that many homes and commercial buildings still contain asbestos. A thorough asbestos survey should ALWAYS be conducted prior to any renovation or demolition to prevent unnecessary exposure. There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos. Please be aware and do not disturb this cancer-causing mineral. Leave this work to properly licensed professionals,” said Brent Kynoch, EIA, Managing Director.

Full text of the resolution can be found by clicking here.

This press release has been updated.

###


Salinas, Merkley, Hoyle-Led Letter Forces ICE to Confirm: No Plans to Expand or Build ICE Detention Facilities in Oregon

Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to an inquiry led by U.S. Congresswomen Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Val Hoyle (OR-04) and Senator Jeff Merkley and signed by Senator Wyden and U.S. Congresswomen Bonamici, Dexter, and Bynum, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons confirmed that, “ICE is not currently planning to expand current detention facilities or open any new long or short-term detention facilities in Oregon.”

“Oregonians never wanted an ICE detention facility in our state, especially as ICE and DHS have repeatedly abused their power and terrorized our communities,” said Salinas. “I am glad that the Administration confirmed they currently have no plans to build or expand any ICE detention facility in Oregon. I have consistently demanded full transparency and accountability from ICE and the Trump Administration for their misconduct, and I will keep using every avenue available to call out ICE’s overreach and keep our communities safe.”

“Again and again, ICE has been caught lying to the American people, so we should be skeptical of anything they tell us,” said Merkley. “Trump is hellbent on deploying his secret police across Oregon, and we won’t stand for it. I say HELL NO to any plans to expand ICE facilities or operations in Oregon, whether it’s office space, detention centers, or anything else the Trump Administration cooks up.”

“The President has taken us into war, gas and grocery prices are skyrocketing and people can’t afford health care,” said Rep. Val Hoyle. “We need leadership that actually puts the needs of Americans first instead of spending taxpayer dollars to militarize our streets. We don’t need more money wasted on having a larger ICE presence here to harass, intimidate and detain hardworking Oregonians based on the color of their skin. Thanks, but no thanks.”

On February 12, 2026, Congresswoman Salinas and Senator Merkley led their democratic Oregon delegation colleagues and ten additional House Members in a letter opposing any plans to open or expand ICE detention facilities in Oregon, including a potential facility in Newport. They also demanded details about the safety and standards of “soft-sided” facilities.

On March 26, 2026, Acting Director Lyons responded to confirm that ICE currently does not have plans to build or expand any ICE facility in Oregon. The response indicates that ICE does not plan to move forward with a soft-sided detention facility in Newport, as had previously been reported. The response also provided details about the conditions of their soft-sided facilities. It claims that detainees are provided with three nutritious meals a day, that facilities are subject to inspections and audits conducted by the DHS Office of Inspector General, and that detainees are provided with sufficient clean clothing. These claims are contrary to many reports from detainees inside ICE facilities, and the Members will continue pushing for the truth about conditions in ICE facilities.

“Oregonians do not want or need ICE in our state,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “ICE has confirmed that they do not plan to open any additional detention facilities in Oregon, and we will hold them to that while we work to make our communities safer by getting masked, armed ICE agents off our streets.”

“ICE should be defunded and dismantled—and it should not be allowed to build new detention facilities anywhere. I’m grateful that in our home state of Oregon, ICE has said there are no plans to expand or build any new detention facilities. Oregonians are united in rejecting the cruelty this agency brings to our communities,” said Dexter.

“ICE has already caused so much damage in our community. From tear-gassing kids to tearing families apart, this agency is out of line and has no place in our cities,” Rep. Bynum said. “I’m glad that ICE confirmed that they do not have any plans right now to add detention facilities in Oregon. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to keep them out of our city and our state.”

Click here or see below for the full letter response from Acting Director Todd Lyons:

Thank you for your February 13, 2026 letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). I am responding on behalf of the Department.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is committed to safe, secure, and humane environments for all of those in its custody. ICE continues to evaluate bedspace requirements and availability and is committed to strategically using existing detention beds in a fiscally responsible manner. As part of its detention operations, aliens in ICE custody are housed at a variety of facilities across the United States, including ICE owned and operated facilities; federal, state, county, or local facilities contracted through intergovernmental service agreements; and contractor owned and operated facilities. ICE constantly evaluates its detention needs and contract structures based on changes in immigration patterns, the operational needs of the agency, and the availability of resources.

ICE’s enhanced enforcement operations have resulted in a significant number of arrests of criminal aliens, requiring greater detention capacity. As part of these efforts, ICE is exploring various options to increase bedspace capacity nationwide working in collaboration with federal partners such as the U.S. Marshals Service, the Department of War, and the Bureau of Prisons. ICE will continue to prioritize its resources and work closely with its network of federal, state, local, and private sector partners to ensure the agency can acquire sufficient bedspace to fully achieve its mission.

Regarding potential detention facilities in Oregon, ICE is not currently planning to expand current detention facilities or open any new long or short-term detention facilities in Oregon. As for detention expansion outside of Oregon, ICE issued a solicitation under the U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command’s Worldwide Expeditionary Multiple Award Contract vehicle to identify vendors to provide comprehensive detention operations and wraparound services including facility, grounds maintenance, and operations services at all newly acquired facilities. ICE anticipates making awards under this solicitation in the coming months and plans to onboard facilities by the end of Fiscal Year 2026. All detention facilities are acquired, constructed, and operated in accordance with federal regulations, court orders, and national detention standards. Unfortunately, ICE cannot provide additional details due to law enforcement sensitivity and operational security maintenance.

Additionally, you request information regarding the capacities of ICE’s soft-sided facilities. Camp East Montana, located in El Paso, Texas, is an over 72-hour facility with an average length of stay of 10 days. The Krome North Service Processing Center, which includes a soft-sided facility, in Miami, Florida, is an over 72-hour facility with an average length of stay of 23 days.

All of ICE’s detention facilities, including soft-sided facilities, are contractually obligated to operate in accordance with one of several sets of detention standards. The detention standards describe a facility’s immigration detention responsibilities, explain what detainee services a facility must provide, and identify what a facility must do to ensure a safe and secure detention environment for staff and detainees.

