Representatives Himes, Williams Introduce Legislation to Reduce Noise Pollution in Communities Near Federal Highways

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Jim Himes (CT-04) and Nikema Williams (GA-05) announced the introduction of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act, legislation that would allow communities that abut interstate highways to build noise barriers using federal funds. The Representatives introduced similar legislation in the 117th and 118th Congresses.

"Far too many Americans have come to accept highway noise as the grating soundtrack of their lives. A cacophony of car horns, emergency vehicle sirens, and truck engines fills communities all along the I-95 corridor in Southwestern Connecticut, reducing my constituents’ quality of life,” said Congressman Himes. “The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would empower localities to build noise barriers of their choosing with federal funds so residents impacted by road racket can finally get some peace and quiet."

“Constituents and elected officials have made it clear: we must address the disruptions caused by congested highways. For too many communities—particularly those intentionally divided by the construction of our interstate system—these roads have long brought not just displacement, but lasting harm,” said Congresswoman Williams. “Today, the constant noise and pollution from those same highways continue to burden the neighborhoods they cut through and more. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act is a simple solution that allows existing federal resources to be used for desperately needed noise barriers. This is exactly how infrastructure investments should be made: tailored to the needs of communities. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would bring meaningful relief from the noise and air pollution affecting families living near our interstate highways.”


Huizenga, Correa, Walberg Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Mental Health Outcomes, Prevent Veteran Suicide

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) introduced the Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at improving mental health outcomes for veterans and helping reduce veteran suicide rates by expanding access to evidence-based suicide prevention care. The legislation seeks to increase the number of Community Care Network providers who complete evidence-based suicide prevention training administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs while also creating a publicly available preferred provider list to help veterans identify providers who best meet their needs.

Under current law, providers in local communities outside the VA healthcare system may participate in the Veterans Health Administration Community Care Network without completing VA-administered suicide prevention training. The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act encourages greater participation in that training and improves transparency for veterans seeking care options in their communities. Joining Representatives Huizenga and Correa as original cosponsors are Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI), Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ).

“When our servicemembers come home at the end of their service, our responsibility to them does not end,” said Congressman Huizenga. “Too many veterans continue to struggle with invisible wounds after returning home, and they deserve access to the highest quality mental health care available, wherever they receive it. This bipartisan legislation will help connect veterans with providers who have completed evidence-based suicide prevention training and improve transparency for veterans and families seeking care.”

“All gave some, and some made the ultimate sacrifice. Our veterans were willing to give their lives to defend American freedom and democracy. It is now our moral duty to provide them with the highest-quality mental health care,” said Congressman Correa. “I joined Representative Bill Huizenga in introducing the Veteran Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act because veterans face a high risk of suicide. Not all wounds are visible, and we need to make sure that medical care is available to meet their needs. It is the least we can do to thank veterans for their sacrifice.”

“Our nation’s veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, yet too many of these brave men and women struggle in silence,” said Congressman Walberg. “I am proud to join Representatives Huizenga and Correa on this bipartisan legislation, which will equip providers with the proper training to deliver high-quality mental health care to America's veterans so that we can honor these heroes’ service with the care, dignity, and compassion they so rightfully deserve.”

"Expanding suicide prevention training for Community Care Network providers connects veterans with better-informed care, said Congressman Mike Lawler. “This also inspires greater confidence in our veterans that their providers are prepared to recognize warning signs and respond with the support they need. Our veterans are more than deserving of access to providers who understand the unique challenges they face after serving our country,”

According to the VA’s 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, 6,398 veterans died by suicide in 2023, an average of 17.5 veterans per day. The report also found that 61% of veterans who died by suicide in 2023 had not received VA healthcare services in the year prior to their death.

The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act is supported by organizations including the American Legion Department of Michigan and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.


Rep. Ronny Jackson Introduces Bill to Fight Somali Fraud

WASHINGTON — Representative Ronny Jackson (TX-13) recently introduced the Taxpayer Protection and Somalia Accountability Act, legislation aimed at protecting American tax dollars from fraud, abuse, and diversion to corrupt government officials and terrorist organizations in Somalia.

The legislation comes amid growing concerns surrounding credible reports and criminal convictions involving Somali individuals accused of defrauding U.S. government programs and transferring funds overseas. Evidence suggests that some of these funds ultimately benefit corrupt Somali government officials and al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist organization operating in the region.

“American taxpayers should never be forced to subsidize corruption, fraud, or terrorism abroad,” said Rep. Jackson. “My legislation will ensure that not one more American dollar is used to benefit corrupt government officials in Somalia or terrorist organizations like al-Shabaab. We must demand full transparency, rigorous oversight, and real consequences for anyone stealing from the American people.”

The Taxpayer Protection and Somalia Accountability Act would:

Suspend U.S. aid to Somalia if adequate safeguards are not in place to prevent fraud and diversion,

Impose visa bans on corrupt current and former Somali government officials and their immediate family members involved in aid diversion, and

Authorize Global Magnitsky sanctions on individuals tied to the Somali government involved in fraud schemes seeking to disenfranchise the American people.

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Jayapal, Jacobs Resolution Recognizing Three Years of War in Sudan Passes Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) today passed a resolution through the House Foreign Affairs Committee, with original cosponsor Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), condemning the attacks on civilians in Sudan and calling for a negotiated end to the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. The measure passed 44-2 with bipartisan support.

“The ongoing civil war in Sudan is one of the worst humanitarian crises the world has ever seen. It is critically important that today the House Foreign Affairs Committee recognized that fact in a bipartisan way and moved this resolution forward,” said Jayapal. “50 million people are caught in the crossfire as two military forces have waged a war with absolutely shocking atrocities against civilians. And that suffering has only been exacerbated by rampant malnutrition and famine as armed actors impede humanitarian aid. The full House must take up this resolution urgently to call for our government to use its leverage to bring an end to this war that has gone on for far too long.”

“For three years, the international community has essentially ignored the devastating war in Sudan that has evolved into the biggest humanitarian and displacement crisis in the world,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. “The health system has largely collapsed, millions of people are hungry, and some have even resorted to eating leaves or animal feed because they can’t find enough food. But today we took an important step forward. I’m so grateful that the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed our resolution to condemn the attacks on civilians in Sudan and call for an end to external support to the RSF and SAF. The United States has leverage with the external actors who are fueling this horrific war, and it’s long past time that we use it.”

“I thank Rep. Jayapal for this urgent resolution,” said Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks. “We must do more to end this brutal conflict, which is only being prolonged by the steady flow of arms from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other external actors to the warring parties. The Trump Administration must take decisive steps to curb the flow of arms to the Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces, press them to ensure unfettered humanitarian access to populations in need of assistance, and work to negotiate an end to this conflict to prevent any further atrocities against Sudanese populations.”

More than 400,000 people have been killed and over 14 million displaced since the start of the war. It has been determined by the State Department that both the SAF and RSF have committed war crimes, and that the RSF has committed crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing, and genocide.

It is estimated that 20 million Sudanese people are facing acute levels of food insecurity, and nearly 34 million people require urgent humanitarian assistance.

Jayapal and Jacobs introduced the resolution on the third anniversary of the war’s start. The resolution formally denounces this crisis and calls for safety and security for the Sudanese people, an end to external, material support to the SAF and RSF from outside actors, recognizes the continued resilience of Sudanese civil society and calls on the Trump administration to take clear steps to help negotiate an end to the war.

The full text of the resolution can be read here.


LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE ECONOMY IS A DISASTER BECAUSE REPUBLICANS DON’T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT THE PERSONAL FINANCES OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE”

Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference, where he made clear that while inflation is skyrocketing as a direct result of Republican policies, Donald Trump and his sycophants in Congress are using taxpayer dollars to rip away healthcare and drag us further into a reckless war of choice instead of making life better and more affordable for everyday Americans.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Donald Trump has made clear that he and the Republican Party don’t give a damn about the personal finances of the American people. It’s an extraordinary admission. But the reality of the Trump presidency and Republican control of the House and the Senate has regularly made that very point because under the presidency of Donald Trump and Republican control in Congress, the economy is a disaster. Costs haven’t gone down, costs have gone up. And it’s a direct result of Republican policies. The Trump tariffs have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year. At the same period of time, Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice, where billions of taxpayer dollars are being wasted, has resulted in life becoming more expensive for the American people, particularly as it relates to the dramatic increase in gas prices.

In the Trump-Republican economy, inflation is at a three or four year high. The cost of groceries is out of control, gas is out of control, goods are out of control, housing prices are out of control and the Republican assault on the healthcare of the American people has ripped away the ability of millions of everyday Americans to be able to go see a doctor when they need one. Donald Trump and Republicans promised to love and cherish Medicaid. They turned around and enacted their One Big Ugly Bill, which is the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. And as a result, hospitals, nursing homes and community-based health centers [are] closing all across the country, particularly in rural America. The economy is a disaster and we know why—because Donald Trump and Republicans don’t give a damn about the personal finances of the American people. Donald Trump said it and he meant it.

Full conference can be watched here.

