Rep. Vasquez Presses Forest Service Chief on Declining Trail Quality on Public Lands

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 24, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and his colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Chief Tom Schultz demanding answers on declining trail quality on public lands before the peak summer season. Recently, the USFS published an internal report detailing a “trail maintenance crisis” with “impassable trails” and “unsafe bridges” due to staffing and budget cuts implemented by the Administration.

“Outdoor recreation is an important economic driver for rural and Tribal communities near national forests and grasslands,” wrote the members. “Despite the clear value of trails and the agency’s stated focus on outdoor access, conditions on the ground are deteriorating.”

“Given that USFS has acknowledged these issues internally, it is imperative that our constituents understand how you plan to address the deterioration in outdoor access and better maintain trails this year,” the members continued.

The members are demanding answers to the following questions to ensure taxpayers can safely enjoy trails this summer season:

How will the USFS address the issues in the report before the summer field season?

How will the USFS restore sufficient staffing to prevent the proliferation of “unpassable trails, unsafe bridges and negative environmental impacts” as detailed in this report?

If a National Forest has outside grants, local funding and other non-appropriated dollars available, how does the public benefit from restricting national forests’ use of those resources to hire seasonal staff and implement on-the-ground projects?

Rep. Vasquez is a leading champion for public lands and outdoor spaces in Congress, and this letter to the USFS is the latest in his ongoing push to protect our nation’s public lands.

Last year, he founded the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus and successfully worked across the aisle to thwart a predatory attempt to sell off millions of acres of public lands to pay for tax breaks for billionaires as part of the Republican tax bill.

The Congressman is a proud leader of the Roadless Area Conservation Act, which would codify the 2001 Roadless Rule. He sent a letter to Secretary Rollins expressing concern that the public comment period for their proposal to repeal the Roadless Rule does not allow for meaningful public participation and urged her to extend the public comment period by 30 days.

The Congressman also serves as Co-Chair of the Wildlife Refuge Caucus and is working to bolster staffing and funding across the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Last year, he introduced legislation designating National Wildlife Refuge Week and the Arctic Refuge Protection Act to safeguard critical habitats nationwide.

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Walkinshaw, Vindman Lead Colleagues Demanding Answers on Delays for Ukrainians Seeking Parole and Work Authorization

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), alongside Congressman Eugene Vindman (VA-07), led a letter to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph B. Edlow demanding answers about delays affecting Ukrainian humanitarian parole and re-parole applications, as well as related employment authorization requests.

The letter, also signed by Reps. Ami Bera (CA-06), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Josh Riley (NY-19), and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) raises alarm over prolonged backlogs that are leaving thousands of Ukrainian nationals in uncertainty despite following all legal requirements.

“Thousands of Ukrainians who came to the United States lawfully under the Uniting for Ukraine program are being left in prolonged uncertainty because of unacceptable processing delays,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “These families followed the rules. They filed on time. They did everything asked of them. They should not lose the ability to work or maintain lawful presence because of the Trump administration’s failure.”

“Ukrainian families who came to the United States through the Uniting for Ukraine program followed the rules and met every requirement, and they deserve timely responses from our government,” said Vindman. “Instead, many are now facing processing delays that put their ability to work and maintain lawful status at risk. These backlogs are not just administrative failures — they are disrupting the lives of thousands who have already endured immense hardship and are trying to build a safe, stable life here.”

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “We write to express serious concern regarding ongoing delays in the processing of Ukrainian humanitarian parole and re-parole applications, as well as related employment authorization requests, which continue to place thousands of Ukrainian nationals in prolonged uncertainty.”

They also warned that many applicants remain stuck in backlogs, resulting in “lapses in work authorization and the loss of lawful presence through no fault of their own.”

Although USCIS resumed processing these applications following a June 2025 federal court order lifting the administrative freeze on parole renewals, the lawmakers noted that many cases still appear effectively stalled.

The lawmakers are requesting answers from USCIS on several urgent issues, including the steps the agency is taking to reduce the backlog, the causes of current delays and lower approval rates, whether enhanced security reviews or manual processing are contributing to the problem, what is being done to prevent lapses in work authorization, and whether streamlined or blanket relief is under consideration while delays persist.

Read the full letter below or here.

The Honorable Joseph B. Edlow

Director

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

One Capital Gateway Drive

Camp Springs, MD 20588

Dear Director Edlow,

We write to express serious concern regarding ongoing delays in the processing of Ukrainian humanitarian parole and re-parole applications, as well as related employment authorization requests, which continue to place thousands of Ukrainian nationals in prolonged uncertainty.

Our offices regularly assist constituents who lawfully entered the United States under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program and who have timely filed applications for re-parole and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Despite compliance with all filing requirements, many of these individuals remain in extended processing backlogs, resulting in lapses in work authorization and the loss of lawful presence through no fault of their own.

It has come to our attention that a significant number of Ukrainian re-parole applications filed in early and mid-2025 remain pending well beyond posted processing timeframes. Although U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has resumed processing these applications following the June 2025 federal court order1 lifting the administrative freeze on parole renewals, many cases appear to be functionally stalled, with limited approvals issued to date. As a result, many of our constituents remain unable to work, support their families, or maintain financial stability while awaiting adjudication.

Our offices have also experienced increasing difficulty obtaining timely and substantive responses through congressional inquiries. In many instances, cases remain pending despite clear eligibility and evidence of timely filing, limiting our ability to assist constituents effectively and undermining confidence in the parole renewal process.

To ensure USCIS addresses these concerns, we respectfully request thorough answers to the following questions:

- What steps is USCIS taking to reduce the backlog of Ukrainian humanitarian re-parole applications and ensure timely adjudication?

- What are the primary drivers behind the current delays and the decline in approval rates?

- To what extent are enhanced security reviews or manual case processing contributing to current delays?

- What measures are in place to prevent lapses in employment authorization for individuals who have timely filed re-parole and EAD renewal applications?

- When does USCIS anticipate processing times for Ukrainian re-parole and related EAD applications will return to reasonable and predictable levels?

- Is USCIS considering streamlined or blanket relief mechanisms for Ukrainian parolees while backlogs persist?

We share your commitment to ensuring that USCIS adjudications are both thorough and timely. However, Ukrainians who fled a war and sought safety here because of U.S. humanitarian commitments should not be left in legal and economic limbo due to prolonged administrative delays. We look forward to your response outlining the steps USCIS is taking to address these urgent issues.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued service.

Sincerely,

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Banks’ Tyler’s Law Passes United States Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, Tyler’s Law, a bill introduced in 2025 by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) passed the Senate unanimously. This bill directs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide hospitals with guidance on implementing fentanyl testing in routine emergency room drug screens.

The bill is named after Tyler Shamash, a teenager who died from a fentanyl poisoning after doctors failed to test for the drug when he was admitted to the emergency room the previous day.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Too many families in Indiana and across the country have lost loved ones to fentanyl. Tyler’s Law will help prevent these tragedies by directing ERs to screen for fentanyl so patients can get life-saving care faster. I’m grateful to Tyler’s mother Juli for leading this effort to make testing the national standard.”

Senator Alex Padilla (D-Cal.): “The fentanyl crisis has devastated hundreds of thousands of families in every corner of America. Named in honor of Tyler Shamash, an Angeleno who tragically lost his life when hospital screening tests failed to detect fentanyl in his system, Tyler’s Law would ensure that hospitals across the country screen for fentanyl in routine drug panels. Expanding fentanyl testing will bring us one step closer to preventing these tragedies, and I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this lifesaving legislation as soon as possible.”

Key Provisions of Tyler’s Law:

Study Fentanyl Testing – HHS would assess current hospital emergency department fentanyl testing rates, costs, and benefits.

Provide Guidance – HHS would issue recommendations for routine fentanyl testing in hospitals.

Enhance Diagnosis & Treatment – The bill aims to improve fentanyl exposure diagnosis and guide prevention and treatment efforts.

Full bill text can be found here.

Background:

Senator Banks’ first Senate bill, the Countering Beijing’s Weaponization (CBW) of Fentanyl Act, seeks to amend the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991. The legislation would classify fentanyl and its precursors as chemical and biological weapons under U.S. law.

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Senator Banks Speaks at Hill and Valley Forum on AI Race with China: “This Is a Moral Fight”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) spoke at the Hill and Valley Forum alongside Executive Vice President and CTO of Palantir Technologies, Shyam Sankar on a panel moderated by Partner of Sequioa Capital, Shaun Maguire, entitled: Scale, Security, and Sovereignty: Competing with China’s Defense-Industrial Model.

Click the image above or view the full remarks here.

Key Excerpts below:

Sen. Banks: “… the second cold war is related to the AI race and we can’t let China win it. I mean that’s the bottom line… I think that the Trump administration, the White House, more than ever before gets this… The AI action plan that was released at the beginning of the second Trump term calling forstricter export controls on chips to China and to our adversaries is the bottom line. That’s why I introduced the GAIN AI Act several months ago. We passed it out of the Senate in the NDAA… Fortunately, in the Commerce Department’s H-200 rulemaking, they incorporated much of GAIN AI into the H-200 chips rules. So that’s good, but Congress needs to codify it. And we need to make sure that we’re not helping our biggest enemy… that’s the big picture on Capitol Hill.”

