Van Drew, Bera, Boozman, and Booker Launch International Exchanges Caucus

Today, U.S. Representatives Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ, 2), Ami Bera (D-CA, 6), and U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the launch of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. The members are launching this caucus to bolster engagement and support for international exchange programs, particularly those administered by the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

“International exchange programs are a smart investment in America’s future," said Congressman Van Drew. "They strengthen our relationships around the world and give people a firsthand look at our American values and our way of life. In South Jersey, the impact is clear. Programs like BridgeUSA help support our shore economy each summer, giving small businesses the workforce they need during our busiest time of year. I am proud to help launch this bipartisan caucus to support these programs."

“Educational and cultural exchange programs are among our most effective tools for building goodwill, strengthening our alliances, and advancing American values and strategic interests. These programs create lasting people-to-people ties that build mutual understanding and open doors for cooperation on shared challenges. I am pleased to help launch this bipartisan caucus to ensure Congress continues to support and strengthen these critical programs so they remain effective, sustainable, and central to America’s global leadership," said Representative Ami Bera.

“Cultural exchange is foundational to effective diplomacy, and strengthening our nation’s investment in these initiatives will encourage greater collaboration and mutually beneficial relationships for generations to come. Arkansas has played an outsized role in those efforts over many years, and we have seen firsthand how it can change the world. I’m proud to help launch the Congressional International Exchange Caucus and look forward to the opportunity to bolster this mission in a bipartisan, bicameral way," said Senator John Boozman.

“I am thrilled to join my colleagues in launching the first bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. Exchange programs strengthen all parts of American society and give back to local communities around the country. They help the United States remain internationally competitive, bolster our nation’s economy, and dramatically increase the United States’ global reach while enhancing national security. Through creation of this caucus, I am proud to continue the long tradition of bipartisan support for international exchanges and look forward to working with my colleagues to secure strong, sustained backing for these proven, cost-effective programs," said Senator Cory Booker.

International exchange programs provide unique opportunities for Americans to experience the world and develop critical skills. The Congressional International Exchanges Caucus is the platform for Members of Congress to hear directly from these Americans, their constituents, about the impact of international exchange programs on their states and districts. Finally, the Caucus enables its members to ensure ECA’s long-term programmatic sustainability and success by offering exclusive opportunities to engage with Administration officials on the latest topics impacting international exchange programs.

“International exchange programs are major contributors to the U.S.’ success at home and on the world stage and have long enjoyed bipartisan support. The creation of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus reflects that enduring commitment and showcases Congress’ continued investment in the success of these programs. The Alliance for International Exchange proudly supports the caucus and looks forward to working with its members to promote and protect international exchange programs," said Mark Overmann, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange.


Vindman Leads on Policy Lowering Gas Prices, Supports Diesel and Gas Taxes Pause

Woodbridge, Va. — Today U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) announced support for a package of legislative policies that would lower gas prices for working families across Virginia. Vindman introduced the Diesel Prices Relief Act (H.R. 8772) and cosponsored the Gas Prices Relief Act (H.R. 7919) and the Gas Prices Relief Act of 2026 (H.R. 8572).

“Across the Seventh District, I have heard from Virginians who continue to send me back to DC with one message: the pain at the pump needs to end. I am proud to lead on legislation that would pause both the diesel and gas taxes, giving Virginians a much-needed break when filling the tank,” said Vindman. “Republicans chose an unpopular, expensive war in Iran that has driven gas prices through the roof. Not only will these bills make it cheaper to fill up on gas, but lowering diesel prices will reduce the costs of groceries and other household goods that are shipped across the country in diesel-powered trucks. I’ll never stop fighting to lower gas prices and bring down the cost of living for Virginians.”

He is leading the Diesel Prices Relief Act alongside Congressman Don Davis (N.C.-01).

“High diesel prices have squeezed eastern North Carolina farmers, truckers, and small businesses,” said Davis. “The Diesel Prices Relief Act would suspend the federal diesel tax through the end of the year, putting money back into the pockets of the hardworking people who grow our food, move our goods, and keep America running.”

BACKGROUND

Vindman introduced the Diesel Prices Relief Act (H.R. 8772) which would pause the diesel tax until January 1, 2027 helping farmers and truck drivers better afford their stops at the gas station.

Vindman cosponsored the Gas Prices Relief Act (H.R. 7919) which would pause the gas tax until October 1, 2026.

Vindman cosponsored the Gas Prices Relief Act of 2026 (H.R. 8572) which would pause the gas tax until January 1, 2027.

###


Walkinshaw, Kaine Urge Trump to Press China to Stop Forcibly Returning North Korean Refugees

Washington, D.C. — Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) sent a bicameral letter to President Donald Trump during the U.S.-China Summit urging him to press Chinese leader Xi Jinping to stop forcibly returning North Korean refugees to a country where they face torture, forced labor, imprisonment, or execution.

The letter calls on President Trump to use "all diplomatic levers at his disposal" to compel the People's Republic of China (PRC) to halt the repatriations, recommit to its obligations under the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention, and grant refugee status to affected individuals so they can travel to a safe third country.

"Chinese authorities are systematically and knowingly forcing hundreds of North Koreans back to a place where they will face mistreatment and retribution," the lawmakers wrote. "The PRC has been party to the United Nations Refugee Convention and Protocol for over four decades yet consistently violates the principles to protect refugees."

The letter cites findings from the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China, of documenting the forcible repatriation of 600 North Korean refugees on October 9, 2023 — the largest single repatriation on record — and approximately 200 more in April 2024. The PRC classifies most North Koreans as illegal economic migrants to avoid its obligations under the Refugee Convention, despite knowing those returned face severe punishment, particularly Christians and those who had contact with South Korean groups while in China.

This letter builds on Congressman Walkinshaw's sustained work on this issue, including a November 2025 bicameral letter urging Ambassador Perdue to press Chinese authorities directly — requests Beijing has repeatedly denied.

Congressman Walkinshaw is a member of the Congressional Caucus on Korea and a Commissioner of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.

The letter is also signed by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-ORE), Peter Welch (D-VT) and U.S. Representatives Ami Bera (CA-06), James McGovern (MA-02), and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10).

Read the full letter here.

###


Rep. Watson Coleman votes for resolution memorializing law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, rejects partisan, divisive, and disrespectful alternate resolution

Today, during National Police Week, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass a bipartisan resolution, H. Res 1252 memorializing law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. Law enforcement officers work under difficult and often dangerous conditions to protect and serve their communities. In 2025, 363 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty. The resolution overwhelmingly passed the House.

Additionally, Watson Coleman rejected a partisan and divisive resolution (H. Con. Res. 96) that cynically sought to use the service of our law enforcement officers to lie about “progressive politicians” by claiming they place officers and communities at greater risk.

Watson Coleman has fought tirelessly to support law enforcement officers in the 12th District and nationwide. In the fiscal year 2026, she secured $675,000 for the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force. In the current appropriations budget, she is seeking over $1.4 million to upgrade the communications equipment of Spotswood and South River police and public safety departments.


Wittman Hosts Field Event with House Natural Resources Committee at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science

GLOUCESTER, VA – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) was joined by the House Committee on Natural Resources and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) on a field visit to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). The purpose of the trip was to provide members of the House Natural Resources Committee with the opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge research and community impact that takes place daily at VIMS.

“It was a pleasure to see firsthand the work that VIMS is doing to advance scientific research that addresses challenges to coastal and marine environments,” said Rep. Wittman. “VIMS is an environmental leader and economic driver in the First District, and I have consistently advocated for funding and resources that support its research and the training it offers for the next generation of leaders in marine science through William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences.”

“I applaud Vice Chairman Wittman for inviting members to his district to see how Virginia plays a large role in our nation's coastal and ocean policy. The Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences is a leader in marine science research, generating positive economic benefits for the region and the country. Visits like these are essential to informing our Committee’s work in Washington, and I thank Mr. Wittman for hosting this insightful field tour.” - Chairman Bruce Westerman


Alsobrooks, Justice Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Arts Education for HBCUs

May 13, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) and Senator Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) introduced the HBCU Arts Act, legislation to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for additional uses of funds – including arts education – for grants to strengthen Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). So many HBCU alumni have gone on to become leaders in the arts field – from Roberta Flack, to Spike Lee, to Amy Sherald. Maryland is home to four tremendous HBCUs – Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

“It is critical we invest in arts education for students at HBCUs. Just as HBCUs are homes to future lawyers, doctors, scientists, and educators – they are also home to aspiring artists, musicians, actors, and singers. Investing in the arts fuels our economy, brings together our communities, and moves us during challenging times of great division and fear – much like the moment we are in right now. Now, more than ever, we need to bolster our support for HBCUs to ensure they are best equipped to train the next generation of leaders,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“HBCUs are some of the most important institutions in our country. Art and history make up the very fabric of who we are, who we’ve been, and who we will be. West Virginia’s story is especially unique, and through our arts, we’ve been able to tell the world how special we are. I’m proud to partner with Senator Alsobrooks on the HBCU Arts Act to give these schools more opportunities to invest in arts education and continue telling our stories,” said Senator Jim Justice.