Specifically, soft-sided facilities operate in accordance with National Detention Standards 2025. To ensure compliance with each contract’s terms and conditions and the applicable detention standards, DHS and ICE employ a robust, multilevel oversight and compliance program. At the agency level, Detention Service Managers and Detention Standards Compliance Officers monitor detention conditions through daily on-site compliance reviews to identify deficiencies, areas of concern, contract and facility issues, and to facilitate corrective actions. Additionally, facilities are subject to inspections and audits conducted by the DHS Office of Inspector General, the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, the DHS Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, and the ICE Office of Detention Oversight within ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility.

During their immigration proceedings, detainees are afforded numerous procedural protections that ensure they are provided with notice and an opportunity to be heard. In removal proceedings, these protections include, but are not limited to, the right to be represented by an attorney, to contest any charges of removal, to present evidence, and generally to examine evidence against them. While the government does not provide attorneys at the government’s expense, all those arrested by ICE and placed into removal proceedings are provided with a list of free legal services and aid resources, including pro bono providers.

Additionally, ICE facilities continue to provide detainees with opportunities to meet privately with their current or prospective legal representatives, legal assistants, interpreters, and consular officials. While in-person contact visits remain available at the request of legal representatives, non-contact legal visitation (e.g., video teleconference) is available, wherever possible. This offers an alternative for attorneys to communicate with detained clients in a timely and efficient manner, especially when in-person visitation is not possible or practical.

While in detention, detainees reside in temperature-controlled environments at all times. Furthermore, detainees are provided with three nutritious meals a day and meals that support specialized diets, including religious diets and more than a dozen therapeutic diets, as well as cultural preferences. Menus are reviewed and approved on a regular basis by a registered dietitian to ensure appropriate nutrition is provided. Additionally, detainees are provided with clean bedding and “sufficient clean clothing” during their time in detention.

Currently, the Office of Professional Responsibility does not inspect state-owned and operated facilities such as the soft-sided facility in Miami, Florida. The Office of Detention Oversight conducts congressionally mandated compliance inspections of ICE detention facilities that house ICE detainees pursuant to contractual obligations. Camp East Montana is currently the only soft-sided facility subject to Office of Detention Oversight inspection. The Office of Detention Oversight inspected Camp East Montana, which is contractually obligated to the National Detention Standards 2025 inspection standard, from February 10 to 12, 2026. The report is currently being drafted. ICE will publish the final report by April 13, 2026, 60 days after the inspection.

In your letter, you request “a detailed list of every detention standard that has been waived for a soft-sided facility in CY 2025.” As previously mentioned, all of ICE’s detention facilities operate in accordance with national detention standards. ICE has not approved any waivers of detention standards for any of the soft-sided facilities.

Thank you again for your letter.

###


Wyden, Merkley Call for Automatic and Swift Tariff Tax Refunds, Real Relief for Small Businesses and Families

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) led several Senate Democrats today, including U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), in calling on the Trump administration to put in place an automatic tariff refund process that does not create more pain for U.S. small businesses and families in Oregon and nationwide.

In a letter to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney S. Scott, the lawmakers wrote that the administration’s proposed refund process — the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system — places an unnecessary burden on small businesses and individual importers.

“There is no principled reason for the Trump administration to conduct the refund process this way,” the senators wrote. “CBP already has the payment records it needs to issue refunds. As of March 4, 2026, CBP reported that more than 330,000 importers had paid or deposited approximately $166 billion in IEEPA tariffs across more than 53 million entries.”

The lawmakers ask the administration to use existing CBP records to automatically refund small businesses instead of forcing small businesses to opt-in. The letter comes as small businesses in Oregon and nationwide have not yet received their tariff refund following the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Trump’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariff taxes last month.

“If the government has records of every entry on which illegal tariffs were collected, it necessarily has records of every entry on which a refund is owed,” they wrote. “Requiring businesses to file declarations to identify those entries is an unnecessary process that seems designed to discourage and reduce the number of refunds the government must ultimately pay.”

“Every cent of illegal IEEPA tariffs must be returned,” they continued. “The only question is whether CBP will make that process as simple and equitable as possible, or whether it will implement a complicated and unfair system through which large corporations and Wall Street will benefit financially.”

The lawmakers requested answers to the following questions by April 8, 2026

How does CAPE comply with the CIT order that the government issue tariff refunds?

How does CAPE comply with representations from Administration attorneys in court that it would promptly, and at no cost to businesses, issue refunds if the tariffs were struck down?

Why did CBP develop CAPE rather than repurpose the existing ACE system to automatically issue refunds? Please provide any documents analyzing the shortcomings of repurposing the ACE system to automatically issue refunds.

Why is CAPE “opt-in,” requiring affirmative action by tariff payers?

Why does CAPE require importers to identify entry summaries when CBP already has that information?

How will CBP ensure that each step of the refund process is transparent and accessible to small businesses?

Will there be a formal appeal system for businesses that dispute the amount of the refund issued by CBP?

The letter is co-signed by Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Sen. Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).

The entire letter is here.

###


Wyden, Merkley Demand Trump Stop Phony Fraud Crusade to Attack Medicaid Programs Across U.S. States

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today demanded Donald Trump stop his phony crusade against fraud as a disguise to attack Medicaid programs in U.S. states that millions of Americans need to live safe and independent lives.

“Let us be clear: you are not going after the real fraudsters. Instead, under the guise of ‘program integrity,’ you are cutting off vital funding for services that seniors, people with disabilities, and children rely on to survive and thrive in their communities,” Wyden and Merkley emphasized to Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr., and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz.

The Trump administration withheld $259 million in Medicaid funds from Minnesota to go after so-called “fraudsters,” and has sent preliminary letters to four other states indicating they will do the same there. In reality, his administration is undermining Home and Community-Based Services, the program that serves as a lifeline for seniors, Americans with disabilities, and children.

