Welch Supports Bipartisan Bills to Support Law Enforcement and Community Safety, Celebrates Advancement of Bipartisan Carla Walker Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In honor of National Police Week, the Senate Judiciary Committee today advanced several bipartisan bills co-sponsored by Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) that support law enforcement and promote community safety. This includes the Carla Walker Act, sponsored by Sen. Welch and Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), which would dedicate existing federal grant funds to support forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) DNA analysis and help solve previously unsolvable cold cases.

Recently, Vermont State Policeused forensic genetic genealogy to identify the remains of Brian Canfield, who disappeared while fishing in Hartland, VT, in 2001. A DNA sample from the man’s brother was matched to a skull found in 2006.

“Advancements in forensic DNA technology have revolutionized our ability to fight crime. In Vermont, detectives were able to use forensic genetic genealogy analysis to help provide answers to a family who thought they might never come. We’ve also seen how this technology can be a powerful tool in giving those wrongly accused a chance to clear their names,” said Senator Welch. “Our bipartisan bill will help investigators across the country harness the incredible power of FGG technology to crack cold cases and deliver justice to countless victims and families, and I’m thankful for Senator Cornyn’s leadership on it.”

“I’m proud this bill advanced out of the Judiciary Committee today, and I’m proud to cosponsor commonsense, bipartisan legislation to keep our communities safe and support police and law enforcement in Vermont,” Welch continued.

“Carla Walker’s case was not solved for 46 years, but thanks to forensic genetic genealogy, her murderer was caught, tried, and convicted in 2021,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill creates a pilot program to fund the use of forensic genetic genealogy, which enables law enforcement to investigate and prosecute cold cases and other hard-to-solve crimes. By making this cutting-edge technology more widely available to investigative agencies, law enforcement will gain a reliable and effective tool to identify unknown offenders.”

The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced the following bipartisan bills:

S. 3966, TREY’S Law

S. 736, Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act

S. 825, Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2025

S. 4394, Promoting Police Leadership Act

S. 3897, Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefit Program Expansion Act of 2026

S. 1890, Carla Walker Act

S. 3041, Tribal Warrant Fairness Act

Background on the bipartisan Carla Walker Act:

Typically, when a suspect’s identity is unknown, a crime laboratory uploads the genetic material recovered from a crime scene into the FBI’s national database to search for DNA matches between the forensic sample and any known offenders. While this traditional form of forensic DNA profiling only examines 13-20 Short tandem repeat (STR) DNA markers, forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) technology examines over half a million Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) that span the entirety of the human genome. It does so by cross-referencing shared blocks of SNP markers to identify relatives of the genetic profile by uncovering shared blocks of DNA. This enables criminal investigators to build family trees that ultimately help determine the sample’s identity and solve cases.

Carla Walker was abducted from a bowling alley parking lot in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 17, 1974. Her body was found three days later just 30 minutes south of Fort Worth. Law enforcement could not solve the murder due to limited forensic technology at the time. Nearly 50 years later, FGG DNA analysis was conducted on the last remaining DNA on a piece of Carla’s clothing, which led to a successful DNA match to the family of Glen McCurley, Jr., who confessed to the crime in 2021 and died in prison in 2023.

The Carla Walker Act would create a pilot program to make this cutting-edge FGG DNA analysis more widely available to investigative agencies to:

Aid in resolving previously unsolvable cold cases;

Assist in the identification of criminals;

Seek justice for previously unidentified victims;

Help exonerate wrongly accused suspects;

And bring closure for the victims’ loved ones.

Learn more about the Carla Walker Act.

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During Police Week, Bipartisan Whitehouse Bill to Improve Commander-Level Police Training Passes Out of Committee

Promoting Police Leadership Act will provide more training opportunities for the police leaders who run day-to-day operations and improve community relations

Washington, D.C. – To mark Police Week, U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) announced that the bipartisan Promoting Police Leadership Act was approved this morning by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation, which is also sponsored by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), will support the development of commander-level law enforcement leadership training and education curricula to enhance the performance of police operations, increase officer accountability and wellness, improve resource management, and strengthen community relations.

“Rhode Islanders can be very proud of our law enforcement officers. State and local police do an exceptional job keeping our communities safe, often in uncertain and dangerous circumstances,” said Whitehouse. “This Police Week, I am very pleased to announce that my bipartisan Promoting Police Leadership Act has advanced out of committee and is well on its way to helping improve training for the officers who make many of the day-to-day decisions that affect their communities.”

The Promoting Police Leadership Act has strong support from Rhode Island’s law enforcement community.

“As a 40-year veteran of law enforcement—having served as a Chief of Police, the Director of the COPS Office, and now a university public safety leader—I have seen firsthand that the greatest challenges facing modern policing cannot be solved by tactical training alone. They require sophisticated leadership, data-driven management, and a commitment to evidence-based practices. By equipping the next generation of law enforcement executives with a rigorous, curriculum-based education, we aren’t just improving individual departments; we are professionalizing the field and strengthening the bond of trust between police and the communities they serve,” said Brown University Police Chief and Vice President for Public Safety Col. Hugh T. Clements Jr.

“Strong leadership is critical to effective policing. This legislation recognizes that the decisions made at the command level shape everything from officer performance to community trust,” said Colonel Michael E. Correia, President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. “By expanding access to high-quality, evidence-based training for our mid-level leaders, the Promoting Police Leadership Act will help ensure departments across Rhode Island and the country are better equipped to meet today’s complex public safety challenges. It’s a smart, forward-looking investment in both our officers and the communities we serve.”

While the law enforcement profession requires continuous training and education, training programs often do not keep pace with new demands placed on officers. Training standards can differ across jurisdictions, and educational opportunities may be limited beyond early career instruction.

The gap in accessible training is particularly striking at the mid-level leadership tier, where day-to-day operational decisions are made. Captains, majors, and precinct or district commanders oversee large sections of a department, making decisions that directly affect officer performance and public safety outcomes.

The Promoting Police Leadership Act supports the development of commander-level leadership training curricula, providing a voluntary framework that law enforcement agencies can adapt and use to support officers and improve operational effectiveness.

The bipartisan bill would task the U.S. Attorney General and Department of Justice with developing a broad training curricula framework for commander-level personnel in consultation with state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies, academic institutions, and other relevant partners. The legislation would also establish a voluntary certification process for the Attorney General to identify high-quality training programs that align with the broader DOJ framework and provide instruction to police departments.

The legislation is endorsed by Law Enforcement Action Partnership, Major County Sheriffs of America, and National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition.

Whitehouse and Cornyn have previously teamed up on the Law Enforcement De-escalation Training Act, a 2022 law that required the Department of Justice to work with experts to develop comprehensive trainings on de-escalation tactics, alternatives to use of force, safely responding to mental, behavioral, and suicidal crises, and making referrals to community-based mental and behavioral health services and other social programs.


Wyden Announces Town Halls in Josephine, Curry, Coos and Douglas Counties

Senator will hold open-to-all town halls on May 26-27

Portland - U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will hold open-to-all town halls in Josephine and Curry counties on Tuesday, May 26 followed by two more in Coos and Douglas counties on Wednesday, May 27.

Heading into these four town halls, Wyden has held 1,164 open-to-all town halls statewide in keeping his promise to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties.

“Oregon is a long way from Washington, DC but these open-to-all town halls shorten that distance so everybody has an opportunity to make their voice heard,” Wyden said. “I very much look forward to taking questions and hearing ideas at these upcoming town halls in southwestern Oregon that can help make our state an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”

The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows:

Tuesday, May 26

Josephine County, 10 am, Illinois Valley High School, 625 E River St., Cave Junction

Curry County, 2:30 pm, Southwestern Oregon Community College’s Curry Campus – Lower (Sprague) Commons, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings

Wednesday, May 27

Coos County, 10 am, North Bend Community Center’s Main Hall, 2222 Broadway Ave., North Bend

Douglas County, 1 pm, Reedsport Community Charter Jr/Sr. High School’s Pacific Auditorium, 2260 Longwood Dr. Reedsport (Use the doors at the Pacific Auditorium entrance, and please park on Longwood Drive as school will be in session.)


Wyden, Paul, Lummis Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Abolish the Selective Service

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Rand Paul, R-Ky., and Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., today introduced a bipartisan bill to end the Selective Service.

The Selective Service runs an annual budget of more than $31 million per year, preparing for a draft that has not occurred since 1973. Beginning in December 2026, the Selective Service System will use federal data sources to automatically register males aged 18 to 25 for the military draft pool, due to a policy change signed into law December 18, 2025.

“The Selective Service is an outdated program that costs millions of taxpayer dollars to prepare for a military draft that Americans don’t want or need,” Wyden said. “Our volunteer military forces are the strongest in the world, and there is no need to replicate the same draft that sent two million unwilling young men to war 50 years ago. This commonsense bill keeps money in American wallets.” “It has been over 50 years since the draft was last used,” Dr. Paul said. “I’ve long stated that if a war is worth fighting, Congress will vote to declare it and people will volunteer. This outdated government program no longer serves a purpose and should be eliminated permanently.”