“The HBCU Arts Act is an important piece of legislation that ensures our nation’s HBCUs can access the funds they need to support the arts and arts education. By providing key federal dollars to the arts and arts education, this legislation helps to establish important services for students to take advantage of in addition to preserving cultural assets and collections at HBCUs. As a graduate of Howard University, I have seen how HBCUs foster artistic excellence and creative leadership. Thank you to the Senators for introducing this legislation and bringing us one step closer to enacting the HBCU Arts Act into law,” Erin Harkey, CEO, Americans for the Arts.

The HBCU Arts Act would allow HBCUs to use existing federal grant funding to support arts, arts education, and cultural programs. New allowable uses include financial assistance to arts students; outreach and development offices for arts departments; wrap-around services (mentorship, counseling, and career advising); exhibition and preservation of Black art collections; and paid internships, apprenticeships, and fellowship opportunities in collaboration with nonprofit and cultural institutions.

Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives in April. It has 17 cosponsors in the House.

Read full bill text here.


Senator Alsobrooks Votes Yes AGAIN on Iran War Powers Resolution

May 13, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Alsobrooks (D-Md.) released the following statement after voting for Senator Merkley’s Iran War Powers Resolution:

“After spending a week in our home states, I thought maybe Republicans would come back to Washington and vote on behalf of their constituents. I was sure Republicans would have heard in their states about spiking gas prices, increasing grocery prices, and the health care affordability crisis. And maybe, just maybe, they would finally vote to put an end to this war. But I was wrong.

“When the President was asked this week to what extent Americans’ financial situation is motivating him to end the war in Iran, he responded, ‘I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation, I don’t think about anybody…’ Let me be clear: we could tell before – but now he has said it. Republicans do not care about how much this war costs (billions), they only care about appeasing the President.”


Packers’ Thanksgiving Eve Game on Netflix Highlights Need for Baldwin’s For the Fans Act

WISCONSIN – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after the NFL announced that the Green Bay Packers would play the Los Angeles Rams exclusively on Netflix this Thanksgiving Eve, forcing millions of Wisconsinites to pay for a subscription just to watch their home team play. Last month, Senator Baldwin introduced her For the Fans Act which would ensure local fans always have a free, live option for watching their home state teams play.

“As the cost of just about everything continues to rise, the NFL is once again asking Wisconsinites to spend their hard-earned money on another streaming service,” said Senator Baldwin. “Enough is enough. My For the Fans Act would stop this exact scenario and prevent Wisconsin families from being forced to pay for Netflix just to watch the Packers play this Thanksgiving.”

Baldwin’s For the Fans Act would improve access for consumers of professional sports broadcasts by requiring free viewing access for local fans and ending blackouts on league-owned streaming services, like NBA League Pass or MLB.tv. The bill applies to professional baseball, basketball, football, hockey, and soccer leagues. The bill makes an exception for minor league teams and leagues with fewer than eight teams.

Polling from Data for Progress shows that overwhelming majorities of Americans support Baldwin’s For the Fans Act to stop professional sports leagues from blacking out games for fans, end the complicated web of streaming services, and cut costs for viewers across the country.

###


Banks, Hickenlooper Introduce Bill to Modernize Medical Device Labeling

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Col.) introduced the Medical Device Electronic Labeling Act. This bill would let patients access their medical device labels and instructions online, while preserving the option to request paper versions free of charge, for those who still want paper.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Patients should be able to access their medical device instructions online, while still having the option to get free paper copies if they want. This bipartisan bill just makes sense.”

Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Col.): “Americans deserve quick and easy access to information about their medical devices on their phones and computers, not just on paper they have to sift through. Our bill puts it at their fingertips.”

Scott Whitaker, AdvaMed President and CEO: “Doctors and patients increasingly turn to online resources for information about how to use medtech. Electronic instructions are easy forconsumers to access and for manufacturers to update quickly, without the delay caused by issuing paper manuals. This efficiency would help doctors and patients use the medtech as effectively as possible, achieving the full intended benefits of each innovation. We thank Senators Banks and Hickenlooper for working to modernize this critical aspect of health care. With this, we now have bipartisan e-labeling bills in both houses of Congress, so there’s no reason we can’t get them passed and signed into law this year.”

See the full bill text here.

Key Provisions of the Medical Device Electronic Labeling Act:

Allow medical device manufacturers to provide labelling information to patients electronically, subject to safety requirements, in the same manner that manufacturers already provide them to health care professionals.

Give patients the option to request paper versions, at no additional cost.

Maintain the same content requirements for digital and paper labelling information.

Grant the Secretary of Health and Human Services flexibility to add to or change the content of labelling information, subject to public notice and comment.

Background:

Existing law sets safety and instructional labeling requirements for medical devices and allows this information to be provided digitally, only when the medical device is used in a health care facility or by a health care professional. Health care professionals can opt in to receiving the medical device labeling information on paper, at no additional cost. Many prefer digital information because it is more convenient, easily readable, and avoids excessive paper waste.

Most Americans prefer to access health, product, and safety information digitally, but existing law does not allow them to do so for medical devices. All medical device instructions and labels are still provided to patients on paper, often amounting to dozens of pages.

###


Sen. Banks: Trump Holds “The Better Hand” in China and Iran Talks

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Larry Kudlow on Kudlow to discuss President Trump’s trip to Beijing.

Click the video above to listen to the full discussion.

Key Excerpts Below:

Sen. Banks: “…China has so much to lose in this regard and so many reasons to come to the table and try to bring the Iranians to a deal that accomplishes the end goal mission of what President Trump is trying to accomplish. No nuclear weapon ever for the Iranians, because we know that they will train that weapon on the United States, on Israel and our allies if they ever get it. It’s in China’s best interest to help us craft that kind of a deal. But I think President Trump is ready to go. Secretary of War Hegseth is the best Secretary of War, Secretary of Defense in the 10 years that I’ve been in Washington. These guys are serious. We’re ready to go. We’re not playing around. The Iranians know that…”

***

Sen. Banks: “… President Trump knew all of this heading into these talks… President Trump has the better hand. We have the leverage, and it’s time to use it. The Chinese always lie, steal, and cheat. They never keep up their end of the deal. President Trump’s not going to let him get away with that anymore. That’s why these talks are so significant. He’s putting them on notice. Buy our soybeans. They come from Indiana. Buy our products. Open up your economy to American businesses. And let’s move on in a way that puts American interests first. That’s what President Trump is all about. That’s what he’s going to do. That’s why he’s there. And what’s going on in Iran plays right into it.”

***

Sen Banks: “…If President Trump is for something, they’re against it. President Trump and Vice President Vance are focused on cleaning up fraud, waste and abuse so the Democrats are pro-fraud, waste and abuse. It doesn’t matter what the issue is, pick it. If President Trump is for it, Democrats are against it, even when it’s in the best interest of our country…”

###


Barrasso Questions Forest Service Chief on Timber Production, Livestock Grazing, and Combatting Wildfires

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Chief Tom Schultz on supporting timber production, livestock grazing on federal lands, allowing ranchers to use vacant allotments during natural disasters, and USFS collaboration with state agencies to combat wildfires.

Chief Schultz testified during today’s Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee hearing to examine President Trump’s budget request for the USFS for Fiscal Year 2027.

On Vacant Allotments:

“Thanks, Mr. Chairman. Thanks so much for being here.

“I’m grateful for what you’ve been doing in terms of all of the issues in Wyoming.

“You’ve been to the state. You visited with people. You’ve been to Riverton, had meetings.

“All of these things have been tremendous. And I hear great, great feedback from the people of Wyoming on the work that you have been doing. So, thank you very much for that.

“I wanted to just talk about vacant allotments.

“I have a bill currently before the Senate, S. 211. It’s called the RANCH Act – Resiliency for Ranching and Natural Conservation Health Act.

“It allows for temporary use of vacant grazing allotments during extreme events and disasters. Especially on vacant allotments on our National Forest lands.

“This past wildfire season, you know, was one of the worst we have seen in the past decade.

“Thank you for coming today with the maps for all of us to see what’s going on in our own states with ongoing problems we’re having with moisture and the need for that.

“You clearly have a good assessment of the situation, which is greatly concerning to all of us.

“So, we’re anticipating this year is going to be a bad wildfire season.

“It’s more important now than ever that we provide the agency the authority to help ranchers in emergency situations.

“This RANCH Act is going to help ranchers and rural communities work with Washington – not against it.

“It passed the Senate last Congress unanimously.

“How would this piece of legislation help expedite the process for ranchers to utilize vacant allotments in disaster situations?”

On Grasslands Grazing:

“I want to talk next about grasslands grazing. Another one of my bills in front of the Senate, S. 2878. It’s called the Grasslands Grazing Act.