“Without home care, Americans who need long-term services will be forced into nursing homes and institutions—a devastating rollback of civil rights that will ultimately cost taxpayers more. Furthermore, home care agencies and independent care workers, who already operate on razor-thin margins while following the law, will be forced to shut their doors,” Wyden and Merkley continued.

Joining Wyden in leading the letter were U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Joining Merkley as co-signers were U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Cory Booker, D-N.J.

The text of the letter is here.

###


Wyden, Merkley, Dexter Reintroduce Bill to Decommission Offshore Oil and Gas Wells, Platforms and Pipelines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Representative Maxine Dexter said today they have reintroduced legislation in the Senate and House that would address the growing threat of abandoned offshore oil and gas infrastructure to marine ecosystems and the environment in Oregon and nationwide as a result of climate change and extreme weather.

The Oregon lawmakers’ Plug Offshore Wells Act would direct the Department of the Interior to submit an annual, publicly available report to Congress on the status of decommissioning offshore oil and gas wells, platforms, and pipelines, in addition to reducing financial burdens on taxpayers by increasing oversight and accountability of Big Oil companies.

“Big Oil has been ditching its responsibilities while profiteering off of our natural resources in this country for too long,” Wyden said. “At a time when oil companies are making record profits, it is not too much to ask that they use some of those profits to clean up many of the messes their profiteering has left behind.”

“Orphaned wells are an environmental catastrophe waiting to explode,” Merkley said. “They pose the possibility of massive damage to the ocean by leaking oil and gas and must be addressed quickly.”

“Abandoned offshore oil and gas infrastructure is a growing threat to our oceans and coastal communities,” Dexter said. “For too long, oil companies have walked away from their responsibilities, leaving the public to foot the bill. This legislation brings transparency and accountability to a system that has let Big Oil off the hook, and it ensures we are protecting both our environment and taxpayer dollars. This bill brings transparency, saves taxpayers dollars, and helps us hold corporations accountable that disregard the health and safety of our people and our planet.”

In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.). In the House, the bill was led by Dexter and cosponsored by Reps. Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Dave Min (D-CA-47), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-DC-AL), Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), and Mike Levin (D-CA-49).

Idle and abandoned offshore oil and gas infrastructure increase the chance of oil leaks and pose environmental risks to marine ecosystems, especially as hurricanes and tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico increase in strength and frequency. Delays and defaults in decommissioning offshore oil and gas infrastructure also leave U.S. taxpayers responsible for covering the costs of decommissioning abandoned platforms and wells, an expensive and lengthy process.

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), more than 2,700 wells and 500 platforms in the Gulf of Mexico are overdue for decommissioning. The Plug Offshore Wells Act would follow GAO’s recommended steps on how Congress can address the backlog of overdue decommissioning requirements, including instituting new reporting requirements from the Interior Department to Congress on the status of decommissioning.

The Plug Offshore Wells Act is supported by the Center for Biological Diversity, Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council, Oceana, Ocean Conservancy, and the Surfrider Foundation.

A summary of the bill is here.

Full text of the bill is here.

###


Wyden, Merkley Slam Trump Administration Over Scheme to Undermine Reproductive Health Care in Oregon, Twelve Other States

Letter follows launch of investigation into states that require health insurance plans to cover abortion care

Washington, D.C. – Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden and Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Jeff Merkley, both D-Ore., today slammed the Trump administration over recent news that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched an investigation into 13 states, including Oregon, that require health insurers to cover abortion care.

Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022, 21 states have banned or severely restricted abortion. Abortion care remains legal in the state of Oregon and remaining other states, 13 of which require insurance companies to cover the cost of abortion care, making it more accessible to low-income women, particularly those in underserved and rural areas. Wyden slammed the Trump administration’s investigation as a politically-motivated attempt to claw back access to reproductive care in states where it remains legal.

“This investigation is a gross overreach of federal authority,” Wyden and Merkley wrote in their letter to HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., and Paula Stannard, the Director of the Office for Civil Rights at HHS. “You are weaponizing your department to target states where reproductive health care remains legal in a blatant attempt to deny women the care they need.”

The text of the letter is here and below:

The Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Secretary

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

200 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20201

Paula Stannard

Director, Office for Civil Rights

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

200 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20201

Dear Secretary Kennedy and Director Stannard,

We write regarding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) recent decision to launch a needless and wasteful federal investigation into the State of Oregon regarding our state laws that require private health insurers to cover abortion services. Upon reviewing this alarming inquiry, we must ask why the Trump administration is meddling in state laws regarding health care, especially when Oregonians have been abundantly clear on a matter that should have no interaction with the federal government.

This investigation is a gross overreach of federal authority. You are weaponizing your department to target states where reproductive health care remains legal in a blatant attempt to deny women the care they need. Oregon has a long, proud history of protecting access to comprehensive reproductive health care. Our democratically elected state legislature passed these coverage requirements to ensure all Oregonians have access to the full spectrum of reproductive care they need, without arbitrary financial barriers. By threatening to penalize Oregon and other states for protecting these fundamental freedoms, your department actively seeks to undermine states’ rights, and the will of our citizens.

It has become painfully obvious that the Trump administration cares about state’s rights but only when the states’ views align with Republicans’ extremist ideology. When states enact policies that align with your political agenda, you allow states to conduct business without federal interference. Yet, when states like Oregon exercise their prerogative to protect women’s health and reproductive freedom, you deploy the full weight of the federal government to intimidate and interfere. Make no mistake: this move is purely politically motivated. It is not designed to uphold the law, but to appease a partisan base at the direct expense of Oregon’s autonomy and women’s basic health and safety.

Oregon will not be bullied by a federal department attempting to impose its ideological agenda on our local health care system. We will fiercely defend our laws, our health care providers, and our residents’ right to access essential medical care with the utmost privacy and respect.

We demand that you immediately drop this baseless investigation and get out of my state’s business. Let Oregon govern Oregon.

Ron Wyden

Jeff Merkley

###


Sen. Moran Requests DHS Provide an Update on Preparations & Security Plans for 2026 FIFA World Cup

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science – today requested that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin provide an update on the department’s security preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City this summer and other upcoming global sporting events across the United States. Specifically, Sen. Moran asked for clarity on the benchmarks being used to assess host cities’ resources and preparedness in advance of the events, how DHS is coordinating with other federal, state and local agencies, and what special designations have been assigned to host cities to support their response capabilities.