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Whip Clark on CNN: GOP Agenda Is a “Fundamental Betrayal” of Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) joined CNN’s The Situation Room, where she slammed Republican efforts to rig our elections and Donald Trump’s admission that he doesn’t care about Americans’ financial situation. Below are excerpts from the conversation:

On Democrats’ Fight for Free and Fair Elections:

"We know we're in a fight for the American people. And what the American people are telling us is that they are not making it economically. [That’s] the terms I'm hearing from small business owners; from the mom who described that her husband has lost his job and is now selling plasma so they can afford childcare in this country.

"And what we are seeing is an effort by the Republicans to further rig the system against them. They are going to cheat and use every tool they can come up with in order to retain power. And we are going to fight back with the same fury and intensity. The gloves are off. There is no pretense here. They are decimating Black political power in order to retain power and keep a system that works against the American people.

"So we are going to be strategic. We are going to be as aggressive as they are. And we are going to fight for the American people at this moment."

On Republicans Working Against the American People:

"They know they are losing. The president's numbers on the economy? He has 70% disapproval. And they are doing nothing to change that through the policies that they are putting in place, whether that's the price of gas or groceries or housing or energy. They are doing nothing.

"So they decided on this course, and we have to meet them because we cannot let them continue to work against working people in this country by stealing elections.

...

"This is so beyond party politics...this is about the American people.

"And right now, we're seeing attacks on Black communities and their voting power. But this is about the voting rights of everyone.

"What we are seeing is an effort from the Supreme Court down to statehouses across the South to take away the political power of voters in order to continue to rig this economy against them.

"So this transcends party. This is about who will rise up in this moment. Who is going to stand up for the fundamental right to vote and for an economy that should be working for opportunity for the American people? That’s the Democrats."

On the GOP’s Billionaire-First Agenda:

"Every single election comes down to this: Do you see my family? And are you going to fight for me?

"And what we've seen from Mike Johnson and House Republicans and this president is not only are they not fighting, they are actively and aggressively hurting them. They've stripped away their health care and jacked up the price. They're closing rural hospitals as a result. They've taken away veterans' benefits, food programs, all of that. Now we're seeing gas prices through the roof.

"All of it, to follow along and give money and tax cuts to the billionaire class. That is what Mike Johnson stands for. And he will turn a blind eye to corruption, to overtly racial redistricting, in order to retain power and to retain power for the very wealthiest of Americans.

"So we are in communities. We are talking to voters. We are fighting for their right to have opportunity, to have a solid floor and no ceiling on their success. And that starts with securing the right to vote.

"You can have the president of the United States, yesterday, say he doesn't think about Americans' financial security. We get the message. He is not looking out for the American people, and they are drowning. They are saying to us, 'We are not making it in this economy.'

"We are going to fight for them at every turn, and we are going to fight to preserve fair and secure elections."

On Trump Breaking His Promise of Lower Costs:

"This is the fundamental betrayal of people who supported him.

"He told them he'd lower costs on day one. What has he done? He's imposed tariffs that have ruined the soybean market for farmers across this country. He's taken away people's healthcare, and we haven't even seen the worst of those cuts hit home yet. But we're already seeing hospitals close — people's premiums skyrocket. He's taken away food programs from people. He's dismantling our public schools.

"But what is he doing with full pursuit, that's taking up all his time and energy? Building a ballroom. $1 billion is what he proposed to the American taxpayer, when they are working so hard and have no breathing room. That's where his priority is.

"Everything comes back to: How does Donald Trump personally benefit? It is the Gilded Age in his mind.

"He hasn't done one thing in Iran to help move us farther away from them ever obtaining a nuclear weapon. But what he has done is brought this [war] home once again to working families. $1 billion a day that could be going to help people reduce the cost of rent and mortgages, expand housing, groceries, energy bills, childcare.

"These are the issues the American people need us to be working on, and they are living in some world where it is all about the very wealthiest Americans. He's taking Elon Musk over to China. It is always about — from the day he was sworn in — that billionaire class and how the Trump family and Donald Trump can do better and bring his wealthy donors with him."

To watch the full interview, click HERE.


Whip Clark: "The Single Fastest Way to Bring Down Costs is to End This War"

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) spoke on the House Floor calling for an end to Donald Trump’s war with Iran. Below is a transcript of her remarks:

"We have been at war with Iran for two and a half months. And what do we have to show for it? There's no victory. There's no strategy. We still don't have an objective.

"In fact, the president keeps saying this war is over. But we have 50,000 troops deployed to the region. The strait is still closed. Shipping is still blockaded. And negotiations that should be about making sure Iran never gets a nuclear weapon are completely stalled out. And meanwhile, every single day, working Americans are paying the price.

"Gas prices have spiked — have skyrocketed through the roof. Utility bills are going up. Because of increased shipping costs, we are seeing further increases in the price of food, clothes, toys, car parts, everything that you can imagine a family needs. And there is still no end in sight. And there won't be an end in sight, unless Republicans decide to work for the American people and do their job.

"The single fastest way to bring down costs is to end this war. And once again, Republicans are going to have an opportunity to do just that. Once again, they have a chance to bring our servicemembers home and end this chaos. Once again, they have a chance to side with working families and our troops.

"The American people deserve better than they are getting from the GOP. Vote yes. Show the American people you are on their side."

To watch the complete floor speech, click HERE.

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Chairman Lawler Pushes UK to Designate IRGC as a Terrorist Organization

Washington, D.C. – 5/13/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, joined Reps. Claudia Tenney (NY-24) and Brad Sherman (CA-32) in sending a bipartisan letter urging the United Kingdom to immediately proscribe Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.

Under President Donald Trump’s first term, the United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization due to its role in orchestrating terrorism abroad, supporting proxy groups including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, and carrying out plots targeting Americans and U.S. officials. The letter calls on the UK government to join the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union in applying maximum pressure on the IRGC and the Iranian regime.

“The Iranian people have shown extraordinary courage in standing up to a brutal regime that uses the IRGC to suppress dissent at home and export terror abroad. The United Kingdom should move without further delay to formally proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization and stand in solidarity with the thousands of innocent Iranians who have risked and, in many cases, lost their lives in pursuit of freedom,” said Congressman Lawler.

“The United States and our allies must remain united in applying maximum pressure on the Iranian regime and holding the IRGC accountable for its violence, repression, and destabilizing activities around the world,” concluded Congressman Lawler.

In the letter, the lawmakers cite growing evidence of Iranian-backed hostile activity across Europe and the United Kingdom, including alleged links to anti-Semitic firebomb attacks, cyber operations, assassination plots, and intimidation campaigns targeting dissidents and critics of the Iranian regime.

“The IRGC is one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist organizations and has the blood of innocent civilians, Americans, and dissidents on its hands. The Iranian regime continues to export terrorism, threaten our allies, and brutally suppress its own people through the IRGC and its proxy networks. The United Kingdom should immediately join the United States and our allies in formally designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization and send a clear message that the free world will not tolerate terrorism, political violence, or antisemitic attacks,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

“Every day the British Parliament fails to vote on this legislation is another day that the IRGC evades the full impact of our nations’ combined sanctions,” said Congressman Sherman.

“For years, American Jewish Committee (AJC) and our Transatlantic Friends of Israel (TFI) interparliamentary group have called on governments to recognize the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for what it is: a terrorist organization. The IRGC has repeatedly targeted Jewish communities on European soil and beyond, posing a direct and ongoing security threat. Recent actions by an increasing number of countries to blacklist the IRGC have created renewed momentum, and the United Kingdom (UK) should urgently align with the United States, the European Union, and other transatlantic partners. We welcome the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Brad Sherman, Claudia Tenney, and Michael Lawler in pressing the UK to act swiftly and follow suit,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee (AJC).

The full letter can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lawler, Gottheimer Press for Accountability From AI Companies Ahead of 2026 Elections

Washington, D.C. – 5/13/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler and Congressman Josh Gottheimer sent a bipartisan letter to the CEOs of leading artificial intelligence companies, raising concerns about the role AI platforms will play in the 2026 midterm elections and the need to ensure voters receive accurate, unbiased information.

The letter, sent to executives at OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Anthropic, Meta, Perplexity, and X Corp., requests information on how companies are addressing political bias, misinformation, transparency, and source reliability in large language models ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

“AI is going to play a defining role in this election cycle, whether the industry is ready for it or not. The question is whether companies in this space will get ahead of the problem or be forced to address it after the damage is done. We stand ready to work with you and your teams to get this right,” wrote the lawmakers.

The full letter can be found HERE.


Rep. Mike Levin Fights to Stop Cancellation of Offshore Wind Energy Leases That Would Lower Costs

Watch Rep. Levin’s Remarks Here

Washington, D.C.—Today, during a House Appropriations Committee markup, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced an amendment to prevent taxpayer funds from being used by the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Department of the Interior (DOI) to kill offshore wind energy projects and hand over billions of dollars in taxpayer funds to foreign companies. The amendment was rejected by Republicans on the Appropriations Committee.