“Livestock grazing on federal lands has a strong tradition in Wyoming and certainly across the West.

“Federal grazing is a necessary tool for wildfire prevention and for promoting rangeland health.

“It is widely used by both the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

“The Forest Service manages the national forests and national grasslands. Livestock grazing is done on both of these.

“So, I was pleased that Congresswoman Hageman from Wyoming was able to get the House companion to my bill included in the Farm Bill that just passed the House last month.

“Does this legislation still have your agency’s support?”

On State Collaboration:

“Then, in terms of collaborating with the states, already this year we have all seen fires. And they’ve been in Wyoming, as well. We’ve talked a little bit about that.

“Just last month, the Bighorn Recreation Canyon saw a large fire.

“It took a joint federal response to help control the burn.

“Rural communities in the West are bracing for what will likely be another devastating wildfire season.

“As more incidents start and suppression resources are spread thin, federal and state agencies, I believe, need to work together.

“How is the Forest Service engaging state, local and private partners to ensure we can effectively respond to wildfires?”

Follow-up:

“Kelly Norris is terrific. She’s been here to testify on a couple of occasions. So, thanks for pointing out how closely you’re working with her.”

On Timber Production:

“I want to talk about timber production.

“The Forest Service has been following the new Executive Orders to increase timber production.

“So, I’m supportive of the steps the Trump Administration has been making to improve timber production since the last Administration hindered so many timber plants and timber operations.

“Can you give us an update on how the agency has been managing an increase in timber production?”

###


Barrasso Slams Latest Democrat Delay Tactic

“Going back to 1973, there have been a total of 17 War Powers votes in Congress. That’s when the War Powers became law in 1973. 17 votes in 53 years. 14 of the 17 votes were from Democrats aimed specifically at President Trump.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) today spoke ahead of another vote on a Democrat-led War Powers Resolution. Senator Barrasso urged his colleagues to reject this Democrat delay tactic because its goal is to undermine the President of the United States.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

“I come to the Floor having just heard the Senator from Oregon proposing a War Powers Act today. I heard him say this is about protecting the Constitution. What they’re doing, what the Democrats are doing, is not about protecting the Constitution. It is about obstructing the President of the United States. That’s what’s happening here today. That’s exactly what Democrats are trying to do.

“Going back to 1973, there have been a total of 17 War Powers votes in Congress. That’s when the War Powers became law in 1973. 17 votes in 53 years. 14 of the 17 votes were from Democrats aimed specifically at President Trump.

“Democrats introduced absolutely zero War Powers Resolutions under President Obama. That’s despite his strikes in Libya. Democrats introduced absolutely zero War Powers Resolutions under President Biden, despite his actions in Syria. This is the eighth vote on Iran this very Congress. We’ve also had War Powers votes on Cuba and Venezuela.

“For nearly fifty years, Iran has waged war against our country. Iran is the world’s largest and leading sponsor of terrorism. They regularly chant ‘Death to America.’ Iran has murdered thousands of Americans and tens of thousands of Iranians. Iran has tried to build nuclear weapons.

“For decades, American Presidents have pledged that Iran would not get a nuclear weapon. Only President Trump had the courage and the strength to keep his word.

“Earlier this year, President Trump responded with military precision. Now, we are deploying economic pressure as well as diplomatic pressure. Under President Trump, America continues to restore peace through strength around the world.

“Today, Iran is losing $500 million per day in revenue. They lost the same amount yesterday. They will lose the same amount tomorrow. Iran’s cash cow of oil exports has collapsed. By contrast, America is pumping out record amounts of oil and natural gas. Iran’s economy is on life support. Its leadership is eliminated.

“Thirteen days ago, President Trump sent a letter to Congress about the conflict with Iran. The President made clear that major fighting has halted. The American ceasefire has held for more than a month. Our naval blockade is working.

“This week, President Trump meeting with China overseas. Democrats right here in the Senate want to pull out the rug from under him.

“Let’s be clear. President Trump has complied with the law. Enforcing a blockade is not the same as active ‘hostilities’ under the War Powers Act. That is the established and binding precedent that governs the United States Senate. Democrats don’t seem to care.

“Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia said in January that their goal is to ‘flood the Senate calendar.’ They want to run out the clock on the Republican majority.

“The Senate has rejected each and every one of these Democrat delays. We need to reject this one as well. We should reject it because it is partisan. We should reject it because it is written by Democrats to weaken our Commander in Chief. We should reject it because it encourages Iran to doubt the resolve of our nation.

“Iran is going to be watching this vote today. China will be watching this vote. America must continue to show strength and resolve.”

###


Bennet and Curtis Lead Bipartisan Letter to Secretary Rubio Reaffirming U.S. Commitments to Taiwan

Washington, D.C. — Ahead of President Donald Trump’s summit with China’s President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator John Curtis (R-Utah), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led 10 colleagues on a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirming congressional support for the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) and underscoring their belief that there should be no unilateral changes to this policy nor any new U.S. declaratory policy on Taiwan.

Senators Bennet and Curtis were joined on this letter by Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mitch McConnell (R-K.Y.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md).

“For nearly five decades, the TRA has been the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan ties, enabling a strong and mutually beneficial relationship. This bipartisan law requires the United States to provide Taiwan – a critical economic and technological partner, and a thriving democracy – defense articles and services necessary to maintain the island’s self-defense capability. The TRA further states that the United States would consider any attempt to determine Taiwan’s future by non-peaceful means to be ‘a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific,’ and of ‘grave concern,’” wrote the senators.

“Our commitment to this legislation has long helped ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait — which is essential to U.S. interests there and across the Indo-Pacific. Maintaining this commitment is necessary to ensure the credibility of U.S. security commitments to allies and partners in the region and beyond,” continued the senators.

“In the spirit of longstanding bipartisan support for the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, we stand ready to work with your administration to further strengthen this partnership,” concluded the senators.

The text of the letter is available HERE and below.

Dear Secretary Rubio,

We write to reaffirm congressional support for the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) and our firm belief that there should be no unilateral changes to this policy nor any new declaratory policy on Taiwan, consistent with longstanding U.S. commitments including the Six Assurances President Reagan articulated.

For nearly five decades, the TRA has been the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan ties, enabling a strong and mutually beneficial relationship. This bipartisan law requires the United States to provide Taiwan – a critical economic and technological partner, and a thriving democracy –defense articles and services necessary to maintain the island’s self-defense capability. The TRA further states that the United States would consider any attempt to determine Taiwan’s future by non- peaceful means to be “a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific,” and of “grave Concern.”

Our commitment to this legislation has long helped ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait – which is essential to U.S. interests there and across the Indo-Pacific. Maintaining this commitment is necessary to ensure the credibility of U.S. security commitments to allies and partners in the region and beyond.

During your tenure in the U.S. Senate, you consistently demonstrated strong support for U.S.- Taiwan relations and for the TRA. In 2017, you joined a bipartisan letter to President Trump stating that the “One China policy, based on the [Taiwan Relations] Act, the Three Joint Communiques and the Six Assurances […] provides the basis for our enduring relationship with Taiwan.” You further emphasized the “bipartisan commitment that we must not waver in providing necessary support for Taiwan to defend itself in the face of China’s ongoing military aggression and the cross-Strait military imbalance.”

These principles remain true and necessary today. In the spirit of longstanding bipartisan support for the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, we stand ready to work with your administration to further strengthen this partnership.

###


Bennet, Hickenlooper Welcome Release of $47 Million in Federal Funding for Four Colorado Projects to Address Colorado River Crisis

Follows a year and a half delay for Colorado’s “Bucket 2E” water projects

Senators continue pushing to release additional $92M in funding for remaining Colorado projects, including Shoshone

Washington, D.C. — Colorado Senators Michael Bennet, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Biotechnology, and John Hickenlooper welcomed the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s (USBR) announcement of $47 million in federal funding for four projects in Colorado to combat the Colorado River crisis.

“Colorado communities, Tribal leaders, water users, and local advocates fought for years to secure these funds and keep critical projects moving forward,” said Bennet. “The funding released will support the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project, drought-resilient infrastructure across the Southwest, and endangered species recovery efforts, which are all essential to Colorado’s future. While this is an important step forward, the Administration must still release the full funding Congress approved, including for Shoshone. I’ll keep pushing to make sure Colorado gets the certainty and resources we were promised.”

“This year’s extremely poor snowpack has made the Colorado River crisis even more dire. We don’t have time to stall and hope for a wet summer,” said Hickenlooper. “We’re relieved that this funding from our historic Inflation Reduction Act will continue to flow to help our communities manage the drought impacts on the Upper Basin. We won’t let up until all of the obligated funding is released.”

The federal funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act, in which Bennet helped secure $4 billion to mitigate the impacts of drought, including activities to support environmental benefits and promote ecosystem and habitat restoration.