Senator Banks: “…This isn’t just a technological race, a fight over who’s going to get the best technology and win the AI race first. This is a moral fight. And we know that the PRC is going to lie, steal, and cheat. And this is more evidence of it. So what happens if they win the AI race? How will they dominate our future and our kids’ futures? We can’t let them do that. And that’s why export controls are so important. And the GAIN AI Act… I believe it’s the best path forward for stronger controls over our best chips being sent to our biggest enemy and preventing that from happening. And when there is a domestic customer base in the United States of America, they should get priority forAmerican-made chips over our biggest enemy that wants to take those chips and dominate the rest of the world, especially America’s ability to create good jobs and meet the needs and the economic needs of the future that are going to create the jobs that our kids are going to need to survive…”

Senator Banks: “It’s such an exciting time with Hegseth and Feinberg and Driscoll and Phelan, all these guys that President Trump has put in at the Pentagon to try to shake it up. I’ve never seen anything like it. And it makes this an exciting time for all of you. Don’t give up. Right now, in the next couple of years, with this administration, we can make up for a lot of the mistakes of the last few decade…”

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Barrasso: America Needs a Fighter of Fraud on the Job Immediately

“A vote for Mr. McDonald is a vote to attack this fraud epidemic head on. It is a vote to prosecute criminals. It is a vote to protect hardworking American taxpayers.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) today spoke prior to confirming Colin McDonald as the Assistant Attorney General for National Fraud Enforcement.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

“The Senate will soon confirm Colin McDonald to be the Assistant Attorney General for National Fraud Enforcement. This is an entirely new position and new division inside the Department of Justice. It reflects President Trump’s forceful actions to root out waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption.

“I met with Mr. McDonald in my office a few weeks ago. He is the right person to lead this effort. His track record as a prosecutor in California, in Hawaii, and at the Department of Justice is exceptional. He has successfully taken down drug traffickers, human smugglers, and corrupt officials. He has proven to be especially experienced in investigating and prosecuting fraud.

“Mr. McDonald is a noble public servant. I strongly support his nomination. He will be a dedicated fighter of fraud. America needs a fighter of fraud on the job immediately.

“Let me remind you why we are here in the first place. In cities and states across the country, criminals are stealing staggering sums of money from hardworking American taxpayers.

“The American people are being robbed – and they know it. They see waste. They see fraud. They see abuse. They see corruption. They are sick and tired of it. Americans are fed up with welfare criminals and the elected officials who tolerate them. Democrats in big cities and liberal states look the other way. The criminals know it.

“Remember the fraudulent day care center in Minnesota? No children were actually enrolled. It was a front. It was set up to siphon money from the Federal Treasury. State officials in Minnesota looked the other way. Criminals are emboldened.

“Democrats are complicit in turning the United States Treasury into an automated teller machine. The Treasury has become an ATM for crooks, criminals, and corruption.

“The fraud epidemic in Minnesota happened when Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were in the White House. The current Governor Tim Walz is still in office. Recall, he was Kamala Harris’s Vice Presidential nominee in the 2024 election. Fraud spread like wildfire on their watch.

“In one particularly outrageous scheme, criminals falsified diagnoses of autism. They bribed parents with thousands of dollars of government money to use their children’s name on falsified documents. The record shows that many parents actively negotiated to be paid even higher rates for the bribes. The parents who were in on the scams even threatened to move their children to competing fraudulent providers unless they received more money. And these were children without autism. They needed no treatment.

“Let me tell you how bad it was. In 2018, the Minnesota Medicaid program designed to help children with autism spent $6 million. Five years later, due to massive criminal fraud, the price tag ballooned from $6 million to $193 million. Evidence of fraud doesn’t get much clearer than that.

“Of course, Minnesota is not the only liberal state with substantial fraud. There is also widespread fraud in California’s Medicaid programs. CBS News reported just last week that over a third of hospice providers in Los Angeles ‘trigger multiple red flags for fraud.’

“A vote for Mr. McDonald is a vote to attack this fraud epidemic head on. It is a vote to prosecute criminals. It is a vote to protect hardworking American taxpayers. I want to congratulate Mr. McDonald on his nomination. America needs him on the job immediately. I look forward to voting for his confirmation.”

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Democrats Must Fund DHS and End the Shutdown

“The Democrat shutdown is dangerous and disgraceful. Once again, Democrats are proving they care more about illegal immigrant criminals than the safety and security of American citizens.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) today spoke about the painful impact of the Democrat shutdown of American Security on TSA agents and their families.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

“For five weeks, TSA agents have not gotten paid. Most continue to show up for work anyway. These TSA agents are struggling. They need to provide for their families.

“As a result of the Democrat shutdown, some TSA agents are calling in sick or seeking new employment.

“On Sunday, nearly 3,500 TSA agents were absent from work. More than 400 have quit since the shutdown began on February 13.

“It is worse when you look city by city.

“In Atlanta, Georgia, 42 percent of TSA agents did not show up for work on Sunday.

“In Houston, Texas, 40 percent were absent.

“In New York City, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one in four TSA agents were absent.

“This is why we see long lines at the airport.

“Immediately funding the Department of Homeland Security is the only way to end this shutdown.

“The Democrat shutdown is dangerous and disgraceful. Once again, Democrats are proving they care more about illegal immigrant criminals than the safety and security of American citizens.”

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Bennet Leads Colorado Delegation in Demanding Spending Authority for the Colorado Small Business Development Center

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet led members of the Colorado delegation – including U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper and U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse, Brittany Pettersen, Jason Crow, Jeff Hurd, and Diana DeGette – to urge Administrator Kelly Loeffler to take action over the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) failure to provide prompt spend authority for the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The Colorado SBDC is the only statewide, nationally accredited business assistance program serving all 64 counties, with 14 local service centers across the state.

“As of writing, Colorado’s SBDC has not received a Notice of Award for its 2026 funding totaling more than $2.25 million, including its 2026 CR1 portion of $742,000 awarded to most SBDC Networks by early February. We urge you to release Colorado SBDC’s spend authority immediately and request additional explanation for the agency’s delay,” wrote the lawmakers.

Since Congress authorized the SBDC program through the Small Business Development Centers Act in 1980, SBDCs have provided numerous resources and served as a critical element of small business development. In Colorado alone, over $81 million in 2024 sales growth is attributed to SBDC programming. Additionally, in 2026, Congress further recognized the influential role of SBDCs by increasing SBDC funding in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of Colorado’s economy, constituting approximately 99 percent of Colorado businesses. Small business employment growth exceeded the national average over the past two decades, and, in Colorado, SBDCs were responsible for the creation of 1,800 jobs statewide in 2024. The absence of SBDC grant funds will jeopardize this continued expansion and add further strain for business owners in our state. Because of the delay of Colorado’s SBDC fund authorization, the network was forced to reduce services for small business owners. Should the network experience further delays, it will have to furlough or lay off staff and potentially shut down service centers, most of which support businesses in rural areas of the state. These potential actions will have a devastating effect on Colorado’s more than 700,000 small business establishments and their 1.2 million employees,” continued the lawmakers.

“Any further delay in Colorado SBDC fund authorization will leave lasting damage on the state’s economy, undermine the success of small enterprises in rural and local communities, and erode small business owners’ trust in the SBA at a time of increasing macroeconomic uncertainty,” concluded the lawmakers.

The text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Administrator Loeffler:

We write with concern over the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) failure to provide prompt spend authority for Colorado’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC). As of writing, Colorado’s SBDC has not received a Notice of Award for its 2026 funding totaling more than $2.25 million, including its 2026 CR1 portion of $742,000 awarded to most SBDC Networks by early February. We urge you to release Colorado SBDC’s spend authority immediately and request additional explanation for the agency’s delay.

In 1980, Congress authorized the SBDC program through the Small Business Development Centers Act (Pub. L. 96-302). Administered by the SBA, SBDCs became an integral part of small business development, providing free and accessible training, counseling, technical assistance, and resources for small businesses across the country. This program has been a success – in Colorado, over $81 million in 2024 sales growth is attributed to SBDC programming. Congress has recognized the important role SBDCs play in fostering sustainable small business growth and expansion, and increased SBDC funding in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 (Pub. L. 119-75).

Small businesses are the lifeblood of Colorado’s economy, constituting approximately 99 percent of Colorado businesses. Small business employment growth exceeded the national average over the past two decades, and, in Colorado, SBDCs were responsible for the creation of 1,800 jobs statewide in 2024. The absence of SBDC grant funds will jeopardize this continued expansion and add further strain for business owners in our state. Because of the delay of Colorado’s SBDC fund authorization, the network was forced to reduce services for small business owners. Should the network experience further delays, it will have to furlough or lay off staff and potentially shut down service centers, most of which support businesses in rural areas of the state. These potential actions will have a devastating effect on Colorado’s more than 700,000 small business establishments and their 1.2 million employees.

