Press Releases

Rep. Aguilar Visits Redlands Convenience Store Impacted by Rising Gas Prices

The Rocket convenience store in Redlands serves hundreds of customers a day, driving the local economy and providing jobs to people in the Inland Empire

REDLANDS, CA – Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) visited the Rocket store on Lugonia Avenue to learn about the ins and outs of running a convenience store and how rising costs are impacting business. Rising gas prices are putting added financial pressure on drivers and shoppers and hurting convenience stores like Rocket, where food purchases make up a large portion of their profits.

The visit is part of the National Association of Convenience Stores’ (NACS) In Store program, which gives members of Congress a firsthand look at how convenience stores operate and benefit local communities. You can find photos from the visit above and here.

“It was great to stop by the Rocket convenience store and see firsthand the different ways this store benefits Redlands residents and our entire community,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack, getting a car wash, filling up your gas tank, or using the ATM, convenience stores are an important part of daily life for people in the Inland Empire and help boost our local economy. Yet as gas prices soar thanks to Trump’s war with Iran, people have less money to spend on food and drinks, hurting convenience stores and their customers. I’ll keep fighting back to end this reckless overseas conflict and bring down costs so families and businesses like Rocket can thrive.”

“Convenience stores are essential to everyday life and local economies, and challenges around affordability continue to place increasing strain on our customers, operations, and the communities that depend on us,” said Joe Juliano, President & CEO, United Pacific. “We hope the visit provided Congressman Aguilar with a deeper understanding of convenience store operations and the challenges we face, and that it will help drive stronger support for our industry in Washington, DC.”


Congressman Allen Leads Colleagues in Calling on the EBSA to Enforce PBM Reforms

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) was joined by Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Lucy McBath (GA-06), and Bradley Schneider (IL-10) in sending a letter to the Honorable Daniel Aronowitz, Assistant Secretary of the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

The letter urges the EBSA to exercise its enhanced authority to enforce the landmark reforms designed to rein in the abuses of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), as required by law via the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 (CAA).

In the letter, the Members write: "The CAA represents years of bipartisan work to increase the accountability and transparency of PBMs’ opaque business practices, which have contributed to rising costs and diminished access to medicines for American patients and employers. The enactment of the CAA’s provisions is a significant step toward increased PBM transparency."

The Members continue: "However, meaningful implementation will require active oversight and guidance from the Department of Labor (DOL) and the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA). We write to urge EBSA to exercise its enhanced authority to give full effect to these reforms, as Congress intended."

The Members conclude: "Robust implementation of the rebate pass-through requirement and the bona fide service fee standard will help ensure the following:

PBMs no longer have a financial incentive to favor more expensive medicines over generics or biosimilars.

Patients benefit from the rebates and discounts negotiated on their behalf.

Employers and plan fiduciaries gain meaningful transparency into the compensation arrangements and services provided by their PBMs.


Ansari Delivers “State of the District” Address

PHOENIX – Last week, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), the youngest woman in Congress, hosted her first “State of the District” Address, highlighting her work in Congress to build a stronger, more opportunity-driven future for Arizona’s Third Congressional District.

“Families across Arizona’s Third District are working harder than ever just to keep up while Donald Trump and Republicans hand out giveaways to the top 1% and dismantle essential safety nets for working people,” said Rep. Ansari. “I came to Congress to fight back. From lowering costs and expanding affordable housing to defending our rights, pushing back against ICE, and tackling the climate crisis, my focus is delivering results and protecting Arizona families. That’s exactly what I’ll continue to do.”

During her address, Congresswoman Ansari discussed efforts to lower costs for working families, expand affordable housing, confront the climate crisis, defend civil rights, and hold the Trump Administration accountable. She shared the results she has delivered for our community and outlined her vision for the path ahead.

Key Wins & Investments for AZ-03:

Secured more than $17.7 million in new investments for Arizona’s Third Congressional District.

Delivered $5+ million for the City of Phoenix, supporting Sky Harbor Airport, community safety, and wildfire prevention.

Directed $4 million to Arizona State University for heat resilience research and domestic manufacturing innovation.

Funded $2 million for Biehn Colony Park revitalization in Guadalupe.

Secured $830,000 for Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS) to renovate its Single Adult Shelter.

Additional funding secured for transportation improvements in Glendale, Valley Metro, and nonprofit partners.

Closed 624 constituent casework issues, returning more than $1.4 million to residents.

Engaged 77,000+ constituents through the Community Ambassador program across 300+ events.

Held 18 town halls, including outreach to Sudanese, Afghan, Iranian, and Asian American communities.

Provided Know Your Rights resources in multiple languages and hosted tele-town halls reaching tens of thousands.

Introduced or supported 32 pieces of original legislation and 442 cosponsored bills.

Led nine oversight visits to Arizona detention centers.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING

Reyna Montoya, Founder & CEO of Aliento:

“The administration’s continued delays in processing DACA renewals are not just bureaucratic — they have real and immediate human consequences. People who followed the rules, submitted their applications on time, and trusted the system are now being left in limbo. That is deeply unjust. DACA recipients are not an abstraction. We are part of the fabric of Arizona and this country. We are homeowners, small business owners, students, parents, and caregivers. Our ability to work is not a privilege; it is the foundation of our stability, our families’ well-being, and our contributions to the communities we call home.

The children of immigrants, Dreamers, and immigrant families strengthen our state and our nation every day — in our classrooms, our workforce, and our local economies. When their futures are put on hold, the impact is felt far beyond any single individual. We need action and accountability. USCIS must process renewals without delay, and Congress must finally pass a permanent solution, including the Dream Act, that reflects both our values and our shared future.”

Dr. Matthew C. Whitaker, Executive Director, George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center:

“The gutting of the Voting Rights Act is nothing short of a catastrophe for American democracy. For communities of color — and particularly for Black and Brown voters here in Arizona's Third Congressional District — the VRA was not a relic of the past; it was a living shield against the deliberate suppression of our voices and our votes. Its evisceration has opened the floodgates to discriminatory redistricting, restrictive ballot access laws, and the systematic silencing of the very communities this nation has historically excluded from full participation. We did not march, bleed, and die for the right to vote only to watch it be dismantled from the bench. The George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center stands firmly with Congresswoman Ansari and every leader who refuses to accept the erasure of our hard-won freedoms. The fight for voting rights is the fight for democracy itself — and we will not retreat.”

Marisol Garcia, President of the Arizona Education Association:

“AZ-03 is home to amazing public schools and educators who work tirelessly to ensure every student gets the great education they deserve. The past two years have brought serious challenges — from chronic underfunding and political attacks on public education to efforts by the Trump administration to dismantle the Department of Education and accelerate the privatization of our schools. Through it all, Congresswoman Ansari has been a steadfast champion for students and educators because she understands that strong public schools are the foundation of a strong future for Arizona. As our union continues fighting for investments in our schools, we are grateful for Congresswoman Ansari’s leadership.”

Mike Renaud, CEO of Valle del Sol:

“Every day at Valle del Sol, we see the consequences when healthcare, housing, food assistance, and mental health services are treated as optional instead of essential. Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari understands that investing in people is not just good policy—it is a moral responsibility. We are grateful for her leadership and her commitment to protecting the dignity, health, and opportunity of Arizona families.”


Wed., June 3: Rep. Chris Smith to chair hearing on Turkey“Can Turkey Find Its Way Back to Freedom? Authoritarian Consolidation versus the Defense of Turkish Democracy”

On Wednesday, June 3rd, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC), will chair a congressional hearing on the challenges to freedom, rule of law and democracy in Turkey.

In the aftermath of recent electoral setbacks for the ruling party, the Turkish government has intensified its crackdown on political opposition, independent media, civil society, religious minorities, and perceived critics at home and abroad.

Human rights advocates estimate that over 15,000 political prisoners remain incarcerated in Turkey, including journalists, lawyers, elected officials, academics, civil society leaders, and democracy activists. The government continues to target Kurdish politicians and religious activists, and growing concerns regarding transnational repression directed at critics residing outside Turkey.

Residents of Turkey also face escalating censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression, including court-ordered blocking of online content, social media accounts, and opposition news platforms; criminal investigations and prosecutions targeting online speech. The government continues to repress religious and ethnic minorities in Turkey, including through restrictions affecting the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Halki Seminary.

Witnesses will discuss the broader trajectory of democratic backsliding in Turkey, implications for regional stability and the NATO alliance, and policy options available to the United States and Congress in support of democracy and human rights.

WHAT: Congressional hearing on political persecution, election manipulation, and censorship, as well as prospects for a return to democratic governance, judicial independence, free and fair elections, and respect for fundamental freedoms in Turkey.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM

WITNESSES: (Partial list)

Henri Barkey, Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies, Council on Foreign Relations

Michael Rubin, Director of Policy Analysis, Middle East Forum

Serkan Golge, Senior Research Scientist, Ex-Political Prisoner in Turkey

Andrew O’Donohue, Carl J. Friedrich Fellow, Harvard University; Nonresident Scholar, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

WHERE: 2128 Rayburn House Office Building and livestreamed here

WHO: Co-Chairs of the TLHRC, other members of the Commission, and witnesses

###


Save Jersey article on Smith's work to combat Lyme disease'Smith Applauds New Federal Push to Combat Lyme Disease'

By The Staff

Published June 1, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith (R, NJ-04) is welcoming a series of new federal initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s response to Lyme disease, including expanded research funding, prevention efforts, and support for innovative diagnostic tools.