Recently, the Trump Administration struck deals with three offshore wind companies to cancel four different wind leases: TotalEnergies off of North Carolina and New York, Bluepoint Wind off of New York and New Jersey, and Golden State Wind off of California. These projects would have provided affordable power to over three million homes, but instead the Trump Administration is paying these companies nearly $2 billion of taxpayer funds to stop the energy projects from ever being built.

Rep. Levin’s amendment would have prevented the Trump Administration from striking these shady deals. At a time of skyrocketing energy prices and risks to grid reliability, America should be adding more power to our system, not using taxpayer dollars to pay companies to abandon their energy projects. The Administration’s unchecked actions will ensure that energy prices keep rising and our grid is less reliable.

These deals are a ripoff for the American people both as electricity ratepayers and as federal taxpayers.

Read Rep. Levin’s remarks as prepared for delivery below:

I’d like to draw the Committee’s attention to the alarming use of nearly $2 billion dollars of American taxpayer funds to pay foreign owned companies to keep our constituents’ utility bills sky high.

Across the country right now, as families open their electric bills month after month, they are increasingly facing impossible decisions to pay to keep the lights on or to put food on the table.

Electricity bills have risen 34 percent over the past five years, including more than 6 percent in the past year alone, significantly outpacing inflation.

Today, nearly 80 million Americans are struggling to pay their utility bills month after month.

As electricity demand from data centers and manufacturing rises faster than new power supply can be built, we are increasingly at risk of dual crises of energy affordability and grid reliability.

A decline in grid reliability threatens national security, public health, economic competitiveness, and during heat waves and cold snaps—human lives.

Right now, we need all the energy that we can get on the grid.

And yet, the Administration has decided that instead of deploying more energy, we should provide foreign companies with billions of taxpayer dollars —without any sort of consideration from this Committee—to stop developing projects that would have helped bolster grid reliability and bring down costs.

That’s right, the Administration has circumvented the Appropriations process to pay nearly $2 billion dollars out of the Judgement fund to entice companies to walk away from their offshore wind projects in New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, and California, and more deals just like this could be coming.

The projects in New York and New Jersey would have powered more than two million homes.

The project in North Carolina would have powered 300,000 homes.

And the project in California would have powered 1.1 million homes.

These cancellations are a massive loss at a moment of unprecedent energy demand growth and will make our grid less reliable.

But don’t just take my word for it, the grid operators themselves in the Northeast, New York, and mid-Atlantic have all said that offshore wind helps them solve the reliability challenges they are facing now.

I want to be clear that these cancellations will also hit many of our constituents right in the pocketbooks.

Since offshore wind has a low operating cost—the wind blows for free after all—it can bid into the electricity market at the low end of the cost curve.

So, when you have offshore wind on the grid, it pushes out the higher cost resources and lowers the system-wide price of electricity.

The result of deploying more offshore wind? Lower costs for our constituents.

The offshore wind projects that have been cancelled won’t just hurt those of us from coastal states like New York, North Carolina, New Jersey, and California.

When you add offshore wind to the system in PJM, it lowers the system-wide price, including in Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Indiana and Tennessee. Any future cancellations in PJM will leave these states facing higher costs and a less reliable grid.

These project cancellations are a bad deal for our constituents as both taxpayers and ratepayers.

And they are a bad deal for all of us as Americans since these buyouts were likely unlawful.

I am deeply concerned by this new playbook the Administration is using to kill off energy projects that it does not like.

Regardless of what your preferred energy sources are, we all should be able to agree that no Administration should have the ability to negotiate backdoor deals with companies to abandon projects that our country needs. If you stand for “all of the above energy” you should be as incensed by these actions as I am.

My amendment would block these payouts for the next fiscal year so that we in Congress and the American people can understand the legal authority under which these deals are being struck and the full impact that these cancellations will have on grid reliability and costs for our constituents.

Thank you and I yield back.

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Chairwoman McClain Pays Tribute to Hometown Hero Deputy Bradley Reckling During National Police Week

WASHINGTON—House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) joined House Republicans to highlight legislation supporting law enforcement officers and reaffirm House Republicans’ commitment to public safety during National Police Week.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Good morning everyone. This week is National Police Week.

And House Republicans are making something very clear: We Back the Blue.

Not just with words. With action.

Because while too many Democrats demonize police officers, excuse violent criminals, and side with chaos, Republicans are standing with the men and women who put on the badge and walk toward danger every single day.

And this week, we’re bringing bills to the Floor to support law enforcement and help keep our communities safe.

Let’s remember what this week is really about.

It’s about people. It’s about families.

It’s about heroes like Deputy Sheriff Bradley Reckling.

Deputy Reckling, from my hometown of Romeo, Michigan, was a nine-year veteran of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.

In 2024, he was ambushed and murdered in the line of duty, leaving behind his wife, three young daughters, and a baby on the way.

Deputy Reckling stood between violent criminals and innocent people. And he is exactly why we must Back the Blue.

Earlier this week, I joined the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department for a ride-along and spent time with Deputy Miehlke, who has served in law enforcement for more than twenty years.

We talked about House Republicans’ push for No Tax on Overtime and the difference it is making for officers and their families.

Because when officers put in extra hours protecting their communities, they deserve to keep more of what they earn.

But what stuck with me most was hearing that after twenty years on the job, his wife still worries every time he leaves for work.

That fear never fully goes away for police families.

And yet too many on the Left continue attacking the very people who stand between law and order and chaos.

Public safety matters.

Law and order matters.

And it is the brave men and women in law enforcement who make both possible.


Rep. Menefee Celebrates 100 Days of Delivering for TX-18

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Christian D. Menefee (TX-18) marks his first 100 days in office after being sworn in on February 2, 2026. Before his election, Texas’ 18th Congressional District went 334 days without representation in Congress.

“Today marks 100 days in office, and we’ve already gotten a whole lot done for the people of TX-18,” said Congressman Menefee. “From introducing legislation and standing up for environmental justice and voting rights, to rebuilding this office from the ground up, every single day has been focused on delivering for our communities.”

During his first 100 days in Congress, Congressman Menefee has:

Introduced three pieces of legislation, including the Special Elections Timeliness Act (or SET Act), to ensure no congressional district experiences the prolonged vacancy TX-18 faced following the passing of the late Congressman Sylvester Turner.

Co-sponsored 49 pieces of legislation focused on lowering costs, holding President Trump accountable and expanding opportunity for working families.

Debated 13 bills on the House floor, advocating for environmental justice, voting rights, and policies that uplift underserved communities.

Participated in more than 100 meetings with local stakeholders, community leaders, advocacy organizations, and residents both in D.C. and across TX-18.

Built a congressional office from the ground up, hiring staff in both Washington and Houston to ensure constituents receive strong representation and responsive service.

Been appointed to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, where he is working to protect scientific research, strengthen innovation, and keep Houston at the center of America’s space future.

Opened more than 200 constituent casework requests, helping residents navigate issues involving Social Security, immigration services, Veterans benefits, and other federal agencies.


House Republicans Block Congressman Menendez’s Amendment to Protect Department of Veterans Affairs Workers Honoring the Life of Alex Pretti

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Rob Menendez called out House Republicans for refusing to consider his amendment to H.R. 8469 – legislation that provides FY 2027 appropriations for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”). Menendez’s amendment would bar spending taxpayer dollars on investigating employees for participating in honoring the life of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse shot and killed by U.S. Border Patrol officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota earlier this year, following reports of targeted and punitive investigations by the Trump Administration.

“Today, we presented House Republicans with an opportunity to protect VA employees who are being targeted for honoring Alex Pretti – a fellow VA worker who was killed by Border Patrol officers in broad daylight,” said Congressman Menendez. “Instead of standing up for our federal employees, House Republicans chose to allow the Trump Administration to intimidate and punish dedicated VA employees grieving the loss of a colleague and friend with baseless investigations.”

Menendez’s amendment would have:

Barred funds from H.R. 8469 from being used to implement, carry out, or enforce the investigation of employees or workers at the VA for participating in vigils honoring the life of Alex Pretti.


Speaker Johnson: There is Not a Single Democrat Who Believes Border Security or Immigration Enforcement Should Exist

WASHINGTON — This morning, at the House Republican Leadership press conference, Speaker Johnson addressed Republicans’ reconciliation bill to fund border security and immigration enforcement and discussed Democrats’ failed scheme to gerrymander along racial lines. Speaker Johnson also highlighted House Republicans’ honoring fallen law enforcement officers during National Police Week.

“Look at the California Governor’s race. Nearly all those Democrats, including a former House Democrat and a Biden Cabinet Secretary, proudly said ‘yes’ when they were asked if they supported providing healthcare to illegal aliens. We’re supposed to believe this is a serious political party?” Speaker Johnson asked. “Democrats are chomping at the bit to regain power, reopen our borders, and allow violent, criminal illegal aliens to continue to roam our streets. And we’re not going to let them. So, we’re eager to quickly finish this reconciliation process and get this bill to President Trump’s desk.”

Watch Speaker Johnson’s remarks here.