Any further delay in Colorado SBDC fund authorization will leave lasting damage on the state’s economy, undermine the success of small enterprises in rural and local communities, and erode small business owners’ trust in the SBA at a time of increasing macroeconomic uncertainty.

We look forward to your response and stand ready to work with you to ensure the swift authorization of 2026 funding for Colorado’s SBDC.

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Bennet, Neguse Introduce Legislation to Block Berlaimont Private Access Road

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Representative Joe Neguse introduced legislation to prohibit the Forest Service from opening, improving, authorizing, permitting, or constructing a year-round road on public land located north of Edwards, Colorado. The legislation would also clarify that the existing unpaved, seasonal road provides adequate access to inholdings on the federal land north of Edwards. In addition, the legislation includes a provision to make it easier for the developers or a future landowner to sell the property to the Forest Service if they choose to do so.

“Over the weekend, temperatures in the Eagle Valley hit over 70 degrees, and snowpack is rapidly declining. The White River National Forest faces the possibility of a catastrophic wildfire season and is still severely understaffed following the Trump Administration’s damaging cuts,” said Bennet. “Heading into such a challenging summer, the Forest Service needs to be laser-focused on the public good. They simply do not have the capacity to divert staff time to projects that only benefit the very wealthy few.”

“The Trump administration’s deep and reckless staffing and budget cuts have stretched our land management agencies dangerously thin — including the U.S. Forest Service,” said Neguse. “At a time when these agencies are already under strain, we should be focused on protecting our public lands and strengthening community safety — not greenlighting development that already faces broad opposition across Eagle County. I’m proud to stand with Senator Bennet in defending the interests of Western Slope residents.”

“We appreciate Senator Bennet’s ongoing leadership to stop the proposed Berlaimont Estates luxury home development project in Eagle County. The Colorado Department of Natural Resources remains opposed to this project due to potential impacts of 35-acre ranchettes on critical winter range for deer and elk and possible increased wildlife risks in an area surrounded by public lands,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources. “We standby ready to support this important legislation and are willing to work with the current landowners and other stakeholders on options to preserve this critical landscape.”

The developers of Berlaimont Estates have long sought to build a year-round paved road through winter wildlife habitat on Forest Service lands to facilitate the construction of 19 luxury estates. The project has faced strong community opposition because of the harmful consequences the road’s construction, use, and maintenance could have on wildlife, recreation, wildfire risks, and water quality. According to the USDA Office of the Inspector General, the Forest Service lost nearly 6,000 employees in just the first half of last year. An independent analysis of publicly available data showed that the Forest Service was also nearly 40% behind on hazardous fuels mitigation nationwide compared to the previous four-year annual average.

Local elected leaders, municipal governments, and nonprofit organizations have written in support of the legislation:

“The Forest Resources Accountability Act is a direct and reasonable response to the needs of both Coloradans and Colorado wildlife,” wrote State Senator Dylan Roberts and State Representative Meghan Lukens.

“We are concerned about the White River National Forest’s reduced staffing and capacity at a time when the US Forest Service is struggling to maintain trails, address wildfire risk, reduce hazardous fuels, and protect watersheds and wildlife habitat; this has real and significant impacts at the local level,” wrote the Town of Avon. “In addition, we see that spending US Forest Service staff time to process & review the application and plans to build a new year-round, paved access road to support one private, remote residential development (Berlaimont Estates) is not a public benefit and would also take time away from more critical US Forest Service priorities.”

“Expanding permanent road infrastructure in designated winter range would place lasting pressure on public lands that support both regional ecosystems and local economic sustainability,” wrote the Edwards Metropolitan District.

“Limiting new permanent road construction in sensitive habitat, maintaining existing seasonal access and encouraging voluntary acquisition of the parcel for conservation reflect a balanced approach to public lands stewardship,” wrote the Town of Eagle.

“… This issue is about protecting the integrity, character, and function of the Berry Creek trail system,” wrote the Vail Valley Mountain Trails Alliance. “We seek to preserve soft surface access, reduce user conflict, prevent avoidable trail degradation, and protect the experience of the many thousands of people who already rely on this area for close to home recreation. Senator Bennet’s amendment is an important and necessary step to prevent long term harm to one of the Vail Valley’s most important and popular trail systems.”

“The use of federal resources to pave a currently seasonal road to access the Berlaimont development stands in direct contrast to the Community Water Plan by threatening wildlife, wildfire mitigation efforts, recreational viewscapes and aesthetics, and water quantity,” wrote the Eagle River Coalition.

“… the Forest Service doesn’t have the staff or budget to perform its existing responsibilities, including maintaining our local Wilderness Areas,” wrote the Eagle Summit Wilderness Alliance. “It makes no sense to have an under-staffed and under-funded agency spent time and money on the proposed private Berlaimont road…The Berlaimont development would also force already under-funded and under-staffed local governments to spend precious dollars on firefighting and emergency services for a luxury development that provides no local benefit.”

Bennet has elevated Eagle Valley’s concerns with the Berlaimont Development since 2018. In 2021, Bennet and colleagues encouraged the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to ensure they addressed local concerns before moving forward with the project. Earlier this year, Bennet introduced an amendment to the Senate Interior Appropriations bill to prohibit federal funding to be used for this project.

The text of the bill is available HERE. Letters of support can be found HERE.

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Blumenthal & Robert Garcia Release Report Detailing DHS's Reckless Disregard for the Safety of Children

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), and U.S. Representative Robert Garcia (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, released a report today detailing the scope and scale of the violence and trauma being brought upon children by the Trump Administration’s immigration agenda. Drawing from publicly available information, today’s report documents 128 children who have been injured, left unattended, or otherwise put at direct risk of harm as a result of operations by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel.

The report, entitled “Cruelty is the Point: How Trump’s Immigration Agenda Endangers Children” comes ahead of a bicameral public forum that Blumenthal and Garcia will host to receive testimony from young people, mothers, and a school administrator about how DHS policies hurt children.

“The Trump Administration has pursued a lawless and cruel immigration agenda—brutally damaging countless children across the country,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal. “Our investigation has documented the cases of 128 children who have been injured, assaulted, left unattended, or otherwise put at risk by DHS agents—clearly only a fraction of the victims. Our findings bely the Trump Administration’s claim that they are targeting the ‘worst of the worst’ and reveal the devastating consequences of the Trump Administration’s draconian policies.”

“This report is clear: because of Donald Trump and Stephen Miller’s horrifying immigration raids, DHS agents are injuring kids across the country, using them as bait, and tearing them away from the people who love them. The Administration must end this cruelty before it’s too late. We will continue to fight for the safety and dignity of every child,” said Ranking Member Robert Garcia.

A summary of the Committees’ key findings is below:

Immigration agents have inflicted physical harm on children: DHS agents have assaulted or otherwise caused direct harm to at least 28 children in the incidents the Committees reviewed, including incidents where physical attacks on children under 18 appear to have been deliberate. The Committees documented at least eight children who were placed in restraints, at least 20 children who were hit with chemical agents, at least one child who was placed in a chokehold, and at least 10 children who required medical attention as a direct result of their interaction.

Immigration agents have put children directly at-risk during enforcement operations: The Committees reviewed reports of 53 children being put directly at-risk during enforcement operations, including 10 children who were left unattended during or in the wake of an enforcement operation, seventeen children who were put at risk due to violent and forcible entries into their homes, 11 children who were used as bait to lure non-citizen parents into arrest or detention, and eight children who were put at risk by agents smashing their car windows.

Immigration agents acted with reckless disregard for children with medical conditions: The Committees identified at least four children with disabilities who experienced violence at the hands of immigration agents and six children with serious medical conditions who were directly impacted by DHS actions in ways that negatively impacted their access to treatment or recovery.

Immigration agents have conducted operations in and around schools, day cares, and courthouses: The Committees identified 42 instances of ICE deploying in and around schools, school bus stops, and day care centers. These operations have had devastating consequences for children learning and being cared for at these locations that were once held as safe havens.

The full text of the Committees’ report is available here. A livestream of today’s forum will be available here.

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Blumenthal, Colleagues Presses Trump Administration to Reverse Course on Rollback of Federal Employee Protections

[Hartford, CT] — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined Senate colleagues to urge the Trump Administration’s Office of Personnel Management (OPM) against implementing two rules that would severely weaken longstanding civil service protections for federal employees. The Senators submitted two letters for OPM’s official comment periods on its proposed rules regarding Suitability Action and Reduction in Force (RIF) appeals.

In the first letter, the Senators urged OPM to reject its proposed rule that would transfer jurisdiction over suitability action appeals when an employee or prospective employee is deemed unsuitable for federal service from the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) to OPM. In the second letter, the Senators urged OPM to reject its proposed rule that would transfer jurisdiction over RIF appeals from the MSPB to OPM. In both letters, the Senators expressed concern that the rules would shift the adjudication of appeals from the independent MSPB to an internal OPM process overseen by a political appointee – a clear conflict of interest in which OPM is the policymaker, the enforcer, and the final arbiter of these appeals. Further, they noted that these moves will erode protections for employees and invite political interference in workforce matters. The Senators stressed that these proposed changes are especially dangerous given the Administration’s recent abuses of federal employees.