On Friday, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced an initiative by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to increase federal investment in combating Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. The initiative includes support for reauthorizing the Kay Hagan Tick Act, a law that provides funding for research and prevention programs through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Smith, who co-chairs the Congressional Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Caucus, is sponsoring legislation (H.R. 4348) designed to extend funding and expand federal-state cooperation to combat tick-borne disease outbreaks. The legislation passed through the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously.

In a statement, Smith said Kennedy’s endorsement could help accelerate congressional action as the summer tick season begins. Health officials have reported increasing concerns about tick exposure and Lyme disease cases in several regions of the country.

Kennedy also announced an expansion of the LymeX Innovation Accelerator, a public-private partnership that funds competitions designed to spur advancements in Lyme disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. According to Smith, the program has already contributed to the development of two FDA-approved diagnostic tests intended to improve early detection of the disease.

“Millions of Americans battling Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses have spent years searching for answers, treatment, and support,” said Secretary Kennedy. “Today, the Trump Administration is launching one of the most ambitious federal efforts ever to combat Lyme disease by accelerating research, expanding innovation, and improving care for patients and families. We are going after this disease at its source, driving faster diagnostics and new prevention strategies, and delivering the urgency and action Americans deserve.”

The congressman has separately introduced legislation that would formally authorize the LymeX program and provide additional federal funding to support future research competitions.

Another component of the federal initiative focuses on reducing tick populations and limiting the spread of Lyme-causing bacteria among wildlife. HHS plans to work with the New England Center of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases on strategies to control infection rates in animals such as deer and mice, which play a role in the disease’s transmission cycle.

Smith noted that the research center was established through funding authorized by the original Kay Hagan Tick Act and has contributed to ongoing efforts to better understand tick-borne diseases and effective prevention methods.


Jersey Shore Online article on Manchester Twp.'s new, federally-funded police vehicles'Ten New Police Vehicles Unveiled In Manchester'

By Bob Vosseller

Published June 1, 2026

MANCHESTER – It was a day of celebration with county and municipal officials joining special guest 4th District Congressman Christopher Smith for the dedication of 10 new police vehicles.

Police Chief Antonio Ellis welcomed the officials and guests who were present at the police headquarters on Colonial Drive. The vehicles were funded with no municipal tax burden through the Byrne Discretionary Grant Program.

This program supports projects designated for funding in the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2022 (Public Law 117-103) that improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and assist victims of crime (other than compensation).

Eligible applicants are limited to those identified in the Congressional Joint Explanatory Statement (JES) for the projects designated for funding.

Ten new police vehicles were funded with no municipal tax burden through the Byrne Discretionary Grant Program. (Photo courtesy Manchester Police)

(From left) Councilman Craig Wallis, Ocean County Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, Manchester Mayor Joseph Hankins, Councilman James Vaccaro, Police Chief Antonio Ellis at the podium, Councilwoman/former Manchester Township Police Officer Sandra Drake, Council President Michele Zolezi, Fourth District Congressman Christopher Smith and Ocean County Commissioner/former mayor Robert Arace on the occasion of 10 new police vehicles that were unveiled at police headquarters. (Photo courtesy Manchester Police)

The congressman joined Ocean County Commissioners Jennifier Bacchione and Robert Arace, Mayor Joseph Hankins, Council members James Vaccaro, Michele Zolezi and Sandra Drake – a retired police officer – for the occasion.

The effort to secure the vehicles began several years ago when then-Police Chief Robert Dolan identified a serious concern as many vehicles in the department’s aging vehicle fleet were beyond operational limits and temporary fixes could no longer alleviate those issues.

In an effort to maintain the level of service the community desired, Chief Dolan reached out to Congressman Smith for assistance.

“Our department – serving over 45,000 residents across 85 square miles – was facing increasing demands with limited resources. That’s when we put forward a comprehensive plan – focused on restoring reliability, safety, and sustainability, and that plan led to the real results we see before us today,” Ellis remarked.

Through Smith’s assistance, the township was awarded approximately $1.148 million through the Fiscal Year 2024 Byrne Discretionary Grant Program, which went toward purchasing nine new Chevy Tahoe SUVs and an animal control van.

Manchester Police Chief Antonio Ellis (left) shakes hands with 4th District Congressman Christopher Smith following the dedication of 10 new police vehicles. (Photo courtesy Manchester Police)

“Special thanks to Chief Antonio Ellis, then-Mayor and now-Commissioner Rob Arace, then-Chief Robert Dolan, Mayor Joseph Hankins, and the entire Manchester Town Council for their tireless efforts to identify concerns with Manchester Township Police Department’s aging fleet of police vehicles and spearhead this critical request to the finish line,” Congressman Smith said.

“Today is an amazing example of what good local governance can lead to. Their remarkable advocacy has reaped tangible benefits for the people of Manchester Township, the nine brand-new Chevy Tahoe SUVs and animal control van that stand before us will actively make Manchester safer and better equipped to fulfill the needs of its residents,” the congressman added.


‘Don’t Spy on Me’: Freedom Caucus Launches Video Highlighting Need to Protect Americans’ Privacy

Sean Moran | Breitbart

The Freedom Caucus launched a video, “Don’t Spy On Me,” highlighting many conservatives’ concerns with surveillance.

“I don’t know any Americans that want Big Brother controlling our cars, tracking our money, or really just surveilling us from every corner that we turn,” Rep. Mark Harris (R-NC) said.

Rep. Michael Cloud (R-TX) said, “But too often, the American people are left wondering, what’s the government doing trying to get in all their business?”

Cloud was referring to how automobiles and banks surveil more Americans than ever. Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO) have proposed legislation that would give drivers more control over their personal data collected by auto manufacturers without drivers’ consent.

“Our privacy is not negotiable,” Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) said.

Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) said, “This is America, not some surveillance state. If they can spy on a member of Congress, they can spy on you.”

“Look, under the Biden administration, there were nearly 3 million warrantless searches of American citizens. That’s unacceptable,” Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) explained.

“Under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) authorization, if you’re an American, you shouldn’t be spied on as a foreigner, but they did it anyhow,” Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA), said.

Section 702 is a surveillance authority meant to be used to spy on foreign adversaries; however, Americans’ private communications incidentally get surveilled without a warrant — contrary to the Fourth Amendment protections against warrantless surveillance. The surveillance authority will expire on June 12 if Congress does not pass a bill reauthorizing the legislation.

Conservatives have continued to press for reforms as Congress seeks to reauthorize Section 702 ahead of that deadline.

“We want our intelligence community, our federal law enforcement community, that when they are going to surveil an American, they have to get a warrant,” Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) said. Many conservatives want to enact reforms that would bar intelligence agencies, federal law enforcement, and others from purchasing Americans’ private communications through third-party data brokers without a warrant.

“It’s important that as we come to this June 12th end of FISA that we understand the importance of getting a warrant as we move forward,” Harris said. Congress has yet to find a framework that would reauthorize and reform Section 702 of FISA that could pass through both chambers of the legislative branch.

“Don’t spy on me,” Norman concluded.


RELEASE: Congressman Cloud Applauds Wins for CCAD in Initial Release of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Armed Services Committee released text for the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) containing several key victories that support national defense efforts and military infrastructure in the Coastal Bend, specifically at the Corpus Christi Army Depot.

Congressman Cloud worked with the House Armed Services Committee to secure key provisions into the bill, including:

Authorizing the Secretary of War to adjust the Working Capital Fund for a covered depot, including CCAD, that generates debt as a result of a Government-directed mission changes.

Language directing the Secretary of the Army to accelerate the modernization of the Army’s Organic Industrial Base.

Limitations on the Secretary of the Army from decreasing workload at an Army depot by more than 10%.

Increased procurement funding for the Army’s rotary wing aircraft.

Modifications to Annual Department Reporting requirements for Depot-Level Maintenance and Repair Workloads. This will require public and private sector workload assessments for each covered depot, like CCAD, to increase oversight and workload compliance with the 50-50 rule under 10 U.S.C. § 2466.

“These provisions deliver some long overdue policy updates to help modernize the business models of our Organic Industrial Bases sites, while putting in place measures to ensure workload transparency and accountability.” Rep. Cloud stated. “I am grateful to Chairman Rogers and the Armed Services Committee for including these provisions, and I am hopeful that we can finally address some of the core issues facing our Corpus Christi Army Depot, to ensure our Army’s overall readiness and lethality, while protecting our depot and artisan workforce. I look forward to continuing the fight for our district in this NDAA, and seeing it cross the finish line in both the House and the Senate,” Rep. Cloud concluded.

The NDAA is an annual package of legislation that outlines the budget, expenditures, and priorities for the Department of War. The bill now awaits full mark-up by the House Armed Services Committee.