On Republicans’ reconciliation bill to fund ICE/CBP:

Before Republicans returned to work in our districts last week, we ended the majority of the shameful record-long Democrat Department of Homeland Security shutdown. And I'm happy to report that we are right on schedule to finish the process and get our reconciliation bill to the President's desk by the June 1 deadline. We will fully fund both border security and immigration enforcement for the balance of President Trump's term, and we're going to do this for two reasons. Number one, obviously maintaining border security and deporting dangerous criminal legal aliens is the baseline that the American people demand and deserve. They told us that in the last election cycle, and they say it all the time, every day since. We do not have a country, if we do not have borders, that's just the bottom line. I'm grateful every day that America once again has a President who understands that.

The second reason is it's very sad and shocking fact. And, it's almost unbelievable to say this, but there's not a single Democrat in Congress, House or Senate, who believes that border security and immigration enforcement should exist. They do not believe that we should fund those at the federal level. It's a stunning statement, but it is true. And it's proven time and time again by their word and by their votes, they prove to you what they're about. I think everybody needs to keep that in mind.

Look at the California's Governor's race. I mean, what a spectacle. Nearly all the Democrats, including a former House Democrat and a Biden Cabinet Secretary proudly said ‘yes’ when they were asked the simple question if they support providing healthcare to illegal aliens. We're supposed to believe this is a serious political party right now? I mean, Democrats are chomping at the bit to regain power and reopen our borders and allow violent, criminal illegal aliens to continue to roam our streets. These are facts. This is not political talking points. This is what they are and what they're about. And we're not going to let them do that. So we're eager to quickly finish this reconciliation process and get this bill to the President's desk.

On National Police Week:

Americans are honoring the courage and the dedication and the sacrifice of law enforcement officers, and they well deserve that sadly. We mourn the men and women who have lost their lives in a line of duty for the safety and protection of our neighbors. And we owe our law enforcement officers everything because they sacrifice everything to stand guard against evil and protect in all these communities around our great country. When law enforcement officers put on their uniform and they lace up their boots every morning, they just don't have a guarantee that they're going to return after that last shift.

As I mentioned, we had 111 [fallen officers] for this year alone, and it's something that we have to keep in mind all the time. One law enforcement death is too many, but we've received welcome news this year. This is one bright spot: the amount of law enforcement deaths in the line of duty dropped 25% from 2024 to 2025. And that's the lowest number of law enforcement line of duty deaths since 1943. So we're very thankful for that. And it matters who's in charge. Elections have consequences, and if you have elected officials, legislatures, and a Congress that supports those in law enforcement, then it assists with these statistics. That's an objective fact and it's a direct correlation to public policy. Republicans are going continue to pursue legislation that makes officers safer and will also continue to advance transformational policies like No Tax on Overtime, as you heard, which tens of thousands of law enforcement officers and their families have already benefited from and they’re telling us about it when we go home.

On the Democrats’ failed scheme to gerrymander along racial lines:

In the Callais case at the US Supreme Court, the court restored a simple but profound truth. Yes, the Constitution protects every American equally. And that's a very important concept for us to maintain. This is another fact. Democrats spent decades trying to engineer electoral maps that divided Americans. And this decision from the Supreme Court hopefully ends that terrible practice once and for all. We find it amusing that Democrats are suddenly concerned about fair Congressional representation, they say. And I challenge those Democrats to raise those concerns with the Republican Congressmen from Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Rhode Island. They’ll have a hard time doing that, of course, because Democrats have gerrymandered Republicans completely out of those states.

And in Virginia last week, the Virginia Supreme Court, of course, affirmed what Republicans believed from the very beginning. We fought hard to win that ballot initiative and we invested there. But ultimately, we knew that was a hastily drawn gerrymandered that was unconstitutional. It’s a power grab. And thankfully the courts restoring and upholding the rule of law, did the right thing there. Democrats, by the way, put all their chips in the middle on that one. You saw it. And they burned through countless goodwill with the people of the state of Virginia and elsewhere. Democrats nationwide, they spent more than $65 million and they even had Barack Obama cutting ads and robocall, and it wasn't enough because it was such a crazy overreach. And it was all in pursuit of an unconstitutional scheme to dilute the power of Republicans of Virginia. And fortunately, the plan failed spectacularly. They got a lot to answer for. Their press conference this week ought to be interesting. Look, this decision doesn't change our posture for one minute. Republicans are laser focused. We don’t look to the right or the left, we charge straight forward.

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Dallas Morning News: Texas GOP House members: What we must do to keep the border secure

For four years, the Biden administration’s open-border policies placed extraordinary strain on our state. Millions of illegal immigrants poured across our border, drug and human trafficking surged, and communities across Texas were ravaged – straining law enforcement, public services and local resources.

When Texas stepped up to protect its citizens, the federal government didn’t just fail to help – it actively stood in the way. The Biden Department of Justice repeatedly sued Texas for taking action to secure the border and enforce the law, forcing our state to shoulder the burden of a crisis it did not create. This dereliction of duty at the federal level cost Texas taxpayers more than $11 billion through Operation Lone Star.

But the security of our border and the safety of our communities cannot depend solely on who occupies the White House. Fortunately, the Constitution provides a remedy that ensures states are not left defenseless if and when future administrations attempt to return us to open-border policies.

Congress now has a critical opportunity to assert this fact.

Article IV, Section 4 is clear that it is the responsibility of the federal government to “protect each [state] against invasion.” But the founders also recognized that this duty might not always be fulfilled. That is why Article I, Section 10 preserves the sovereign authority of states to act in self-defense when they are “actually invaded” or “in such imminent Danger as will not admit of delay.”

What does this mean? States do not have to be passive victims of a failed federal government.

House Resolution 50, authored by U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Lubbock, and endorsed by every Texas Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, affirms what the Constitution already provides and clarifies the law around when states may exercise their authority to act in self-defense. It does not expand state power or create new law. It provides critically needed clarity. Specifically, the resolution makes clear that border states experienced such a surge in lawlessness from an insecure border that it constituted an imminent danger to our states, cities and communities.

Biden-era legal challenges exposed how ambiguity can be used to block states from defending themselves. Courts will ultimately be asked to resolve this issue. When they do, they will look to Congress for guidance on what constitutes an invasion or imminent danger.

Without that guidance, states like Texas will face the same uncertainty in future legal battles against administrations that seek to reverse strong border policies.

Passing House Resolution 50 will reaffirm the constitutional balance between the federal government and the states and ensure that Texas is never again forced to bear the consequences of Washington’s failures without the ability to fully defend its communities.

Congress has both the opportunity and the responsibility to act now.

This op-ed is submitted by the Texas GOP Caucus, representing Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives from the State of Texas, including Reps. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Keith Self (TX-03), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Michael McCaul (TX-10), August Pfluger (TX-11), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Randy Weber (TX-14), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Chip Roy (TX-21), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Roger Williams (TX-25), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Michael Cloud (TX-27), John Carter (TX-31), and Brian Babin (TX-36).


Moskowitz Discusses Bipartisan DHS Reform Package on 535 News

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Jared Moskowitz joined Scott MacFarlane of the MeidasTouch Network for an interview with 535 News to discuss his bipartisan legislative package to reform the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). During the interview, Moskowitz outlined the need to restructure key agencies and align them with departments better suited to their missions.

During the conversation, Moskowitz discussed why he believes DHS has become too large and bureaucratic to function effectively, arguing that agencies like FEMA, TSA, and the Secret Service are increasingly being slowed down by political dysfunction and administrative red tape.

“Scott, DHS has simply grown too big and too vulnerable to political dysfunction,” said Moskowitz. “When a department becomes this massive, the mission gets lost. FEMA needs to move faster when disaster strikes, TSA officers and travelers should not be caught in the middle of shutdown politics, and protecting the President should not depend on the bureaucracy of a massive department.”

As part of the package, Moskowitz’s legislation would:

Move the United States Secret Service to the Executive Office of the President

Restore FEMA as an independent, Cabinet-level agency

Transfer TSA back to the Department of Transportation

As the only former Emergency Management Director in Congress, Congressman Moskowitz brings a unique perspective to the conversation around DHS reform and government efficiency. Earlier this Congress, Moskowitz reintroduced the FEMA Independence Act with Congressman Byron Donalds to remove FEMA from DHS and restore it as an independent, Cabinet-level agency reporting directly to the President.

The broader legislative package builds on Moskowitz’s continued bipartisan efforts to make government work better and ensure critical agencies are able to focus on their core missions without being bogged down by unnecessary bureaucracy or political gridlock.

To watch the full interview with 535, click below


Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Reduce Noise from Nearby Interstate Highways in Underserved Neighborhoods

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) reintroduced the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act, legislation to give communities the ability to build noise barriers along existing federal interstate highways. Currently, federal funds cannot be used for noise barriers.