“These moments present an extraordinary opportunity to showcase American leadership, hospitality, and security coordination on the world stage,” wrote Sen. Moran. “I am encouraged by the work underway across DHS components and with federal, state, and local partners to ensure these events are safe and successful. At the same time, given the scale of these events and the evolving threat environment in the United States, I would appreciate additional clarity on how the Department is approaching preparedness, coordination, and support for all host cities as preparations accelerate.”

Items to note:

Last April, Sen. Moran introduced legislation that would provide federal funding for local communities to transport fans, workers and goods safely and efficiently during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As part of the reconciliation legislation enacted last year, Sen. Moran helped secure $59.5 million for state and local municipalities in the Kansas City region to assist with the safety and security of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In August 2024, Sen. Moran led 19 of his colleagues in calling on the administration to establish a White House Task Force in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Secretary Mullin:

Congratulations on your confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security. I look forward to continuing our work together in your new role and appreciate your leadership in strengthening the Department and advancing its mission on behalf of those who carry it out every day.

I write to express my continued support for the Department of Homeland Security’s efforts to prepare for the upcoming global sporting events that will bring millions of visitors, athletes, and dignitaries to communities across the United States, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As I have noted in previous correspondence regarding major international events hosted by our country, these moments present an extraordinary opportunity to showcase American leadership, hospitality, and security coordination on the world stage.

I am encouraged by the work underway across DHS components and with federal, state, and local partners to ensure these events are safe and successful. At the same time, given the scale of these events and the evolving threat environment in the United States, I would appreciate additional clarity on how the Department is approaching preparedness, coordination, and support for all host cities as preparations accelerate.

Specifically, I would welcome the Department’s perspective on the following issues:

How is DHS assessing readiness across multiple host cities, and what benchmarks are being used to evaluate whether federal, state, and local partners are adequately resourced and prepared in advance of the events?

How is DHS facilitating timely intelligence sharing and operational coordination between host cities, particularly where threats, trends, or lessons learned in one jurisdiction may have relevance to others? What mechanisms are in place to ensure consistent and interoperable communication among federal agencies and local law enforcement partners before and during the events?

How is DHS coordinating with other federal departments, including the Department of Justice and the intelligence community, to ensure unity across the federal government?

Beyond the events themselves, how is DHS thinking about leaving host communities better positioned for future large-scale events and ongoing public safety challenges, particularly with respect to training, technology, and interagency relationships?

How is DHS engaging governors, mayors, and local law enforcement leadership to maintain clear lines of responsibility and communication throughout planning and execution?

Which cities, if any, are designated as National Special Security Events (NSSEs)?

Is DHS coordinating with governors on their activation of Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) agreements with other states to ensure host cities have prepositioned personnel, equipment, resources, and incident response capabilities? If EMACs are activated, is DHS postured under a potential Presidential declaration to reimburse states for their civil support should they seek federal reimbursement?

For host cities and states serving as base camps to four or more teams and their collective fan bases, how is DHS evaluating and delivering additional resources to account for the significantly increased security presence and operational demands associated with that concentration of visitors?

I look forward to continued collaboration to ensure the success of these events. Thank you for your attention to these important matters. I would welcome a briefing from your team at your convenience.

# # #


Murkowski Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand and Modernize Native Housing Programs

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, introduced the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026 (NAHASDA Modernization Act), comprehensive legislation to reauthorize and modernize federal housing programs serving American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) is an original cosponsor of the legislation.

The bipartisan legislation updates and reauthorizes the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), the primary federal law governing housing assistance in Indian Country, through 2033. It includes key reforms that will increase flexibility for Tribes and Native Hawaiians, streamline federal requirements, and expand access to safe, affordable housing.

“For more than a decade, I’ve worked on NAHASDA and heard directly from Native families about how the lack of safe, affordable housing affects every part of daily life. As Congress continues its efforts to address housing challenges around the country, we cannot leave Native communities behind. The federal government has a trust responsibility to ensure Tribes have the tools to meet the housing needs of their people,” said Senator Murkowski. “I’m proud to have worked alongside Tribal leaders and stakeholders in Alaska and across the country to identify practical solutions. By cutting red tape and providing greater flexibility, we can help communities provide housing that fits their unique needs and supports long-term stability.”

“Everywhere I go in our state, I hear from Alaskans struggling from the severe housing shortage and high construction costs. These challenges are especially acute in our rural and tribal communities,” said Senator Sullivan. “Our Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) are on the front lines responding to this crisis and will be essential partners in solving it. The Senate’s passage of the largest housing package in decades—the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act—is an important step to boost supply, cut red tape, and support locally driven solutions. But as we advance these reforms, we must ensure tribal communities are not left behind. The NAHASDA Revitalization Act reauthorizes key tribal housing programs, strengthens tribal self-determination and ensures tribes have the tools and resources they need to expand housing. For decades, NAHASDA has provided Alaska with the flexibility and self-determination to meet our state’s unique tribal housing needs, and its reauthorization will help to expand safe, affordable housing opportunities for all Alaskans.”

“Senator Murkowski’s bill removes barriers that have slowed housing development for too long and better aligns federal policy with the realities we face in Alaska. If we’re going to meet the housing crisis with the speed and scale the moment calls for, we need to build like the future depends on it. By strengthening NAHASDA’s promise of self-determination and bringing it into the modern era, this legislation helps make that possible,” said Griffin Forster, Executive Director of the Association of Alaska Housing Authorities.

“For nearly 30 years, NAHASDA has demonstrated that when Tribes are empowered to lead, communities succeed. The NAHASDA Modernization Act strengthens that foundation in several ways: by codifying the impactful HUD-TIAC, expanding technical assistance flexibility, reducing reporting burdens, and much more—ensuring federal policy continues to be shaped by Tribal voices and grounded in self-determination,” said Jacqueline Pata, President/CEO of the Tlingit-Haida Regional Housing Authority; Co-Chair, HUD Tribal Intergovernmental Advisory Committee.