De La Cruz Imposes Consequences for Mexico's Refusal to Comply with the 1944 Water Treaty

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Water Assurance and Treaty Enforcement for Rio Grande Farmers Act (WATER for Farmers Act). The legislation will impose tariffs on Mexico if they refuse to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty. The funds collected from the tariffs will be allocated to the South Texas farmers impacted by missed water deliveries.

De La Cruz introduced the legislation alongside Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), and Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22). Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the legislation in the Senate.

"For too long, the Mexican government has refused to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty, and South Texas farmers have faced the consequences. It's time to hold the Mexican government to their agreed-upon water deliveries, and, if not, impose tariffs to support the farmers who have suffered due to their inaction." – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

Under the 1944 Water Treaty, the Government of Mexico is required to deliver 350,000 acre-feet of water per year to the United States over a five-year cycle. However, consistent delivery delays have resulted in devastating economic consequences for South Texas farmers, including the closure of the last sugar mill in Texas.

To address this crisis, the WATER for Farmers Act would impose tariffs on Mexico if the government continues to violate the treaty by withholding obligated water deliveries.

The duties collected from these tariffs would fund a new "South Texas Agricultural Compensation Trust Fund" within the U.S. Treasury. At the discretion of the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, this fund would provide financial compensation to South Texas farmers and producers who have suffered losses due to the Government of Mexico's non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty.


DelBene Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Require Warrants for Emails, Digital Records

Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Warren Davidson (OH-08), along with Senators Mike Lee (UT) and Ron Wyden (OR) introduced the bipartisan Email Privacy Act, which would create updated privacy protections for emails and other personalized digital records.

Currently, law enforcement can obtain private email communications older than 180 days without a warrant because the law is based on outdated storage capabilities. Congress passed the Electronic Communications Privacy Act in the 1980s to establish email privacy standards. In the four decades since, usage and storage of email have evolved significantly, underscoring how behind the U.S. is in digital privacy more broadly.

This bill would protect Americans’ digital communications by requiring warrants to access emails regardless of when the message originated. The bill also includes provisions that will allow email providers (Gmail, Yahoo!, Hotmail, iCloud, etc.) to notify users when their data has been accessed, and updates voluntary disclosure language.

“The current law governing online privacy standards is egregiously out of date, leaving millions of Americans’ private communications and data vulnerable,” said DelBene. “Our laws must reflect the capabilities of modern technology rather than being stuck in the past. Personal email communications and physical documents should be protected with the same level of security. This bill makes critical changes that will update email privacy standards and modernize Americans’ civil liberties.”

“The Fourth Amendment is clear: the government must get a warrant before searching an individual’s private property, including written communications. As today’s world has grown increasingly digital, that principle should apply just as strongly to an email inbox as it does to a desk drawer or file cabinet,” said Davidson. “That’s exactly why I’m proud to cosponsor the Email Privacy Act—to ensure our freedoms carry into the digital world and that all communications are protected as the Founders intended. Congress must pass this commonsense legislation so Americans’ rights are fully respected in the 21st century.”

“Americans should not lose their Fourth Amendment protections simply because their private communications are stored with a third-party provider. By eliminating the outdated 180-day rule and requiring the government to obtain a warrant for the contents of emails and other electronic communications, this legislation brings ECPA into line with the realities of the 21st century,” said Lee.

“Right now, the only thing standing between the government and warrantless access to all of the old emails in your inbox is a federal appeals court decision. That's not good enough when it comes to Fourth Amendment protections for one of the fundamental forms of communication right now. I’m proud to partner with a bipartisan coalition to put clear protections for Americans' rights into black-letter law,” said Wyden.

The legislation is endorsed by the ACLU, Americans for Prosperity, Americans for Tax Reform, Association for Competitive Technology, Center for Democracy & Technology, Computer & Communications Industry Association, Consumer Choice Center, Consumer Technology Association, Demand Progress, Due Process Institute, Electronic Frontier Foundation, Engine, Fight for the Future, Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, Institute for Policy Innovation, Internet Infrastructure Coalition – I2Coalition, NetChoice, Project On Government Oversight, R Street Institute, Restore the Fourth, Software & Information Industry Association, TechFreedom, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

DelBene is also the author of a comprehensive national data privacy bill that would put Americans back in control of their data.


Donalds Releases Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Southwest Florida Residents

— EMERGENCY RESOURCES —

Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM):

Statewide List of Shelters Open to the Public

Disaster Supply Kit Checklist

Home Resiliency Checklist

Statewide Evacuation Zone Information

Special Needs Registry Sign-Up

Make a Plan for Your Pets

Make a Plan for Your Livestock

Generator Safety Information

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

Register with FEMA

Download the FEMA mobile app for disaster resources, weather alerts and safety tips (available in English and Spanish)

Office of Response and Recovery

Assistance After a Disaster

Tools to Recover

Programs to Support Recovery

Other Resources:

Collier County Emergency Management

Lee County Emergency Management

NOAA Tropical Weather Outlook

Statewide Public School Closure Information

List of Public Shelters in Lee County

List of Public Shelters in Collier County

How to Find Fuel in Collier County

How to Find Fuel in Lee County

Emergency Supply Kit Checklist

Emergency Hotlines:

Emergency Medical Services – 911

Collier County Emergency Hotline – 311 or (239) 252-8444

Collier County Emergency Management – (239) 252- 3600

Lee County Storm Hotline – 211

Lee County Emergency Management – (239) 533-0622

Florida Price Gouging Hotline – (866) 966-7226

Florida Division of Emergency Management – (850) 815-4000

Office of Congressman Byron Donalds – (202) 225-2536

In addition, the State of Florida has enacted a permanent sales tax exemption on select disaster preparedness supplies. For a full list of qualified items, visit HERE.


Rep. Estes Leads Letter to Reissue the Protect Life Rule

U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-04) led a letter alongside U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) urging Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reissue the Protect Life Rule to restore crucial safeguards to the Title X Family Planning Program.

Reissuing the Protect Life Rule, which previously eliminated abortion referral mandates and separated Title X funding from abortion activities, the goal is to reverse Biden-era policies and ensure taxpayer dollars do not fund the abortion industry.

During the first Trump Administration, the organization withdrew from the program to avoid complying with the rule. Although the Biden Administration later rescinded the Protect Life Rule – permitting clinic co-location and requiring abortion referrals – the Trump Administration's Spring 2025 Unified Agenda signals intent to reinstate the Protect Life Rule.

Congressman Ron Estes previously led a letter in 2018 on the Protect Life Rule.

“For too long, the Biden administration forced a deeply flawed mandate on the Title X program, forcing hard-working Americans to effectively subsidize the abortion industry through their tax dollars. Leading this letter is about restoring basic program integrity,” Congressman Ron Estes said. “By reissuing the Protect Life Rule, the Trump Administration will once again draw a bright, undeniable line of physical and financial separation between actual family planning services and elective abortion activities. We must ensure our federal resources protect innocent life rather than funding its destruction.”

“We’re counting on the Trump administration to restore this policy and ensure that Title X funds cannot be used to perform or support abortions. The Biden administration flagrantly disregarded both the letter of the law and congressional intent, illegally mandating that abortion and abortion services be actively promoted through this program,” U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus said. “With this bicameral letter, we’re sending a clear, unified message that it’s time to do right by the law, the American taxpayers, and unborn children.”

“The Protect Life Rule cements the fundamental directive that the federal government is never to be involved in the business of abortion either directly or indirectly. For the majority of Americans who are fundamentally opposed to this barbaric and entirely demeaning practice, the Protect Life Rule remains an ironclad safeguard for the sanctity of human life,” Congresswoman Virginia Foxx said. “The tax dollars of hardworking Americans must be given the due deference they deserve – not a single cent should be used to fund Title X programs where abortion is deliberately misconstrued and interpreted as a method of family planning.”

You may click HERE to read Congressman Estes’ full letter to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy.

Supporting organizations of this letter include: SBA Pro-Life America, National Right to Life, March for Life Action, Family Research Council, Students for Life Action, Concerned Women for America, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, and Catholic Vote.


Gluesenkamp Perez to Longview Mill: Pay Your Workers

LONGVIEW, WA – Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez sent a letter to executives at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company asking them to clarify their commitment to pay Longview millworkers during an ongoing investigation by the Chemical Safety Board. The mill in Longview was the site of a devastating industrial incident last week that killed 11 workers.

In the immediate aftermath of this tragedy, Nippon Dynawave staff made a verbal commitment to pay its workers for the duration of the investigation. Now they seem to be walking that back, telling workers they’ll only be paid through June 7, 2026. Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez’s letter asks for clarity on the company’s commitments, and urges them to pay workers for the complete duration of any investigation.

“A community must come together in a time of tragedy. These are our friends, our neighbors, our families, and we need to make sure they’re being taken care of,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m deeply concerned – if the company doesn’t stand by its commitment to pay workers, it’s just going to pile on even more hardship for people who are already uncertain about the future of their livelihoods.”

The mill employs 550 people and is a critical part of the local economy. The letter expresses concern that this skilled workforce, which took generations to build, needs certainty and support to ensure the future of the mill and the industry overall.

Read the letter here.

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Rep. Jimmy Gomez Meets with Hunger-Striking Detainees During Oversight Visit at Adelanto ICE Detention Facility

ADELANTO, CA – Today, Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) returned to the Adelanto Detention Center to meet with detainees on a hunger strike protesting conditions inside the facility.