Last August, the senators and Colorado Representatives Jeff Hurd, Jeff Crank, Joe Neguse, Gabe Evans, Brittany Pettersen, Lauren Boebert, Diana DeGette, and Jason Crow called on top officials at the Department of the Interior (DOI) and USBR to release $140 million in previously awarded federal funding for 15 Colorado projects to help fight the Colorado River crisis.

Six of the 17 originally announced Upper Colorado River Basin projects have now been awarded a total of more than $59 million. The Shoshone Permanency Project and 10 other drought projects remain unfunded. The senators are continuing to push USBR to release the additional $92 million.

The four projects will receive $47 million in funding from the USBR’s Upper Colorado River Basin Environmental Drought Mitigation program, referred to as “Bucket 2E.”

In 2025, Bennet and Hickenlooper fought for $8.5 billion for western water infrastructure, $10 billion for forests, $20 billion for agricultural conservation, and $4 billion for drought in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In March, Bennet reintroduced the Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act to help American agriculture and communities become more resilient to drought and flooding by improving the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program. In July 2025, Bennet and Hickenlooper introduced the Tribal Access to Clean Water Act to dramatically expand access to clean water in Tribal communities by investing in water infrastructure. This bill increases funding through the Indian Health Service, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Reclamation to support water infrastructure projects in Tribal communities and help provide clean water to Native American households that currently lack access.

Details on the projects receiving B2E funding are below:

###


Bennet Statement on Voting Against the Confirmation of Kevin Warsh as Chair of Federal Reserve

Washington, D.C. — Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after he voted against Kevin Warsh’s nomination to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System:

“Today, I voted against confirming Kevin Warsh to serve as Chair of the Federal Reserve. An independent Federal Reserve is an essential feature of our economic system. Every American should have the confidence that interest rate decisions are being made according to the data presented, rather than the political demands of the moment. The United States has the world’s largest economy and most developed capital markets but this is premised on a central bank that is free from political influence, and a Federal Reserve Chair able to make difficult decisions in moments of crisis.

“I have no confidence that Kevin Warsh will provide the independence this role requires. Under his leadership, the Federal Reserve risks becoming more responsive to President Trump than to the American people, and to the needs of the American economy. That is one of the reasons why, for the first time in history, a nomination for Federal Reserve Chair advanced out of the Senate Banking Committee on a strictly partisan basis.

“Americans deserve a central bank focused on managing inflation, achieving economic stability, and serving the public interest — not one driven by the short-term desires of the President. Kevin Warsh’s nomination jeopardizes the Federal Reserve’s ability to meet these fundamental responsibilities.”

###


Blackburn, Blumenthal Announce OpenAI Endorsement of Kids Online Safety Act Ahead of Senate Hearing on Landmark Social Media Verdicts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal(D-Conn.) released the following statements announcing a new endorsement from OpenAI for their Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Later today, Senator Blackburn, who serves as the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, will lead a hearing examining why landmark social media verdicts demand federal action to protect kids online.

Yesterday, Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal joined a rally at the U.S. Capitol with parents who are urging Congress to pass KOSA. During the rally, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) promised he would advance the legislation out of committee and help get it signed into law by the end of the year. 86% of Americans want Big Tech companies to be held accountable for their role in the social media addiction crisis.

“Every Big Tech company should be willing to work with Congress to ensure America’s children are safe on its platforms, and we welcome OpenAI’s support for the Kids Online Safety Act,” said Senator Blackburn. “Lip service won’t save lives – Congress must take action to establish guardrails in the virtual space. I look forward to chairing a hearing on why the verdicts in California and New Mexico should spur Congress to hold Big Tech accountable for exploiting children to turn a profit.”

“A few weeks ago, juries in New Mexico and California legally recognized that American families have known: social media companies are hurting children,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Today, OpenAI’s endorsement adds to the overwhelming recognition even by Big Tech itself that it’s time to pass the Kids Online Safety Act. Increasingly the only people opposed to this bill are Mark Zuckerberg and his lobbyists. It’s time for anyone left in his camp to choose the right side of history and join us.”


VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Three Tennesseans Who Will Be Honored at National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during National Police Week, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor recognizing three Tennesseans who will be honored at the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., later this evening:

Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks.

EXCERPTS OF REMARKS AS PREPARED

Blackburn Honors Hugh Carlen of Putnam County, James Hood of Jonesborough, and Justin Bradford Mowery of Blount County

“This Police Week, we are reflecting on the brave men and women in Tennessee and across the country who serve their communities with courage, integrity, and honor.”

“Few places better capture the magnitude of their sacrifices than the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial here in our nation’s capital.”

“Engraved on that memorial are the names of every fallen officer in our country going back to the year 1850. It has 24,775 names.”

“This week, 363 heroes are being added—including three from Tennessee: Hugh Carlen of Putnam County, whose watch ended February 24th, 1912; James Hood of Jonesborough, who fell in the line of duty August 26th, 1928; And Deputy Sheriff Justin Bradford Mowery of Blount County, who we tragically lost on December 28th.”

“This week’s candlelight vigil will provide a powerful moment to reflect on their sacrifices—and those made by the thousands of other officers on the Roll Call of Heroes.”

“There’s a reason why our officers are called the thin blue line. They are the only force separating us from chaos, disorder, and anarchy.”

“They take pride in their responsibility. But to do their jobs, they need the support of their communities, their states, and their country.”

Blackburn Highlights Legislation She Has Led to Back the Blue

“For too long, they have lacked that support from Democrat leadership. Instead of funding the police, Democrats have worked to defund them.”

“But under President Trump, the federal government is backing the blue across the country.”

“In the Senate, Republicans are working to support the administration’s efforts.”

“My Restoring Law and Order Act would increase funding for law enforcement and help keep violent criminals behind bars.”

“My Protecting Federal Law Enforcement Officers from Doxxing Act would make it illegal to dox federal law enforcement officials and put them in harm’s way.”

“My Safer Prisons Act would double the maximum term of imprisonment for assaulting a Federal Bureau of Prisons correctional officer.”

“Democrats can oppose the rule of law. They can side with criminals over law enforcement. They can champion the same radical policies that unleashed chaos at the border and across country under the Biden administration.”

“But they can’t stop Republicans from providing the resources our law enforcement needs to protect our communities. We will always back the blue.”

RELATED

Blackburn, Hagerty, Cruz, Justice Introduce the “Restoring Law and Order Act” to Empower Law Enforcement

Blackburn Introduces Legislation to Protect Federal Law Enforcement Officers from Doxxing


Blumenthal, Blackburn Announce OpenAI Endorsement of Kids Online Safety Act Ahead of Senate Hearing on Landmark Social Media Verdicts

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statements announcing a new endorsement from OpenAI for their Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Later today, Blackburn, who serves as the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, will lead a hearing examining why landmark social media verdicts demand federal action to protect kids online.

Yesterday, Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal joined a rally at the U.S. Capitol with parents who are urging Congress to pass KOSA. During the rally, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) promised he would advance the legislation out of committee and help get it signed into law by the end of the year. 86% of Americans want Big Tech companies to be held accountable for their role in the social media addiction crisis.

“A few weeks ago, juries in New Mexico and California legally recognized that American families have known: social media companies are hurting children,” said Blumenthal. “Today, OpenAI’s endorsement adds to the overwhelming recognition even by Big Tech itself that it’s time to pass the Kids Online Safety Act. Increasingly the only people opposed to this bill are Mark Zuckerberg and his lobbyists. It’s time for anyone left in his camp to choose the right side of history and join us.”

“Every Big Tech company should be willing to work with Congress to ensure America’s children are safe on its platforms, and we welcome OpenAI’s support for the Kids Online Safety Act,” said Blackburn. “Lip service won’t save lives – Congress must take action to establish guardrails in the virtual space. I look forward to chairing a hearing on why the verdicts in California and New Mexico should spur Congress to hold Big Tech accountable for exploiting children to turn a profit.”

“We’re really excited to support the Kids Online Safety Act and for the bipartisan leadership of Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal,” said Chris Lehane, Vice President of Global Affairs at OpenAI. “When it comes to tech, we should treat kids as kids and that means making sure it is safe, age-appropriate, and grounded in real-world support. KOSA is a big and important step toward doing right by our kids.”

-30-


Video: Blumenthal Presses Energy Secretary to Commit to Legislation to Lower Consumer Gas Prices

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, under questioning by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Energy Secretary Chris Wright refused to commit to supporting legislation to provide Americans relief at the gas pump.

“Secretary Wright, I noted on Sunday that you said that you said you were open to suspending the federal gas tax,” Blumenthal said. “Since then, President Trump has indicated that he’ll support it, which Senator Kelly and I introduced in the Gas Price Relief Act some two months ago, lowering prices by temporarily suspending the 18.4 cent per gallon gas tax through October 1. Do you support that idea?”

Wright did not endorse suspending the gas tax.