"The Selective Service System has outlived its purpose and should be abolished. It costs us millions of taxpayer dollars every year while contributing nothing to our national defense,” Lummis said. “I'm proud to join Senators Wyden and Paul in doing what Washington rarely does - saving taxpayers money and restoring a little more freedom in the process."

The bill is endorsed by Center on Conscience and War, World Beyond War, RootsAction.org, Military Law Task Force of the National Lawyers Guild, Resisters.info, Friends Committee on National Legislation, War Resisters League’s National Committee, Fellowship of Reconciliation, American Friends Service Committee, Mennonite Central Committee U.S. and Antiwar.com.

The text of the bill is here.

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Young at Ripon Society: America Must Out-Compete China on Trade, Technology, and Shipbuilding

WASHINGTON – Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) addressed a meeting of The Ripon Society this week and spoke about trade policy, technology competition, and American industrial capacity.

Click here to access Senator Young’s remarks.

In his remarks, Young described AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing as the defining geopolitical contests of the 21st century. He cited three bills he has introduced in that space — the Create AI Act, the Future of AI Innovation Act, and the National Quantum Innovation Initiative Reauthorization Act — as part of a broader effort to ensure the United States leads in the development and deployment of emerging technologies.

“We are in a strategic competition — you may regard it as a race — with China to lead the world in the development, deployment, and advancement of these various technologies. …The markets will not solve this alone. We need to set the parameters,” said Senator Young.

Young called for a revival of American shipbuilding — an industry he said has been hollowed out to a degree most Americans do not appreciate. He argued that the loss of commercial shipbuilding capacity represents a strategic vulnerability.

“Last year we built one ocean-going vessel — repeat, one. China has the capacity to build over a thousand in a given year,” said Senator Young.

He called for passing the SHIPS for America Act, a bipartisan bill he is advancing for which would set a goal of 250 new American vessels built over the next decade.


Young, Lankford Introduce Bill to Protect Privacy of Charitable Donors

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) introduced the Protecting Charitable Giving Act to address the unlawful disclosure of data identifying donors who contribute to nonprofit organizations. This legislation would help nonprofit organizations better protect the identities of their donors by reinforcing existing privacy protections and increasing the penalties for disclosure of sensitive taxpayer data.

“Anonymous giving has long been a way for Americans to support philanthropic organizations that rely on generous charitable contributions. In recent years, donor privacy has been threatened on too many occasions,” said Senator Young. “This legislation will address the disclosure of donor data to better protect both charitable organizations and their donors.”

“Nonprofits and their donors are an essential safety net for our communities—providing food, housing, and care to those who need it most. Oklahomans shouldn’t worry about their identities being made public after they provide a donation to a charitable organization. Millions of donors want to do something good without being recognized. We should honor their privacy as they care for others,” said Senator Lankford.

In an effort to verify the legitimacy of tax-exempt organizations, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires these organizations to collect the names and addresses of all major donors. While the IRS collection form is public, the identities of the donors are considered sensitive information and are not subject to disclosure. States like California and New York have tried to force tax-exempt organizations to disclose donor information. The Supreme Court, however, has ruled that these efforts infringe upon First Amendment rights.

The Protecting Charitable Giving Act would modify penalties relating to the disclosure of donor information to better ensure donor privacy and protection. More specifically, this legislation would:

Increase the penalty of willful disclosure of the identities of donors to tax-exempt organizations from no more than $5,000 to between $10,000 and $250,000.

Expand the jurisdiction of prosecution to include the judicial district in which the victim of the offense resides to ensure all cases are subject to a fair trial.

The Protecting Charitable Giving Act is supported by Philanthropy Roundtable, Americans for Prosperity, and Indiana Philanthropy Alliance.

“Philanthropy Roundtable is deeply grateful to Senators Young and Lankford for their unwavering leadership protecting donor privacy. The right to give how, when and where donors choose, free from the fear of persecution and retaliation, is essential to safeguarding the free association that strengthens our society. The Protecting Charitable Giving Act strengthens federal law to substantially increase the penalties for leaking private donor information and make it easier for victims to pursue justice. Donor privacy has been under fire for years. This law is needed more than ever to protect every American’s right to privately contribute to the causes and communities they care about most,” said Christie Herrera, President and CEO, Philanthropy Roundtable.

American charities are the lifeblood of this country and protecting the privacy of Americans, so that they can give to those charities without fear, is crucially important. The Protecting Charitable Giving Act is commonsense legislation that protects the First Amendment rights of citizens, no matter which charities they choose to support. It sends a clear message to bureaucrats that they cannot invade American’s privacy without serious consequences,” said Brent Gardner, Chief Government Affairs Officer, Americans for Prosperity.

“The Protecting Charitable Giving Act introduced by Senator Young is a vital step forward for philanthropy in Indiana and nationwide. At Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, where we represent a broad network of philanthropic organizations, we understand the importance of donor privacy as a cornerstone of charitable giving. This legislation safeguards that privacy, ensuring donors can support causes they believe in without fear of reprisal or exposure. Setting stronger penalties for breaches and reinforcing legal protections encourages continued generosity and is essential to maintaining support for the crucial work done by nonprofits across our state and nation,” said Angela Carr Klitzsch, President and CEO, Indiana Philanthropy Alliance.

Full legislative text can be found here.


Yakym Votes to Back Law Enforcement During National Police Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During National Police Week, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) voted in favor of H. Con. Res. 96, a resolution expressing support for law enforcement officers across the country. The week is set aside each year to honor officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and thank those who continue to serve.

“You cannot have freedom without safety, and you cannot have safety without the men and women willing to defend it,” Rep. Yakym said. “This week, we honor the fallen and thank every officer who puts their life on the line to keep our communities safe. House Republicans stood with law enforcement today because safe communities start with backing the people who protect them.”

Background:

H. Con. Res. 96 affirms congressional support for law enforcement officers, recognizes the dangers they face, and rejects the anti-police rhetoric and soft-on-crime policies that have driven crime up in cities across the country.

Democrats spent years cutting police budgets, attacking officers, and excusing violent criminals. Families in communities across America paid the price. Since President Trump took office, Republican leadership has taken a different approach. Violent crime has fallen to a 125-year low nationally. In Democrat-run California over the same period, violent crime rose 15 percent.

Indiana’s Second District is home to thousands of law enforcement officers and first responders who show up every day to protect their neighbors and Rep. Yakym is proud to stand with them.

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Alford Votes to Fund Veterans’ Benefits, Improve Servicemember Quality of Life

Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) voted to pass H.R. 8469, the Military Constructions, Veterans Affairs, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, Fiscal Year 2027. H.R. 8469 fully funds veterans’ healthcare and benefits, while investing in robust military construction to improve servicemembers’ quality of life and ensure our armed forces are prepared for future threats.

Watch Congressman Alford’s remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 8469 here.

Fourth District priorities secured in the FY27 MilCon-VA bill include provisions to:

Increase transparency for fees paid to attorneys and consultants to help with VA claims and appeals to ensure our veterans and taxpayers are not being ripped off.

Increase funding for the Toxic Exposures Fund to $54.6 billion, while ensuring previous appropriations to the fund remain available until expended.

Enhance the VAs utilization of technology, modernize its IT, and encourage adoption of AI to expedite Veterans’ claims and processing, improve data security, and expand access to care.

Instruct the Army to evaluate all buildings built before 1950 for safety, mission readiness, and needs related to improving these facilities. This would include the outdated Central Issuing Facility at Fort Leonard Wood.

Congressman Alford’s amendment to emphasize the importance of creating a pilot program under the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program to such educational assistance to no less than 1,000 students who are a dependent of a veteran and prepare them to be successful in college or some other post-high school educational program was included in the bill.

Background on the FY27 MilCon-VA Appropriations bill:

Veterans Support & Services

Fully funds veterans’ health care programs.

Fully funds veterans’ benefits.

Maintains funding for:

Veterans research programs

Mental health services

Other core support programs relied upon by veterans

Invests over $2 billion in:

Capital improvements for VA medical facilities

Four national cemeteries

Veterans Policy & Administration Priorities

Protects Second Amendment rights of veterans by:

Preventing the VA from submitting veteran information to the FBI without judicial consent

Fully funds the Community Care account, expanding access to:

Specialty care

Non-VA providers based on individual needs

Supports efforts to:

Improve veteran mental health outcomes

Strengthen suicide prevention initiatives

National Security & Military Construction

Provides robust funding for military construction, including:

Infrastructure supporting advanced weapons systems

Strategic investments in the Indo-Pacific region

Maintains prohibitions on:

Closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba

Use of military construction funds to house detainees on U.S. soil

China & Supply Chain Protections

Prohibits the VA from:

Purchasing goods or services directly from Communist China

Indirect procurement linked to Chinese sources

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Bipartisan Congressional Real Estate Caucus Endorses Latest House Version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

Today, the bipartisan Co-Chairs of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, Reps. Mark Alford (MO-04), Lou Correa (CA-46), Tracey Mann (KS-01), and Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), issued the following statement endorsing the latest version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act from House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Ranking Member Maxine Waters.