Joining Blumenthal on the suitability action appeals letter are U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD). Joining Blumenthal on the reduction in force appeals letter are U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).

“We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) proposed rule, Suitability Action Appeals (OPM-2025-0173-0001). While we agree that suitability standards and procedures play a critical role in protecting the federal government, this proposal undermines the statutory framework, independence, and due process protections that ensure those standards are applied fairly and lawfully,” the Senators wrote in their suitability action appeals letter, which can be viewed here.

“We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) proposed rule—Reduction in Force Appeals [2026-02576]—that seeks to move the venue for Reduction in Force (RIF) appeals from the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) to OPM. At its core, this proposal undoes Congress’s deliberate separation of personnel policymaking and adjudication of appeals, undermines due process protections for federal employees, and poses heightened risks of politization given the current Administration’s attacks on the nonpartisan civil service. While framed as an efficiency measure, the rule would instead erode structural safeguards that have anchored the merit-based civil service for decades,” the Senators wrote in their RIF appeals letter, which can be viewed here.

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***Video***Blumenthal Delivers Opening Statement at Forum on how DHS Policies Hurt Children

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), delivered an opening statement at a bicameral public forum on how DHS policies hurt children. The forum, entitled “Our Values at Stake: How Trump’s Immigration Agenda Endangers Children,” featured testimony from young people and mothers about their personal experiences being assaulted or separated from their families by DHS agents. The forum also featured testimony from a school administrator about the impact of current DHS policies on schools and children.

“The second Trump Administration’s immigration enforcement has known no limits in its cruelty. They punish people simply for exercising their constitutional rights, like the First Amendment that protects people’s right to speak and dissent and protest. They’ve dragged people out of their cars, tear-gassed and beaten anyone who happened to be in their path. They’ve murdered American citizens. But even through all of it, nothing is more emblematic of the cruelty and inhumanity and callousness of this Administration than the way they have treated children,” Blumenthal said.

Pointing to the findings of a report Blumenthal and Garcia released prior to the start of the forum, Blumenthal continued, “We have found, through our research, cases of 128 children who have been injured, left unattended, or otherwise put at direct risk of harm due to operations of the Department of Homeland Security. This is the Department of Homeland Security—Security. They have made kids insecure and unsafe. They have treated them with a cruelty and inhumanity that is unconscionable and intolerable in the greatest country in the history of the world or anywhere. We would denounce it if it occurred halfway across the globe. And yet it is tolerated in this country.”

Blumenthal continued, “These stories that we’re recounting today are in a report called, ‘Cruelty is the Point.’ And the reason for that title is in fact, cruelty is the purpose and the objective—consciously, purposefully, and strategically, of an agency that wants to instill insecurity that directly conflicts with its name, Homeland Security. And these cases in this report are just a fraction of the total that exists.”

Blumenthal continued, “And I just want to say, part of the reason why we’re here today is the persistent reporting of journalists who also have shown indomitable courage in making these stories real. Today, we’re going to hear from six brave witnesses about ICE and CBP and about how they are terrorizing children in our neighborhoods. These extraordinary individuals have shown incredible courage, not just to persevere, but to come forward and tell the world about the callousness that should shock the conscience of all Americans.”

“The heartless indifference to the safety and well-being of our children across America is an indelible stain. It is indelible. It is now part of our history. And in making it part of our history and highlighting it today, we want to reverse those practices and reform the agency. And right now, in the United States senate, we are debating legislation that would in fact, reform this out-of-control, reckless, lawless agency. The shock value of your testimony today should move our nation and should persuade my colleagues that now is the time for reform,” Blumenthal concluded.

Today’s forum is the fourth public forum Blumenthal and Garcia have hosted as part of their ongoing inquiry into the lawless and abusive tactics used by federal immigration agents. Prior to the forum, Blumenthal and Garcia released a report entitled “Cruelty is the Point: How Trump’s Immigration Agenda Endangers Children,” which documents 128 children who have been injured left unattended or otherwise put at direct risk of harm as a result of operations by DHS personnel.

A video of Blumenthal’s opening remarks at today’s forum is available here. A transcript of his remarks is available below.

U.S. Senator Richard Blumethal (D-CT): Thank you very much, Representative Garcia. I want to begin by thanking you for your persistence and courage, your incredibly dedicated work on this investigation and so many other matters before the United States Congress today. This is a spotlight forum, and I wish it were a formal hearing where we would be sitting up at the dais with bipartisan cooperation to root out and stop the kind of abuse that you are helping us to document. Unfortunately, we as members of the minority, are uncovering and exposing these kinds of horrific abuses of authority, lawless and reckless, on the part of government agents on our own—but they are no less meaningful than they would be if they were formal Committee hearings, because literally thousands and thousands of people are watching as you speak, more than would be watching, in fact, most formal hearings of Committees.

And so, I want to thank not only Representative Garcia, but all of our staff for their dedicated work and most importantly, our witnesses who have come to be here today, long distances, but most important, a lot of courage and fortitude because recounting your stories, I know, is painful—going through the experiences were immensely painful, and then to have to relive them here in public takes a lot of guts, takes a lot of guts and grit and grace. And I want to thank every single one of you for it.

The second Trump Administration’s immigration enforcement has known no limits in its cruelty. They punish people simply for exercising their constitutional rights, like the First Amendment that protects people’s right to speak and dissent and protest. They’ve dragged people out of their cars, tear-gassed and beaten anyone who happened to be in their path. They've murdered American citizens. But even through all of it, nothing is more emblematic of the cruelty and inhumanity and callousness of this Administration than the way they have treated children.

We have found, through our research, cases of 128 children who have been injured, left unattended, or otherwise put at direct risk of harm due to operations of the Department of Homeland Security. This is the Department of Homeland Security—Security. They have made kids insecure and unsafe. They have treated them with a cruelty and inhumanity that is unconscionable and intolerable in the greatest country in the history of the world or anywhere. We would denounce it if it occurred halfway across the globe. And yet it is tolerated in this country.

These numbers include 20 children who were pepper sprayed by DHS agents and ten children who required medical attention due to their encounters with DHS, the Department of Homeland Security. It also includes 42 enforcement operations at or near schools, daycares, bus stops or other locations where children gather. These stories that we’re recounting today are in a report called, “Cruelty is the Point.” And the reason for that title is in fact, cruelty is the purpose and the objective—consciously, purposefully, and strategically, of an agency that wants to instill insecurity that directly conflicts with its name, Homeland Security.

And these cases in this report are just a fraction of the total that exists. We know that many want to hide after they go through this experience. Many want to, in effect, try to forget. And you’re the brave ones coming forward. We recount in this report only a fraction of the total number of abuses.

At the notorious Dilley Family Detention Center in Texas, officials reportedly removed the children’s access to crayons after their drawings appeared in a ProPublica story. You can see here some of what those ICE officials wanted to hide. “When will we go home?” When will we go home? When will America come home to its values? When will DHS come home to its real mission—security?

Our efforts to document and elevate the stories of this regime's heartless actions against children will continue. And we know that there are thousands more stories to be told. In fact, just yesterday, it was reported that the Trump Administration has detained the parents of 11,000 children who are U.S. citizens. The headline is, “Trump has Detained the Parents of More than 11,000 U.S. Citizen Kids,” and it’s in ProPublica. And I just want to say, part of the reason why we're here today is the persistent reporting of journalists who also have shown indomitable courage in making these stories real.

Today, we're going to hear from six brave witnesses about ICE and CBP and about how they are terrorizing children in our neighborhoods. These extraordinary individuals have shown incredible courage, not just to persevere, but to come forward and tell the world about the callousness that should shock the conscience of all Americans.

It’s our fourth public forum as part of this inquiry. I continue to be amazed by the courage of witnesses, whether they are whistleblowers from within the agency or victims of this brutality of different ages and backgrounds—some on their way to church, others to pick up kids at schools, all over the country. Witnesses come today from Massachusetts, Idaho, Texas, California, and Minnesota.

Minneapolis was not an isolated incident. We are all Minneapolis. The nation is Minneapolis, and you truly show us that this is a nationwide trauma and speak for many more who have also been impacted by the Department of Homeland Security’s conduct.

The heartless indifference to the safety and well-being of our children across America is an indelible stain. It is indelible. It is now part of our history. And in making it part of our history and highlighting it today, we want to reverse those practices and reform the agency. And right now, in the United States Senate, we are debating legislation that would in fact, reform this out-of-control, reckless, lawless agency.

The shock value of your testimony today should move our nation and should persuade my colleagues that now is the time for reform. We have to bring this agency home and restore the rule of law in the Department of Homeland Security to make sure that our nation is, in fact, secure.

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WATCH: Senator Blunt Rochester on MS NOW: “This is a Break-Glass Moment for our Country.”

Click here to watch the full interview.