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RELEASE: Gottheimer Leads Intelligence Committee Trip to the UAE and Asia with Clear Message: End Iran’s Threats, Strengthen American Alliances

Congressman Gottheimer meets with the Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the UAE.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), released the following statement after leading a HPSCI Congressional delegation (CODEL) to the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, and the Philippines.

In the UAE, Gottheimer was honored to meet with Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor His Highness Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss the ongoing conflict with Iran, regional security, artificial intelligence, and energy security cooperation.

The group also discussed rising antisemitism and extremism and both nations’ shared commitment to combating hate and extremist ideologies.

In Thailand and the Philippines, Gottheimer met with senior officials to discuss shared efforts to strengthen security in the Indo-Pacific and counter the destabilizing influence of bad actors around the world, including China, North Korea, and Iran.

“The United States and the UAE are close partners, and I am grateful for the warmth our hosts extended throughout this trip,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “The UAE has stood firm throughout Iran’s relentless missile and drone attacks on Emirati cities and demonstrated the enduring strength of the Abraham Accords by engaging in a deeper partnership with Israel than ever before. We are completely aligned that Iran cannot continue threatening its neighbors.”

Gottheimer continued, “We also had productive discussions on artificial intelligence and energy cooperation that underscored the strength of what our two societies can build. Together, we are forging a partnership that will define the future of AI and energy innovation.”

The US-UAE partnership spans decades, rooted in shared interests in regional stability, economic cooperation, and countering Iran and other malign actors. The UAE is among America’s closest partners in the Middle East, a core architect of the Abraham Accords, and a valued ally of the United States.

Congressman Gottheimer is a member of HPSCI and serves as the Ranking Member of the National Security Agency & Cyber Subcommittee.


Grijalva, Kelly, Gallego Demand Answers on Proposed Closure of Tucson Indian Health Service Area Office

Tucson, AZ — Today, Congresswoman Adelita S. Grijalva, alongside Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services requesting answers regarding the proposed closure of the Indian Health Service (IHS) Tucson Area Office.

“The Tucson Area Office facilitates essential health services for nearly 28,000 patients in coordination with the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and Tohono O'odham Nation. Merging these offices will require patients and staff to travel as long as two hours to visit the closest Area Office, exacerbating bureaucratic delays, communication failures, and service disruptions. The Tucson Office also provides specialized, local services, including dedicated Area Diabetes Consultants which the Phoenix office may be unable to replicate,” said the lawmakers in the letter.

The letter follows a press conference hosted by Rep. Grijalva this morning, where Tribal leaders, local elected officials, and community advocates raised concerns about the proposed elimination of the Tucson Area Office and its potential impact on Tribal communities across Southern Arizona.

About the Tucson Area Indian Health Service: The Tucson Area Indian Health Service (IHS) works in partnership with the Tohono O’odham Nation and Pascua Yaqui Tribe in providing technical assistance to the primary health care and community outreach services of the Tohono O'odham Nation, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, and a growing and diverse urban Indian population. The Area also provides urban health care services through the Tucson Indian Center, which provides community health outreach, education, prevention, and referral services, including case management, advocacy, and transportation.

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LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT IN THIS COUNTRY SHOULD BE HUMANE, AND NOTHING WE SAW AT DELANEY HALL SUGGESTS THAT”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s Erin Burnett OutFront, where he emphasized that the Department of Homeland Security under the Trump administration is out of control and that Democrats are committed to ensuring immigration enforcement is conducted in a manner that is consistent with American values.

ERIN BURNETT: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries just visited the facility, and he is now OutFront. And Leader Jeffries, I appreciate your time. So I just detailed a few of the allegations out there, but can you tell me specifically what did you see and witness during your visit that convinced you that Delaney Hall has to be shut down?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, good evening, thanks for having me on. Listen, Donald Trump promised that immigration enforcement in this country was going to target violent felons and the worst of the worst. That’s not what has happened. Taxpayer dollars are being used to brutalize or kill American citizens, which is what we horrifically saw happen in Minneapolis, or to violently target law-abiding immigrant families.Not a single person who we spoke with at Delaney Hall yesterday was a violent felon, someone who had been convicted of a crime or presented a danger, as far as we can tell, to the community. In fact, we spent a good amount of time with an 18-year-old girl who was a month away from finishing her high school graduation and has been detained now in Delaney Hall for months, who also appears to be here on a U visa, which is available for juveniles, and has been ripped away from her family, including her two children siblings, who are here as American citizens. We also spent some time talking to a whole lot of folks with serious medical conditions who clearly have not gotten basic medical care. Now, immigration enforcement in this country, it should be fair, just and humane, and nothing that we saw at Delaney Hall or that people have previously experienced at Delaney Hall suggest that that is what is taking place, and that’s why we believe it should be shut down.

ERIN BURNETT: So the acting Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security had a comment about your claims and other criticisms, saying, “Sanctuary politicians are spreading categorically false smears about ICE’s Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey. These types of smears are inciting violent riots outside the ICE facility in New Jersey. No lawbreakers in the history of human civilization have been better treated than illegal aliens.” What do you say to that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, it’s a wildly irresponsible claim, but this is what we should expect from the Department of Homeland Security and ICE, which is deeply unpopular with the American people, or from the Trump administration. Not a day goes by without them peddling a lie to the American People. And they obviously are trying to distract from the fact that the administration has been a total failure—a failure on the economy, a failure of immigration enforcement, a failure as it relates to this reckless and costly war of choice in the Middle East, which has caused gas prices to skyrocket for tens of millions of everyday Americans all across the country. We will continue to encourage people who show up outside of Delaney Hall to comply with the law and to peacefully demonstrate consistent with the First Amendment at the same period of time as Members of Congress, led by the New Jersey Congressional delegation, particularly LaMonica McIver and Rob Menendez, who have done a tremendous job, are going to continue to exercise our constitutional responsibility to engage in oversight to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent consistent with American values.

ERIN BURNETT: I want to ask you about something else, if I may, Leader Jeffries, and this is a report from our KFILE tonight about Darializa Avila Chevalier, a Democratic socialist. She’s endorsed by the New York City Mayor, Zohran Mamdani. She is challenging the incumbent Congressman, Adriano Espaillat. Now, she deleted a previous Twitter account, but KFILE found a lot of the deleted posts and reposts, and I just wanted to share a couple of them with you. One of them is Avila Chevalier responding to a user asking what a better slogan would be than defund the police by posting, “F— you. We’re going to defund and abolish. You don’t get to water down our movement.” There is another one. This one’s from 2020, so obviously prior to any of the conflict in the Middle East, in which Chevalier reposted a tweet, which responded to a social media prompt. The prompt asked, “Israel suddenly disappears. Your third emoji is your reaction.” And then she reposted a tweet that said, “Trick question. Israel doesn’t exist.” Now, Leader Jeffries, she has not disavowed these posts. She did tell CNN, “I have grown considerably since in the years since these tweets.” And you have endorsed her opponent, Congressman Espaillat. But, you know, those views, if she’s elected, do those views have a home in your Caucus in the Democratic Party?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, the voters are ultimately going to decide this primary election, and Adriano Espaillat, in my view, is going to win. Adriano Espaillat has been a tremendous leader. He’s leading in terms of battling Donald Trump. He’s leading as it relates to battling and pushing back against ICE’s violent mass deportation machine. And he’s been one of the leaders in pushing back against Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice. I’m unfamiliar with his particular primary opponent. Obviously, the language that she’s used, as is the case with any candidate, speaks for itself, and she’s gonna have to explain herself, of course, to the people of Harlem, the people of Washington Heights and the people of the Bronx. We’re going to continue to stand firmly behind Representative Espaillat. He’s got a track record of accomplishment, but more importantly, a progressive vision for the future to make life better for the people he represents.

ERIN BURNETT: Okay, so it’s clear where you stand, I mean, who you’ve endorsed, right? You say she has to speak for herself on those posts, but Mayor Mamdani praised her. Now, he didn’t address the controversial posts, okay, but he said, “At a time when power is concentrated in fewer and fewer hands, Darializa will fight in Congress for New York’s working families. She’s the champion we need for a city New Yorkers can actually afford.” Are you disappointed in that response given just those examples that I shared? Does it surprise you that Mayor Mamdani would say that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: The mayor and I have agreed to strongly disagree as it relates to this particular race. And we, as House Democrats—certainly Members of the New York delegation, but also the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus, Members of goodwill in terms of the organized labor movement who are strongly behind Adriano Espaillat—we’ve got to put the work in over the next few weeks to make sure that his track record is clear, can’t be distorted and that Adriano Espaillat is able to communicate the fact that he is an actual genuine leader who lifts people up as opposed to trying to tear people down.

ERIN BURNETT: Leader Hakeem Jeffries, I appreciate your time and thank you very much.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

Full interview can be watched here.