"As bipartisan Co-Chairs of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, we have been clear from the start: any housing package must address our nation’s housing affordability crisis,” said Alford, Correa, Mann, and Pettersen. “We are grateful to House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Ranking Member Maxine Waters for delivering bipartisan legislation to do exactly that. Last month, we led a letter signed by 76 Members of Congress outlining our serious concerns with Section 901—the ban on build-to-rent—in the Senate’s 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. Chairman Hill and Ranking Member Waters’ bill adequately reforms this provision, while delivering on our shared commitment to restoring access to the American Dream of homeownership. We are proud to endorse the latest House version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.”

Last month, the Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter signed by 76 Members of Congress urging House leadership to strip or revise disastrous provisions to ban Build-to-Rent homebuilding from the Senate’s ROAD to Housing Act before any final, negotiated package comes to the floor for a vote because they would undermine efforts to address our nation’s housing supply and affordability crises.

Background on the Real Estate Caucus:

With 135 members, the Congressional Real Estate Caucus provides an informal, bipartisan opportunity to educate Members of Congress on real estate issues, to advocate for bipartisan solutions, and to facilitate engagement between Congress, industry, and other stakeholders.

Real estate represents 16% of U.S. GDP, supports 2.8 million jobs, and generates $50 billion in tax revenue. Given its importance, the Caucus advocates for policies that will allow this industry to prosper.

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Congressman Allen Backs Pro-Law Enforcement Legislation During National Police Week

This week, during National Police Week, House Republicans passed several bills aimed at supporting law enforcement officers nationwide, ending soft-on-crime policies, and keeping violent criminals out of America's communities. After supporting each bill on the House floor, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement:

"We cannot have freedom without safety, and we cannot have safety without the men and women willing to defend it. Every shift, every call, every sacrifice matters. Georgia's 12th District felt this ultimate sacrifice firsthand when one of our own—Deputy Brandon Sikes of Columbia County—lost his life in the line of duty last April. We will never forget Deputy Sikes' extraordinary service.

"During this National Police Week and always, I am proud to stand with the upstanding men and women of our nation's law enforcement, not just in the 12th District, but across the country. These heroes put the safety of others before their own, and for that, we must always honor their courage. To those who answer the call and keep our communities safe: we salute you."

H. Con. Res. 96: Expresses congressional support for the brave men and women in law enforcement who risk their lives to uphold our rule of law and keep Americans safe, recognizes their extraordinary sacrifice, and acknowledges their many contributions to our communities.

H.R. 6260, the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act: Amends the federal criminal statute dealing with insurance-related crimes to include corporate, for-profit, and non-profit entities that post bail for defendants, subjecting charitable bail funds to federal insurance fraud laws and state licensing requirements, and requiring their employees to pass criminal background checks.

H.R. 5625, the Cashless Bail Reporting Act: Requires the Attorney General to publish a list of state and local governments that implement reckless bail “reform” policies allowing people who have been accused of certain violent crimes to be released pending trial on personal recognizance or upon execution of an unsecured appearance bond.


Support for H.Res.50: Affirming States’ Constitutional Right to Defend Against Border Invasion

H.Res.50, authored by House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), affirms states’ constitutional authority to defend themselves when the federal government fails to secure the border.

The resolution comes in response to the unprecedented border crisis under the Biden administration, during which Texas was forced to spend more than $11 billion through Operation Lone Star to protect its communities while the federal government actively obstructed state enforcement efforts.

While President Trump has restored order at the border, we cannot rely on future administrations to maintain secure border policies. H.Res.50 clarifies Congress’s understanding that states facing “invasion” or “imminent danger” retain the sovereign authority under Article I, Section 10 of the Constitution to act in self-defense. The resolution is now backed by every Texas Republican in Congress, constitutional scholars, national policy organizations, law enforcement advocates, and conservative leaders across the country.

Passing H.Res.50 will reaffirm the constitutional balance between the federal government and the states and ensure that states like Texas are never again forced to be passive victims of a failed federal government.

Constitutional & Legal Scholars

Opinion & Editorial Support

Media Coverage

Texas Republican Delegation

Outside Groups

State Legislative Support

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Arrington Celebrates Passage of Largest Investment in Dyess Air Force Base History

Washington, D.C. – House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement after passage of H.R. 8469, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and Legislative Branch Appropriations Act.

“The first and most important responsibility of the federal government is to provide for the common defense. This year’s Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill delivers on that duty by strengthening America’s military readiness and advancing President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda.

“I’m especially proud this legislation delivers the largest investment in the history of Dyess Air Force Base — providing more than $164 million for critical B-21 Raider infrastructure and security upgrades, nearly double the previous record appropriated investment we secured just last year. When I met with Airmen and base leadership at Dyess Air Force Base, we discussed the urgent need for these exact infrastructure improvements to support the B-21 beddown mission, strengthen operational readiness, and ensure Dyess remains at the forefront of America’s long-range strike capability.

“From securing Dyess as the future home of the B-21 Raider and protecting the B-1 mission through 2030, to delivering year after year of historic investments in infrastructure and modernization, strengthening and safeguarding Dyess’ mission for generations to come has remained one of my top priorities. These investments will help ensure the Big Country remains the tip of the spear of America’s air arsenal and a cornerstone of our national defense.

“This bill also fully funds veterans’ health care and benefits, invests in mental health and suicide prevention programs, and strengthens the military infrastructure needed to deter our adversaries and defend the homeland.

“I will never stop fighting to ensure our warfighters have what they need to succeed on the battlefield, our veterans receive the support and resources they deserve, and the Big Country remains at the forefront of America’s national defense mission.” – Chairman Arrington.

Investment in Dyess Air Force Base:


Rep. Austin Scott Introduces The Strengthening Health Outcomes For Federal First Responders Act During National Police Week

Washington, D.C— Today, U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) and U.S. Representative Jim McGovern (MA-02) introduced the Strengthening Health Outcomes For Federal First Responders Act, during National Police Week, aimed at ensuring Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents exposed to toxic chemicals while on the job, are eligible for federal benefits following their service.

The legislation will amend title 5 of USC Code to add Certified Fire Investigators and members of the National Response Team, making these officers eligible for a presumption that certain cancers they contract were caused by their job as a federal agent for the ATF. This allows them to receive Federal Employee’s Compensation Act (FECA) benefits covering federal employees who develop illnesses tied to workplace exposure. Benefits will include disability compensation, medical treatment coverage, and survivor and death benefits for families.

“Our law enforcement officers, and their families, sacrifice to keep our communities safe. With the Strengthening Health Outcomes For Federal First Responders Act, we will ensure that federal agents, who contract illnesses while serving and protecting, will become eligible to receive benefits. We have an opportunity to show our appreciation for the work that these men and women do, and during National Police Week, we are doing that by covering them when they step out of the line of duty,” said Rep. Scott.

“ATF’s Certified Fire Investigators and Response Team Members put their lives on the line every day, entering dangerous fire scenes to support criminal investigations and help bring perpetrators to justice,” said Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association National President Mathew Silverman. “The Nature of their work consistently places them in toxic and carcinogen-filled environments where health risks are real. This legislation, championed by Representatives Scott and McGovern, closes a critical gap in federal employee occupational protections and reflects a basic principle: take care of those who face hazardous conditions in the line of duty.”

Read the full bill text here.


Baumgartner Hails Passage of the FY 2027 MilCon-VA Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON – Congressman Michael Baumgartner today welcomed House passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon-VA) Appropriations bill, which fully funds veterans’ health care and benefits while investing in military readiness, family housing, and quality-of-life infrastructure that directly impacts Eastern Washington’s large veteran and military community. The measure was approved by a vote of 400-15.

The bipartisan legislation provides $450.3 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, including full funding for veterans’ medical care, benefits, toxic exposure-related care, mental health programs, and VA facility modernization. The bill also continues support for veterans transportation programs that are especially important in rural communities where veterans often travel long distances to reach care.

“Eastern Washington has one of the highest concentrations of veterans and servicemembers in the country, and this bill reflects our responsibility to support the men and women who served,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “For many veterans in our rural communities, getting to a medical appointment can mean driving several hours. Transportation programs connected to Mann-Grandstaff and regional VA clinics are not a luxury — they are a lifeline that helps veterans actually access the care they earned.”

“Supporting veterans means more than rhetoric,” Baumgartner added. “It means protecting benefits from inflation, improving access to care, supporting military families, and making sure communities like Eastern Washington continue to receive the resources needed to honor that service.”

In addition to fully funding veterans’ health care and benefits, the legislation includes major investments in military construction, barracks improvements, military family housing, child development centers, and infrastructure supporting military readiness and quality of life at installations across the country, including missions connected to Fairchild Air Force Base.

Eastern Washington is home to one of the strongest military and veteran communities in the Pacific Northwest. Spokane County alone is home to nearly 42,000 veterans, while Fairchild Air Force Base supports thousands of servicemembers, civilian employees, and military families across the region. Many veterans throughout Eastern Washington rely on the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center and regional clinics for primary care, mental health services, and specialty treatment.