The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act allows Highway Trust Fund dollars to be used to build noise barriers in residential areas built before the interstates that are now impacting them. Communities will also have the power to create noise barriers that are aesthetically pleasing and can be used for dual purposes, such as hosting broadband infrastructure or solar panels. Highways I-20, I-75, I-85, and I-285 are some of the loudest, most disruptive interstates in the country and all run through neighborhoods in Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District.

Congresswoman Williams introduced similar legislation in the 117th and 118th Congress. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) is co-leading the introduction of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act.

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said:

“Constituents and elected officials have made it clear: we must address the disruptions caused by congested highways. For too many communities—particularly those intentionally divided by the construction of our interstate system—these roads have long brought not just displacement, but lasting harm. Today, the constant noise and pollution from those same highways continue to burden the neighborhoods they cut through and more. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act is a simple solution that allows existing federal resources to be used for desperately needed noise barriers. This is exactly how infrastructure investments should be made: tailored to the needs of communities. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would bring meaningful relief from the noise and air pollution affecting families living near our interstate highways.”

Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said:

“Far too many Americans have come to accept highway noise as the grating soundtrack of their lives. A cacophony of car horns, emergency vehicle sirens, and truck engines fills communities all along the I-95 corridor in Southwestern Connecticut, reducing my constituents’ quality of life. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would empower localities to build noise barriers of their choosing with federal funds so residents impacted by road racket can finally get some peace and quiet.”

Endorsing Organizations: Quiet Communities

Click here to read the text of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act.


House Passes Nunn Resolution Backing Law Enforcement — 173 Democrats Vote No

“It shouldn’t be controversial to stand with the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Nunn. “But from the ‘defund the police’ radicalism to sanctuary city policies that prevent cooperation with federal law enforcement, too many politicians have put ideology ahead of public safety — and Americans are paying the price. This Police Week, the House sent a clear message: we back the blue. I’m proud to have led that effort.”

According to the FBI, more than 85,000 law enforcement officers were assaulted in the line of duty in 2024 — the highest rate in a decade. At the same time, police departments nationwide continue to face severe recruitment and retention challenges, straining understaffed agencies and making it harder to keep communities safe.

The resolution also highlights the impact of sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local and federal law enforcement. The Center for Immigration Studies currently identifies 13 states and more than 225 localities as sanctuary jurisdictions. In 2025 alone, those jurisdictions declined to honor almost 18,000 ICE detainer requests, releasing individuals back into communities instead of transferring them to federal custody — increasing risks for both officers and the public.

Observed each May, National Police Week honors the more than 23,000 law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty in service to their communities. Rep. Nunn’s resolution recognizes that when law enforcement is supported and laws are adequately enforced, communities are safer — with homicide rates falling to some of the lowest levels recorded in more than a century and drug overdose deaths declining to their lowest point since 2019.

The resolution puts the House firmly on record in support of the men and women who wear the badge and against the sanctuary policies that make their jobs harder and communities less safe.

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Nunn Bills to Protect Retirees from Fraud, Combat AI Threats Pass Financial Services Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Financial Services Committee today advanced two bipartisan bills introduced by Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) — the GUARD (Guarding Unprotected Aging Retirees from Deception) Act and AI PLAN (Artificial Intelligence Practices, Logistics, Actions, and Necessities) Act — aimed at protecting retirees from financial fraud and strengthening America’s defenses against emerging AI-driven threats to the financial system.

“Iowa families lost nearly $100 million to fraud last year, and scammers are increasingly using sophisticated technology to target seniors,” said Rep. Nunn. “The GUARD Act gives state and local law enforcement the tools they need to track down criminals, recover stolen funds, and deliver justice for victims.”

According to the FBI, Iowans lost $96 million to fraud in 2025 — an increase of more than $44 million from the previous year. The bipartisan GUARD Act would strengthen the ability of state and local law enforcement to investigate financial fraud and “pig butchering” scams targeting retirees. The legislation expands access to federal grant funding for fraud investigations and authorizes federal agencies to provide blockchain tracing tools to help track and recover stolen funds.

“Foreign adversaries like China are weaponizing artificial intelligence to manipulate financial markets, spread misinformation, and defraud American consumers,” continued Rep. Nunn. “Our bill ensures the federal government has a coordinated strategy to identify and counter these threats while keeping the United States at the forefront of AI innovation.”

The AI PLAN Act would require the Departments of Treasury, Commerce, and Homeland Security to develop a coordinated national strategy to defend America’s financial systems against AI-enabled fraud, misinformation, and cyber threats from foreign adversaries. The bill strengthens safeguards against the misuse of emerging technologies while supporting continued American leadership in AI innovation.

With today’s committee passage, both bills now advance to the full House of Representatives for consideration. The GUARD Act and the AI PLAN Act both passed unanimously. A companion Senate version of the GUARD Act has already advanced through the Senate Judiciary Committee.

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Nunn Statement on Passage of Year-Round, Nationwide E15

“Today is a major victory for Iowa farmers, consumers, and American energy independence,” said Rep. Nunn. “There were plenty of forces in Washington trying to prevent this vote from ever happening, but we held the line, demanded a vote, and delivered results. Every gallon of ethanol we blend is fuel we don’t have to import from foreign adversaries. Every dollar saved at the pump is money back in the pockets of working families. Iowa-grown, homegrown energy won today. I’m proud to have delivered this win for Iowa, and I’ll keep fighting to get this bill to the President’s desk and signed into law.”

E15 — a fuel blend of 15% ethanol — is currently averaging 42 cents per gallon less than regular gasoline at participating stations. According to Growth Energy, nationwide year-round access to E15 could save American consumers an estimated $20.6 billion annually in fuel costs. E15 is now sold at more than 5,000 stations nationwide, with sales increasing 23% in 2025 alone.

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WATCH: Pressley Slams Republican Bill that Ignores Unemployment Crisis, Strips Federal Reserve’s Mandate to Maximize Employment

Transcript: Pressley Slams Republican Bill that Ignores Unemployment Crisis, Strips Federal Reserve’s Essential Mandate to Maximize Employment

U.S. House of Representatives

May 13, 2026

Like Ranking Member Waters and my Democratic colleagues, I vigorously oppose this legislation to strip the mandate from maximum employment from the mission of the Federal Reserve.

I mean, I never thought that my Republican colleagues would need a lesson on the importance of gainful employment and having a job. Even Ronald Reagan said that he believed the best social program is a job. And yet, here we are.

The best way to support working families is to keep them working, plain and simple.

Maximizing employment is good for our economy. It’s good for our communities. It’s good for our families. And to deny that truth is to deny reality.

So I’m confident that the American people will see through these baseless talking points and agree with Democrats that everyone should be able to get a job, to work a job, and to earn a living.

Work is, is pride. It’s dignity. It’s essential to survive, to thrive, to provide, even to dream.

I’ve been working, I’ve been employed since I was thirteen, fourteen years old. Many young people pursue jobs, whether it’s being a bagger at a grocery store or work in retail, not just for enrichment or for exposure, but because it is essential. I was working at the age of fourteen to contribute to my household income.

Or what of young adults, recent graduates from college or a trade school, who want to save for a house or maybe even start a business one day?

Or, you know, as a mother, I think about what it means to be able to see the light behind my child’s eyes when I can provide them with a vacation or some gift that they’ve been begging for.

And for our elders, increasingly so, under Trump’s administration and economy, retirement is farther and farther out of reach, and many of our elders have no choice but to work in order to pay for life saving medication, to keep a roof over their heads.

So all this to say that having a job is not a statistic. It is essential. It is dignity.

The dignity of work is transformational. That’s what the Fed’s mandate for maximum employment is about.

This mission was not created in a vacuum. It dates back to the Great Depression in recognition that people should be able to earn a living, provide for themselves and their family. There was nearly unanimous support by Republicans and Democrats for maximum employment when the mandate passed Congress.

The Federal Reserve Board of Governors is the only independent agency that works on improving employment. Some argue that this is the role of the Department of Labor, but in Trump’s America, the Labor Department is a joke. We don’t even have a Secretary of Labor right now.

So the Fed’s mandate is essential, and always has been.

During the Great Recession of 2008—massive job loss—the Fed stepped in to maximize employment. During the COVID-19 pandemic and record layoffs, the Fed once again pursued its mandate of maximum employment. And in this moment, we need the Fed to do more, not less.

For months, I’ve been sounding the alarm about the current unemployment crisis. The unemployment rate has increased to 4.3% due to Trump’s reckless policies like firing government workers, attacking small businesses.

And when you analyze the data, Black unemployment specifically is at 7.3%. These are the worst rates we’ve seen since the pandemic.

Black workers are the canaries in the coal mine. What happens to our community first, happens to everyone next. So folks should take heed.

People are looking for jobs. People want to work, but Trump’s economy won’t let them.

Just last week, Fed Chair Jerome Powell announced the jobs numbers and said something that Republicans need to hear. There is little hiring going on, and for many Americans, it doesn’t feel like a good labor market.

So the solution to the current unemployment problem is not to tell the Fed to abandon the goal of maximum employment. The solution is to empower the Fed to do even more. Recent graduates deserve more.

Having a job and earning a paycheck is a beautiful and essential thing.