“I believe strongly that suspending the gas tax ought to be combined with a Big Oil Windfall Profits Tax, which I’ve championed with Senator Whitehouse. As you well know, Big Oil is raking in bonanza profits. Shell announced just Friday that it has reported a $7 billion profit in the latest quarter, which is double the previous quarter. That is emblematic of what Big Oil companies are making as a result of the war. Don’t you think it’s time that companies like Shell put some of that money back in consumers’ pockets?” Blumenthal asked.

Wright again declined to show his support for the legislation.

Two months ago, Blumenthal and U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Gas Prices Relief Act to lower gas prices by temporarily suspending the 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax, providing much-needed relief for families in Connecticut and across the country who rely on their cars to get to work, school, and run everyday errands. The text of the Gas Prices Relief Act is available here.

Blumenthal has also joined U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and U.S. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) in introducing the Big Oil Windfall Profits Tax Act to curb profiteering by oil companies and reduce costs for consumers. Under the bill, large oil companies that produce or import at least 300,000 barrels of oil per day (or did so in 2025) will owe a per-barrel tax equal to 50 percent of the difference between the current price per barrel of oil and the average price per barrel last year, when big oil companies were already earning large profits. Revenue raised from the windfall profits of Big Oil companies will be returned to consumers in the form of a quarterly rebate.

The video of Blumenthal at today’s hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee is available for download here.

-30-


NEWS: Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester Opposes Nomination of Kevin Warsh to Lead Federal Reserve Board

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), member of the Senate Banking Committee, today voted against the nomination of Kevin Warsh to lead the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. She released the following statement:

“The Federal Reserve plays an important role. For families I represent, it’s not just about promoting economic growth; it’s about the Federal Reserve seeing what people are experiencing and making decisions that reflect that reality. It’s about paying attention to Main Street, not just Wall Street. While American families confront increasing financial hardship, the country needs an independent Federal Reserve committed to making impartial, apolitical monetary policy decisions.

“Kevin Warsh has taken inconsistent positions on interest rates and expressed blind confidence in the AI-driven productivity gains that are still highly uncertain. During his confirmation hearings, I expressed deep concerns about the administration’s blatant politicization of the Federal Reserve — and several other independent agencies — putting our economy at risk. The chair of the Federal Reserve Board should be willing to stand up for the Fed’s independence and prioritize the experiences of working families over political pressure.

“The president values unbridled loyalty within his administration, often expecting cabinet members to put the wishes of the White House above the American people. I do not have confidence that Kevin Warsh will be any different. For these reasons, I could not support his nomination.”


WATCH: Senator Blunt Rochester Questions Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Workforce Development

Click here to watch Senator Blunt Rochester’s Remarks

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, today questioned the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) on workforce development. Blunt Rochester noted that nuclear energy development is critical to meet growing energy demand and lower energy costs for American household, but it can only be unleashed with a strong nuclear workforce. She emphasized the importance of institutional knowledge at the NRC to support technological advancements and safety. Additionally, Blunt Rochester encouraged transparency and public involvement during NRC rulemaking.

Senator Blunt Rochester’s full remarks and exchange can be found here. A key excerpt is below:

Senator Blunt Rochester: “Commissioner Wright, what do we need to be doing as a country to expand the nuclear workforce? “


Booker, Murphy, Deluzio Introduce Bicameral Bill to Kick Private Equity Out of Kids’ Sports and Stop the Ripoffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), and U.S. Representative Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) introduced the Let Kids Play Act, a bicameral bill aimed at stopping Wall Street from pricing kids out of youth sports by banning private equity firms from the space, curbing predatory practices that drive up costs, and returning money to families who have been overcharged. The legislation is co-sponsored in the House by U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Pat Ryan (D-NY-18), and Angie Craig (D-MN-02).

Over the last decade, youth sports have become prohibitively expensive. What was once an affordable, community-based tradition to give kids a chance to have fun and challenge themselves has morphed into a $40 billion industry dominated by private equity, with the singular goal of extracting as much profit as possible from families. Private equity firms have monetized and taken ownership of every layer of youth sports, including leagues, teams, venues, practice facilities, tournament circuits, uniforms, streaming services, hotels, and merchandise sales, boxing out local organizations that are invested in their community.

Once they’ve taken control of the competition, private equity wields their market power ruthlessly, sticking ordinary families with substantially higher prices, endless junk fees, and mandatory multi-year contracts. In just a few years, the cost of participating in youth sports has risen by 46 percent. Families routinely go into debt to keep their kids in sports, with the average cost exceeding $5,000 a year. As a result, millions of lower-income families have been locked out of the youth sports experience entirely, participating at half the rate of wealthier families.

“The cost of youth sports has gotten out of control. Parents are getting squeezed, kids are being shut out, and big businesses are cashing in,” said Senator Booker. “Playing sports as a kid changed the trajectory of my life, and I know it’s done the same for millions of others. We will all lose something important to society and our culture if we allow youth sports to become a luxury good only available to the wealthiest.”

“As a hockey dad, I’ve seen how viciously these private equity companies rip families off,” said Senator Murphy. “Sports are one of the increasingly few places kids can find real community and learn core values, like teamwork and discipline, that last a lifetime. It is shameful to deny that opportunity to millions of kids just so some greedy Wall Street executives can boost their bottom line. We are getting these profit-obsessed corporations out of kids’ sports for good.”

"Sports should be a sacred part of childhood,” said Representative Deluzio. “Instead, big money vultures have turned youth sports into a luxury item. That must end. I’m proud to lead the Let Kids Play Act to ban private equity from youth sports and keep this part of the American Dream alive for the next generation of kids.”

“In nearly every part of American life, giant corporations, Wall Street investors, greedy billionaires, and other special interests are squeezing every last dollar they can out of working families,” said Representative Jayapal. “And like in so many other industries, wealthy investors have found a way to take the fun out of kids’ sports. The Let Kids Play Act puts a stop to this nickel-and-diming from private equity and corporate investors because no child should miss out on playing sports because their parents cannot afford these ridiculous fees.”

“As a mom, I know how important youth sports are for our kids, but thanks to private equity firms monopolizing sports leagues and jacking up prices for parents, sports are becoming less and less accessible to everyday folks,” said Representative Craig. “Limiting kids’ access to activities that help them stay active and build lifelong skills, while putting the squeeze on working parents who are already struggling with the sky-high cost of supporting a family is unacceptable and wrong. That's why I'm proud to be a part of the effort to protect youth sports and hold these massive companies accountable for exploiting working families and using our kids as pawns to increase their bottom lines."

“Team sports are supposed to be the first place our kids learn teamwork, discipline, and community. Instead, it’s become a cash grab for Wall Street investors to make another buck while our kids miss out on this fundamental part of American childhood,” said Representative Ryan. “It’s outrageous. Parents are already getting crushed by costs everywhere they turn, and now corporate investors are coming after one of the most important parts of childhood, too. Enough. The Let Kids Play Act cracks down on these abusive practices, lowers costs for families, forces the bad actors to pay them back, and puts the focus back where it belongs: on kids getting the chance to play.”

The Let Kids Play Act stops Wall Street from pricing our kids out of sports by banning both private equity vulture investors and the vulture practices they use, and establishes strong enforcement tools to hold private equity accountable for the damage they cause by requiring:

Mandatory exit from youth sports: Private equity firms are automatically designated as vulture investors and banned from youth sports -- leagues, facilities, tournaments, and player platforms -- unless they prove they have never used vulture practices. Banned investors must sell their ownership stakes and management rights in youth sports within two years.

Refunds to families: This bill requires vulture investors to provide full refunds for any junk fees collected through vulture practices, cancels any predatory contracts, and wipes out any outstanding debts, interest, or late fees that were imposed by the private equity firms.

Liability for debts and safety violations: Private equity vulture investors are held personally and financially responsible for any debts, legal judgments, or law violations, including child safety and labor infractions, that occur while they are in charge.

Creation of Youth Sports Fund: Any penalties paid or money taken from these private equity firms is placed into a dedicated fund to provide scholarships, reduce costs for families, and keep local fields open for free community use.

Rights for communities and families be respected: This bill gives states and parents legal standing to sue private equity firms in youth sports, stop their vulture practices, and receive compensation for any financial losses or harm they have caused.


Boozman, Booker, Van Drew and Bera Launch International Exchanges Caucus

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), along with Congressmen Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Ami Bera (D-CA), announced the launch of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus to bolster engagement and support for international exchange programs, particularly those administered by the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

“Cultural exchange is foundational to effective diplomacy, and strengthening our nation’s investment in these initiatives will encourage greater collaboration and mutually beneficial relationships for generations to come. Arkansas has played an outsized role in those efforts over many years, and we have seen firsthand how it can change the world. I’m proud to help launch the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus and look forward to the opportunity to bolster this mission in a bipartisan, bicameral way,” Boozman said.

“I am thrilled to join my colleagues in launching the first bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. Exchange programs strengthen all parts of American society and give back to local communities around the country. They help the United States remain internationally competitive, bolster our nation’s economy, and dramatically increase the United States’ global reach while enhancing national security. Through creation of this caucus, I am proud to continue the long tradition of bipartisan support for international exchanges and look forward to working with my colleagues to secure strong, sustained backing for these proven, cost-effective programs,” Booker said.