Beyer, Dingell, Buchanan Recognize Endangered Species Day

U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA-08) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), co-chairs of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Caucus, along with Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), introduced a resolution recognizing Friday, May 15 as Endangered Species Day. The resolution celebrates the strong role that the ESA has played in protecting America’s imperiled species and the need for greater conservation efforts to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

“For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has proven to be one of our most successful conservation laws, protecting the wide range of biodiversity that sustains our planet. Thanks to the ESA, iconic species once on the brink of extinction – including the bald eagle, our national symbol – have recovered and once again thrive in the wild. By designating Endangered Species Day, we celebrate these remarkable stories of renewal and resurgence and work to strengthen the ESA so future generations can continue to witness the richness and diversity of America’s wildlife," said Congressman Beyer.

“The Endangered Species Act is among the most effective conservation legislation ever passed, and its protections are crucial to conserving the species we know and love, like the American bald eagle. It has a 99 percent success rate and has brought back many of our beloved species from the brink of extinction, ” said Congresswoman Dingell. “Habitat destruction and climate change are accelerating species extinction to alarming rates, and we must continue working to uphold and strengthen the ESA.”

“Florida’s endangered species are critical to our cultural heritage, our local economy and our way of life. I’m proud to lead this resolution to designate today as ‘Endangered Species Day’ and to highlight the importance of proactive conservation measures," said Congressman Buchanan.


Buchanan Recognizes Endangered Species Day

Leads Congressional Resolution Supporting Endangered Species Day, Pens Sarasota Herald-Tribune Op-Ed

Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, co-chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, joined Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Congressman Don Beyer (D-Va.) to introduce a resolution supporting the designation of May 15, 2026, as “Endangered Species Day.”

“Florida’s endangered species are critical to our cultural heritage, our local economy and our way of life,” said Buchanan. “I’m proud to lead this resolution to designate today as ‘Endangered Species Day’ and to highlight the importance of proactive conservation measures.”

“The Endangered Species Act is among the most effective conservation legislation ever passed, and its protections are crucial to conserving the species we know and love, like the American bald eagle. It has a 99 percent success rate and has brought back many of our beloved species from the brink of extinction,” said Dingell. “Habitat destruction and climate change are accelerating species extinction to alarming rates, and we must continue working to uphold and strengthen the ESA.”

“For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has proven to be one of our most successful conservation laws, protecting the wide range of biodiversity that sustains our planet,” said Beyer. “Thanks to the ESA, iconic species once on the brink of extinction – including the bald eagle, our national symbol – have recovered and once again thrive in the wild. By designating Endangered Species Day, we celebrate these remarkable stories of renewal and resurgence and work to strengthen the ESA so future generations can continue to witness the richness and diversity of America’s wildlife.”

The resolution recognizes the cultural and economic value of preserving endangered plant and animal species, as well as the successful conservation and protection efforts implemented under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The resolution also calls for the continuation of conservation measures to protect threatened and endangered species and address the biodiversity crisis.

Buchanan also penned an op-ed in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune highlighting his work in Congress to protect endangered species and support local businesses and communities that benefit from Florida’s unique ecosystems.

Read the full op-ed here or below:

Let’s keep working to protect Florida’s endangered species | Opinion

Congressman Vern Buchanan

As we mark Endangered Species Day today, it is worth recognizing its importance here in Florida.

Protecting endangered species is about more than protecting vulnerable animal populations; it includes protecting the habitats our community grow up around, work in and spend their weekends enjoying.

On Florida’s Gulf Coast, it is not unusual to see a manatee surface near a dock or to spot a sea turtle nest marked off in the sand after a walk on the beach.

These moments are reminders that we are living alongside species that have been here long before us and depend on the choices we make today.

Florida’s ecosystems are unique to our country.

Our rivers, coastal waters, wetlands and forests support wildlife that cannot be replaced if they are destroyed.

The Florida panthers moving through remote stretches of land, manatees gathering in warm water during winter and sea turtles returning to the same beaches year after year are crucial to our state’s identity.

When water quality improves in our bays and estuaries, local fishermen notice it in the size and health of their catches.

When seagrass beds are healthy, manatees return to familiar areas and bolster local sightseeing opportunities.

I reintroduced the Manatee Protection Act (H.R. 135) to strengthen safeguards for manatees and support long term conservation efforts in Florida’s waters while supporting the local industries that drive our region’s prosperity.

We have also seen how quickly water quality challenges can escalate, such as harmful algal blooms that impact coastal communities, recreation and marine life.

That is why I introduced the Protecting Local Communities from Harmful Algal Blooms Act (H.R. 2408) to strengthen monitoring and response efforts for harmful algal blooms, so communities have better tools to protect water resources.

It’s also critical that we protect both animal habitats and Florida’s growing population as our state continues to expand.

One tool that we can use to accomplish both goals is building more wildlife corridors.

As our state’s undeveloped land is increasingly broken up by roads and development, local species are pushed into smaller, more isolated areas that make survival more difficult and increase the likelihood of traffic accidents.

Recently, I co-led the bipartisan Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act (H.R. 8438) with Congressman Don Beyer to expand and improve wildlife corridors, helping connect critical habitats across our state and country while protecting drivers and pedestrians.

Clean water and healthy ecosystems are part of our local economy.

Local guides, bait shops, charter captains, hotel owners and restaurant workers all benefit when conditions in the water are strong and are harmed when they are not.

In Congress, I will continue working on policies that strengthen habitat protection, improve water quality and support the long-term health of Florida’s natural resources.

That includes protecting manatees, safeguarding wetlands, addressing harmful algal blooms and building wildlife corridors that keep ecosystems connected across the state.

Florida is a special place.

Anyone who lives here understands that.

Keeping it that way depends on steady work and a clear understanding of what is at stake.

On Endangered Species Day, that responsibility is worth keeping in mind.

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) is the vice chairman of the Ways and Means Committee and the chair of the Health Subcommittee. He is also co-chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus. Prior to serving in Congress, Buchanan was in business for more than 30 years and chaired both the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and Florida Chamber of Commerce.

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During National Police Week, Momentum Grows for Buchanan’s Thin Blue Line Act

Gains Democratic Support, Trump Administration Endorsement

Bipartisan Legislation Strengthens Penalties Against Cop Killers

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan announced new bipartisan support for his Thin Blue Line Act (H.R. 378) and renewed calls to pass the bill. The Thin Blue Line Act strengthens federal penalties for criminals who murder or target law enforcement officers and first responders.

“During National Police Week, we honor the brave law enforcement officers and first responders who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” said Buchanan. “I’mgrateful that my Thin Blue Line Act has received bipartisan support because protecting those who protect us should never be a partisan issue. I also appreciate the strong support from the Trump Administration and the Department of Justice for this commonsense legislation, which ensures violent criminals who target law enforcement face the full force of the law. I will always stand with our men and women in blue.”

Buchanan’s bill earned new bipartisan support from members of Congress in 2026, including Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) and Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.). Additional cosponsors include Reps. Mark Amodei (R-Nev.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), Mike Carey (R-Ohio), Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Russell Fry (R-S.C.), Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Erin Houchin (R-Ind.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), Tom Kean Jr. (R-N.J.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), John McGuire (R-Va.), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.), Tim Moore (R-N.C.), Troy Nehls (R-Texas), Jay Obernolte(R-Calif.), Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Jefferson Shreve (R-Ind.), Greg Steube (R-Fla.), David Valadao (R-Calif.), Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Roger Williams (R-Texas) and Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.).

Buchanan’s legislation is supported by leading local and national law enforcement organizations, including the National Fraternal Order of Police, National Sheriffs’ Association, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, National Association of Police Organizations, United States Deputy Sheriffs’ Association and Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells.

In March, Buchanan announced that the Trump Administration and the U.S. Department of Justice formally endorsed his Thin Blue Line Act, as first reported by LiveNOW from Fox.

Read the Department of Justice letter supporting the Thin Blue Line Act here or below.

Dear Representative Buchanan:

This letter presents the views of the Department of Justice on S. 83, the “Thin Blue Line Act,” as introduced in the Senate on January 14, 2025. The Department strongly supports this bill.

Combatting violent crime remains a priority of this Administration and holding violent criminals who attack and murder law enforcement accountable is paramount to those efforts. The Thin Blue Line Act would expand the list of statutory aggravating factors in death penalty cases to include killing, or targeting, a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other first responder, either while engaged in official duties or because of his or her official duties, consistent with the priorities of this Administration.

We look forward to working with you in support of this important piece of legislation.

Sincerely,

Patrick Davis

Assistant Attorney General

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Calls on Senate to take up his Stop Forced Organ Harvesting ActSmith chairs hearing on gruesome, systemic practice of forced organ harvesting and trafficking in China

At a congressional hearing on Capitol Hill, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), heard chilling testimony from expert witnesses about the barbaric, systemic, and lucrative practice of forced organ harvesting and trafficking in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and beyond.