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Openly-LGBTQI+ Representatives & House Democratic Leadership Celebrate Pride Month 2026

WASHINGTON, DC — In recognition of Pride Month, the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus and the leadership of the House Democratic Caucus released the following statements:

“Pride Month is more than rainbows and parades, it is a protest—a demand for fairness, dignity, and equality under the law,” said Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39), Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus and lead sponsor of the Equality Act. “As Trump and the Republican Party continue to wage their war of bigotry and hate against our community, targeting our most vulnerable members and undermining our equality, the Congressional Equality Caucus is leading the fight to oppose their attacks. I am humbled and immensely proud to have the honor of leading this coalition with my fellow openly-LGBTQI+ Representatives as we fight to protect and secure the rights of every person to live and to love openly and authentically.”

“During Pride Month, we celebrate the strength, courage and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community while reaffirming our commitment to strengthening protections and advancing equality for every American,” said Democratic Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08). “Everyone deserves to live free from hate, discrimination and fear. This month and every month, House Democrats are committed to doing everything that we can to protect and defend the LGBTQ+ community as Republicans try to turn back the clock on progress. I am proud to fight alongside the Congressional Equality Caucus to ensure that America lives up to its promise of liberty and justice for all.”

“Pride is both a celebration and a call to action,” said Democratic Whip Rep. Katherine Clark (MA-05). “I’m proud to stand with the Equality Caucus in commemorating the strength and resilience of those LGBTQ+ icons who blazed the trail while redoubling our fight against those who want to drag us backward. Democrats’ mission is simple: we’re fighting for the freedom of all people, the dignity of every American, and a future worthy of all our children.”

“This Pride Month, we honor the history, strength and invaluable contributions of the LGBTQI+ community,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33). “While progress has been made, the fight for equality is far from over. Donald Trump and Republicans continue to target the LGBTQI+ community by attacking their fundamental rights and spreading divisive rhetoric. House Democrats remain committed to fighting for equality, respect and opportunity for all, and I’m proud to be in this fight with my colleagues in the Congressional Equality Caucus.”

“Pride is a time to celebrate the LGBTQI+ community’s strength, joy, and perseverance in the face of oppression,” said Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “While Trump has targeted our community, especially our transgender siblings, with anti-equality rhetoric and policies that seek to undermine our rights, we will not give up. In honoring the spirit of Pride, I’m grateful to help co-lead the Equality Caucus by fighting every day to defend against these attacks and to advance LGBTQI+ equality here in Congress.”

“Pride month is a time to celebrate the resilience, vibrance and contributions of the LGBTQI+ community in Minnesota and across our country,” said Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “But this Pride Month, as we honor the progress we’ve made, we must also recognize that the fight for equality is far from over. As a Co-Chair of the Equality Caucus, I’m proud to stand with my colleagues against all forms of hate and discrimination as we continue the fight for progress.”

“Pride Month is a celebration of the resilience, joy, and strength of LGBTQI+ Americans — and a reminder that the fight for equality is far from over,” said Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “As extremist politicians try to roll back hard-fought freedoms, we must keep standing up for every person’s right to live openly, safely, and authentically. I’m proud to represent LGBTQI+ Kansans in Congress and will keep fighting to ensure everyone has the freedom and opportunity to thrive.”

“Pride month marks the hard-fought progress that we’ve achieved as a community and brings people together in support of full equality and a future where everyone can live as their authentic selves,” said Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “We must confront hate and intolerance and keep marching forward to ensure all Americans have the same freedoms, rights, and responsibilities.”

“As a child of the Bronx who grew up in public housing, I was petrified to come out of the closet in my youth,” said Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “Now, as the first openly LGBTQ+ Afro-Latino Member of Congress, I feel the weight of history on my shoulders. I know firsthand the discrimination members of the LGBTQ+ community face and am determined to make a positive change for my community. This Pride, I am thinking about how we are both so close and yet so far to realizing the full vision of equality in America. It’s crucial that we aggressively combat LGBTQ+ discrimination with federal action. Millions of Americans still live in fear of losing their jobs, homes, or livelihoods because of who they are and whom they love. Happy Pride. Let’s never give up on the fight.”

“I am motivated and energized by incredible queer activists and politicians who came before me, like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, Harvey Milk and Barney Frank, who remind me that small, daily acts of bravery can grow into a lasting movement for equality,” said Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “This Pride Month, I want everyone in the queer community to find an opportunity to celebrate their courage and their strength. As the first openly queer Vermonter in Congress, I will continue to bring both joy and ferocity to my work defending the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.”

“This Pride Month, I’m thinking about every LGBTQ+ kid who deserves to grow up seeing that there’s a place for them in this country, and that there are people willing to fight for them,” said Rep. Robert Garcia (CA-42), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “As the first LGBTQ+ immigrant elected to Congress, I carry that responsibility every single day. I’m proud to stand with our community this month and we will keep advocating so every LGBTQ+ American can live openly, safely, and proudly.”

“Pride Month is a celebration of courage, community, and the freedom to live openly and authentically. As the first openly LGBTQ+ member of Congress from Illinois, I know how important representation and visibility can be for people who just want to feel seen, valued, and safe,” said Rep. Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “While we celebrate the progress we’ve made, we also recognize the work still ahead to protect the rights and dignity of every LGBTQ+ American. I’ll keep fighting for a country where everyone can live with pride, equality, and opportunity.”

“This Pride Month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while recognizing that the fight for equality is far from over,” said Rep. Julie Johnson (TX-32), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “As the Trump Administration continues to enable attacks on LGBTQIA+ Americans across the country, I remain committed to defending our community and protecting fundamental rights and freedoms. Through comprehensive federal protections like the Equality Act, we are calling on Congress to finally deliver on the promise of equal rights under the law. As a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I will never back down from this fight.”

“Pride is a celebration of the LGBTQ community — and a reminder of the power we hold when we lead with compassion, courage, and authenticity,” said Rep. Sarah McBride (DE-AL), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “This month, we honor the generations of LGBTQ Americans, including the example of those in Delaware, whose voices expanded freedom in our country, and recommit ourselves to the work still ahead. Even in the face of indignities, Pride shows us year after year that progress is driven by resilience and by people choosing hope over fear, solidarity over division, and love over hate. This month, and every month, we stand together — for dignity, for equality, and for a world where every person is free to thrive.”


Brownley, Democratic Women’s Caucus Colleagues Urge DHS to Reinstate Protections for Immigrant Survivors Immediately

Washington, DC – Today, Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) member Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26), DWC Executive Steering Committee member Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), DWC member Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04), and 32 DWC colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin urging him to immediately reinstate protections to help immigrant survivors escape abuse, stay safe, and seek justice without fear of deportation. This letter follows consistent abuse of immigrant survivors at the hands of ICE, including a harrowing report about a mother of two who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents after testifying against her ex-boyfriend for choking her until she lost consciousness then raping her. In the letter, the members also requested a meeting with Secretary Mullin to further discuss the importance of protecting survivors.

In the letter, the members explain that the Trump administration’s policies are continuing to put immigrant survivors at risk, despite demands from DWC that DHS act to protect them. The letter highlights multiple cases where ICE detained women after they sought help after abuse. This has created a chilling effect that prevents immigrant survivors from reporting violence, accessing health care, or seeking supportive services.

In the letter, DWC members explain that immigrant women are especially vulnerable to intimate partner violence because abusers often exploit survivors’ immigration status to maintain control and prevent them from seeking help:

“Immigrant women are especially vulnerable to intimate partner violence—experiencing intimate partner violence at a rate of 49%, which is three times the national average. This is in part because abusers can use survivors’ immigration status, to wield control, manipulating survivors not to report the abuse. In 2025, 75.6% of advocates reported that the immigrant survivors they help have concerns about contacting the police; 70.3% reported that immigrant survivors are concerned about going to court for a matter related to their abuser; and 50% reported that immigrant survivors chose not to report their abuser out of fear. The lack of reporting also means that abusers remain in our communities- making all of us less safe.”

The members also highlight that the Trump administration has weakened longstanding protections for immigrant survivors of domestic violence from the Violence Against Women Act:

“In December 2025, USCIS published updates to its Policy Manual that significantly weakened longstanding protections for immigrant survivors of domestic violence under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The new narrow the definitions of ‘battery and extreme cruelty,’ raise evidentiary burdens through a stricter interpretation of the ‘any credible evidence’ standard, and impose new good moral character guidelines that ignore the realities survivors face—including trauma’s effect on memory, abusers’ control over documents, and language and cultural barriers. These changes reward abusers by making it harder for survivors to self-petition for relief which goes against the intent of VAWA. Without protections in place for survivors to report violence coupled with stories about enforcement actions at courthouses and other sensitive locations, immigrant survivors are left with no safe avenues to report their abuse.”

DWC members close the letter by calling on DHS to change policies that are protecting perpetrators:

“Your Department must re-evaluate their policies to ensure that immigrant women survivors of intimate partner violence and other crimes can seek safety without fear. Your Department is punishing victims rather than perpetrators, which contradicts your Department and the President’s stated priority to keep our communities safe and get violent offenders off our streets. Your policies are instead protecting violent offenders, leaving many women vulnerable, scared, with their safety at real risk. Effective enforcement depends on survivors being able to safely report crime. Congress created survivor-based protections to support law enforcement and] improve public safety. A victim-centered approach strengthens enforcement, increases accountability, and makes us all safer. The Democratic Women’s Caucus stands with all survivors, and we implore your Department to undo these dangerous immigration policies and restore protections that allow survivors to escape abuse and receive the resources they need to heal. They deserve to find support without the looming threat of deportation. As you assume your new position, we would like to request a meeting with you to discuss this issue further. We look forward to your timely response.”