“International exchange programs are a smart investment in America’s future. They strengthen our relationships around the world and give people a firsthand look at our American values and our way of life. In South Jersey, the impact is clear. Programs like BridgeUSA help support our shore economy each summer, giving small businesses the workforce they need during our busiest time of year. I am proud to help launch this bipartisan caucus to support these programs,” Van Drew said.

“Educational and cultural exchange programs are among our most effective tools for building goodwill, strengthening our alliances, and advancing American values and strategic interests. These programs create lasting people-to-people ties that build mutual understanding and open doors for cooperation on shared challenges. I am pleased to help launch this bipartisan caucus to ensure Congress continues to support and strengthen these critical programs so they remain effective, sustainable, and central to America’s global leadership,” Bera said.

International exchange programs provide unique opportunities for Americans to experience the world and develop critical skills. The Fulbright Program, the United States’ flagship educational exchange, was established by former Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright and counts nearly 450,000 students from over 160 countries as alumni, including 60 Nobel Laureates and dozens of current and former heads of state.

The bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus will help share the impact of international exchange programs with Members of Congress while working to assure ECA’s long-term programmatic sustainability and success. The caucus plans to offer exclusive opportunities to engage with administration officials on the latest topics impacting international exchange programs.

“International exchange programs are major contributors to the U.S.’ success at home and on the world stage and have long enjoyed bipartisan support. The creation of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus reflects that enduring commitment and showcases Congress’ continued investment in the success of these programs. The Alliance for International Exchange proudly supports the caucus and looks forward to working with its members to promote and protect international exchange programs,” said Alliance for International Exchange Executive Director Mark Overmann.

“As Chair of the Board of the Alliance for International Exchange, I am proud to support the establishment of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. This bipartisan effort recognizes that exchange programs are a cornerstone of American national security. By bringing emerging leaders to our shores and sending Americans to live, work, and study in regions of strategic importance, the U.S. reinforces its position through investment in American soft power. With the caucus now official, we look forward to advancing policies that protect these vital programs, ensuring they continue to serve as a high-return investment in American influence and security,” said AFS-USA CEO and President Tara Hofmann.


U.S. Senator Katie Britt Directly Secures Over $3 Million for the University of West Alabama, City of Livingston

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, recently directly secured $3.093 million for University of West Alabama (UWA) and the City of Livingston in the Fiscal Year (FY) 26 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. This funding will support upgrading and expanding a storm drain on the UWA campus in downtown Livingston. In total, Senator Britt directly secured more than $14.97 million for Alabama in FY26 Homeland Security appropriations funding.

“This $3 million is a meaningful investment in the University of West Alabama and the city of Livingston,” said Senator Britt.“Alabamians know all too well the impacts of severe weather, and it’s critical that we mitigate potential flooding, infrastructure damage, and threats to public safety in the aftermath of a weather event. This funding will result in a safer, more resilient community for Livingston and the entire UWA campus.”

Photo courtesy of the University of West Alabama

The City of Livingston will partner with UWA on a joint project to upgrade and expand a section of storm drainage infrastructure within the city that is located in the center of the UWA campus and exits to runoff ditches into the Sucarnoochee River. This collaborative effort to improve disaster mitigation infrastructure will improve safety for both students and local residents.

The current drainage system is outdated and unable to drain during heavy rain which causes flooding to UWA’s campus sidewalks, roads, parking lots, and some facilities. This outdated drainage infrastructure is not reliable for water runoff from current facilities and is a challenge for any future construction sites in that area of campus.

Photo courtesy of the University of West Alabama

“We are deeply appreciative of Senator Britt’s continued support for our region, and we are honored to partner with the City of Livingston to activate the infrastructure development project that will improve safety, strengthen campus and community connectivity, support future construction, and help position Livingston and Sumter County for new investment and job creation,”said UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch.

“Every step that we take to enhance safety and livability for our students to be active in our community strengthens their connection to the University and surrounding areas,” Fritch said. “Collaboration with city, state, county, and federal entities is critical to the University’s ability to serve our students in through growth and development of the place they call home while they are here.”

“This is a big win for Livingston and for The University of West Alabama,” said Livingston Mayor Bird Dial. “When we improve infrastructure, we are not just fixing streets or sidewalks—we are making our community safer, stronger, and better prepared for growth. UWA is part of the heart of Livingston, and what helps the University helps our city, our families, and our future. We appreciate Senator Britt’s support and the partnership that helped make this possible.”

###


U.S. Senator Katie Britt, Representative Stefanik Lead Republican Colleagues in Demanding Answers for Ivy League University’s Failure to Prevent Tragic Deaths

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) led 10 of their Republican colleagues in the United States Senate and House of Representatives to demand answers from Brown University President Christina Paxson on the University’s failure in December of 2025 to prevent the tragic deaths of two of their students, including Alabamian Ella Cook, and wounding of nine others.

“We write as concerned Members of the United States Congress to express profound outrage and demand accountability for the tragic and preventable murders that occurred on the Brown University campus on December 13, 2025. The deaths of Ella Cook, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, and the wounding of nine others were not unforeseeable tragedies. Public reporting, sworn testimony, police union statements, Brown’s public records, and the assailant’s own words clearly establish that these deaths were made possible by more than a decade of deliberate policy decisions that prioritized activists’ radical demands over student safety,” wrote the members of Congress.

The members of Congress go on to recount Brown University’s consistent caving to far-left, anti-law enforcement activists, putting the safety and security of their students at risk, noting the following:

“After more than a decade of poor choices, Brown leadership’s decisions left its campus and students vulnerable on December 13, 2025. The University had only five officers on duty, a system of non-functional or unstaffed security cameras, and ignored multiple warnings from campus employees about the assailant. These alarming failures, compounded by an incomprehensible 17-minute delay in activating the BrownAlert system, allowed the assailant to fire off 44 unchallenged shots – killing two innocent students and injuring nine others. Brown’s mistakes were not isolated lapses; they were the predictable outcome of an institutional culture so corroded that it treated legitimate law enforcement and physical security as ideological threats rather than essential protections.”

Senator Britt, Representative Stefanik, and the other members of Congress believe that Brown University is in clear violation of the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act and are demanding answers from Brown on how this tragedy occurred, posing several questions to President Paxson.

The list of questions can be seen in the full letter here. The members of Congress are demanding a response to their questions no later than June 1, 2026.

Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) and Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), Dale Strong (R-Ala.), and Gary Palmer (R-Ala.) are the additional signees.

Senator Britt recently questioned Secretary of Education Linda McMahon during a Senate Appropriations Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, where she used her time to discuss Brown University’s total failure. You can watch Senator Britt’s full remarks from that hearing here.

###


U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Ben Ray Luján Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Boost Industrial Water Reuse, Protect Community Drinking Water, and Promote Responsible Water Management

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) today introduced the Advancing Water Reuse Act, bipartisan legislation that would provide a federal tax incentive for manufacturers and other industrial entities that invest in water reuse technologies.

Water reuse is the process of intentionally capturing and treating wastewater, stormwater, saltwater, or graywater to make it suitable for beneficial freshwater uses, including industrial processes, irrigation, and groundwater replenishment.

“A safe, reliable supply of freshwater is crucial to facilitating economic development while ensuring Americans across the country have access to clean water,” said Senator Britt. “In Alabama, water reuse technologies are being developed and incorporated across industries to reduce demand on freshwater supply and mitigate strain on our aging water infrastructure. I’m proud to have worked on this legislation with Senator Luján that promotes responsible water management so residents have safe drinking water, farmers have the water they need to grow our food, and industries have the capacity to continue investing in our communities.”

As the nation’s aging water infrastructure struggles to keep up with public and private demand, it is critical that we promote technology that allows us to reuse our supply efficiently. The Advancing Water Reuse Act will expand investments in water reuse to protect residential consumers from the increased utility bills, reduce demand on freshwater supplies, and spur business development and job growth.

“In New Mexico, water is critical to our families, communities, and local economies,” said Senator Luján. “As demand for freshwater continues to grow, we need smart and forward-looking solutions to protect our vital resources and strengthen long-term water security. That’s why I’m introducing bipartisan legislation with Senator Britt to incentivize investments in water reuse infrastructure that will help conserve freshwater, support local communities, and provide businesses the certainty they need to grow and create jobs. Expanding water reuse can help reduce strain on existing water supplies, protect drinking water resources, and ensure communities across the country have access to reliable water.”

“Water is the fuel of our growing economy. Businesses need local, reliable, and cost-effective strategies that protect water resources for the communities in which they operate,” said WateReuse Association Executive Director Bruno Pigott. “WateReuse Association applauds Senators Britt and Luján for introducing legislation to unleash the potential of industrial water reuse for the American economy.”

The Advancing Water Reuse Act increases the use of recycled water and encourages partnerships between businesses and municipal water recycling systems, while creating a 30 percent Investment Tax Credit for qualifying water reuse projects.