“Today, this Commission examines one of the most barbaric human rights atrocities of our time: the forced harvesting of organs from prisoners of conscience, death row inmates, and other vulnerable people—especially in Communist China,” said Smith during his opening remarks.

Smith explained how Falun Gong practitioners, Uyghurs, Tibetans, Christians, death row inmates, and other religious and ethnic minorities in China are targeted and tortured for their organs, which are then implanted into Chinese Communist Party elites or sold to the highest bidder.

“What we are examining today is the conversion of the imprisoned and persecuted into inventory. Hearts. Livers. Kidneys. Lungs. Corneas. Taken from the living. Sold to the desperate. Hidden behind hospital walls. Protected by secrecy, corruption, fear, and state power,” the China policy expert and human rights lawmaker continued.

Smith, who chaired his first congressional hearing on forced organ harvesting thirty years ago, underscored the importance of his Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025 (HR 1503), which passed the House with broad bipartisan support and by a margin of 406 to 1, and urged the Senate to immediately take up his legislation for a vote.

“The Senate has not acted on the bill, but they must. Delay is denial. Every day without consequences is another day perpetrators operate in the shadows, witnesses are intimidated, evidence disappears, and families never learn what happened to their loved ones,” stated Smith.

“No dictator, no party boss, no wealthy patient, and no broker should be able to purchase longevity with the organs of the poor and persecuted. That is all the more reason to pass the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act and make unmistakably clear that the United States will not stand by in the face of such cruelty.”

Policy experts, investigative journalists present evidence

Ethan Gutmann, a Senior Research Fellow in China Studies at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation and the author of The Xinjiang Procedure (2026) and The Slaughter (2014), testified about the nature of China’s forced organ harvesting “market,” drawing from the first-hand accounts of medical and direct witnesses and his extensive research on the gruesome practice.

“If we use one million detainees as the baseline population across camps, prisons, forced-labor facilities, and other carceral environments, that means 25,000 to 50,000 Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other Turkic detainees harvested per year. If two to three organs are taken from each victim, that is enough to support a transplant volume of at least 60,000 successful transplants annually,” he told lawmakers.

“On that basis, my minimum estimate for the cumulative death toll from forced organ harvesting in Xinjiang is over 200,000,” Gutmann continued.

The Hon. Sam Brownback, the former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, explained how the practice of forced organ harvesting is a byproduct of the CCP’s broader war on religion and human dignity: “Disfavored religious communities are particularly targeted by the perpetrators of the forced organ harvesting scheme, with Falun Gong practitioners systematically catalogued based on biometric markers and then murdered for their organs.

“The organs of Uyghur Muslims are marketed to wealthy Middle Easterners as ‘halal,’ in an unimaginably cynical perversion of their Muslim faith,” Amb. Brownback continued.

Jan Jekielek, the Senior Editor of The Epoch Times and the author of the New York Times bestseller, Killed to Order, described how Chinese prisoners of conscience are dehumanized and commercialized, tissue-typed and made available for rapid transplant matching.

“This is why I titled my book Killed to Order,” explained Jekielek. “Because that is exactly what it is: organs delivered on a schedule, matched in advance, extracted from living human beings who are then discarded.

“It is industrialized forced organ harvesting made possible by the CCP’s unique combination of totalitarian control, mass dehumanization, and the willingness to turn human beings into spare parts for profit, power and elite longevity,” he argued.

Detention camp survivors provide eyewitness accounts

The hearing, entitled “A Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond,” also featured the eyewitness accounts of two Chinese detention camp survivors, Kalbinur Sidik and Seyed Alireza “Ali” Motevalian.

Sidik, who was forced to work as a Chinese-language instructor at a detention camp in Sangfanggou Village No. 5, Ürümchi City, said: “Every Monday, no classes were held for the detainees. Instead, blood was drawn from them. They were given unidentified injections. Afterwards, they were given small white pills.

“Every day in the classroom, detainees were constantly replaced,” she continued. “Older and stronger prisoners were taken away, while new ones arrived. Familiar faces disappeared, and we were expected to accept whatever explanation the guards gave us.”

Motevalian, who was wrongfully imprisoned in the PRC and spent extended periods of time inside the Shanghai Prisons General Hospital, described an institutional pattern of prisoners being restrained or sedated, forced to provide thumbprints on consent forms, and taken to surgery, never to return. He also detailed the presence of mobile freezer carts, which were moved quickly by guards to waiting vans; the separate handling of bodies or coffins towards an incineration area; and the occurrence of “sleepers,” or unconscious or deeply sedated prisoners, being brought into the surgery area by armed People’s Armed Police personnel.

“Prisoners were restrained or incapacitated, thumb-printed, taken to surgery, and did not return. A freezer cart then moved quickly from the surgery area to a waiting van, while the body or coffin was handled separately toward the rear incineration area. Unconscious restrained prisoners were also brought from outside under armed PAP escort and taken directly toward surgery,” said Motevalian, whose submitted testimony was read at the hearing.

“Based on the repetition, the layout, the behavior of guards and Laodong workers, the separate handling of the freezer cart and body, the lack of ordinary specialist medical care, and the large, controlled surgery area, I understood this as non-consensual organ procurement inside the prison hospital,” he concluded.

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REPS. CLARKE AND FITZPATRICK, SENS. GILLIBRAND AND BLUNT ROCHESTER INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO COMBAT THE MATERNAL HEALTH CRISIS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 15, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

Mental health conditions—including substance use disorders—are the leading cause of preventable maternal death in the United States

In New York, the maternal mortality rate for Black women isover four times that of white women

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester have introduced the bicameral Moms Matter Act, legislation that would establish a Maternal Mental Health Equity Grant Program to support community-based initiatives for individuals experiencing mental health conditions and substance use disorders during and after pregnancy. The bill would also provide funding to expand and diversify the maternal mental and behavioral health workforce. The Moms Matter Act is one of fourteen bills included in the Momnibus package, a comprehensive legislative effort to address the root causes of America’s maternal health crisis and advance maternal health equity nationwide.

“We are facing a maternal health crisis, with Black and brown women disproportionately impacted by barriers to equitable maternal healthcare and competency. I am proud to join my colleagues in the Senate in introducing this bicameral legislation, the Moms Matter Act, to invest in community-based programs supporting pre- and postpartum women facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders,” said Congresswoman Clarke. “As we come off the heels of Mother’s Day and observe this Mental Health Awareness Month, meeting this pivotal moment demands action that goes beyond words of affirmation. Our bill would strengthen and diversify the maternal mental and behavioral health workforce and increase access to high-quality care, because every mother deserves the support she needs to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy.”

“Maternal mental health is not separate from family health, child health, or community health—it sits at the center of all three. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force, I have worked to make sure families can access care early, close to home, and before crisis takes hold,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “The Moms Matter Act advances that mission by investing in community-based support for mothers facing mental health and substance use challenges, while strengthening the workforce needed to meet them with the care they deserve during pregnancy and postpartum. No mother should suffer in silence, and no family should be left to face a crisis alone.”

“More women in the United States die from pregnancy-related complications than in any of our peer countries. That is downright shameful,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We must do more to support women at every step of their maternal health journey. This legislation would expand access to high-quality maternal mental healthcare and substance use disorder services to support moms and pregnant women — no matter their race, socioeconomic status, or zip code. It’s a commonsense bill, and I’m determined to get it passed.”

“The United States of America is the richest country in the world, yet American mothers are dying at an alarming, and unacceptable, rate,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “We know mental health conditions and substance use disorders are the leading cause of preventable maternal death during pregnancy and the postpartum period. By investing in programs that provide moms with the additional care they need, this bill offers a straightforward solution to this ongoing health crisis while also tackling disparities in health outcomes, and most importantly, saving the lives of new mothers.”

Mental health conditions—including substance use disorders—are theleading cause of preventable maternal death during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum. However, despite the high need for care,over 80% of pregnant and recently postpartum women live in areas with a maternal mental health resource shortage.

Additionally, maternal health challenges aremost acute for low-income and Black families. In New York, the maternal mortality rate for Black women isover four times that for white women. The Moms Matter Act will help combat this crisis by increasing investments in local maternal healthcare programs and by expanding access to these programs in underserved areas.

Specifically, the legislation will:

Establish a Maternal Mental Health Equity Grant Program to invest in local initiatives supporting people with mental health conditions or substance use disorders during or after pregnancy; and

Provide funding for programs to grow and diversify the maternal mental and behavioral healthcare workforce to expand access to high-quality maternal mental healthcare and substance use disorder services.

The legislation is endorsed by over 200 maternal health organizations, including Moms Rising, March of Dimes, Reproductive Freedom for All, and the National Partnership for Women and Families.

“The Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) strongly supports the Moms Matter Act,” said Jamie Zahlaway Belsito, Founder and Director of Policy and Partnerships at Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance. “The latest CDC data confirm that mental health conditions are now the leading underlying cause of pregnancy-related deaths, accounting for nearly 28% in 2022. The numbers are increasing. This crisis is preventable. The Moms Matter Act will make critical investments in community-based, culturally responsive care and strengthen the maternal mental health workforce. Congress must commit to ensuring every new mother and family has access to the mental health care they need to survive and thrive.”