Read the full letter here.

In addition to Brownley and letter leads Debbie Dingell and Gwen Moore, the letter was signed by Yassamin Ansari, Nanette Barragán, Joyce Beatty, Judy Chu, Yvette Clarke, Jasmine Crockett, Lois Frankel, Sylvia Garcia, Adelita Grijalva, Pramila Jayapal, Julie Johnson, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Summer Lee, Teresa Leger Fernández, Sarah McBride, Betty McCollum, LaMonica McIver, Kelly Morrison, Brittany Pettersen, Delia Ramirez, Luz Rivas, Deborah Ross, Andrea Salinas, Lateefah Simon, Haley Stevens, Rashida Tlaib, Jill Tokuda, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Nikema Williams, and Frederica Wilson.

This is a follow up to the Democratic Women’s Caucus’s January letter calling on DHS to reinstate protections for immigrant survivors with pending T and U visa applications. This letter is part of DWC’s ongoing efforts to call out DHS on how their policies harm women, including at a hearing entitled: “The Assault of Women By Trump’s ICE & CBP” and in several oversight letters (see here, here, and here).

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With Some Vehicles Registering More than 150,000 Miles, Kennedy Announces $1.8 Million in Federal Funds for Buffalo Airport to Replace Shuttle Vans

Kennedy: A Modern Airport Deserves Modern Amenities - New Vans Will Put Buffalo’s Best Foot Forward and Ensure Travelers Can Ride in Safety & Comfort

Funding Secured by Kennedy in Federal Budget Will Replace Four Vans in Airport’s Parking Lot Shuttle Fleet

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) was joined by leadership from the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) to announce $1.8 million in federal funding he secured that will replace four of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport’s parking lot shuttle vans. With several of the vans registering more than 150,000 miles and showing wear and tear from thousands of airport parking lot pick ups and drop offs, the new vans will ensure that travelers using the busiest airport in the state outside of New York City can get to their destination safely and comfortably. Surpassing pre-pandemic levels, the airport sees 11,000 passengers per day and has surpassed 5 million travelers in each of the last two years. Most importantly, the airport generates $1.7 billion in annual economic activity, supports nearly 14,000 jobs, and generates $139 million in state and local taxes. The NFTA continues to aggressively pursue Canadian passengers, with approximately 30% of passenger traffic originating from neighboring Ontario. New shuttle vans will ensure the airport remains competitive with its peers on both sides of the border, offering the latest amenities to families that are on the move.

“The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the first impression tens of thousands of visitors have of our region, and we have to put our best foot forward,” said Congressman Kennedy. “With the airport’s fleet of parking lot shuttle vans aging and racking up miles on the odometer, these new vans mean that families traveling in and out of the Buffalo Niagara region will be able to enjoy comfort and the latest amenities every step of the way from the parking lot to their gate.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Tim Kennedy for his continued support of public transportation and his commitment to investing in cleaner, more accessible mobility solutions for our community,” said Kim Minkel, Executive Director of the NFTA. “This funding will help the NFTA modernize its fleet at the Buffalo Airport with electric airport shuttle vans. This will help us improve reliability, sustainability, and the overall customer experience. We appreciate Congressman Kennedy’s partnership in helping us move our region forward.”

The Buffalo Niagara International Airport offers more than 100 flights per day to 31 locations across North America. In 2025, J.D. Power & Associates ranked among the highest in the nation among medium-sized airports for customer satisfaction. Last month, Kennedy announced another $8.7 million in federal funds to replace up to eight existing passenger boarding bridges, along with new ground power units.

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New Bill to Support Veterans with Hearing Loss

Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15) along with Congressman Keith Self (TX-03) introduced the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act which would improve access to over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for eligible veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This bill is a companion to S. 3739, introduced by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

Hearing loss is by far the most prevalent service-connected disability among American veterans. In 2017, President Trump signed into law legislation directing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish a category of over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Many veterans experience long wait times for audiology appointments, particularly in rural or high-demand areas. FDA-cleared OTC hearing aids are intended to expand access and fill this gap.

“I know firsthand how essential hearing aids are for people with hearing loss to stay connected to their families, their communities, and the world around them,” said Congressman Mullin.“Our veterans deserve reliable access to high-quality hearing care and the support they need to live healthy, independent lives after their service. No veteran who sacrificed for our country should feel as though they have to choose between their hearing and affording other necessities. In Congress, I will always work to ensure that all Americans have access to hearing support that helps them continue living full, connected lives.”

“The VA has a responsibility to use taxpayer dollars wisely while improving care for veterans,” said Congressman Self. “By evaluating lower cost hearing aid options that can still deliver strong results, we have the opportunity to improve healthcare and access to treatment, all while reducing costs for the VA.”

Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act:

The Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act would establish a two-year pilot program to evaluate the use of FDA-cleared OTC hearing aids for veterans with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, subject to clinical supervision and VA oversight.

Require the VA Secretary to select at least two VA medical facilities in different Veterans Integrated Services Networks to conduct the pilot; and

Require an interim report after the first year and a final report to Congress evaluating the program’s findings, effectiveness, and fiscal impact of the program on the VA.

If successful, the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act aims to reduce costs at VA.

This bill is supported by: American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Concerned Veterans for America, Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA), AARP, and Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

“Establishing a demonstration program in the Veterans Administration to test coverage of over-the-counter hearing aids will improve the quality of life for numerous veterans. This demonstration project will also provide data and insights into how access to self-guided hearing technologies can bring value to the VA by improving health outcomes at lower costs,” said Megan O’Reilly, Vice President of Government Affairs, AARP. “The demonstration project created by this bill will test the benefit of professional-fitted prescription hearing aids compared to self-guided over-the-counter hearing aids. Learnings from this two-year demonstration will help guide policy and coverage decisions so that more Americans can have access to affordable, high-quality hearing health care. AARP applauds your bipartisan leadership in caring for our nation’s military service members and your interest in improving hearing health for all Americans.”

“The Hearing Loss Association of America is proud to support the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act. Hearing loss and tinnitus are the most common service-connected disabilities, yet far too many veterans face obstacles when seeking the hearing health care they need. By allowing the Department of Veterans Affairs to evaluate the use of FDA-approved, self-fitting over-the-counter hearing aids, this legislation offers a practical solution that could expand access, reduce costs, and empower veterans to take an active role in managing their hearing health. We commend Congressmen Self and Mullin for their leadership and look forward to working together to get this legislation passed,” said Barbara Kelley, Executive Director, HLAA.

“CTA strongly supports the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act because it puts affordable, over-the-counter innovation to work for veterans,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, CTA. “CTA has long championed policies that expand access to safe, effective OTC hearing aids, and this legislation builds on that commitment by cutting red tape, reducing costs, and delivering faster access to hearing care for veterans—while also saving taxpayer dollars.”

“ADA applauds representatives Self and Mullin for introducing the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act,” said Jill Davis, Au.D., President, ADA. “Authorizing audiologists to make clinical determinations about the appropriateness of OTC hearing aids for their veteran patients will support innovation and flexibility, while maintaining necessary safeguards. This legislation will ensure that veterans have the same access to all safe and effective options for the treatment of mild-to-moderate hearing loss that are already available to other Americans.”

“The American Legion is proud to support the Veterans Hearing Aid Improvement Act. This legislation establishes a two-year pilot program to expand access to over-the-counter, self-fitting hearing aids for veterans with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. By modernizing outdated VA processes and reducing barriers to care, this bill ensures that veterans can obtain the hearing support they need quickly and affordably… On behalf of our 1.5 million members, The American Legion thanks the sponsors of this bipartisan legislation for advancing practical, cost-effective solutions that enhance veterans’ health care and independence,” said Cole Lyle, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA&R) Director, The American Legion.

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Catch Up with Kim -- June 01, 2026 -- Letter from the Congresswoman
June 1, 2026
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Ehime University Partners with PSS on School Meal Project

We’re proud to see a recent feature in The Mainichi, one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious newspapers, highlighting the work of students from Ehime University in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, who are partnering with schools in Saipan through the “Marianas Kyushoku Project.” The article focused on efforts to address food waste in our public school meal programs while strengthening educational and cultural ties between Japan and the CNMI. The students have been traveling to Saipan to study school meal conditions, conduct surveys, and work directly with our Public School System and nutrition officials to better understand why so much food is going uneaten. Their research found that in some schools, nearly two-thirds of meals served were discarded in a single day. In response, they are helping develop practical solutions such as improving menus, encouraging healthier eating habits, and testing new approaches in school cafeterias. The students are taking the time to learn from our community and work alongside local educators and families to find solutions together. Their efforts reflect the enduring relationship between Japan and the CNMI, a connection rooted in generations of shared history and friendship that continues to this day.


Welcome Avah!