So I just want to say this to folks at home, in the midst of all of this, these anti-worker policies against paid leave, child care, supporting tariffs, suppressing wages.

To those who keep applying to jobs but still aren’t hearing back,

To those who are wondering how they’re going to pay their bills without a paycheck,

To those who are doing everything right but the economy is all wrong,

To those who know and appreciate the dignity of work, I see you. I’m fighting for you.

And that is why I oppose this bill, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.


Raskin Statement on H.R. 1346

"In a desperate attempt to put a Band-Aid on the Trump Administration’s ongoing public relations debacles, the Republican-led House passed a bill they claim will lower the astronomically high gas prices caused by the President’s illegal war of choice on Iran. What this bill will actually do is further degrade our environment and exacerbate the climate crisis. E15 will make our air and water quality dramatically worse: scientists warn that it will increase smog, particularly during the summer months, and threaten water supplies through the runoff from millions of acres of new corn fields. It will sharply increase carbon emissions and reduce biodiversity while destroying the forests and grasslands we need to absorb carbon dioxide. As for the reputed financial benefit to consumers E15 yieldslower gas mileage than the gasoline most widely available now, meaning that Americans will need to fill their tanks more often.”

“Theaverage gas price in Maryland has surpassed $4.40 per gallon and thenational average is even higher. This bill is a farce, not a solution, and the American people won’t be fooled. When my Republican colleagues are ready to bring down these exorbitant, Trump-induced fuel costs for our people, I’d welcome them into our bipartisan coalition working to pass a War Powers Resolution to end this lawless and extraordinarily costly conflict in Iran. They have another chance to vote with us this week.”


RILEY BILL TO REDUCE CRIME, PROTECT UPSTATE WORKERS AND SMALL BUSINESSES PASSES HOUSE

Bipartisan legislation cracks down on organized retail crime, strengthens law enforcement, and protects working families from rising costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) announced House passage of his bipartisan bill, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA). Riley’s legislation will crack down on organized theft rings, strengthen law enforcement, and protect Upstate families and small businesses from rising crime and higher costs.

“Working families and small businesses across Upstate New York are already stretched thin, and organized retail crime is making it worse,” said Rep. Riley. “These criminal networks drive up prices and put a massive strain on the small businesses and local job creators our communities depend on. This bipartisan bill gives law enforcement stronger tools to crack down on organized crime, keep costs low for hardworking families, and ensure criminals who prey on our communities are held accountable.”

The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act would:

Expand federal prosecution authority over organized retail and supply chain theft by allowing prosecutors to aggregate stolen goods over a 12-month period

Strengthen anti-money laundering laws targeting criminal enterprises profiting from organized theft

Authorize criminal forfeiture of assets gained through organized retail and supply chain crimes

Crack down on prepaid cards and gift cards used to launder criminal proceeds

Establish a Department of Homeland Security coordination center to improve federal enforcement efforts

Nationally, organized retail crime costs businesses and consumers more than $121 billion annually, while these criminal networks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. In 2025, 50 percent of retailers reported increased cargo and supply-chain theft tied to organized crime groups, while majorities also reported rising digital fraud, phone scams, and large-scale theft operations. In New York alone, State Police have recovered more than $2.6 million in stolen goods, conducted over 1,000 targeted operations, made more than 1,200 arrests, and filed over 2,100 criminal charges—underscoring the enormous scale of this threat and the urgent need for stronger federal enforcement tools.

National Police Weigh In:

“Organized retail crime is a serious threat to consumers, our economy, and to the safety of innocent civilians.“This bill goes a long way toward better equipping law enforcement agencies with the resources they need and allowing law enforcement partners at all levels to work in tandem to fight these crime syndicates.” ” — National Police Association

“These criminal enterprises are not isolated shoplifters—they are sophisticated networks that use violence, fraud, and money laundering to undermine commerce and public safety.” — Bipartisan Coalition of Attorneys General

“CORCA would provide the necessary resources at the state and federal level to bring the organizations and individuals behind this nationwide problem to justice.” — National Association of Attorneys General

Riley has made public safety and protecting local communities a top priority:

April 29, 2025 — Introduced the Stop Fentanyl Smuggling Act to strengthen fentanyl interdiction at borders and correctional facilities

May 15, 2025 — Became the first Democrat to co-sponsor the Supporting Local Law Enforcement Officers Act

June 13, 2025 — Voted to toughen federal fentanyl trafficking laws through the HALT Fentanyl Act

March 2026 — Secured $30 million in federal funding for the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Program, helping equip 20 law enforcement agencies across NY-19 with life-saving protective gear

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PASSED THE HOUSE: Ross, Schmidt Bill to Strengthen Police Background Checks

Washington, D.C. — During National Police Week, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Congressman Derek Schmidt’s (KS-02) bipartisan legislation, the Criminal History Access Act of 2026, passed the U.S. House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support. The legislation will ensure that state law enforcement training and certification agencies can access the criminal history information they need to properly screen and approve officers.

Click here to download Congresswoman Ross’ remarks from the House floor

The Criminal History Access Act clarifies existing federal law to explicitly authorize the sharing of federal criminal history records to state Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) agencies. These agencies are responsible for setting standards for the hiring, training, certification, and ethical conduct of law enforcement officers.

“It’s essential that we give police and sheriff’s departments in North Carolina and across the country the tools and resources they need to hire qualified, trusted officers,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure local law enforcement can access critical data when vetting and hiring new officers. I’m grateful that the House has passed this commonsense solution and urge the Senate to act quickly.”

“Law enforcement agencies and the public alike depend on strong standards and thorough vetting,” said Rep. Derek Schmidt. “By passing the Criminal History Access Act, the House has taken an important step to ensure certifying agencies can access the information they need to keep unqualified individuals from serving as law enforcement officers and to strengthen confidence in those who wear the badge.”

The Criminal History Access Act of 2026 is supported by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training.

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Rulli Bill Will Keep Natural Thyroid on Shelves Ahead of August Deadline

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Last Friday, Congressman Michael Rulli (OH-06) introduced the Protecting Equal Access to Thyroid (PEAT) Act of 2026, legislation to protect patient access to desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), a treatment Americans have safely relied on since the late 1800s.

Nearly 2 million Americans living with hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, and related conditions depend on desiccated thyroid extract to manage their health and maintain their quality of life. The Food and Drug Administration’s recent decision to classify this treatment as a biologic would force manufacturers to obtain a Biologics License Agreement by August 2026, an unrealistic and burdensome timeline that threatens to disrupt access to this essential medication. The reclassification would also eliminate the ability of pharmacists to compound this treatment, cutting off a critical lifeline for many patients.

“After meeting with pharmacists across our district, one issue kept coming up again and again,” said Congressman Rulli. “Compounding pharmacists, many of them small business owners who have served their communities for decades, are being crushed by yet another out-of-touch regulation that ultimately hurts patients. This legislation is the direct result of those conversations and the real-world impact this reclassification is having.”

The PEAT Act clarifies that a drug should not be classified as a biologic solely because it contains a clinically inactive protein, aligning federal policy with the Food and Drug Administration’s own guidance on inactive ingredients and preventing unnecessary regulatory overreach.

“Washington should not be in the business of taking away treatments that patients have relied on for generations,” Rep. Rulli continued. “This is about common sense and basic access to care. At a time when more Americans are struggling with hormone-related health issues, desiccated thyroid extract has remained a safe, effective option for over 100 years. A sudden regulatory shift should not be allowed to put that treatment out of reach. We are standing up for patients, for providers, and for the right to access proven care.”

The legislation is supported by the National Community Pharmacists Association, the Professional Compounding Centers of America, and the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding.

For bill text and a full summary, click here.

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Rep. Sewell Speaks Out Against Continued Erosion of the Voting Rights Act Following Callais Decision

Washington D.C. — Last night, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined her colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus for a Special Order Hour on the House Floor condemning the continued erosion of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 following the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Louisiana v. Callais.

Watch on YouTube here.

In her remarks, Sewell warned that recent Supreme Court decisions are undermining hard-fought voting rights protections secured during the Civil Rights Movement and threatening fair representation for Black communities across the South.

“For me, this fight is personal,” said Rep. Sewell. “I grew up in Selma in the shadow of the Civil Rights Movement. I represent the historic cities of Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Marion, and the Black Belt. Our communities carry the scars of Bloody Sunday, the Birmingham church bombings, fire hoses, police dogs, and violent resistance to the simple idea that Black Americans deserve the full promise of citizenship.”

Sewell condemned the systematic effort to dismantle the protections guaranteed under the Voting Rights Act.

“People in my district bled for the right to vote. Some died for it,” Sewell said. “And now, six decades later, extremists are trying to drag this country backward. They are trying to erase our hard-fought progress and silence the voices of the very communities that marched, that sacrificed, that organized to make American democracy real for everyone.”

During the Special Order Hour, Sewell connected the Court’s ruling in Callais to the broader weakening of federal voting rights protections since the Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder.