“To meet rising industrial water demand, the focus must shift from short-term supply solutions to long-term resilience. Embedding water reuse into core infrastructure strategies will help industries future-proof operations while strengthening both economic resilience and water security—particularly as advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and other growth industries accelerate. The Advancing Water Reuse Act is an important step toward scaling industrial water reuse in the United States, reducing pressure on freshwater supplies while supporting the innovation driving the AI economy. We commend Senator Ben Ray Luján and Senator Katie Britt for introducing bipartisan legislation that recognizes water reuse as both an economic and water security imperative,” said Josh Mahan, Senior Director, Government and Industry Relations at Xylem

This legislation covers projects that support the installation or expansion of onsite water recycling systems at manufacturing operations and food processing facilities, as well as other high-demand industrial entities. It also covers projects that replace the use of freshwater with recycled water from a municipal water provider for the production of goods or that builds or expands a municipal water recycling system for the purpose of securing recycled water.

“Veralto strongly supports the Water Reuse Investment Tax Credit and applauds the bipartisan Senate leaders advancing this first‑of‑its‑kind effort. As water stress continues to grow in the U.S., water reuse is becoming an essential part of building more resilient water systems including detecting and destroying contaminants before water leaves an industrial site. This tax credit would help reduce cost barriers and accelerate investment in innovative water solutions across critical industries, including manufacturing, energy, and water-intensive infrastructure.” – Melissa Kapity, Senior Vice President and Chief Segment Officer, Water Quality, Veralto

The Advancing Water Reuse Act is supported by the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, American Public Works Association, American Water Works Association, Epic Cleantec, Grundfos, International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, National Association of Clean Water Agencies, National Association of Water Companies, National Water Resources Association, Pacific Institute, PepsiCo, Plumbing Manufacturers International, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Veolia, Water Environment Federation, Water and Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association, WateReuse Association, and Xylem.

Full bill text is available here.

###


Budd Releases Statement After FEMA Announces Over $38 Million for Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts

TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$1,476,385.00$1,328,746.5090%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Yancey County: State Routes 1136 Banks Creek Bridge, 1102 Colbert’s Creek Road Bridge, and 1425 Phillips Road Bridge Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,328,746.50 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $4,097,347.23$3,687,612.5190%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Yancey County: State Routes 1153, 1158, and 1357Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,687,612.51 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,578,279.18$1,420,451.2790%PAMOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE – Beech Mountain Substation Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $1,420,451.27 in federal funding to the Mountain Electric Cooperative for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,468,899.96$3,122,009.9790%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Mitchell County: State Route 1305 Whitson Branch Road Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,122,009.97 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $6,028,561.52$5,425,705.3790%PAFRENCH BROAD ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP CORPORATION – Capitola Hydroelectric Power Plant

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $5,425,705.37 in federal funding to the French Broad Electric Membership Corporation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,860,852.53$3,474,767.2890%PAWATAUGA COUNTYDeclaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $3,474,767.28 in federal funding to Watauga County for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,479,009.50$1,331,108.5590%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Buncombe County: State Routes 1368,1741, 2546, 3446, 3449, 3451, 3454, 3460, 3495, 3496, 3497 and 3565

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,331,108.55 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$2,936,109.92$2,642,498.9390%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENTDeclaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $2,642,498.93 in federal funding to the North Carolina Emergency Management for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $4,537,158.49$4,083,442.6590%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $4,083,442.65 in federal funding to the North Carolina Emergency Management for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $2,859,496.47$2,573,546.8390%PAYANCEY COUNTY

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $2,573,546.83 in federal funding to Yancey County for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $2,946,480.53$2,651,832.4890%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 McDowell County: State Route 1448 Laurel Lane

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $2,651,832.48 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$2,250,000.00$2,025,000.0090%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 14 Transylvania County: State Route 1159 Old Country Home Road

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides$2,025,000.00 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a direct result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$1,450,552.45$1,305,497.2190%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Yancey County: State Route 1388 Elk Shoals Creek Road

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,305,497.21 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$2,057,828.40$1,852,045.5690%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Division 13 Buncombe County: State Route 2786 Flat Creek Road

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,852,045.56 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.


Cantwell Grills USFS Chief on Trump Admin Withholding Wildfire Funds Crucial for WA Preparedness Ahead of Peak Fire Season

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture unexpectedly changed the terms for states to receive federal dollars, effectively cutting off their funding as the West heads into peak wildfire season; WA communities are waiting on $49 million to help with wildfire response and forest management; Cantwell: “When are the dollars going to be out the door?”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, quizzed United States Forest Service (USFS) Chief Tom Schultz on the Trump administration’s abrupt change to the Department of Agriculture’s “terms and conditions” for federal funding that has for years have gone to help states fight wildfires and manage forests. These new terms effectively blocked states, particularly Democratic states, from receiving desperately needed federal support ahead of an active wildfire season.

“I'm very concerned, because we don't seem to be prepared on the front lines here. Because of the new restrictions on the Department of Agriculture's grants and contracts, the State of Washington cannot release $49 million in funding to help fight fires and manage our forests,” Sen. Cantwell said. “How can we get your commitment to reverse that and get this money out the door?”

Schultz responded: “We've been working extensively with the states on this issue […] in terms of firefighting capacity, that is not being impacted. When it comes to local grant money–”

Sen. Cantwell cut him off: “Well, wait. The dollars aren't out the door. So, when are the dollars going to be out the door? That's what I want to know, because paperwork isn't what we need right now. These are funds that flow every year normally, but now aren't flowing.”

Schultz: “There is litigation by some states on some of these issues. So some of this is in the courts. The states can sign these agreements tomorrow, if they choose to sign them.”

Sen. Cantwell: “What are you still working on?

Chief Schultz: “We're explaining the rationale behind the terms and conditions.”

Sen. Cantwell: “Okay, I was just telling you – I don't like the terms and conditions because the money isn't flowing in a fire year that is growing in intensity. I'm just saying I need a commitment that you're going to resolve those.”

Wildfire-prone states rely on the U.S. Forest Service for regularly allocated federal funds that help them fight and prevent fires, especially in rural areas with fewer municipal resources. In December, the U.S. Department of Agriculture issued changes to the terms and conditions for allocating that federal funding and entering into management agreements with states. One change to the terms and conditions requires states to follow Trump Administration Executive Orders, including the Executive Order on diversity, immigration, and gender identity – contract terms that in some cases directly conflict with state laws.

READ MORE:

The Washington State Standard: Trump’s new conditions on DEI, immigration could cut off states’ wildfire funding

As a result, the state of Washington cannot release $49 million in federal funding as communities across the state prepare for a wildfire season that will impact the entire state of Washington. Funding includes $28.6 million in Community Wildfire Defense Grants (CWDG) which are funds are set aside for wildfire prevention in and near communities that are in wildfire prone areas. Prevention activities include wildfire fuel reduction, education for individual homeowners to help reduce fire risk on their property, and hiring personnel to complete this critical work. CWDG grants being held up include:

$4.21 million for Okanogan County Electric Cooperative;

$9.72 million for Columbia Land Trust;

$9.25 million for Spokane Conservation District;

$5.5 million for Spokane Valley Fire Department.

Additional missing funds include:

$4.4 million in Volunteer Fire Assistance and State Fire assistance funds, which provide training and equipment to local, volunteer firefighters that serve in 84% of the fire departments in Washington state.

$3.4 million in Washington State Department of Natural Resources Forest Resilience Division Grants. This includes over $1.6 million for hazardous fuels reduction work for communities that are in the Wildland-Urban Interface in Northwest, Southwest, Eastern, and Central Washington, and communities on the Olympic Peninsula.

$6 million in Good Neighbor Authority funds that allow states to do Forest Service management work on their lands. Currently, there is 80 million board feet of timber which is worth $42 million dollars that cannot be delivered to local wood product markets.

The National Interagency Fire Center’s updated outlook maps for summer 2026 predict an elevated fire risk in most of Washington state in June and July. In August, the outlook for elevated wildfire risk encompasses all of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

Video of Sen. Cantwell’s exchange with Schultz is HERE; a transcript is HERE.

In January, Sen. Cantwell led the charge to prevent massive budget cuts pursued by the Trump administration that would have eliminated funding for volunteer wildland firefighters, training, and equipment that private, local, and state landowners use to reduce wildland fire risk.

In July, Sen. Cantwell grilled Schultz about why the Trump Administration was withholding an estimated $20 million from DNR for the 2025 firefighting season and future fire seasons. Those funds came from the FY25 State, Private, and Tribal Forestry program – yet another program that President Trump’s budget would have eliminated.

In March 2025 – following reports of widespread firings across the USFS and the USDA – Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Schultz requesting immediate reinstatement, as well as more details about the fired Washington state personnel certified for wildland firefighting.

###


Chairman Capito Asks NRC Commissioners About ADVANCE Act Implementation and Increased Efficiency

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led a hearing examining the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) proposed budget for fiscal year 2027.