Please join me in welcoming Avah Torres to the Congressional Office for the summer. Avah is an incoming junior at Colorado State University majoring in Health and Exercise Science with a concentration in Health Promotion. She is excited to learn more about public health and how community-focused programs and policies can improve the health and well-being of others. As an aspiring occupational therapist, Avah is passionate about helping individuals improve their quality of life through supportive, community-centered care. We are excited to have her on the team this summer and look forward to the perspective and energy she brings. Welcome, Avah!


Larsen Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge

Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced the launch of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge (CAC). The annual competition accepts entries through Monday, October 26, 2026, is open to high school and middle school students who live in or attend school in Washington state’s 2nd congressional district.

The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to learn coding and computer science skills and schools to expand access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Students can compete in the CAC by creating an application for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, or other devices such as robotics and wearable technology. The CAC accepts any programming language, including C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or "block code."

“The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to sharpen and show off their coding skills,” said Rep. Larsen, whose office has participated in the CAC every year since its inaugural competition in 2015. “Northwest Washington is a leader in STEM education for young people, and I look forward to seeing the region’s coding talent showcased in this year’s entries.”

Last year’s winners, Dylan Pham and Henry Pham from Explorer Middle School in Everett, designed an app called “Epidemic Wars: The 2100 Era” which seeks to educate people about vaccines and the immune system to combat vaccine misinformation.

Students can sign up to participate and read the full competition rules at the Congressional App Challenge website. Students have until 9:00 a.m. PST on Monday, October 26, 2026, to register and submit their entries, but CAC organizers recommend students register early to receive extra support and tips.

Rep. Larsen will announce a district winner in December and invite the winner to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Science Fair in Washington, D.C. in April of 2027. Winning apps will be electronically displayed in the U.S. Capitol and on the CAC’s house.gov website.

Students and STEM educators who want to learn more about the competition should reach out to Jessica Zuleta at Jessica.Zuleta@mail.house.gov or at (425) 252-3188. Competing students who would like to publish their Congressional App Challenge entry and receive a certification and free sticker should visit Hack Club’s website.


After 26 Years, Rep. Mike Levin and Army Corps Secure Federal Plan to Bring Sand Back to Oceanside’s Beaches

Watch Rep. Levin’s Full Remarks Here

OCEANSIDE, CA — Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) today announced a breakthrough in the decades-long fight to restore Oceanside’s eroding coastline: after 26 years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has released a draft plan to bring sand back to the city’s beaches through long-term beach nourishment. He was joined by Mayor Esther Sanchez, Deputy Mayor Eric Joyce, the Army Corps, local business owner Donna Kalez, and environmental advocate Bob Ashton.

The announcement comes as the Army Corps completes its spring dredge of Oceanside Harbor, placing 320,000 cubic yards of sand on local beaches just in time for summer — the largest replenishment the city has seen in years.

The Corps’ recommended approach is beach nourishment on a regular renourishment cycle: sand placed directly on Oceanside’s beaches, with no seawalls or hard structures. The Corps identified it as the most technically feasible, most environmentally acceptable, and lowest-cost way to mitigate erosion and restore the shoreline. The plan complements the City of Oceanside’s RE:BEACH initiative, which is designed to keep nourished sand in place longer. The draft is open for public comment through June 30, 2026. The Corps will then complete a Report from the Chief of Engineers to recommend the plan to Congress to authorize and fund for construction.

For more than 80 years, the harbor at Camp Pendleton — built by the federal government in 1942 — has disrupted the natural flow of sand down the coast and driven chronic erosion in Oceanside. The federal government first acknowledged responsibility in 1953, but the fix stalled for decades. When Rep. Levin entered Congress in 2019, the Army Corps had abandoned the study. He secured a provision in federal law requiring its completion and later secured over $4 million to finish it, clearing the path for the plan announced today.

“For 26 years, Oceanside has been asking the federal government for one thing: a real plan to bring back the sand this harbor took. Today, we finally have it. And the answer is simple — sand, and lots of it,” said Rep. Mike Levin. “When I got to Congress, this effort was dead. I secured the requirement in federal law that the Army Corps study be finished, and I secured the funding to get it done. Now we have the plan, and I won’t let up until that sand is on our beaches for good.”

“This is an incredible point that we now have a project,” said Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez. “That two-year study that took from before 2000 until now finally did happen and finally came up with the best alternative. Thank you, Rep. Levin, for everything you do for our beaches and our harbor.”

“Oceanside is doing things that no other community on our coastline is doing,” said Environmental Advocate Bob Ashton. “Today we celebrated not only the dredge, but the delivery of a project that has been in the works for a very long time.”

“Thank you to Congressman Levin,” said Oceanside Deputy Mayor Eric Joyce. “His years of support for this project are the only reason we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. With steady effort, we got to the point where sand is replenishing our beaches.”

“My family and I are so proud to own a business here in Oceanside called Oceanside Adventures,” said local business owner Donna Kalez. “We take people whale watching every single day, and a harbor that’s dredged on time is essential to keeping our business running.”

In early April, Rep. Levin announced over $8.2 million in federal funding for Oceanside Harbor maintenance dredging, enabling the Army Corps to dredge the harbor twice in 2026 — first this spring to address an emergency in which rapid shoaling caused two boats to capsize and one vessel to run aground, and again in the fall as the program transitions to a new annual fall dredging cycle. Oceanside Harbor is the only harbor between San Diego and Dana Point and a designated “critical harbor of refuge” for commercial and military vessels, requiring annual dredging to prevent dangerous sediment buildup. The spring dredge was completed on May 9, removing 320,000 cubic yards of sediment and transferring it to local beaches, with demobilization completed on May 13. The replenishment reduces navigation hazards, enhances surge protection for harbor infrastructure, and creates a larger beach for the community to enjoy.

The plan announced today is the product of years of work by Rep. Levin to revive a study the Army Corps had abandoned. At his request, the Water Resources Development Acts of 2020 and 2024 included a provision requiring expedited completion of the long-delayed Oceanside Special Shoreline Study. Rep. Levin then secured the funding to finish it in two tranches: $1.8 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2022, and an additional $2.27 million in 2025 to complete the study and prepare the environmental documents required to execute the project — together clearing the path for the draft plan released today. During the process, Rep. Levin successfully passed language into law directing the Corps to avoid the construction of hard infrastructure for the project.

Rep. Levin has also advanced separate funding to reduce flood risk and add sand in Oceanside. He helped secure $26 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations package — alongside Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff — for the San Luis Rey River project, which will repair the river’s levee system and remove sediment from the channel. That sediment can be placed on local beaches, complementing the shoreline restoration effort. Since entering Congress in 2019, Rep. Levin has secured more than $1 billion in federal funding for the 49th District.

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Congressman Christian Menefee Announces Winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Christian Menefee (TX-18) announced the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, recognizing the artistic talent and creativity of high school students across Texas’ 18th Congressional District.

This year’s winning artwork, The Threads That Make Me by Nayely Sanchez Marquina, an 11th-grade student at Booker T. Washington High School in Houston, Texas, was selected from submissions representing schools throughout the district. The piece will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol as part of the nationwide Congressional Art Competition exhibition.

“I was deeply moved by Nayely’s beautiful work and the way she captured the cultures, traditions, and experiences that shape her identity as a Salvadoran American. Her piece is a powerful reflection of what it means to be American and a celebration of the diverse stories that strengthen our communities,” said Rep. Menefee. “To all of our brilliant students across TX-18: keep creating, keep pushing boundaries, and never stop sharing your vision with the world.”

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual nationwide competition sponsored by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize and encourage artistic talent among high school students.

The winning artwork will be featured in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning pieces from congressional districts across the country. Students will have the opportunity to attend a ceremony in June.


Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for June

Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of June.

June 9, 2026

Tazewell County (Bluefield): 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Town of Bluefield Council Chambers

112 Huffard Dr

Bluefield, VA 24641

Buchanan County: 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Town of Grundy Offices

1185 Plaza Dr.

Grundy, VA 24614

June 10, 2026

Scott County: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

County Administrator’s Office

Conference Room

190 Beech Street

Gate City, VA 24251

Lee County: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Lee County Sheriff’s Office

Conference Room

33640 Main Street

Jonesville, VA 24263

Wise County (Big Stone Gap): 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Big Stone Gap Municipal Complex

216 Wood Ave. E

Big Stone Gap, VA 24219

June 11, 2026

Giles County: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Town of Pearisburg Offices

Council Chambers

112 Tazewell Street

Pearisburg, VA 24134

Bland County: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Bland County Courthouse

First Floor Conference Room

612 Main Street

Bland, VA 24315

Wythe County: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Wythe County Sheriff’s Office

Conference Room

245 South 4th Street

Wytheville, VA 24382

Radford: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Radford Recreation Building

200 George Street

Radford, VA 24141

Smyth County: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Smyth County Administrator’s Office

Conference Room, Suite 100

121 Bagley Circle

Marion, VA 24354

Pulaski County: 2:30 pm – 4:00pm

Pulaski County Administration Building

First Floor Conference Room

143 3rd Street NW

Pulaski, VA 24301

June 16, 2026

Craig County: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Craig County Courthouse

108 Court Street

New Castle, VA 24127

Roanoke County: 11:30am – 1:00pm

South County Library

Meeting Room

6303 Merriman Road

Roanoke, VA 24018

June 17, 2026

Carroll County: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Carroll County Administration Building