The text of the legislation can be found HERE.

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Bipartisan Congressional Real Estate Caucus Endorses
Latest House Version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

WASHINGTON— Today, the bipartisan Co-Chairs of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, U.S. Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46), Mark Alford (MO-04), Tracey Mann (KS-01), and Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), issued the following statement endorsing the latest version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act from House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Ranking Member Maxine Waters:

"As bipartisan Co-Chairs of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, we have been clear from the start: any housing package must address our nation’s housing affordability crisis. We are grateful to House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Ranking Member Maxine Waters for delivering bipartisan legislation to do exactly that. Last month, we led a letter signed by 76 Members of Congress outlining our serious concerns with Section 901—the ban on build-to-rent—in the Senate’s 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. Chairman Hill and Ranking Member Waters’ bill adequately reforms this provision, while delivering on our shared commitment to restoring access to the American Dream of homeownership. We are proud to endorse the latest House version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.”

Last month, the Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter signed by 76 Members of Congress urging House leadership to strip or revise disastrous provisions to ban Build-to-Rent homebuilding from the Senate’s ROAD to Housing Act before any final, negotiated package comes to the floor for a vote because they would undermine efforts to address our nation’s housing supply and affordability crises.

Background on the Real Estate Caucus:

With 135 members, the Congressional Real Estate Caucus provides an informal, bipartisan opportunity to educate Members of Congress on real estate issues, to advocate for bipartisan solutions, and to facilitate engagement between Congress, industry, and other stakeholders.

Real estate represents 16% of U.S. GDP, supports 2.8 million jobs, and generates $50 billion in tax revenue. Given its importance, the Caucus advocates for policies that will allow this industry to prosper.

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CORREA, BERGMAN STRESS IMPORTANCE OF FUNDING VA MEDICAL RESEARCH

Correa successfully included amendment into the Military Construction VA FY27 funding bill

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Appropriations Act, 2027 (H.R. 8469), which included an amendment introduced by U.S. Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46) and General Jack Bergman (MI-01) highlighting the importance of funding medical research at the Department of Veteran Affairs. H.R. 8469 would cut $45 million from the annual VA’s medical research funding, potentially impacting research into psychedelic therapy.

“This amendment is about taking care of those brave Americans who answered the call of duty to defend our country and returned from combat with invisible wounds that have still not healed. On a daily basis, PTSD drives 20 to 40 veterans to take their own lives. Psychedelic therapies have shown tremendous success in helping veterans recover from PTSD and other mental health struggles, essentially curing them. We need to study this therapy so veterans can have the best medical resources available,” said Rep. Correa. “I am asking my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me and Congressman General Jack Bergman in supporting the treatment of veterans’ battleground wounds and restoring funding for medical research for our nation’s heroes."

The Military Construction VA FY27 funding bill allocates $45 million less than current levels to the Medical Research and Prosthetics account, while President Donald Trump requested $22 million more for this area in his annual budget proposal. On April 19th, President Trump just signed an executive order to increase research into psychedelic-assisted therapy that called for $50 million in federal funding for ibogaine research.

The Medical Research and Prosthetics account is where psychedelic-therapy studies are funded—as well as research on cancer, treatments for traumatic brain injury, prosthetics, and other areas of medical innovation. VA research has led to some of the most innovative health care discoveries like the pacemaker, first successful liver transplant, and the nicotine patch.

This vote comes a day after Rep. Correa sponsored the Veterans Research Symposium, an event hosted by the National Association of Veterans’ Research and Education Foundations (NAVREF) and Friends of VA Medical Care and Health Research that highlighted cutting-edge research benefiting veterans and the American public while also identifying policy, regulatory, and operational barriers that slow down innovation.

“NAVREF commends Representatives Lou Correa and Jack Bergman on championing the restoration of funding for VA Medical and Prosthetics Research. Their leadership sends a powerful message: That America must continue investing in the scientists, clinicians, and discoveries that honor veterans not just with words, but with action. We urge other Members of Congress to move swiftly and support VA research as a national asset,” said Rashi Romanoff, NAVREF CEO.

Rep. Correa co-founded the Congressional Psychedelics Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus with Republican Rep. General Bergman to address ways to alleviate the national mental health crisis through psychedelic science and research, which currently has 12 members. Representatives Correa and Bergman also led efforts in Congress to promote psychedelic treatments for veterans suffering PTSD, through advocating for more research funding and eventual inclusion of approved psychedelic therapies into veterans' VA care options once it is approved by the FDA.

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Dingell, Beyer, Buchanan Recognize Endangered Species Day

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Don Beyer (D-VA-08), co-chairs of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Caucus, along with Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), introduced a resolution recognizing Friday, May 15 as Endangered Species Day. The resolution celebrates the strong role that the ESA has played in protecting America’s imperiled species and the need for greater conservation efforts to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

“The Endangered Species Act is among the most effective conservation legislation ever passed, and its protections are crucial to conserving the species we know and love, like the American bald eagle. It has a 99 percent success rate and has brought back many of our beloved species from the brink of extinction,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “Habitat destruction and climate change are accelerating species extinction to alarming rates, and we must continue working to uphold and strengthen the ESA.”

“For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has proven to be one of our most successful conservation laws, protecting the wide range of biodiversity that sustains our planet. Thanks to the ESA, iconic species once on the brink of extinction – including the bald eagle, our national symbol – have recovered and once again thrive in the wild. By designating Endangered Species Day, we celebrate these remarkable stories of renewal and resurgence and work to strengthen the ESA so future generations can continue to witness the richness and diversity of America’s wildlife," said Congressman Beyer.

“Florida’s endangered species are critical to our cultural heritage, our local economy and our way of life. I’m proud to lead this resolution to designate today as ‘Endangered Species Day’ and to highlight the importance of proactive conservation measures," said Congressman Buchanan.

In the United States and around the world, more than 2,300 species are recognized as at risk of extinction now or in the foreseeable future, and many more are experiencing declines in populations and future viability. Many scientists categorize our planet’s current biodiversity crisis as the sixth mass extinction event, with plant and wildlife species across the globe facing heightened risk of extinction that is largely driven by human activity.

Congresswoman Dingell has long worked to protect endangered species across America. As co-chair of the Endangered Species Act Caucus, she has led the charge against the Trump Administration’s sweeping rollbacks, demanding the administration withdraw its ESA rule changes and speaking out against efforts to strip federal protections and funding.

View the full text of the resolution HERE.


ICYMI: Dingell Spearheads Effort Blocking Chinese Companies from Disrupting American Manufacturing and Workers

This week, as President Trump was in China for a two-day summit with Xi Jinping, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) called on the president to keep his word to the American people and not allow China to manufacture in the U.S. or let Chinese car companies disrupt the American auto industry.

Congresswoman Dingell helped spearhead a bipartisan legislative effort alongside Congressman John Moolenaar (R-MI-04), Chairman of the Select Committee on China. The duo introduced the Connected Vehicle Security Act, legislation that would prohibit the importation, manufacture, and sale of connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China.

ICYMI, media coverage of their bipartisan efforts can be found below:

CNBC: Auto-state lawmakers seek to keep certain Chinese vehicles out of U.S. as Trump heads to Beijing

Bipartisan lawmakers from Michigan on Tuesday announced legislation that would ban Chinese-made “connected vehicles,” software and hardware from the U.S. market, ahead of President Donald Trump’s meeting this week with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich., chairman of the House Select Committee on China, and Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., rolled out the “Connected Vehicle Security Act,” [...] that would codify Biden-era connected vehicle restrictions over national security and data collection concerns. Connected vehicles have internet access and wireless connectivity with other cars or trucks, technology that supporters say can enhance roadway safety.

“We are not competing on a level playing field when China subsidizes its manufacturers, it manipulates its currency [and] it uses slave labor. That’s not a level playing field,” Dingell said in a press conference Tuesday announcing the bill. “What [China is] trying to do is to get inside our country and fight us from within."

Detroit News: Amid Trump trip, Michigan duo latest to float Chinese car ban

A bipartisan duo of Michigan lawmakers is backing a push to ban Chinese vehicles from the United States, adding yet more force behind a widespread effort to keep President Donald Trump from opening the American marketplace to a major competitive threat.

Trump has repeatedly signaled openness to allowing Chinese automakers to manufacture in the United States, on the campaign trail in 2024 and notably during an appearance at the Detroit Economic Club earlier this year.

Dingell led a group of Democratic U.S. House members in writing a letter to Trump. Moolenaar, who chairs the U.S. House Select Committee on China, joined Republican members on their own letter.

Washington Post: Are cars the next TikTok?

President Donald Trump arrives in China today for a long-anticipated summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders have much to discuss — the bitter trade war, the actual war in Iran, the future of Taiwanese sovereignty. One issue is top of mind for a bipartisan cohort of lawmakers: cars.

“President Trump is President Trump, and you never quite know what he’s going to do until he does it,” Dingell said.

Dingell said she was sympathetic toward buyers who want a cheap alternative to cars already in the U.S., particularly with constituents grappling with inflation and high fuel costs. But she warned China could jack up prices once it has cornered the market.