“In remote Alaska, delay doesn’t just slow a project—it can stop it for an entire year. Senator Murkowski understands that reality. This bill reflects a clear understanding that federal policies need to support housing production and affordability, not complicate it. From streamlining environmental review to advancing logistics partnerships with the military, this legislation helps ensure we get more impact from every dollar—and stay focused on what matters most: building the homes our communities need,” said Teri Nutter, President/CEO of Copper River Basin Regional Housing Authority.

“We are thankful for Senator Murkowski, whose leadership in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs has been crucial for supporting self-determination through her ongoing championing of Tribal housing. NAHASDA is the essential tool for creating housing across Indian Country, but it was last updated in 2008—nearly 20 years ago. This updated legislation allows for modernizing programs and serving our people more efficiently, with a focus on creating more housing, not red tape,” said Gabe Layman, President/CEO of Cook Inlet Housing Authority.

“Housing is foundational to healthy communities and strong economies. We welcome all efforts that align federal policy with on-the-ground realities, creating the flexibility needed for effective partnerships between Tribal entities, philanthropy, and other stakeholders working to address Alaska’s housing challenges,” said Gretchen Guess, President & CEO of the Rasmuson Foundation.

“The Foraker Group is pleased to support Senator Murkowski’s effort to reauthorize and strengthen NAHASDA. Across Alaska, housing affordability shapes the health and stability of our communities and is essential to sustaining a strong nonprofit workforce—especially in rural areas where nonprofits make up a significant share of employment. NAHASDA equips Tribal housing providers with the tools and flexibility to meet local needs and deliver housing solutions where few alternatives exist. We appreciate Senator Murkowski’s leadership in advancing this critical investment in Alaska’s communities,” said Laurie Wolf, President & CEO of The Foraker Group.

“We appreciate Senator Murkowski’s focus on addressing homelessness in Tribal communities, including support for Native veterans and expanded Continuum of Care access. These provisions will make a meaningful difference,” said Brian Wilson, Executive Director of the Alaska Coalition on Housing and Homelessness.

“In Alaska, long-term stability and access to financing are critical to sustainable housing development. These provisions expanding lease terms and strengthening loan guarantees create new opportunities for investment, homeownership, and economic growth in Tribal communities,” said Shauna Hegna, Board Chair, Housing Alaskans: A Public-Private Partnership.

“Alaska’s cities and boroughs have long recognized that housing challenges require coordinated solutions. This legislation promotes alignment between Tribal, local, and federal partners, and we commend Senator Murkowski’s leadership in bringing it forward,” said Nils Andreassen, Executive Director of the Alaska Municipal League.

“Building in Alaska requires solutions that are grounded in the real costs and conditions that Tribes and regional housing authorities encounter every day. We see this important legislation as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between research and providers closest to the work, ensuring that innovation is responsibly guided by practical experience and leads to more homes that are both buildable and built to last,” said Brenda Riley, Interim Executive Director of the Cold Climate Housing Research Center.

“The introduction of the NAHASDA Modernization Act represents a pivotal moment for Indian Country. At a time when federal housing policy is being reshaped for the first time in decades, this legislation ensures that Tribal Nations have a seat at the table and the tools to lead. Modernizing NAHASDA is not just about updating a program; it is about strengthening sovereignty, self-determination, and building a housing future that reflects the needs of our communities. We thank Chair Murkowski and Vice Chair Schatz for their strong leadership and look forward to working alongside our partners to deliver a lasting impact for Native communities for generations to come,” said Rudy Soto, Executive Director of the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC).

"After thirteen years of expired authorization, Tribal Nations across Indian Country have never been more unified or more ready — and our message to Congress is clear: the time to reauthorize and modernize NAHASDA is now. This legislation honors the legal federal trust responsibility while empowering Tribal Nations to govern themselves and build the homes their communities urgently need. NCAI and the Tribal leaders we represent are fully mobilized to support the House and Senate working together to find compromise. Tribal Nations will not stop until Congress gets this done,” said Mark Macarro, President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI).

Representative Troy Downing (R-MT-02) and Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05) introduced the House companion bill to the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026.

Key provisions of the legislation include:

Reauthorizes the Indian Housing Block Grant and the Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant through 2033 to provide long-term stability and certainty for Tribal housing and Native Hawaiian housing programs

Streamlines environmental reviews, reporting, and federal requirements to reduce delays and accelerate housing development in Tribal and Native Hawaiian communities

Expands eligibility and flexibility for Tribal Housing programs, including allowing increased income eligibility for homeownership and enabling pathways such as lease-to-own

Codifies the Tribal HUD-VASH program and ensures dedicated resources for Native veterans experiencing or at-risk of homelessness

Enhances Tribal self-determination by providing greater control over procurement, rent policies, program design, and use of funds

Enhances access to private financing by reauthorizing and improving Section 184 and 184A loan guarantee programs and expanding lender participation

Expands Tribal access to federal homelessness programs, including the Continuum of Care program and new Tribal and rural housing initiatives

Establishes targeted pilot and demonstration programs to provide housing assistance and supportive services for Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians experiencing homelessness

This year, 2026, marks three decades since NAHASDA was signed into law. Building on that 30-year legacy, this legislation would build on years of consultation with Tribal leaders, housing authorities, and Native serving organizations, and reflect priorities identified by Native communities. Over the last three Congresses, Senator Murkowski and Senator Schatz have worked across the aisle to reauthorize NAHASDA, particularly through their leadership on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, working closely with stakeholders to help advance NAHASDA through hearings, legislation, and amendments. In 2021, they introduced bipartisan reauthorization legislation, which was advanced by the Committee in 2022, and were successful in moving reauthorizing legislation through the Senate in 2023. In addition to its standalone introduction, several provisions of the NAHASDA are included in Senator Murkowski’s draft legislation, the Native Children’s Commission Implementation Act.