“In 2013, the Supreme Court’s disastrous decision in Shelby v. Holder gutted the heart of the Voting Rights Act...” Sewell said. “And what happened next? Exactly what voting rights advocates warned would happen. States across the South rushed to impose restrictive voting laws. They closed polling places, purged voter rolls, and redrew maps designed to dilute Black political power.”

“Now, with the Court’s recent decision in Callais, we are witnessing yet another dangerous step backward, another attack on the principle of fair representation and equal justice under the law,” she continued.

Sewell also renewed her call for Congress to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, legislation she introduced to restore and modernize the protections of the Voting Rights Act.

Closing her remarks, Sewell delivered a forceful call to action and highlighted the upcoming "All Roads Lead to the South" mass rally planned for Saturday, May 16 at 1:00 p.m. at the Alabama State Capitol.

“If your vote didn’t matter, they wouldn’t be working so hard to take it away,” Sewell said. “We are not going back. Not today. Not tomorrow. Not ever... We will march, we will fight, we will organize, and we will vote until victory is won.”

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Rep. Simpson Cosponsors the Title IX Clarification Act

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored the Title IX Clarification Act. This bill would codify that Title IX nondiscrimination requirements tied to federal education funding are based on the biological reality of sex. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX).

“Idaho led the charge as the first state to protect fairness in women's sports in response to the Biden administration’s radical rewrite of Title IX. None of this would have been possible without Idaho State Representative Barbara Ehardt’s courageous leadership. Common sense was under attack, and Americans must never forget this insanity. which would have jeopardized the safety and rights of girls and women nationwide. To combat the Left's delusions and prevent future misinterpretations, Congress must clarify and restore Title IX's original meaning,” said Rep. Mike Simpson.

“Title IX was created to provide equal opportunity for our daughters, not to push a radical gender ideology that jeopardizes their safety,” said Rep. Arrington. “My Title IX Clarification Act stops the abuse of Title IX by affirming a simple truth: there are only two sexes - male and female - and taxpayer dollars should not be used to advance extreme social policies. I’m proud to lead this effort to protect opportunities for women and girls, rein in bureaucratic overreach, and restore clarity and common sense to federal law.”

Rep. Simpson has been a strong advocate for protecting women’s sports. He recently joined a rally to save women’s sports on the steps of the United States Supreme Court as the Justices listened to oral arguments on Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J. Rep. Simpson also signed an Amicus Brief supporting Idaho’s law and defending the integrity of women’s sports. Additionally, Rep. Simpson has supported and cosponsored several key bills to prohibit males from participating in athletic programs or activities designated for women.


Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU’s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,069,000 in funding for the Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project in Pocatello, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Recovering critical minerals can significantly enhance the long-term energy, environmental, and national security of our state and nation. I have long advocated for expanding access to critical minerals, and I am proud to support Idaho State University’s efforts to expand its research capacity into this recovery happening right here at home,” said Rep. Simpson.

“We appreciate Congressman Simpson's leadership in helping ISU fulfill its Contract for Idaho. This investment in ISU's research capacity enhances ISU's state-of-the-art imaging, sequencing, and critical mineral capabilities. It ensures our students are trained on the tools industry requires, while our faculty solve the real-world challenges facing Idaho’s energy and mineral sectors. Together, we are securing a self-reliant future for our state by connecting science, industry, and workforce development to create a lasting economic impact,” said Idaho State University President Robert Wagner.

“Acquiring these instruments represents a major advancement for ISU’s education and research mission. These resources will provide students with hands-on training, preparing them for high-paying careers in industry and research. In addition, the enhanced infrastructure will strengthen ISU researchers’ competitiveness for federal funding focused on critical minerals, water systems, and environmental challenges. This investment will help position Idaho as a leader in sustainable resource recovery by connecting science, industry, and workforce development,” said Kavita Sharma, PhD. ISU Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

This funding will allow Idaho State University to purchase specialized equipment, enabling further research into critical mineral recovery.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.


Rep. Steube Introduces the ICE FROST Act

WASHINGTON — Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today introduced the Increased Compensation for Enforcement and Federal Retention for Officers in Strategic Theaters or (ICE FROST) Act to increase pay for federal law enforcement officers performing immigration enforcement operations in high-risk areas across the country.

“Federal law enforcement officers performing immigration enforcement operations are being sent into increasingly dangerous environments created by sanctuary city policies, violent criminal activity, and the consequences of the Biden administration’s open-border crisis,” said Rep. Greg Steube. “While radical Democrats continue attacking ICE officers for enforcing federal law, these men and women are risking their lives to protect American communities. The ICE FROST Act ensures officers are properly compensated for the dangers they face while enforcing our nation’s immigration laws.”

The ICE FROST Act establishes an annual 25% supplemental bonus payment for federal law enforcement officers performing immigration enforcement operations. The bill also provides an additional annual 15% supplemental bonus payment for such personnel serving in hazardous duty areas designated as having elevated violent crime levels, transnational criminal organizations, significant concentrations of illegal aliens, and documented threats or assaults against federal law enforcement officers.

Hazardous duty areas designated under the legislation include the Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York, San Francisco, St. Louis, and Washington-Baltimore metropolitan areas, among others.

The legislation also establishes additional surcharges on certain overseas remittance payments to help offset the cost of the supplemental bonus payments. This includes a $199 surcharge for remittance payments to Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, as well as a $99 surcharge for payments to countries with a visa overstay rate exceeding 2%.

Background: Federal immigration enforcement personnel increasingly operate in jurisdictions facing elevated violent crime, growing transnational gang activity, and large concentrations of illegal aliens unlawfully present in the United States.

In recent years, ICE officers and other federal immigration personnel have faced growing hostility while carrying out enforcement operations in major metropolitan areas across the country, including documented incidents of assaults, threats, and interference directed at law enforcement personnel.

Hazardous conditions for immigration enforcement personnel are especially prevalent in large urban regions with elevated violent crime rates and significant activity tied to transnational criminal organizations.


Rep. Tokuda Leads Bipartisan Resolution Reaffirming U.S.-Taiwan Relations Ahead of Presidential Summit in Beijing

Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, U.S. Representative Jill N. Tokuda (HI-02) introduced a bipartisan resolution reaffirming the longstanding U.S. policy towards Taiwan. Introduced alongside Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Chairman John Moolenaar (R-MI) and Ranking Member Ro Khanna (D-CA) following a recent hearing, the measure underscores that Taiwan’s future must be determined solely by peaceful means. It further reiterates U.S. opposition to any use of force or coercion against Taiwan and its people.

The resolution comes ahead of President Trump’s high-stakes summit with President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

"As we navigate a critical window for diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific, Congress must send a clear and unified message: our commitment to Taiwan is not a bargaining chip,” said Rep. Tokuda. "This resolution reaffirms that the Taiwan Relations Act remains the cornerstone of our relationship, ensuring our support for Taiwan’s democracy and security remains firm and non-negotiable. Now more than ever, the United States must lead with consistency and resolve to strengthen trust with our allies and demonstrate that our commitments are lasting, credible, and backed by action.”

“America’s commitment to Taiwan is grounded in the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, cornerstones of a bipartisan policy that has preserved peace and stability for decades. As the CCP escalates its coercive behavior, cyber-attacks, and gray zone aggression against Taiwan, Congress is sending a clear message that it opposes any effort to change Taiwan’s status and will continue to support Taiwan’s democratic future,” said Chairman Moolenaar.

“When President Trump meets with Xi Jinping in Beijing this week, Taiwan cannot be on the table. The president must make clear that the United States’ robust and longstanding ties with Taiwan, who is a fellow democracy and critical economic partner, are not up for negotiation. This resolution affirms Congress’s longstanding leadership on Taiwan policy and reminds Beijing that any attempts to resolve differences with Taiwan through coercion or non-peaceful means is unacceptable,” said Ranking Member Khanna.

Since 1979, the Taiwan Relations Act has guided relations between the United States and Taiwan, and supported Taiwan’s development as a vibrant democracy and major economic partner. Additionally, the Six Assurances reinforce the U.S. framework for supporting Taiwan’s defense and self-determination, including that the United States did not agree to set a date for ending arms sales to Taiwan, did not agree to prior consultation with the People’s Republic of China on arms sales to Taiwan, did not agree to play any mediation role between Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China, did not agree to revise the Taiwan Relations Act, did not agree to take any position regarding sovereignty over Taiwan, and will not exert pressure on Taiwan to enter into negotiations with the People’s Republic of China.

Additional cosponsors of the legislation include: Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Rep. André Carson (D-IN), Rep. Neil Dunn (R-FL), Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL), Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Rep. Young Kim (R-CA), Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA), Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), Rep. Dave Min (D-CA), Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE), Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), Rep. Ed Case (D-HI).

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

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Congresswoman Torres Presses HUD Secretary and Trump Administration for Delaying LA Wildfire Disaster Aid

Washington, D.C – This week, during a House Appropriations Subcommittee hearing with Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner, Congresswoman Norma Torres demanded answers on why the Trump Administration has failed to request disaster recovery funding for communities devastated by the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, the first step in order for supplemental disaster funding aid to reach families, businesses, and local governments.