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, last night joinedMS NOW’s The Weeknight to discuss the consequences of President Trump’s refusal to negotiate on funding for the Department of Homeland Security and her opposition to the SAVE America Act. Shortly before the interview, Senator Blunt Rochester voted against the nomination of U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to be Secretary of Homeland Security.

Below are excerpts of the interview.

On the Consequences of this DHS Shutdown

“It is clear that the challenges that we face right now in this moment, and what we’re seeing from Homeland Security, it is not making us safer. It is not making us more secure. As a matter of fact, even just today, watching what is happening at airports across this country should give people more pause. Democrats have actually put up eight…bills to say, let’s open up the other parts of the Department of Homeland Security while we continue to negotiate on ICE.”

“And mind you, even the things that we’re talking about in terms of ICE reforms are not things that are crazy. These are commonsense things like you shouldn’t have these folks just storming into your home without a judicial warrant. They should not be wearing masks. And instead, what we’re seeing is that now, in addition to being deployed in our cities and our towns, they’re deploying ICE in the airports. Again, it’s not making us safer. It’s not making us stronger as a country. And it actually is doing the reverse.”

“I would also say that I am the ranking member of the Coast Guard subcommittee. We as Democrats said, listen, TSA, Coast Guard, these are agencies that, FEMA, people want, need, and we all agree…Even our Republican colleagues, when they are trying to negotiate with us, Donald Trump says no, because [he wants us] to pass the SAVE Act. And we’re asking, what are you trying to save us from? Our democracy?”

On Democrats’ Fight for the American People

“Let me be Blunt. When people look at their grocery bills right now, remember who’s in charge. When people go to the gas pump right now and we see skyrocketing prices [as the result of] a war that they never told us why we got in and they can’t figure out how to get out, remember who’s in charge. When you think about the fact that I come from the state of Delaware, where the dignified transfers happen when bodies come home from war, and that people are afraid for their family members, remember who’s in charge. But also remember who is here on the ground fighting for you.”

On the Importance of this Moment

“Y’all know I don’t do a lot of television. This is a break-glass moment for our country. We have been holding the Senate floor, making assignments overnight to make sure that no funny business happens with this SAVE America Act, because really, that’s what this is all about. Will we even have an election when we get to November? Disenfranchising women – 69 million women whose names have changed. Disenfranchising people of color – creating a modern day poll tax by requiring these things [like a] birth certificate or a passport where half of America doesn’t even have a passport. And so, if it means staying here until midnight or three in the morning, we’re going to be here. If it means coming on TV shows and internet and social media, we’re going to do it. But this is a team sport, and we need everybody to be engaged.”

On the Status of DHS Funding Negotiations

“It’s my understanding we were very, very close, which is why Donald Trump basically said, no deal unless you pass our SAVE America Act. Because if they pass the SAVE America Act, then, as he said, ‘the right people’ will vote. Who are the right people? Is it young people on college campuses that will have – it’ll be harder for them. Is it people who live in rural communities [who] have to travel 4.5 hours back and forth to get these kinds of documents? Who are the right people? That’s what this is all about to me, is the election. And so, we’ve got to stand firm. We’ve got to stand strong. And what I hope people recognize is that the majority of us here, all of us as Democrats, have been working day and night, and we will continue to work because everything depends on it in this very present moment.”

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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.


U.S. Senator Katie Britt, Colleagues’ Resolution Honoring Six Fallen U.S. Servicemembers Unanimously Passes Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) recently introduced a resolution honoring the sacrifice and service of six American heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft over western Iraq while supporting Operation Epic Fury. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) cosponsored the resolution, which unanimously passed the Senate.

The resolution honors Major Alex Klinner of Auburn, Alabama, Major Ariana G. Savino of Covington, Washington, and Technical Sergeant Ashley B. Pruitt of Bardstown, Kentucky, who were members of the 99th Refueling Squadron of the 117th Air Refueling Wing located at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base in Birmingham, Alabama and Captain Seth R. Koval of Mooresville, Indiana, Captain Curtis J. Angst of Wilmington, Ohio, and Master Sergeant Tyler H. Simmons of Columbus, Ohio, who were members of the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base based in Columbus, Ohio.

“Our nation will be forever grateful to these American heroes for their exemplary service and ultimate sacrifice. While their lives were tragically cut short in devoted service to our country, we will never forget their selflessness as they bravely fought to protect and defend Americans. We are deeply proud to honor them in this resolution and continue to pray for their families and loved ones during this unthinkable time,” said Senator Britt.

“When you see flag-draped caskets carrying heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, it’s a sobering reminder of the cost of America’s freedom. Each of these service members showed generational courage, and this resolution is just a small part of ensuring their stories are never forgotten. Our prayers continue to be with their brave families and loved ones as they navigate this horrific loss,” said Senator Tuberville.

“We continue to mourn the loss of Hoosier Captain Seth Koval and the Airmen who perished while bravely answering the call to serve. We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice these American heroes made and will continue to pray for their loved ones,” said Senator Young.

“Our nation is grateful for the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We will never forget their courage and selfless service. Please join Amanda and I in praying for Captain Seth Koval’s family and all the families impacted,” said Senator Banks.

“America is indebted to Curtis Angst, Tyler Simmons, and Seth Koval for their service and sacrifice to protect our freedoms,” said Senator Moreno. “Their loss is devastating for our country, and I join all Ohioans in praying for their loved ones.”

“As our nation mourns these heroes, it is vital that we honor their legacy of service and sacrifice. This resolution is one way to do just that. The families and loved ones of Capt. Koval, Capt. Angst and Master Sgt. Simmons of the Ohio National Guard, as well as Maj. Klinner, Maj. Savino and Tech. Sgt. Pruitt, remain in Tina’s and my prayers. These brave servicemembers carried out dangerous and critical missions in defense of our country, and we will be forever grateful for their sacrifice,” said Senator Husted.

“As somebody who lost friends in combat, it is always devastating to hear of the loss of a fellow servicemember who put their life on the line to fight for our nation. The brave Americans we are recognizing today were supporting a righteous mission and must be honored for their service and sacrifice. As we keep the families of the fallen in our prayers, let us also renew our commitment to supporting the men and women who protect America and our way of life,” said Senator Sheehy.

Last week, Senator Britt joined President Donald J. Trump, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General John D. Caine, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.), and Senators Tuberville, Banks, Young, Moreno, Husted, and Sheehy at Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of the servicemembers.

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U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins The Sunday Briefing on Fox

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined The Sunday Briefing with Peter Doocy on Fox News to discuss the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown and her work to find a pathway forward.

On growing TSA lines and wait times for Americans caused by the Democrat-led DHS shutdown:

“Look, this is just completely unnecessary and unfortunate in so many ways. We have men and women who have stepped up to serve our Department of Homeland Security … and they’re not getting a paycheck. It’s unacceptable. [W]e want our Democratic colleagues to sit down with us and find a pathway forward. And … for the first time since we passed the continuing resolution, Peter, on January 30th, [the] first time they sat down with us was on Thursday.”

On Republicans’ continued commitment to prioritize the safety and security of Americans:

“[W]hen I when I’m looking at what the Democratic Party has become … the far left has taken over. It’s in the driver’s seat of the Democratic Party. We’re seeing that with them paying for protesters in a number of places, but also with the rhetoric … calling ICE officers ‘Nazis’ and ‘Gestapo’ … We’re not going back to defund the police. We’re not going back to Biden’s failed open border policies … I hope that common sense will prevail, that we will pay every person that raised their hand at the Department of Homeland Security to say that we want to keep our homeland and the American people safe, and that we will find a pathway forward.”

On Elon Musk offering to pay TSA workers through the shutdown:

“Listen, we saw in the last Democrat-led shutdown, longest ever, 43 days, we saw an anonymous donor come in and do about 130 million to make sure that our troops were paid. There’s obviously there was a provision that allowed for that. Now, I think what we’re looking at now is what provisions allow for things like this to happen in the Department of Homeland Security. I appreciate the patriotism because what he’s saying is, as these men and women are coming to work to keep us safe, they should be getting a paycheck.”

On her support for Senator John Kennedy’s (R-La.) legislation to prevent members of Congress from receiving paychecks during a shutdown:

“I believe if Congress wasn’t getting a paycheck right now, that they would be much more eager to find a solution … John Kennedy has a bill and it says that if we don’t do our job and that if people aren’t getting paid … then Congress shouldn’t get a paycheck either. I firmly support that. And I think that if that move through the Senate and the House, that ultimately people will be much more eager to find a resolution, and I am all for it.”

You can watch the Senator’s full interview here.

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U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Jon Husted, Mark Warner Lead Bill to Protect Children on Social Media

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) introduced a bipartisan bill to empower parents to protect their children on social media platforms by providing them the right to know if their children are engaging in dangerous or risky interactions. Sammy’s Law would require large social media platforms to permit parents to receive safety notifications through FTC-regulated third-party safety providers, giving them the tools to shield their children from harm.