The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: National American Indian Housing Council, National Congress of American Indians, National NeighborWorks Association, Housing Assistance Council (HAC), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Native CDFI Network, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), Association of Alaska Housing Authorities (AAHA), Tlingit & Haida Regional Housing Authority, Copper River Basin Regional Housing Authority, Cook Inlet Housing Authority, The Foraker Group, Alaska Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, Housing Alaskans: A Public-Private Partnership, Alaska Municipal League, Cold Climate Housing Research Center, Pueblo of Acoma Housing Authority, and the Navajo Housing Authority.

###


Senator Murray Statement on DHS Funding

Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“Democrats have been clear for weeks: there is absolutely no reason that TSA agents’ paychecks should be held hostage to Republicans’ demands to provide another blank check for ICE and Border Patrol—and it is just plain wrong that their pay has been held up this long. But finally, Republicans have relented, and we are now on track to fund the areas we agree on and get TSA agents paid, get our airports moving again, and fund important disaster relief and cybersecurity work.

“This is very good news for the TSA agents who’ve been working without pay and all the families who are looking forward to spring break travel.

“But it is a shame that instead of working with Democrats to land the plane on several common-sense reforms to ICE and Border Patrol that the White House had already agreed to, Republicans walked away from constructive conversations and ultimately rejected some basic steps to reform these agencies. I will keep fighting to secure real, meaningful steps to help rein in these rogue agencies—we just need Republicans to join us.

“Because the American people spoke up and because Democrats stood their ground and stood united, we have already forced changes to the way this administration is conducting immigration enforcement, and we have rejected the ridiculous false choice that the only way to prevent chaos at our airports is by cutting another blank check for President Trump and Stephen Miller. Speaking up matters. We’ve got to keep fighting—and demanding the accountability the American people deserve. That’s exactly what I’ll keep doing.”

The funding bill released and passed by the Senate tonight mirrors the bill that Senator Murray introduced on March 5—and that Democrats have repeatedly tried to pass through unanimous consent, but that Republicans have blocked on each occasion.

The bill funds all of the Department of Homeland Security, except for ICE and Border Patrol, which receive no new appropriations in the bill. It includes necessary “start-up” language after a lapse of appropriations, guarantees backpay to workers who went without pay during the shutdown, and retains the new accountability measures included in the legislation introduced in January.

###


Sen. Ossoff Statement on TSA Funding Deal

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff released the following statement.

“Senate Republicans blocked this for weeks. Last night they finally agreed to pay TSA workers. Now the House must act swiftly to get this done and get our airports moving again.”

# # #

Your form has been received. Someone from our office will contact you when the next Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) process begins. If your request needs immediate attention, please don’t hesitate to call our Washington, D.C. office or Atlanta office.

Your form has been received. Someone from our office will get back to you as soon as possible. Please allow 5–7 business days to process a request. If your request needs immediate attention, please don’t hesitate to call our Washington, D.C. office or Atlanta office.


ICYMI: Padilla Underscores Immigrants’ Critical Role in Funding Social Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined a Senate Budget Committee hearing on the future of Social Security to highlight immigrants’ essential role in contributing to the United States’ workforce, the economy, and the long-term financial health of Social Security. Padilla questioned witnesses on the harmful impacts of President Trump’s indiscriminate mass deportation agenda on Social Security solvency.

Padilla cited a 2024 Migration Policy Institute report that found that without immigrants and their U.S.-born children, the prime working age population would have shrunk by more than 8 million people between 2000 and 2023. On average, immigrants arriving in the United States are younger than the native-born population and have a higher labor force participation rate, paying into a system they may never become eligible to benefit from themselves.

He underscored that estimates from Social Security Administration actuaries and the Congressional Budget Office’s 2024 surge report show that more immigration always leads to a decrease in the trust fund deficit. Karen Glenn, Chief Actuary at the Social Security Administration, and Molly Dahl, Chief of the Long-Term Analysis Unit of the Labor, Income Security, and Long-Term Analysis Division at the Congressional Budget Office, echoed Padilla’s sentiments, noting that many immigrants who pay into Social Security and have U.S. citizen children will never receive those benefits. Ms. Glenn emphasized that the Trump Administration’s detentions and deportations of legally working immigrants would hurt Social Security’s solvency.

Padilla also made a statement criticizing the Administration’s previously undisclosed data sharing agreement that gave the Department of Homeland Security access to sensitive personal data from the Social Security Administration on nearly every resident, including full social security numbers, addresses, and birth dates, for the purposes of election administration. He warned that the agency’s outdated citizenship information will inevitably result in errors, potentially disenfranchising U.S. citizens and making the data of millions of residents vulnerable to an indiscriminate deportation campaign.

Key Excerpts:

PADILLA: Question for Ms. Glenn: Social Security actuaries in their estimate of the impact of immigration over 25, 50, and even 75 years have found that more immigration always correlates with a decrease in the trust fund deficit and vice versa. Would you care to comment any further on that?

GLENN: That’s absolutely correct. All the factors you mentioned, immigrants who are paying into the system, many of them will never receive benefits, and they also have U.S.-born children.

PADILLA: Ms. Dahl, the CBO’s 2024 surge report made similar findings. Would you care to add any comment?

DAHL: Absolutely. So in that, in that report that you’re referring to, we looked at the effect of the surge on what we were calling the immigration surge, that increase in immigration that you that you referenced earlier, on the federal budget, and in particular in terms of social security … Immigrants come in, they’re more likely to be of working age. Many work, pay payroll taxes. That is a benefit to the program, and then for a variety of reasons, many will not ultimately claim, and certainly won’t be eligible to claim. They won’t have their 40 quarters of coverage, for instance, inside the 10-year window.

PADILLA: So is there an impact to the solvency of the Social Security program being felt by this Administration’s mass deportation agenda? I mean, imagine if forget — I won’t even say all immigrants are detained and or deported, but let’s say half because we have cases and reports of it’s not just undocumented immigrants that are being deported and or detained. There’s legal immigrants with work permits that are being deported or, at a minimum, detained, with these arbitrary goals, not just for daily detentions and arrests, but the building out of significant detention center capacity across the country. Does that help or hurt our Social Security solvency?