“China has a pattern of coming in, subsidizing the cost, to keep the price lower, destroying industry, and then jack up the price,” Dingell told us. “This is about America’s future. This is about the American worker’s future. We know their pattern, and we’re not going to let them do it.”

CBS News Detroit: Michigan Reps. Dingell, Moolenaar introduce bill pushing to keep Chinese vehicles out of U.S.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act stems from the fear that Chinese cars pose a threat to our auto industry and national security.

"When the Chinese subsidizes its manufacturers, it manipulates its currency, it uses slave labor. That's not a level playing field and what they're trying to do is fight us from within," Dingell said.

Paul Eisenstein, the editor of Headlight.News tells CBS Detroit that the high-tech but far less expensive Chinese vehicles could tear down the auto brands based in Metro Detroit that employ hundreds of thousands of Michiganders.

Lawmakers say national security is another key aspect of this new proposed legislation.

Reuters: House lawmakers introducing bill to toughen US ban on Chinese vehicles

Two members of the U.S. House of Representatives on Monday will introduce legislation to toughen a U.S. government ban on Chinese automakers from entering the American market just before President Donald Trump heads to China for talks.

In March, auto trade groups representing nearly all major car companies -- including the Detroit Three, Volkswagen (VOWG.DE), opens new tab, Hyundai (005380.KS), opens new tab and Toyota (7203.T), opens new tab , parts manufacturers, auto dealers and others urged the U.S. government to keep out Chinese carmakers, citing "serious concerns about China’s ongoing efforts to dominate global automotive manufacturing and to gain access to the U.S. market."

They added China poses "a direct threat to America’s global competitiveness, national security, and automotive industrial base."

Chinese autos also face high tariffs, but U.S. consumers have become more interested in the vehicles, recent surveys show.

In January, Trump said he was open to Chinese automakers building vehicles in the United States.

WEMU: Rep. Dingell co-sponsors bill to ban Chinese vehicles in U.S.

Ann Arbor Congresswoman Debbie Dingell has introduced bipartisan legislation with Caledonia Republican John Moolenaar to ban Chinese vehicles in the U.S.

Called the Connected Vehicle Securities Act, the legislation would prohibit the importation, manufacture and sale of vehicles, software and hardware linked to China.

Dingell says the timing is important with this week’s upcoming China-U.S. summit.

China has been accused of using technology to collect and transmit sensitive information from vehicles it produces.

Michigan Advance: Michigan members of Congress push ban on connected Chinese vehicles in America

U.S. Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) and John Moolenaar (R-Caledonia) introduced legislation into the U.S. House of Representatives on Monday to prohibit the importation, manufacture and sale of connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China.

The legislation, known as the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026, would also apply to vehicles or related software and hardware from Russia, North Korea or Iran.

Dingell joined Democratic members of the U.S. House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, which Moolenaar chairs, on a tour of a General Motors plant and a United Auto Workers chapter in metro Detroit on Saturday, to similarly discuss the impact of Chinese manufacturing and supporting

“We are not competing on a level playing field, when China subsidizes its manufacturers, it manipulates its currency, it uses slave labor,” Dingell said in the press conference with Moolenaar. “That’s not a level playing field. And what they’re trying to do is to get inside our country and fight us from within.”


De La Cruz Honors Texas Law Enforcement for National Police Week

WASHINGTON - In honor of National Police Week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) recognized the selfless service and achievements of Texas law enforcement on the House floor.


Congresswoman Escobar Secures Key Wins in Bipartisan Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Funding Bill

Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MILCON-VA) Appropriations bill, which advanced out of the House Appropriations Committee with unanimous bipartisan support.

The FY2027 MILCON-VA bill provides $481 billion overall, including $157 billion in discretionary funding for military construction and veterans’ programs. It increases funding for veterans’ health care, including investments in suicide prevention, women’s health, and rural services, while including several key provisions the Congresswoman secured.

“As a member of the MILCON-VA Subcommittee, I worked to ensure this bill delivers meaningful progress for our service members, our veterans, and communities like El Paso,” said Rep. Escobar. “While no bill is perfect, this legislation reflects thoughtful bipartisan work and includes important steps forward on oversight, innovation, and accountability.”

Delivering for El Paso Veterans and Military Families

The bill includes multiple provisions led by the Congresswoman and focused on strengthening veterans’ care and supporting military infrastructure:

El Paso VA Medical Center Oversight: The Congresswoman wrote language in the legislation to require the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide detailed updates on activation planning for the new El Paso VA Medical Center, including staffing, equipment, and patient demand. This is in addition to her introduction of the El Paso VA Medical Center Activation Readiness Act in April. She previously helped secure $700 million for the facility’s construction and continues to push to ensure it opens in a timely and cost-efficient manner.

Veteran Health Care Coordination: The legislation directs the VA to study ways to improve coordination for veterans who rely on multiple health systems, helping reduce gaps in care and improve outcomes.

Dialysis Care Protections: The bill reinforces the importance of maintaining and strengthening access to specialty dialysis services for veterans in regions like El Paso.

Expanded Medical Image Sharing: The Congresswoman advanced efforts to modernize the VA’s medical imaging systems, improving coordination between VA facilities, community providers, and federal partners

Advancing Military Construction Reform and Innovation

The Congresswoman also secured provisions aimed at modernizing the military construction process:

Intergovernmental Support Agreements (IGSAs): The bill directs the Department of Defense to explore expanding the use of IGSAs for small-scale construction projects, a step toward making military construction faster, more flexible, and more cost-effective.

3D Construction Standards: The legislation encourages the Pentagon to accelerate development of standardized building codes for additive manufacturing, helping military installations adopt innovative construction technologies more efficiently, like the construction currently happening at Fort Bliss.

Support for Fort Bliss Missions: The Congresswoman supported a measure which highlights the importance of the 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command, whose aging headquarters was built in the 1950s, and encourages planning for a modern headquarters to support its global mission.

Standing Up for Veterans Nationwide

Additional provisions include:

Herbicide Exposure Review in Puerto Rico: The VA is directed to evaluate historical herbicide testing in Puerto Rico and determine whether affected veterans are properly recognized and supported.

VA Technology Modernization Oversight: The bill pushes for stronger data governance and responsible use of artificial intelligence to improve claims processing while maintaining accountability.

Video remarks can be found here and more information about the bill can be found here.

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Finstad, Sorensen Introduce the National Guard Relief Act Ahead of Armed Forces Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), members of the House Armed Services Committee, introduced the National Guard Relief Act, legislation that would designate the National Guard Relief Foundation as a military welfare society under Title 10 of United States Code, improving the foundation’s ability to assist more National Guard Members as they continue to serve the country. Military welfare societies are service-specific non-profit organizations that work alongside the Department of Defense to provide servicemembers and their families with emergency, financial, and community services.

“Under Title 10 currently, the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard each have their own military welfare societies, but not our National Guard,” said Rep. Finstad. “The National Guard Relief Act would bridge this gap by adding the National Guard Relief Foundation to the list of Military Welfare Societies and ensuring our National Guard Members and their families find relief in times of need.”

Finstad continued, “Our National Guard Members work tirelessly to serve their communities, states, and country, and deserve to be eligible for assistance under all conditions. I’m proud to introduce this legislation in support of National Guard Soldiers, Airmen, and their family members.”

“Illinois National Guard members and their families make incredible sacrifices for our state and our country. I am so proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to help ensure that no National Guard family goes unsupported during a time of crisis,” said Rep. Sorensen.

“The introduction of this legislation is a significant step forward for our National Guard members and their families. Officially recognizing the National Guard Relief Foundation as an official Military Relief Organization helps ensure Guardsmen receive the same level of support and consideration long afforded to their active-duty counterparts. Our Guard families answer the call at home and abroad, often balancing unique challenges tied to state and federal service. This designation will strengthen the Foundation’s ability to expand assistance programs, reach more service members in times of hardship, and provide critical support when it matters most. EANGUS proudly supports this effort because taking care of our people and their families must always remain a national priority,” said CMSgt Josh J. Baker, President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States.

“The National Guard has stood watch over America through war, disaster, crisis, and uncertainty while answering every call without hesitation. The National Guard Relief Act is more than legislation or a “nice to have”. It is a declaration that the families who sacrifice beside our service members will no longer stand alone. Supporting those who defend this nation is not charity, it is a solemn national obligation. A country that relies on its Guard in every hour of need must ensure the Guard can rely on its country in theirs,” said Daniel B. Reilly, Chair of the National Guard Relief Foundation.

Background:


Franklin Statement On House Passage Of FY27 MilConVA Funding Bill

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) today issued the following statement after House passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:

“Supporting our service members, veterans and military families is a critical responsibility of the federal government. This bill helps ensure those commitments are met. It ensures our troops have the facilities and support they need while improving care and services for the men and women who served our country.