“At just 16 years old, Sammy Chapman had his whole life ahead of him when he was approached by a drug dealer on social media who sold him drugs laced with fentanyl—an event which tragically led to his death. Had legislation been in place like Sammy’s Law, which prevents social media companies from blocking third-party safety software for children, Sammy would likely still be with us today,” said Senator Britt. “As parents and legislators, it’s our job to protect our children and teens—our most vulnerable—in every way we can. In the age of social media and the challenges that come with it, Sammy’s Law is a critical step towards protecting our children online by ensuring parents have access to the necessary tools to keep their children safe.”

Sammy’s Law was named after 16-year-old Sammy Chapman who lost his life to fentanyl poisoning. He was approached by a drug dealer through social media, who delivered drugs laced with a lethal dose of opioid fentanyl to his home. Sammy was unaware he was ingesting fentanyl and tragically lost his life.

“In Ohio and across the country, criminals are using social media to target our children—selling them dangerous drugs and exploiting them through sextortion while trying to bypass parents and other trusted adults. Tragically, teenagers Sammy Chapman from California and James Woods from Ohio are two of many young people who’ve fallen victim to these predators. Parents deserve to know what their kids are exposed to online and have the ability to protect them and save lives. Sammy’s Law would put that authority back where it belongs—with families—and give parents the tools they need to keep their children safe,” said Senator Husted.

Sammy’s Law was introduced to give parents the tools to protect their children and other family members by requiring large social media platforms to make real-time application programming interfaces accessible to Federal Trade Commission (FTC)-registered third-party safety software providers and alerting parents when 15 specific instances or phrases arise that indicate eating disorders, suicidal ideation and sexual harassment.

“Parents are struggling to protect their kids from the harmful effects of social media, where children are more exposed than ever to cyberbullying, eating disorders, and other online threats to their wellbeing. Sammy’s Law will give parents the choice to be alerted of concerning behaviors on social media, while protecting their personal information. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort so parents have more resources to supervise their children’s social media use,” said Senator Warner.

Statements of Support:

“If Sammy’s Law had been in place when a drug dealer reached out to our son via social media, he would still be alive. Sammy was poisoned with a lethal dose of fentanyl received from a drug dealer through social media,”said Sam Chapman, father of Sammy Chapman.

“As parents who lost our only son, James, to online exploitation, we understand in the deepest way how devastating it is when systems fail to protect our youth. While our advocacy began in response to online harm, our mission has grown to encompass the overall safety, well-being, and protection of young people in every space they occupy, both online and in their everyday environments. Sammy’s Law represents a meaningful and necessary step forward in prioritizing safety, prevention, and accountability. By empowering local communities to implement life-saving safety measures, this legislation acknowledges a simple but urgent truth: our children deserve to be protected wherever they are—on their devices, in their schools, and in their neighborhoods,” said Tim and Tamia Woods, parents of James Woods.

James Woods was a 17-year-old senior from Streetsboro, Ohio, who took his own life after becoming a victim of sextortion through social media. These schemes use social media to target young victims and persuade them to share an explicit photo or video of themselves that is then used to extort them for money.

“Sammy’s Law would have saved Nate’s life. Nate was attacked over Snapchat, he received a Snapchat message from a classmate telling him ‘To Kill Himself’. If Sammy’s Law was in place at that time, I would have been immediately notified that Nate was in danger. I would have had the opportunity to intervene and protect Nate from further harm and Nate would be here today. Thank you, Senators Husted and Warner, for standing up to protect our children,” said Rose Bronstein, a survivor parent, who lost her son Nate Bronstein due to severe cyberbullying over social media.

“The Senate introduction of Sammy’s Law is a major step toward protecting children on social media. Through our work with families and schools nationwide, we have seen that third-party safety software saves young lives. This legislation will help protect children from severe social media-related harms like cyberbullying, sextortion, and drug trafficking while also strengthening privacy protections. We thank Senators Husted and Warner for their bipartisan leadership in advancing this critical, life-saving bill,” said Marc Berkman, CEO of the Organization for Social Media Safety.

Alexander Neville Foundation, Becca Schmill Foundation, Buckets Over Bullying, CADCA, Crime Victims United, Crimestoppers of Houston, D.A.R.E. America, Families Against Fentanyl, JED Foundation, National Center on Sexual Exploitation, National Crime Prevention Council, Organization for Social Media Safety, Parent ProTech, Parents Television and Media Council, Protect Young Eyes, Safe House, SafeProject, Social Media Victims Law Center, Stand for the Silent, The Village Mission and VOID all endorse Sammy’s Law.

As a mom of school-aged kids, Senator Britt has made addressing America’s youth mental health crisis a key policy focus over the past two years. In addition to introducing multiple pieces of bipartisan legislation protecting children and teens on social media, she has voted in support of other bills to empower parents and hold platforms accountable and joined her colleagues in repeatedly calling for action to discuss the harmful impacts of social media. Senator Britt is also proud to support Senator Chuck Grassley’s (R-Iowa) Stop Sextortion Act, which would target offenders that threaten to distribute child sex abuse material (CSAM) to intimidate, extort or coerce children.

You can read the full text of the bill here.

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Senate Passes Bill To Standardize Fentanyl Testing in Emergency Rooms

‘Tyler’s Law’, co-sponsored by Cantwell, would help HHS provide guidance to hospital ERs on how and when to test for fentanyl in patients that present with OD symptoms

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Senate passed Tyler’s Law, a bipartisan bill that would help the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issue guidance to hospitals on how and when to test for fentanyl in patients that present with overdose symptoms.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, cosponsored the legislation.

“More than 3,000 Washingtonians tragically die from drug overdoses each year. Fentanyl is driving roughly three quarters of those deaths, yet many routine drug screens still don’t test for it. Tyler’s Law will help hospitals get clearer guidance so clinicians can better identify fentanyl overdoses and act faster to save lives,” Sen. Cantwell said.

Tyler’s Law was named after Tyler Shamash, a 19-year-old who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2018 after a standard hospital emergency room drug test checked for amphetamines, heroin, and cocaine, but not fentanyl. While large-scale studies and standard practices exist for opioid testing in emergency settings, fentanyl is often not included in routine opioid test panels, creating gaps in detection. Tyler for example, was tested for opioids, but the assessment does not detect fentanyl.

This bill would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary to conduct a comprehensive federal study on how and whether hospital emergency rooms test for fentanyl when patients present with overdose symptoms. Then, based on the results of the study, the bill would require HHS to issue guidance on whether fentanyl testing should be implemented as a routine practice in emergency departments and how hospitals could implement such testing effectively at scale.

Tyler’s Law was introduced by U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-IN) and Alex Padilla (D-CA). It has 14 cosponsors, an equal number of Republicans and Democrats.

In 2023 and 2024, Sen. Cantwell traveled across the State of Washington to 10 communities -- Tacoma, Everett, Tri-Cities, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver, Port Angeles, Walla Walla, Yakima, and Longview – hearing from people on the front lines of the fentanyl crisis, including first responders, law enforcement, health care providers, and people with firsthand experience of fentanyl addiction. She also participated in the National Tribal Opioid Summit, a gathering of approximately 900 tribal leaders, health care workers, and first responders from across the country hosted by the Tulalip Tribes following the first-ever statewide summit hosted by the Lummi Nation. Sen. Cantwell has since used what she heard in those roundtables and related events to craft and champion specific legislative solutions, including:

The Fatal Overdose Reduction Act, which would expand a Washington state-developed, low-barrier fentanyl treatment pilot program across the United States;

The Opioid Overdose Data Collection Enhancement Act, which would direct the U.S. Department of Justice to award grants to states, local governments, law enforcement task forces, and tribes to adopt and implement an overdose data collection program.

The Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump, which permanently classified illicit fentanyl knockoffs as Schedule I drugs;

The Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act, which would crack down on the trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs, like fentanyl, using the U.S. transportation network;

The FEND Off Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden, which will help U.S. government agencies disrupt opioid supply chains by imposing sanctions on traffickers and fighting money laundering;

The Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act, which would require that all pill presses be engraved with a serial number and impose penalties for the removal or alteration of the number;

The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, which would list xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance while protecting the drug’s legal use by veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers, enable the Drug Enforcement Administration to track xylazine’s manufacturing to ensure it is not diverted to the illicit market;

The TRANQ Research Act of 2023, signed into law by President Biden, which will spur more research into xylazine (also called “tranq”) and other novel synthetic drugs by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology to tackle these issues;

The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, which would bolster Tribal law enforcement agencies by helping them hire and retain tribal law enforcement officers by raising their retirement, pension, death, and injury benefits to be on part with those of federal law enforcement officers; and

The Relief of Chronic Pain Act, which will increase access to non-opioid management options for the 50 million adults living with chronic pain, almost half of whom experience high-impact chronic pain, which can be debilitating and also limits productivity and contributes to $550 billion in health care costs each year.