GLENN: It would hurt. We do some sensitivity analysis in the trustees report every year speaking to the effect of more and less immigration.

Video of Padilla’s full questioning is available here.

Last year, Padilla joined 15 of his Democratic Senate colleagues in condemning and demanding the reversal of the Social Security Administration’s decision to list certain immigrants as “dead” in the master files. Padilla previously emphasized the dangers and immense economic costs of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation plans during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in 2024.

###


Padilla Statement on DHS Funding Deal

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Senate passed funding for all elements of the Department of Homeland Security except for ICE and CBP border security operations:

“For months, we’ve been clear: no blank checks for Trump’s lawless ICE and Border Patrol. Senate Democrats stood united and have successfully blocked additional funding for Trump’s mass deportation effort.

“Americans deserve and demand better. We have all seen the harm and the fear that this Administration has inflicted on communities across this country — rogue, masked agents terrorizing communities, detaining and deporting children and veterans, and even killing United States citizens.

“In response, people across the country are speaking up, peacefully organizing, and demanding accountability.

“Kristi Noem is out and Greg Bovino is gone. Yet for six weeks, Trump and Congressional Republicans chose to not fund TSA, the Coast Guard, CISA, or FEMA rather than meet Democrats’ demands for reforms and accountability for ICE agents and all federal agents conducting immigration enforcement operations.

“That ends today.

“But the fight is far from over.

“We’ve succeeded in funding critical agencies and withholding additional funding for Trump’s ICE for now, but we must keep demanding full accountability from ICE and CBP for their actions. Because this is not just a funding fight — it’s about protecting our communities, upholding the rule of law, and holding this Administration accountable.”

###


Reed Demands Answers After Hegseth Allegedly Removes Officers From Promotion List in Possible Violation of Federal Law

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, after The New York Times reported that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth personally intervened to remove four Army officers from a promotion list, prompting questions of racial and gender bias and legal authority, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Two years ago this committee codified in law longstanding practice and tradition that accessions and promotions within the military services be based on “individual merit and demonstrated performance.” If these reports are accurate, Secretary Hegseth’s decision to remove four decorated officers from a promotion list after having been selected by their peers for their merit and performance is not only outrageous, it would be illegal. Denying the promotions of individual officers based on their race or gender would betray every principle of merit-based service military officers uphold throughout their careers.

“Sadly, this would not be surprising. These are currently allegations, but they fit a pattern when it comes to this Secretary. He has fired or sidelined dozens of generals and admirals without explanation, the majority of whom are women or persons of color. Today, every service chief and nearly every combatant commander is a white man.

“These officers have given decades of exemplary service to this nation. They deserve better, and so do the American people. I am looking into this matter to ensure that the law is followed.”


Reed Joins Colleagues in Pressing Trump Admin on Decision to Ease Russian & Iranian Oil Sanctions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and their colleagues in pressing the Trump Administration about its decision to ease sanctions on Russian and Iranian oil exports. In a letter to President Donald Trump, the Senators called out the administration’s lack of planning regarding the economic fallout from President Trump’s war against Iran. Since the war began, the price of U.S. crude oil has skyrocketed by more than 40 percent, and the average price of gasoline has risen by more than a dollar per gallon as a result of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—something that Trump and his top national security advisers were warned about prior to the start of the war.

“We write with deep concern and confusion over your administration’s recent decision to ease sanctions on Russian and Iranian oil exports,” the senators wrote. “These actions speak once again to the troubling lack of strategic foresight that has marked your administration’s decision-making prior to and during its war of choice with Iran, jeopardizing the lives of our servicemembers across the region and raising costs for Americans here at home.”

“Open source reporting suggests that prior to starting this war of choice, you and your administration were regularly briefed on, and dismissed, the potential economic fallout of a conflict with Iran. These warnings included the regime’s likely closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the resulting severe spike in global oil prices,” they continued. “Now that those impacts are being felt in Americans’ pocketbooks, your administration is scrambling – and failing – to contain this fallout.”

In the letter, the senators also raised concerns about easing Russian sanctions given recent reporting that Russia has been sharing intelligence with Iran regarding the movements of U.S. forces in the Middle East, and the risks both of these decisions pose to U.S. servicemembers.

The senators wrote, “The economic effects of the war are already raising costs, with Americans being asked to pay even more for gas, groceries, and travel. Relieving sanctions on U.S. adversaries during an active conflict is just the most recent indicator of an incoherent and disordered policy approach.”

“We demand that you make senior officials of your Administration immediately available for public hearings in order to fully explain to the American people the rationale behind the decision to release these funds to the Russian and Iranian regimes,” they concluded.

On March 10, Senator Reed, along with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter to President Trump demanding that he send key cabinet officials to testify before the Senate, participate in public oversight hearings, and provide answers to fundamental questions about President Trump’s war against Iran.

In addition to Kaine, Gallego, and Reed the letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angus King (I-ME), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ron Wyden (D-OR), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

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

Dear President Trump:

We write with deep concern and confusion over your administration’s recent decision to ease sanctions on Russian and Iranian oil exports. These actions speak once again to the troubling lack of strategic foresight that has marked your administration’s decision-making prior to and during its war of choice with Iran, jeopardizing the lives of our servicemembers across the region and raising costs for Americans here at home.