County Administrators Office, Conference Room

605 – 1 Pine Street

Hillsville, VA 24343

Galax: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Galax Municipal Building

Conference Room

111 E. Grayson Street

Galax, VA 24333

Grayson County: 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Grayson County Administration Building

Board of Supervisors Room

129 Davis Street

Independence, VA 24348

June 18, 2026

Tazewell County (Tazewell): 10:00 am – 11:30 am

American Legion Building

226 Central Avenue

Tazewell, VA 24651

Russell County: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Town of Lebanon Government Offices

72 Gibson Street

Lebanon, VA 24266

June 23, 2026

Dickenson County: 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Center for Education & Research

First Floor Conference Room #155

818 Happy Valley Drive

Clintwood, VA 24228

Norton: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

High Knob Destination Center

Conference Room

1147 Laurel Avenue SW

Norton, VA 24273

Wise County (Wise): 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Wise County Courthouse

Law Library, Second Floor

206 E. Main Street

Wise, VA 24293

June 24, 2026

City of Martinsville: 10:00 am – 11:30 am

City Hall, Room 32

55 W. Church St

Martinsville, VA 24112

Patrick County: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Patrick County Administration Building

Conference Room

106 Rucker Street

Stuart, VA 24171

Floyd County: 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Town of Floyd Government Offices

Community Room

203 East Oxford St

Floyd, VA 24091

June 25, 2026

Bedford County: 9:00am – 10:30am

Town of Bedford Municipal Building

First Floor Conference Room

215 E. Main Street

Bedford, VA 24523

Franklin County: 12:00pm – 1:30pm

Franklin County Government Center

Conference Room B-23

1255 Franklin Street

Rocky Mount, VA 24151

** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions.

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Griffith Announces More Than $1.4 Million in HHS Grants to Virginia Tech

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, two research related grants worth $1,404,763. The funding breakdown of the grants is as follows:

$721,902 to support research related to Cryptococcus. This fungus is found naturally in the environment in soil and bird droppings and can infect the lungs and the brain. Most infections impact individuals with compromised immune systems.

$682,861 to support research related to mental health.

In response to these grant notices, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“Relationships between the federal government and research institutions support local communities as well as scientific advances.

“These HHS grants for more than $1.4 million continue the growing federal support of Virginia Tech’s dedicated research community.”

BACKGROUND

As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee.

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Nadler Leads New York Democrats Fighting To Protect Patients Receiving Gender-Affirming Care

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) led U.S. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), and Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) urging NYU Langone to fight against recent subpoenas from the Trump administration that would violate the constitutional right to privacy for minor patients receiving gender affirming care from NYU Langone.

The letter comes after the Trump administration issued a string of ill-conceived, civil and criminal subpoenas to share confidential information regarding pediatric patients who received gender-affirming medical care between the years 2020 and 2026, and the identities of any medical staff involved in the provision of care.

“The Trump administration is on a cruel crusade to violate the personal dignity and constitutionally guaranteed rights of transgender people in NY-12 and across the nation,” said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “For my entire career, I have fought for justice and equality for all members of our LGBTQ+ community. Today, alongside my fellow New York lawmakers, I continue this fight to protect trans-youth from the downright illegal and unjustified attacks against NYU Langone and their patients for receiving and providing necessary medical care.”

“As the Trump administration continues its myriad efforts to target, harass, and vilify transgender Americans here in our state and beyond, I’m proud to stand alongside my New York colleagues to denounce this latest attack on the rights and freedoms of the trans community," said Congressman Paul Tonko. “Gender-affirming care is essential, lifesaving care, and no American child should be denied access to it because of bigotry — just as no health care provider should be attacked for providing it. My colleagues and I will always continue to fight against cruel actions like this one against NYU Langone and their patients.”

Read the full text of the letter HERE


Rep. Pfluger Calls for Airpower Prioritization in NDAA

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) – a U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) graduate, battle-tested fighter pilot, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, and Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors – has been an outspoken leader for Airpower prioritization in this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Earlier this month, Rep. Pfluger continued his leadership, helping convene a bipartisan roundtable on Airpower with Lieutenant General David Deptula, U.S Air Force (retired), and members of the For Country Caucus to discuss today's readiness challenge and the urgent need to invest in American Airpower. During the roundtable, General Deptula shared his candid insights on rebuilding capacity, modernizing aging aircraft, strengthening readiness, and ensuring the U.S. maintains air superiority for generations to come.

Background:

This advocacy builds on Rep. Pfluger's ongoing leadership in advocating for strengthening our Air Force. In April 2026, Rep. Pfluger delivered a forceful call to action before the House Armed Services Committee, urging the committee to make investing in and strengthening the Air Force a top priority in this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

In March 2026, Rep. Pfluger published an op-ed in The Washington Post, highlighting that while our Air Force remains unmatched in capability, it is currently the oldest and smallest it has ever been. He also outlined the urgent need to reverse the decades-long trend of underinvestment to ensure the Air Force is equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Read the full op-ed here.

In June 2025, Rep. Pfluger and Lt. General David Deptula penned an op-ed in The Hill outlining how the spectacular airstrike we witnessed in Iran that successfully destroyed Iran's nuclear facilities should be a wake-up call if we are serious about preparing for sustained conflict with adversaries like China. In the op-ed, they argued that Congress must invest in U.S. Airpower because, to put it simply, we lack the depth to conduct this kind of operation repeatedly, or at scale.

Rep. Pfluger also penned an op-ed in Newsweek in June 2025 titled, American Airpower Obliterated Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions—Rightfully So, following the spectacular success of Operation Midnight Hammer. Read the full op-ed here.


Rep. Pfluger Encourages TX-11 Students to Participate in the Second Lady's 2026 Summer Reading Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Back for its second year, Second Lady of the United States Usha Vance announced the relaunch of her Summer Reading Challenge, and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) is encouraging all K-8 students in Texas's 11th Congressional District to participate. To enter, students must read 12 books, complete the reading log, and submit it to receive a prize. The challenge is open to all students in grades K-8, and participants will be entered into a raffle for a special trip to the Nation's Capital.

"The Second Lady's Summer Reading Challenge is officially underway for its second year, and I highly encourage every eligible student to get involved! Building strong reading skills is one of the most important investments we can make in our children's futures — and as our nation comes together to celebrate America 250, what better way to honor that milestone than by investing in the next generation of American leaders. TX-11 is home to some of the best and brightest students in the country, and I look forward to seeing names from the district on the leaderboard," said Rep. Pfluger.

Over 20,000 children participated in last year's program across all 50 states and multiple U.S. territories. Given its success, this year's expanded challenge features even more partners, prizes, and a new online state-by-state leaderboard.


Rep. Simpson Secures INL Priorities in Energy and Water Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON—The House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement and secured critical funding for the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). This bill champions America’s nuclear deterrent and strengthens national security, restores energy dominance, and supports the Trump administration’s policy initiatives.

“America’s one-of-a-kind nuclear energy laboratory is right here at home at Idaho National Laboratory. Enhancing the Lab’s infrastructure and growing research and development are investments in both energy and national security. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been proud to support INL's efforts to advance our nation's nuclear technology. Fighting for these priorities and securing federal funding would not have been possible without the appropriations process. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I will always fight for priorities that serve our state and national interests,” said Rep. Simpson.

“Nuclear energy continues to gain bipartisan momentum across the country, and we are grateful for Congress's sustained commitment to advancing America's nuclear leadership,” said Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner. "We especially thank Representative Mike Simpson for his continued championship of INL and the broader nuclear enterprise. His leadership ensures the laboratory remains equipped to deliver the research, testing, and demonstration capabilities the nation needs as nuclear deployment accelerates.”

Highlights of the bill include:

$392M for INL infrastructure and operations.

$40M for INL’s Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project.

$65M for the National Reactor Innovation Center.

$19M for the Center for Used Fuel Research at INL.

Funding for a variety of advanced reactor construction and demonstrations.

Funding for further research and development of advanced Tri-structural Isotropic (TRISO) and High-Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) reactor fuel.

This funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration


Rep. Sykes Secures More Than $300,000 For Kent State University Airport

AKRON, OH — Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have awarded the Kent State University (KSU) Airport $329,912 for taxiway construction projects.

“Kent State University is doing important work training our next generation of pilots and aerospace and aeronautical engineers. This grant will give the Kent State University Airport the funds it needs to maintain safe runways, giving students the chance to improve upon their education. Keeping our airports safe and operational year-round is critical to Northeast Ohio’s economy and public safety,” said Rep. Sykes.

“At its core, this project is about maintaining a safe, reliable, and forward-looking airport that serves both today’s users and tomorrow’s aviation opportunities. Reconstructing the apron directly improves aircraft safety, reduces the risk of pavement-related incidents, and enhances overall operational reliability for both training and transient activity,” said KSU Airport Manager Dave Poluga.

The funds awarded in this grant will be used to fund the design needed to rebuild 22,000 yards of existing terminal apron pavement. This construction project will focus on the airport’s main runway, adjoining taxiways, and all connected drainage and lighting infrastructure.