In addition, Sen. Cantwell voted for a series of federal funding bills allocating $1.69 billion to combat fentanyl and other illicit drugs coming into the United States, including an additional $385.2 million to increase security at U.S. ports of entry, with the goal of catching more illegal drugs like fentanyl before they make it across the border. Critical funding will go toward Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology at land and sea ports of entries. NII technologies—like large-scale X-ray and Gamma ray imaging systems, as well as a variety of portable and handheld technologies—allow U.S. Customs and Border Protection to help detect and prevent contraband from being smuggled into the country without disrupting flow at the border.


VIDEO: Capito Joins CNBC’s “Squawk Box”

To watch Senator Capito’s remarks, click here or the image above.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of Senate Republican leadership, joined CNBC’s “Squawk Box” to discuss the latest developments in Iran, the DHS shutdown, and the SAVE America Act.

HIGHLIGHTS:

ON IRAN OPERATIONS: “I think it's safe to say, if we go back to when the president began this, he said, hopefully a short term, hopefully very effective. Take out their navy. Take out their missile launchers. Take out their ability to attack. Obviously, they had enormous abilities to attack. We saw that last week when they launched that large, long-range missile. That was, I think, 2500 miles. I think that was sort of an eye opener to all of us that they probably had much more depth in their weapon arsenal than what we might have even been aware of. And so, the president said, once we reach these milestones and we see effectively that we have, as I said, defanged and deescalated what Iran's possibilities are, we're going to start looking for a negotiated settlement. I think he perceives that's where we are right now. Are we already there? I say we're sort of in the middle, going down towards the other side. That could be the hopeful part of me. But I also think the fact that we have partnerships, we see the head of NATO, making positive statements here. I just think the signals from the President and others are that they're sitting down at the table.”

ON THE DHS SHUTDOWN: “Well, right now, I think we are nearing a deal. Several of our members went to the White House, had very deep discussion with the president. This is Day 39. This has got to stop. We're in danger. The Democrats have endangered, I think, our homeland security, our cyber security, and our Coast Guard and all of that. The question being, if we fund all of DHS except the enforcement and removable sections of ICE, that, to me, is what the deal, it appears as, though the deal that's being offered today, we still don't know what the Democrats are going to accept, because they keep changing. You know, before it was ‘you got to get rid of Kristi Noem,’ oh, well, she's gone. ‘Well, you've got to have more enforcement, you've got to have cameras.’ Well, okay, that sounds like a good idea. We'll do that. So, we obviously have to see what their response is, but they better take this deal, because it's time for this to end.”

ON THE SAVE AMERICA ACT: “My state has voter ID. 36 states have voter ID. It's very simple. When you show up to vote, you show your ID, as we've said many, many times for many things. And even Chuck Schumer said, well, we're not really opposed to voter ID. Well, we're going to give them a chance this week to have that straight up and down vote, just on voter ID, and very explicitly say, okay, come to the table with something that's very reasonable the American people can accept and almost expect when they go to the polls.”

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Senators Collins, Peters Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Connect Retired Government Laboratory Animals with Loving Homes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced the Animal Freedom from Testing, Experimentation, and Research (AFTER) Act. The bipartisan legislation would ensure that every federal agency that uses animals for research has policies in place to facilitate the relocation of retired, healthy lab animals to private homes, animal rescues, or reputable sanctuaries.

“There is no reason regulated lab animals that are suitable for adoption or retirement should be killed by federal agencies,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation would continue to build on the successful policies at DOD, VA, FDA, and NIH while directing all other federal agencies to facilitate and encourage the retirement of animals to help ensure they are placed in loving homes or sanctuaries.”

“Retiring lab animals deserve the chance to live the rest of their lives in loving homes,” said Senator Peters. “This bill would encourage federal agencies to collaborate with shelters, rescue organizations, and sanctuaries to help provide these animals with safe and caring environments.”

The AFTER Act directs federal agencies to develop regulations that would facilitate the retirement of lab animals. DOD, VA, FDA, and NIH already have these rules in place. The bill also provides flexibility for each agency to devise its own policy, with the goal of ensuring that such animals, whenever possible, are retired rather than killed. The legislation also requires that animals be evaluated by a licensed veterinarian and pronounced both mentally and physically healthy before leaving an agency, helping to ensure a smooth transition to a new environment. Finally, the bill encourages federal agencies to work with nonprofit organizations to help place retired animals in sanctuaries and shelters across the country, not just those closest to the research facility.

This legislation has been endorsed by Maine Humane, the Humane World Action Fund, White Coat Waste, and the Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary.

“Our goal is to end pet homelessness and animal cruelty through breaking down barriers, and providing information, outreach, and advocacy. As animal welfare leaders across the state of Maine, we share Senator Collins’ concerns about what happens to animals both during and after testing. Maine Humane would like to thank Senator Collins for introducing this important bill, and for her long-standing support of animal welfare in Maine and across the nation,” said the directors and staff of Maine Humane, an organization promoting the adoption of homeless animals and preserving the human-animal bond.

“Approximately 50,000 dogs alone are used in research and testing each year, so the AFTER Act comes at a critical time for lab animals. With key agencies across the federal government focused on shifting the paradigm to non-animal research methods to reduce, and eventually end testing on animals, this bill ensures today's lab animals have a chance at a forever home or safe sanctuary. This new lease on life is well-deserved,” said Sara Amundson, President of Humane World Action Fund (formerly called Humane Society Legislative Fund).

“Senator Collins and Peters’ bipartisan AFTER Act to retire lab survivors is more important than ever given the tremendous progress White Coat Waste making to cut wasteful government spending on animal testing. The AFTER Act—also known as Violet’s Law—helps ensure that government lab survivors are retired and released to loving homes, not senselessly killed, when our campaigns expose and close labs. White Coat Waste secured the rescue of dozens of cats, dogs, and primates from federal labs we shut down and got federal agencies including the NIH, FDA, VA and DOD to enact the first-ever lab animal retirement policies. Taxpayers bought these animals and the AFTER Act will ensure Uncle Sam gives them back,” said Justin Goodman, Senior Vice President at animal testing watchdog White Coat Waste.

“As the nation's largest and most successful sanctuary for research animals—having successfully placed thousands of cats, dogs, and other animals into loving homes—we applaud Senators Susan Collins and Gary Peters for introducing the bipartisan AFTER Act to make lab animal retirement a standard policy in all government labs. We are proof that it can be done and eagerly stand ready to assist in the process,” said John Ramer, Executive Director at the nonprofit Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary.

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Cornyn Celebrates Senate Passage of Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today celebrated Senate passage of his Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act, which would establish funding at the U.S. Department of Commerce for the rescue, recovery, and research of endangered sea turtles in Texas and across the United States:

“Sea turtles along the Texas Gulf Coast are experiencing increasing challenges and strandings that rescue organizations are struggling to keep up with,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m glad my bill to invest in rescue and recovery efforts and help identify the causes of sea turtle strandings has passed the Senate, making us one step closer to better protecting Texas’ endangered and storied sea turtle population.”

Background:

During the 2021 winter storm in Texas, more than 12,100 sea turtles were cold-stunned, and rescue organizations were able to save and return only 4,000 of the stranded turtles to the wild. Rescue efforts are predominantly volunteer-led and underfunded despite sea turtles facing increasing threats that make strandings more likely, including rapid temperature changes, red tide events, and entanglement in marine debris.

This bill would provide stability and support to organizations that rehabilitate and aid in the recovery of sea turtles along the coast. Specifically, the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act would create a new grant program within the U.S. Department of Commerce to fund rescue, recovery, and research of sea turtles in the United States, and authorize $5 million annually for the awarding of grants to further those efforts from 2025 through 2030. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) leads the bill with Senator Cornyn.


Cornyn on Release of Dennis Coyle from Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement on the announcement that American Dennis Coyle was released from wrongful detention by the Taliban in Afghanistan:

“Thanks to the tireless work by President Trump and Secretary Rubio, American Dennis Coyle is finally free after more than a year of wrongful detention by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Dennis’ return is excellent news for his family, who I was pleased to meet with earlier this month, and all those in America and around the world standing for freedom and due process. I’m grateful for the Trump Administration’s continued efforts to end the inhumane, terroristic practice of hostage diplomacy.”

Background:


Cornyn Supports Bill to Prohibit Lawmakers from Receiving a Paycheck during Government Shutdowns

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the No Shutdown Paychecks to Politicians Act, which would ensure Members of Congress do not receive a paycheck during a government shutdown:

“If an everyday American fails to meet the requirements of their job, they don’t earn a paycheck,” said Sen. Cornyn. “If Representatives and Senators can’t perform a fundamental duty of Congress that Americans elected them to do – funding the government – they shouldn’t earn a paycheck either, and I’m proud to join with Senator Kennedy on this legislation.”

Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) is leading this legislation, which passed unanimously out of the Senate Rules Committee but was blocked by Senate Democrats from passing the Senate.

Background:

The No Shutdown Paychecks to Politicians Act would prevent Members of Congress from receiving a paycheck during a government shutdown and define a shutdown as any lapse in funding for one or more federal agencies.