The administration’s lack of strategic cohesion on the war in Iran is having a direct impact on the economy and is endangering our servicemembers. Open source reporting suggests that prior to starting this war of choice, you and your administration were regularly briefed on, and dismissed, the potential economic fallout of a conflict with Iran.[1] These warnings included the regime’s likely closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the resulting severe spike in global oil prices. Now that those impacts are being felt in Americans’ pocketbooks, your administration is scrambling – and failing – to contain this fallout. The administration’s abrupt March 20 decision to waive certain sanctions on Iranian oil sales will do little to mitigate rising costs even while opening a massive source of new revenue – per press reports, as much as $14 billion – for the very regime that U.S. servicemembers are risking their lives to strike.[2]

Open source reporting also suggests Russia began sharing sensitive intelligence with the Iranian military within the first days of the start of this conflict, including targeting information for U.S. military forces in the Middle East.[3] Russia’s direct military support for Iran would alone make shocking your decision to ease sanctions on their oil exports, but Russia is already set to make as much as $4.9 billion from surging oil prices alone – your sanctions waiver will undoubtedly add to that sum, enabling Russian President Vladimir Putin to redouble and extend pressure on our Ukrainian partners as they struggle to defend their country against his aggression.[4] [5]

The war in Iran is deeply unpopular, and Americans have made clear that they do not want another costly, protracted conflict in the Middle East.[6] The economic effects of the war are already raising costs, with Americans being asked to pay even more for gas, groceries, and travel. Relieving sanctions on U.S. adversaries during an active conflict is just the most recent indicator of an incoherent and disordered policy approach. Economic relief for Americans starts with the cessation of wars of choice, not the continuation of them.

We demand that you make senior officials of your Administration immediately available for public hearings in order to fully explain to the American people the rationale behind the decision to release these funds to the Russian and Iranian regimes.


Reed Presents Family of WWII Navy & Korean War Army Veteran with Posthumous Military Honors

CRANSTON, RI – A late veteran of both World War II and the Korean War is being posthumously recognized for his service to the nation. 80 years after the late Benjamin J. Coccia served in the U.S. Navy at the end of World War II and nearly 75 years after he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army following service in the Korean War, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee and a former U.S. Army officer, today held a special ceremony of remembrance to celebrate Mr. Coccia’s remarkable service to the nation and present his family with the military honors he earned.

Mr. Coccia passed away in 2013 at the age of 85.

Today, family members recounted Benjamin’s tremendous love of family and dedication to his community as a proud member of the Barrington American Legion, Post #8. Enlisting in the U.S. Navy at the age of 18, Benjamin left his family’s home in Warren and went on to serve in the Pacific just two months after the Japanese surrendered during World War II. Serving on the USS Silverstein (DE 534), a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort, Seaman First Class Coccia sailed between Guam, the Marshall Islands, Pearl Harbor, and San Diego, California as part of a supervising convoy as the hostilities of World War II came to an end.

Mr. Coccia once again answered the call to service in September 1950, enlisting in the U.S. Army as a Private First Class just three months after the start of the Korean War. At Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Mr. Coccia received training as a radar technician and went on to serve in Korea with the U.S. Army Field Artillery, a branch that served with significant importance during the war. Eventually rising to the rank of Corporal, Mr. Coccia was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in August of 1952.

“Not many people serve in both the Army and Navy. But Benjamin Coccia selflessly served our nation in two different branches spanning two different wars. When he returned home from service, he helped fellow veterans and strengthened his community as a proud member of Barrington American Legion, Post #8 and as an employee of the Town of Barrington. Today, we recognize his exemplary conduct and loyal service to our nation. It is clear that Mr. Coccia went above and beyond the call of duty in all he did,” said Senator Reed. “It is my honor to salute his service and present his family with the military honors that he earned in service to the nation.”

“Today, I am very proud of my dad. I wish we had talked more about his service while he was still with us. I am very happy that our family will forever have these medals to share with future generations and remind us of his service to our nation,” said Ms. Gail Lamorge, Mr. Coccia’s daughter. “Our family is very grateful to Senator Reed and his staff for their assistance in locating and connecting us with these military honors for my dad.”

Discharged from the U.S. Navy at the end of World War II and before enlisting in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Mr. Coccia married the love of his life, Margaret, and began to raise his family in Warren. After completing his service, Mr. Coccia went on to work for the Town of Barrington. Married for 61 years, Mr. and Mrs. Coccia raised two children and were loving grandparents to four granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 404,000 American veterans served in both World War II and the Korean War.

Today, Senator Reed presented Mr. Coccia’s family with several medals and commendations he earned during World War II and the Korean War, including:


Reed Rebukes “Ignorant” Trump for Stigmatizing People with Dyslexia, Urges POTUS to Apologize & Learn

WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump has made so many cruel, uninformed, and false statements that it can seem daunting to try and correct the record or call out every single instance.

But U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) says President Trump crossed the line when he unfairly denigrated and stigmatized millions of young Americans by characterizing dyslexia as a “mental disability.” In an attempt to taunt California Governor Gavin Newsom, Trump implied that people with dyslexia are “stupid” and should be disqualified from being President.

Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental spectrum condition ranging from mild to severe, affecting individuals differently in language processing. Many brilliant and successful individuals have dyslexia, which occurs in people of all backgrounds and intellectual levels. It is the most common learning disability in the U.S. As many as one in five Americans has some type of learning disability, including 4 million children younger than 18 years of age, according to the National Center for Learning Disabilities.

President Trump claimed Governor Newsom disqualified himself from the 2028 presidential race because he “admitted” to having a “mental disability,” referring to the governor sharing stories of his struggle with dyslexia. Trump stated: “I don’t want a person with mental disability to be my president. You don’t want to have a person with a mental disability being your president. And Gavin Newsom said he can’t read a speech, he can’t do almost anything.”

Senator Reed stated: “President Trump’s hurtful, ignorant comments were offensive and wrong. Instead of taunting people with learning differences, he should educate himself and apologize. Kids with dyslexia are not limited by President Trump’s narrowmindedness. They deserve to be judged on their individual merits, not branded ‘stupid’ or ‘disqualified’ by an incredibly unself-aware person who seems to be the first president to use the bully pulpit to actively bully children with learning differences.”

Senator Reed notes that children with dyslexia are often skilled problem solvers and may be gifted in other ways. In fact, many high achievers today and leaders throughout history struggled with language as children, were believed to have been dyslexic, or have been officially diagnosed. This includes President Trump’s former director of the U.S. National Economic Council, Gary Cohn, who was COO of Goldman Sachs, and whose official Trump White House announcement touted Cohn’s dyslexia.

Senator Reed says he hopes the silver lining of this incident is that it raises awareness and leads to a better understanding of dyslexia so that more young people with dyslexia can get the screening, identification, and corresponding support they need to achieve their full potential.