“The bill also includes several priorities I worked to advance, including resiliency improvements at the U.S. Naval Academy to address recurrent flooding that threatens infrastructure, disrupts operations, and impacts the training environment for future naval officers. It also strengthens research and treatment efforts for veterans battling Parkinson’s disease and ALS, expands access to advanced cancer treatment and clinical trials, and continues modernization across the VA system, including cybersecurity protections and emerging technologies that improve early detection and patient care.

“The legislation also fully funds veterans’ healthcare and benefits, strengthens mental health and suicide prevention programs. Importantly, it also protects veterans’ Second Amendment rights by preventing the VA from sharing theirinformation with the FBI without due process and a judicial determination.

“As an appropriator, I was pleased this bill passed the House with bipartisan support. That’s an important step toward funding the government on time and improving accountability in the process.”


Fulcher Votes to Reauthorize Veterans’ Programs and Support Servicemembers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after voting to advance H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2027 (MilCon-VA).

“Having the backs of those who serve—and those who have served—our nation must always remain a national priority,” said Congressman Fulcher. “I have voted in favor of the MilCon-VA appropriations bill, the first appropriations bill to pass the House for Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation champions our Veterans and servicemembers by prioritizing improvements at VA Medical Facilities, fully reauthorizing Veterans’ healthcare programs and benefits, and strengthening military housing and childcare services for active-duty personnel and their families.”

Bill Background

Fully funds Veterans’ health care programs and benefits

Prioritizes improvements at VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries

Protects the 2nd Amendment rights of Veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about Veterans without a judge’s consent

Supports the White House administration’s efforts to improve mental health and suicide prevention among Veterans

Prohibits the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from Communist China

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NH Delegation Urges Dept. of Education to Fund TRIO Upward Bound Programs

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) joined Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) in sending a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon and OMB Director Russell Vought, expressing deep concerns about the Department of Education’s delay in issuing Grant Award Notifications (GANs) for fiscal year 2026 TRIO Upward Bound programs.

TRIO supports individuals from low-income backgrounds, students who would be the first person in their families to earn college degrees, students with disabilities, among others, in accessing and achieving postsecondary success.

In their letter, the lawmakers said: “We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Education’s (Department) delay in issuing Grant Award Notifications (GANs) for fiscal year (FY) 2026 TRIO Upward Bound programs that begin on June 1. For the second year in a row, GANs have not been sent to grantee institutions in a timely manner, creating unnecessary disruption to essential programming and uncertainty for the students and educators who depend on the critical services that these federal funds help to provide.”

They continued: “We are particularly concerned about the damage being caused by the Department’s delayed notification to the University of New Hampshire’s (UNH) Upward Bound program which faced similar delays in FY25. UNH’s program is slated to begin June 1. They only have enough carry over funding for roughly one month before they would need to lay off staff and shutter a program that has had such a significant positive impact on the lives of so many Granite Staters.”

They concluded: “We urge you to act without further delay to ensure that TRIO programs can operate on schedule and provide the services that New Hampshire’s students and those across the country are counting on. We look forward to your prompt response.”

The delegation also demanded answers to a number of questions regarding the nature of the funding delays and for an explanation as to when New Hampshire can expect to receive these funds.

Background:

Goodlander and the New Hampshire delegation called on the Trump administration to restore Congressionally-approved funding for New Hampshire programs, the Education Alliance for New Hampshire’s Statewide Family Engagement Center grant, and TRIO grants for the University of New Hampshire’s (UNH) Talent Search and McNair programs. They also called on the administration to restore funding for New Hampshire’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP).

Following their advocacy, it was announced earlier this year that funding would be restored for the McNair and Educational Talent Search programs, and the delegation continues to advocate against efforts by the Trump administration toweaken and undermine other TRIO programs.

Read the full text of the letter here and below:

Dear Secretary McMahon and Director Vought:

We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Education’s (Department) delay in issuing Grant Award Notifications (GANs) for fiscal year (FY) 2026 TRIO Upward Bound programs that begin on June 1. For the second year in a row, GANs have not been sent to grantee institutions in a timely manner, creating unnecessary disruption to essential programming and uncertainty for the students and educators who depend on the critical services that these federal funds help to provide.

The TRIO Programs are a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to educational access and upward mobility. TRIO supports individuals from low-income backgrounds, students who would be the first person in their families to earn college degrees, students with disabilities, among others, in accessing and achieving postsecondary success. From personalized tutoring to personal mentoring and advising, to assistance applying for and identifying funding options, TRIO programs make a real difference in a student’s ability to attend and complete college. These programs are evidence-based and results-driven. TRIO graduates, according to the Department of Education’s own data, are more likely to enroll in higher education and earn their degrees than non-TRIO students with similar backgrounds. For these reasons, TRIO programs have long enjoyed strong bipartisan support in Congress. They reflect a shared national value—every American, regardless of their zip code, deserves the chance to pursue higher education and the American dream.

Sadly, this is not the first we have seen of ongoing delays in issuing GANs which are having real-world consequences in our home state of New Hampshire. We are particularly concerned about the damage being caused by the Department’s delayed notification to the University of New Hampshire’s (UNH) Upward Bound program which faced similar delays in FY25. UNH’s program is slated to begin June 1. They only have enough carry over funding for roughly one month before they would need to lay off staff and shutter a program that has had such a significant positive impact on the lives of so many Granite Staters. Currently, the program serves 115 students across 11 schools, and 98% of them have persisted to the next grade level or on-time graduation, and 97% of graduates have enrolled in college in the fall too.

A core component of UNH’s Upward Bound program is the operation of the Summer Academy which begins June 21, with staff training and move-in starting June 13. With summer programming rapidly approaching, these delays and uncertainty threaten to undermine planning, staffing, and student participation and long-term educational success. Accordingly, we respectfully request responses to the following questions no later than May 30, 2026.

1. Will the Department of Education commit to issuing GANs for FY26 TRIO programs ahead of June 1?

2. If not, when will you issue them?

3. What specific factors have caused the Department to, once again, miss its usual timelines for delivering GANs to grantees?

We urge you to act without further delay to ensure that TRIO programs can operate on schedule and provide the services that New Hampshire’s students and those across the country are counting on. We look forward to your prompt response.

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On Endangered Species Day, Rep. Grijalva & Sen. Blumenthal Introduce Legislation to Protect At-Risk Wildlife

“As the loss of biodiversity accelerates at an alarming rate, we cannot afford to keep treating conservation as an afterthought,” said Grijalva. “The Extinction Prevention Act makes long-overdue investments in some of the most imperiled and overlooked species in our country, from North American butterflies to Southwest desert fish that are uniquely adapted to survive in some of the harshest environments on Earth. In Arizona and across the Southwest, these native fish species are already facing devastating threats from drought, water scarcity, habitat destruction, and climate change. We have a responsibility to future generations to make sure we do not lose these species forever.”

“This legislation recognizes that saving wildlife from extinction requires more than just rhetoric—real resources are essential,” said Blumenthal. “Endangered species and their habitats can be sustained, but only if we back words with action.”

This legislation would create four separate funds of $5 million per year through Fiscal Year 2032 with the purpose of providing financial assistance to projects that help conserve and recover four groups of species: North American butterflies, Pacific Island plants, freshwater mussels, and Southwest desert fish. Habitat protection for these species is chronically underfunded despite them being among the species most at risk of extinction:

North American butterflies—one of the fastest declining groups of all endangered species—have not seen a single species improve among the 39 listed.

“Some of America’s most amazing and vulnerable species are rapidly disappearing for the appalling reason that we’ve failed to invest in their recovery,” said Stephanie Kurose, deputy director of government affairs at the Center for Biological Diversity. “The Extinction Prevention Act will help deliver the emergency support needed to save the most critically endangered animals and plants that make up our natural heritage. We’re so thankful to Sen. Blumenthal and the other sponsors for helping to give these species a fighting chance.”


Congressman Guthrie Votes to Fully Fund Department of Veterans Affairs and Support Military Infrastructure Projects

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) issued the following statement following the House passage of H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2027, which fully funds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and invests in critical infrastructure projects to support the readiness of our armed forces.

“Our nation will never be able to fully express our gratitude to those who have chosen to serve our nation in uniform. The House-passed, bipartisan appropriations package allocates nearly $470 billion in overall funding for veterans’ health care and other benefits, invests in VA facilities throughout the nation, and supports construction projects on U.S. military bases, including military family housing,” said Congressman Guthrie. “I am particularly glad to see provisions included in this bill that defend veterans’ Second Amendment rights, expand access to Community Care, and defend the lives of the unborn. This bill is an incredible win for our American heroes.”

Background:

H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2027, supports our veterans and essential upgrades to U.S. military installations by:

– Providing $450.29 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is $83.6 billion above the previously enacted level,

Funding veterans’ medical care and benefits,

–Protecting the Second Amendment rights of veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent,

–Funding the Community Care account, which empowers veterans to seek specialty care to meet their unique needs,

– Affirming the Trump Administration’s prohibition on taxpayer-funded abortion, and

– Providing $19.2 billion for Department of Defense (DoD) military construction and family housing projects to promote our national security and support the quality of life for servicemembers and their families, like barracks, child development centers, and military family housing.