PHOTO: Cornyn Meets with Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Leaders

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today met with the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce leadership, including Chairman Kevin Dinnin, Krista Piferrer, and Chair-elect JD Salinas, to discuss ways to keep Military City USA thriving, celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, honor the next generation of military leaders, and ensure San Antonio has the resources needed to flourish. See photo below.


Cortez Masto Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Ban Sports Prediction Market Contracts

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and John Curtis (R-Utah) in supporting the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act, bipartisan legislation to prohibit Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) registered entities like Polymarket and Kalshi from listing any prediction contracts that resemble a sports bet or casino-style game. In doing so, this legislation reinforces Congress’ original intent that the Commodity Exchange Act does not permit sports gambling and removes any ambiguity in the statute.

“For the entirety of President Trump’s second term, the CFTC has abdicated its responsibility to prevent illegal gaming on prediction markets,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “It’s past time to take the CFTC’s decision-making out of the equation. Event contracts dealing with sports and casino games are nothing more than gambling and fall entirely within the jurisdiction of tribes and states.”

“Sports prediction contracts are sports bets — just with a different name. And yet, these contracts have been offered in all fifty states in clear violation of state and federal law. Rather than enforce the law, the CFTC is greenlighting these markets and even promoting their growth. It’s time for Congress to step in and eliminate this backdoor which violates state consumer protections, intrudes upon tribal sovereignty, and offers no public revenue. I’m proud to partner with Senator Curtis to put a stop to these illegal markets,” said Senator Schiff.

“Too many young people in Utah are getting exposed to addictive sports betting and casino-style gaming contracts that belong under state control, not under federal regulators. Our bipartisan legislation clarifies regulatory jurisdiction, ensuring that states can maintain their authority over sports betting and casino gaming. The Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act is about respecting states’ authority, protecting families, and keeping speculative financial products out of spaces where they don’t belong,” said Senator Curtis.

For fifteen years, the CFTC used its authority to prohibit the listing of a contract that involves, relates to, or references “gaming.” However, the CFTC and its Chair have abruptly reversed course – intervening in ongoing litigation and proceeding with rulemaking to significantly relax the CFTC’s enforcement of this clause. Now, the CFTC is entering into partnerships with entities like Major League Baseball to further facilitate these markets’ growth.

As a result of this non-enforcement, CFTC-registered entities now offer a wide range of sports event contracts that are indistinguishable from gambling. Prediction market platforms currently list sports contracts with tens of millions of dollars in trading volume: for example, a wager on who will be the March Madness winner already has more than $100 million in trading volume, while Super Bowl trading volume on prediction markets surpassed $1 billion earlier this year.

These contracts are listed in all 50 states, including states that have restrictions or prohibitions on sports betting. These contracts evade state and tribal consumer protections, generate no public revenue, and undermine sovereign tribal regulatory regimes. These contracts are also offered in states where gambling is restricted or illegal.

Read the full bill here.

Senator Cortez Masto is a champion of Nevada’s tourism and gaming economy. Following the passage of the Republican tax law, which imposed greater taxes on gamblers, Cortez Masto introduced the FULL HOUSE Act to restore the 100% tax deduction on gambling losses. Last September, she introduced the WAGER Act, bipartisan legislation to protect legal sportsbooks and gaming businesses and help states like Nevada and Tribal communities reinvest their gaming revenues into their local economies. Senator Cortez Masto has previously led her colleagues in reminding the CFTC of their responsibility to prevent illegal gaming, requesting the CFTC do more to combat insider trading, manipulation, and fraud in prediction markets, and calling on CFTC Chair Selig to abstain from intervening in pending litigation involving prediction markets.

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Cortez Masto, Murkowski, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Electric Grid Security

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) introduced the Securing Community Upgrades for a Resilient Grid Act (SECURE Grid Act), bipartisan legislation to empower states to fully assess the risks to their electric grids, from extreme weather to cyber threats and other vulnerabilities.

Every year, states must submit a State Energy Security Plan (SESP) to receive funds from the State Energy Program, which are used to design, develop, and implement renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. The SECURE Grid Act would require future SESP to include additional grid threats – such as supply chain dynamics, weather-related threats and vulnerabilities, the potential for physical grid attacks, and the impact of growing energy demand. By assessing these additional risk factors, states will be better able to recognize and respond to any weaknesses in their energy infrastructures. This legislation would also require state coordination with suppliers of manufactured components and infrastructure to better understand and prepare for risks to the grid.

“Expanding AI use and increased electrification are placing increased demand on electric grids across the country, including in Nevada,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “It is more important than ever that states are aware of the full range of risks that face their electric grids so weak points can be addressed before they trigger mass outages.”

“Energy grids aren’t just infrastructure—they’re a part of daily life, keeping Alaskans warm through the winter, supporting businesses, and enabling efficient resource development,” said Senator Murkowski. “As we work to connect more communities across our state, ensuring our electric grid is secure and resilient is essential. By requiring more comprehensive data in state energy security plans and at the same time removing bottlenecks at DOE, this legislation will help identify weaknesses and strengthen our ability to respond to the full range of vulnerabilities facing Alaska’s grids.”

“With demand for energy rapidly increasing and New Hampshire experiencing more severe weather events, it is vital that we enhance planning efforts that reduce vulnerabilities of the electric grid,” said Senator Shaheen. “I am proud to help lead this legislation that will bolster our electric grid, improve resiliency and strengthen reliability for New Hampshire families and businesses.”

The SECURE Grid Act would require the following data to be included in SESPs:

Threats posed to local distribution facilities and supporting grid infrastructure, such as distribution substations;

Risks posed by increasing grid demand;

Available technologies to mitigate threats to energy distribution and rising grid demand;

Distinctions between weather-related threats and physical threats of violence;

Benefits of public-private partnerships to meet energy security needs;

Availability of innovative financing models to save taxpayer dollars and increase access to digital grid technologies; and

The role of vendors in maintaining a secure, reliable, and resilient grid.

The SECURE Grid Act is endorsed by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), and Schneider Electric. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Bob Latta (R-Ohio-05) and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07).

“The power grid is the backbone of the U.S. economy, and electrical manufacturers are delivering the technologies needed to modernize the grid, meet record-breaking energy demand, and strengthen resilience,” said Peter Ferrell, Senior Director of Government Relations at NEMA. “NEMA is pleased to support this bipartisan legislation because it encourages a more comprehensive approach to grid security and readiness across generation, transmission, and distribution systems. A stronger understanding of the supply chains for critical grid components can help reduce risk, improve reliability, and support a more secure and modern electric system.”

“NASEO endorses the bipartisan SECURE Grid Act and thanks Senators Cortez Masto, Murkowski, and Shaheen for introducing the legislation,” said David Terry, President of NASEO. “This bill will strengthen the energy security of the United States and support robust energy emergency preparedness and electric distribution system planning.”

“Schneider Electric applauds U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto, Jeanne Shaheen, and Lisa Murkowski for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the SECURE Grid Act in the U.S. Senate. As a leading energy technology partner, we understand that a reliable, future-proofed grid – bolstered by innovative energy tech – is essential to the U.S. economy and national security, and this legislation can help states identify vulnerabilities and strengthen infrastructure amidst growing energy demand,” said Jeannie Salo, Chief Public Policy Officer, North America, at Schneider Electric.

The full text of this legislation can be found here.

Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to ensure the electric grid can handle growing demand. She has led bipartisan legislation to encourage the production of electric distribution transformers, devices that are critical to the energy grid; to secure America’s energy supply chain; to increase critical mineral production in the American West; and to bolster American hydroelectric power production. Cortez Masto has called on the Trump Administration to take strategic action to protect, invest in, and strengthen America’s critical mineral supply chain.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353

March 24, 2026

Cotton Introduces Bill to Protect Sensitive Academic Research from Foreign Nationals

Washington, DC — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced legislation to track foreign student and faculty visa holders in an effort to safeguard the sensitive research being done at American universities. The Educational Visa Transparency Act expands the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to include all student, faculty, and staff visa holders in U.S. higher education. It would also allow other federal agencies to access this information. The introduction of this bill follows several concerning cases in which foreign nationals, including from Communist China, attempted to smuggle dangerous biological materials into the United States, under the guise of academic research.

“Unmonitored foreign nationals in the labs and research centers of our colleges and universities pose a grave national security threat. My bill will require tracking all student and faculty visas to ensure foreign nationals aren’t stealing valuable research,” said Senator Cotton.

Text of the bill can be found here.

The Educational Visa Transparency Act would:

Require the inclusion of all visa holders serving as students, faculty, or staff in U.S. higher education within the SEVIS database, and authorize Department of Justice to have access to the list as well, enabling more effective real-time monitoring, fraud detection, and rapid response to national security threats posed by foreign nationals in sensitive academic environments.

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DOT Awards $2.4 Million to Dickinson Airport

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration awarded $2,425,000 to the Dickinson Municipal Airport Authority through the Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) Program. This award supports the expansion of an existing aircraft rescue and firefighting building.

The AIG Program was established by the fully-paid-for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide airports with funding for modernization and safety projects. Since its creation, airports in North Dakota have received over $61 million in program funding.