More than 100,000 Californians were displaced by the fires, and many families are still unable to return home more than a year later.

“When Texas was hit by Hurricane Harvey, I voted to deliver disaster aid because helping Americans recover should never be political,” said Torres. “Now California families are waiting, and this Administration has not requested a single dollar for long-term recovery.”

Torres highlighted the importance of HUD’s Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program and criticized the Administration for failing to submit a supplemental funding request for California’s more than $34 billion in recovery needs.

“The only supplemental funding I keep hearing about is for the President’s war in Iran,” Torres said. “There should be no supplemental conversation that leaves wildfire survivors behind.”

Torres also submitted bipartisan letters from California’s congressional delegation urging immediate federal disaster assistance for the hearing record.

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Congressman Valadao Introduces Tax Credit to Offset Early Expenses for New Families

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the bipartisan Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 to create a newborn tax credit, separate from the existing Child Tax Credit (CTC), to help new families cover the significant costs associated with welcoming a child. In the United States, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care alone can cost families thousands of dollars, and expenses during a child's first year of life can exceed $17,000—especially in California. This legislation would provide immediate, targeted relief to help ease the financial burden on parents during one of the most important and expensive times in their lives. Original co-leads of the bill include Reps. Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Blake Moore (UT-01), and Debbie Dingell (MI-06).

“One of the most exciting moments for any expecting family is preparing to welcome a new child, but unexpected expenses can quickly add up and leave new parents facing costs far beyond what they planned,” said Congressman Valadao. “As a father of three, I know how quickly costs can pile up—from diapers and clothing to strollers, childcare, and other essentials during a baby’s first year. While the existing Child Tax Credit has provided important relief for many working families, parents often need support long before tax season arrives. That’s why I’m proud to lead the bipartisan Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which would provide up to $2,000 per newborn as an advance payment to help families cover the immediate costs that come with welcoming a child into the world. This commonsense bill gives working parents greater financial flexibility and peace of mind so they can focus on growing their family instead of worrying about how to make ends meet.”

“Welcoming a new baby into the world should be one of the happiest moments in a family’s life, not one filled with fear about how to pay the bills,” said Congressman Suozzi. “At a time when so many Americans are struggling with the rising cost of living, this bipartisan bill will support young families and provide immediate, practical relief to working parents as they handle those critical first expenses.”

“As a father of four, I know how quickly expenses add up when a new child arrives: diapers, car seats, strollers, clothing, formula, and the unexpected costs that come during the first year,” said Congressman Moore. “I’m excited to introduce the Supporting Newborn Parents Act to build on policies in the Working Families Tax Cuts, like the increased Child Tax Credit, by creating an additional tax credit for working parents of up to $2,000 per newborn child. This credit will help new and growing families by creating a financial cushion to meet their baby’s needs when they need it most.”

“Bringing home a newborn should be a moment of pure love and wonder, not financial stress,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “This legislation puts tax dollars back into the wallets of working families when they need it most, helping to cover everything from diapers to doctor’s visits. I am proud to support this effort, because every family deserves peace of mind in those first precious moments.”

The Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 would:

Create a standalone tax credit of up to $2,000 for families welcoming a newborn child, separate from the existing Child Tax Credit (CTC).

Ensure low- and middle-income working parents can qualify for the credit, with benefits increasing alongside earned income.

Allow families to receive the credit either as part of their annual tax refund or as an advance payment shortly after a child is born.

Give parents flexibility to calculate eligibility using either their current-year or prior-year income.

Align eligibility rules and income thresholds with the Child Tax Credit to simplify administration and avoid sudden benefit cutoffs.

Adjust the credit amount over time to account for inflation.

Supporting organizations include the Niskanen Center, Save the Children, Third Way, American Principles Project, Bread for the World, Searchlight Institute, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK), First 5 Kern, and Adventist Health.

“A newborn credit helps parents weather the turbulence of their baby’s first year. This bill gives families the flexibility to make choices that work best for them at a critical moment. We thank Representatives Valadao, Suozzi, Blake Moore, and Dingell for their leadership in supporting their commitment to supporting working families,” said Leah Sargeant, Senior Fellow, Niskanen Center.

“Save the Children is proud to support the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026. This legislation recognizes the importance of supporting families during the earliest days of a child’s life, as well as the economic stress that can come with it. It’s a commonsense policy that supports hardworking families, including those in rural communities, and helps ensure every child has a strong start from day one,” said Allison Dembeck, Head of Policy, Save the Children.

“The last thing new parents should have to worry about is how to pay for a hospital bill or a car seat. As costs rise, families need real support at one of the most important moments in a child’s life. That’s why we’re proud to endorse the Supporting Newborn Parents Act and grateful to Representatives Valadao, Suozzi, Dingell, and Moore for their leadership in easing the financial burden on new parents,” said Curran McSwigan, Deputy Director of the Economic Program, Third Way.

“American Principles Project is proud to endorse the Supporting Newborn Parents Act. This bipartisan bill delivers real help to working parents exactly when the affordability crisis hits hardest — right after welcoming a new child. This $2,000 newborn tax credit will help alleviate the pain of hospital bills, diapers, and lost wages without punishing work or marriage, while offering flexible payments and a simple process. The vast majority of Americans agree: we need more babies and stronger families. This smart, pro-family proposal would deliver relief today and invest in our future. Congress should pass it,” said Jon Schweppe, Senior Advisor, American Principles Project.

"Bread for the World applauds the introduction of the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which will be a critical tool in addressing food insecurity for families. This will be a beacon of hope for families in a financially vulnerable season of life: when they are welcoming new children into their lives. Congress’s continued support for and expansion of tax credits for families is critical for sustaining positive outcomes, reducing child poverty, and ending hunger," said Eugene Cho, CEO, Bread for the World.

“Parents should be able to focus on bonding with their baby in the first months after birth. Too often, though, this period of life is marked by financial insecurity as new expenses hit the pocket book. A newborn credit—providing up to $2,000 on top of the typical Child Tax Credit (CTC) in the first year of life—is a smart way to support those American families. The Searchlight Institute applauds this bipartisan effort,” said Will Raderman, Policy Director, Searchlight Institute.

“The Bakersfield Pregnancy Center is grateful for the Bi-partisan bill "Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026". As a Kern County Primary Care Clinic-Free, with services specific to Pregnancy and Sexual health, we see first-hand the challenges our clients face in welcoming a new baby into their life. This tax credit will help build nation committed to supporting moms and dads, equipping them with needed financial resources so that choosing to have a child is natural, expected and celebrated,” said Erin Rogers, Executive Director, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center.

“Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) supports the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 for its focus on strengthening families at a critical time. By easing financial strain for new parents, this legislation will allow our agency to better serve the community and enhance the effectiveness of our existing programs by helping move people out of poverty and towards self-sufficiency,” said Jeremy Tobias, Chief Executive Officer, Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK).

“The Supporting Newborn Parents Act provides an important lifeline for families navigating the early stages of parenthood. A child’s earliest months and years are critical to healthy development, and we must continue creating meaningful support systems for parents and caregivers. As the costs of childbirth, postpartum care, and child care continue to rise, this legislation reflects an important investment in Central Valley families. Thank you to Congressman Valadao for his leadership on this issue," said Amy Travis, Executive Director, First 5 Kern.

"Adventist Health strongly supports the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which would provide a refundable tax credit of up to $2,000 per newborn to help ease the significant financial strain experienced by many of the rural, low-income, and working families we serve. By delivering timely, flexible support during a critical period, this legislation will help strengthen family stability and promote healthier starts for newborns across our communities," said Julia Drefke, MPA, Public Affairs Executive, Adventist Health.

“In an era of declining family formation, we need action to support new parents during a vulnerable and volatile time of their life. This bill would support parents of newborns in a direct, visible way, helping make America a meaningfully more welcoming place to have a child. If it passes, it would become the most high-impact piece of pro-family legislation in a generation,” said Patrick T. Brown, Fellow, Ethics and Public Policy Center.

"Babies come with new expenses and disruptions to work. What they don't come with is a check to pay for all of that. This bill is a long-overdue opportunity to fix that mismatch, and help American families start their lives as parents on a strong footing,” said Lyman Stone, Senior Fellow and Director of the Pronatalism Initiative, Institute for Family Studies.

“Working families are the backbone of this country, and federal policy should reflect that. BPC Action is excited to see Reps Valadao, Suozzi, Moore and Dingell focusing on this critical issue. Investing in families is essential and Congress must continue bipartisan engagement on these issues to meet the needs of families in a fiscally responsible manner,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action.

Background:

Working families across the United States rely on a range of family benefit programs, including the Child Tax Credit (CTC), Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Yet despite this support, a critical gap remains in the months immediately following a child’s birth—a period when families face significant new expenses while household income declines by an average of 10 percent. The Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 would address this gap by establishing a newborn tax credit to complement existing family benefits. This credit would provide timely financial support to help parents cover hospital bills, purchase essential supplies, and manage the financial strain that often accompanies the arrival of a new child.

Read the full bill here.