During the hearing, Chairman Capito asked Chairman Nieh about the increased efficiencies that the Commission has witnessed as a result of the ADVANCE Act and the ways those efficiencies are reflected in the FY 2027 budget. She also asked Commissioners Crowell and Wright about their perspectives on NRC staffing and how the Agency can best respond to changing workloads. In her second round of questions, Chairman Capito also asked Commissioner Wright about changes in the Agency’s culture since the passage of the ADVANCE Act.

HIGHLIGHTS:

BUDGET EFFICIENCY

Chairman Capito:

“Let’s just talk first with Chairman Nieh about the proposed budget, which is nearly $80 million lower than the enacted budget of Fiscal Year 2026. The proposal realizes much of the savings that Congress envisioned when we put together the ADVANCE Act, which directed the Agency to be more efficient in its licensing and oversight program, and in doing so lowering those regulatory costs paid by the industry. Will you please, Chairman Nieh, briefly summarize and quantify key cost savings that are included in this budget that would have been as a result of the ADVANCE Act?”

NRC Chairman Ho Nieh:

“[…] so, as you mentioned, there is significant reductions through the provisions in the ADVANCE Act that we’re building into how we do business. In licensing alone, we’ve reduced costs by approximately $6 million and 30 full-time equivalents, and in the oversight program, we’ve reduced costs around $9 million and 40 full-time equivalents. There are other reductions that we have implemented as well in the corporate support area—again, another area of focus through the ADVANCE Act. So, taken together with the ADVCANCE Act alone, the focus on disciplined milestones and achieving efficiencies with that enabling mindset has enabled us to really deliver this value back to the country and so we can really execute our work at the best efficiency possible. […]”

NEED FOR APPROPRIATE STAFFING LEVELS

Chairman Capito:

“The next question I have is related to—several of you addressed this in your opening statements—and that’s appropriate staffing levels. Many of you noted a lot of folks had left the Agency, and so we’re seeing a dramatically different NRC. So, I want to start with Commissioner Crowell on this one. The proposed budget for NRC appears to include a notable reduction of staff, yet the licensing and regulatory work that the Agency is accomplishing is significant and ahead of schedule. What is your assessment—and you alluded to this in your statement—of the staffing needs in the budget and how does that align with future workload?”

NRC Commissioner Bradley Crowell:

“My concern in this regard is that these accelerated timelines and efficiencies that we’ve been able to achieve will be vulnerable to a dynamic in FY27 and beyond where we have an increased workload that will require us to review multiple applications at the same time. Right now, we’re able to meet some of these aggressive goals because we’re pretty much in a one-at-a-time framework. When that becomes multiple applications for different technologies, that’s going to be more challenging. I’m also concerned about having the right knowledge skillsets to appropriately review some of the advanced reactor technologies that we expect to come before the Commission.”

Chairman Capito:

“Commissioner Weaver, what would be your perspective on that? What is your view of how the Commission intends to address the human capital challenges as it faces the updates and continues to do the licensing and regulatory work?”

NRC Commissioner Douglas Weaver:

“In addition to the efficiencies that the Chairman mentioned, we’re not simply doing the same old way of doing our work and trying to do it faster with fewer people. We’re fundamentally changing the way we do licensing. We’re using risk-informed, performance-based regulations and approaches, and what that means is we focus on what matters the most, and we spend our time on what really impacts safety. In that way, we can be more efficient, use less resources and still have good safety outcomes. It’s true, we need to hire at this point, and I happened to check our website. We have, I think, 15 or more postings, and we’re looking to hire approximately 80 people from primarily outside the Agency. We also have, I believe, 30 interns coming this summer, so we are hiring to fill the critical needs right now.”

NRC CULTURE CHANGE

Chairman Capito:

“Chairman Wright, […] Senator Whitehouse and I just had a brief conversation about past hearings with the NRC not quite having as much camaraderie between Commissioners in terms of being able to get things done. Briefly, can you describe, is there a culture change at the Commission-level, and how do you see that?”

NRC Commissioner David Wright:

“Oh absolutely. […] Everything flows through what the first requirement was out of the ADVANCE Act—that’s foundational to everything—was the adoption of the new Mission Statement. I worked very closely with Commissioner Crowell, and then Marzano came on near the end of it. The others are now here to help and to bring it forward. Everything flows from this Mission Statement, and it’s connected to everyone through it—Commission, reactors, IT, international programs, fuels and other nuclear materials, medical stuff. Everything and everything is connected. So, I think, that right there, everyone is leaning into it, even the Commissioners themselves, and we have a very good relationship.”

Chairman Capito:

“Good. And I would say the direction of redoing the Mission Statement came from the bipartisan ADVANCE Act, so I guess we can share a little bit of the credit for that.”

Click HEREto view Chairman Capito’s first round of questions.

# # #


Chairman Capito Opening Statement at Hearing to Examine Proposed NRC FY2027 Budget

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led a hearing examining the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) proposed budget for fiscal year 2027.

In her opening remarks, Chairman Capito discussed recent changes made under Chairman Nieh’s leadership at the NRC to streamline the Commission’s efforts and to enable the safe use and expansion of nuclear energy. Chairman Capito also described how increased efficiencies within the NRC have resulted in savings that are reflected in the Commission’s 2027 budget request.

Below is the opening statementof Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) as delivered.

“Good morning and thank you for joining us today as we hear from members of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission on the NRC’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027. This is the first time that the Committee is hearing from Chairman Nieh and Commissioner Weaver, as they were confirmed last year with bipartisan support.

“Since being designated Chairman on January the 8th, Chairman Nieh has been actively overseeing the implementation of the ADVANCE Act, Executive Order 14300, while also making sure licenses are efficiently reviewed and approved.

“Because of Commissioner Wright’s tenure as Chairman throughout 2025, the NRC was well-positioned to accelerate its work under Chairman Nieh. Commissioner Wright, thank you for your steady hand last year. We really appreciate it.

“Of particular note, Commissioner Wright worked with Commissioner Crowell to update the NRC’s Mission Statement to align with today’s reality that we need to preserve and rapidly expand nuclear capacity. Thank you both for that. That goal will be achieved by the NRC enabling the safe and secure use of radioactive material and nuclear energy.

“This updated Mission Statement is paying dividends as the Commission, the NRC staff and the industry undergoes a rapid change. This rapid change is partially driven by the bipartisan efforts of this Committee to get the NRC to do its work smarter, faster and cheaper, and to do so without compromising the Agency’s foundational goal of ensuring nuclear safety.

“I have previously expressed caution, particularly with the likelihood of unintended consequences, about the potential impacts of creating regulatory uncertainty if the NRC does not accomplish its task deliberately.

“So far, the Commission’s work is encouraging, but the most consequential work I do believe still remains in front of us. The Commission’s proposed 2027 budget reflects the Agency’s recent successes, accounts for high-priority ongoing work and forecasts expected workload.

“One success was when the Commission re-baselined its primary reactor oversight and inspection programs earlier this year, which will yield savings both for staffing and funding. I have previously supported this long-running effort to reexamine the Reactor Oversight Process, so I am pleased to see the Commission ambitiously move forward with this initiative.

“The Commission has also approved an Agency reorganization that aligns the NRC staff with current and projected work, consolidates unnecessary administrative staffing and eliminates levels of bureaucracy.

“The NRC is in the midst of a wholesale review and revision of its regulations. This broad effort requires more near-term resources for rulemaking, but it should result in long-term budget savings.

“Most importantly, the NRC is projecting an increase of licensing work, the purpose for which the Agency exists. That licensing work will be completed faster and with fewer staff due to efficiencies that were directed by this Congress in the ADVANCE Act.

“Those licensing efficiencies are already evident. The NRC recently completed the fastest ever subsequent license renewal for a reactor, nearly cutting in half the time and cost of what was normal at the Agency two years ago.

“The multitude of these changes heighten the importance of the Commission’s strategic planning, its role in developing and executing the Agency’s budget and in modeling the leadership traits that are needed to sustain the changing culture we are seeing at the NRC.

“I want to thank the Commission for both the efficiency for which you are working and the thoughtfulness for which you are fulfilling your responsibilities. For example, at the recommendation of Commissioner Marzano, the Commission directed the staff to develop a change management plan to ensure that the new organizational structure is clearly communicated and deliberately undertaken. This will help make the Commission’s actions successful and durable.

“I would also like to commend Chairman Nieh, the entire Commission and the NRC staff for working in a bipartisan way with this Committee to keep us informed about their work.

“As we discuss the NRC’s budget proposal today, I will explore how the initial positive steps will be translated into an enduring framework that can deliver what Congress, the administration, industry and the public expect from our nation’s nuclear safety regulator.

“As States across the country, including my state of West Virginia, consider nuclear power’s potential meet the growing energy demand, I expect the NRC will prove through its actions that it will not be an obstacle to reliable, clean electricity generation.”

# # #