Burlison, Moskowitz Launch Bipartisan Congressional Firework Caucus Ahead of America's 250th Birthday

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Reps. Eric Burlison (MO-07) and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) today announced the launch of the bipartisan Congressional Firework Caucus, dedicated to supporting the U.S. fireworks industry and preserving the longstanding tradition of fireworks as part of America's heritage.

"As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, it's the perfect time to recognize a tradition that has been part of our nation's story since the beginning," said Rep. Burlison. "Fireworks bring Americans together every Fourth of July, support small businesses across the country, and remind us that freedom is worth celebrating."

"Everyone loves a firework celebration. They bring people together and bring joy to millions across America. Fireworks have been part of how Americans celebrate our country's biggest moments for generations, and America250 should be no different,” said Rep. Moskowitz.

Coinciding with the launch of the Congressional Firework Caucus, Rep. Burlison introduced a House resolution recognizing July as National Fireworks Month in celebration of America's 250th birthday. The resolution highlights the historic role fireworks have played in Independence Day celebrations and encourages communities across the country to commemorate the nation's semiquincentennial.

Organization Support

Stacy Schneitter-Blake, President, National Fireworks Foundation

“On behalf of the National Fireworks Association, the industry’s largest trade association, we extend our sincere appreciation to Congressman Eric Burlison and Congressman Jared Moskowitz for serving as the founding co-chairs of the bipartisan Fireworks Caucus. Their leadership demonstrates an understanding of the important role fireworks play in our nation's celebrations, economy, and heritage.

The Congressional Fireworks Caucus will serve as a dedicated forum for members of Congress to learn about the fireworks industry, the businesses, and families it supports, and the important role fireworks continue to play in America's traditions and celebrations.”

Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director, American Pyrotechnics Association

"The American Pyrotechnics Association applauds Congressmen Eric Burlison and Jared Moskowitz for launching the bipartisan Congressional Fireworks Caucus and recognizing the important role the fireworks industry plays in communities across the nation. Fireworks are a cherished part of America's heritage, bringing families and communities together to celebrate our nation's most meaningful traditions and milestones.

The formation of this bipartisan caucus reflects what fireworks have always represented—bringing Americans together in celebration of our shared history, our local communities, and the enduring spirit that has defined our nation for 250 years.

The Congressional Fireworks Caucus will provide Members of Congress with an opportunity to learn more about an industry that supports thousands of American jobs, contributes significantly to local economies, and remains deeply committed to safety through education, training, and collaboration with public safety professionals.

We look forward to working with Congressmen Burlison, Moskowitz, and Members of the caucus to promote policies that support responsible fireworks use, strengthen American businesses, and preserve the longstanding traditions that make fireworks an enduring part of our nation's celebrations."


Carey Introduces Housing and Preservation Enhancement Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-Ohio-15), a member of the Ways & Means Committee, introduced the Housing Opportunities and Preservation Enhancement (HOPE) Act to create new tax incentives that encourage the renovation of older, existing rental properties to preserve them as affordable housing.

“We were able to expand and make permanent the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit through the Working Families Tax Cuts, and this legislation builds on that success by preserving more affordable housing for the families who need it most,” said Rep. Mike Carey. “The Housing Opportunities and Preservation Enhancement Act will help rehabilitate aging rental properties, expand access to quality affordable housing, and encourage partnerships that put residents first. By modernizing the tax code, we can ensure more hardworking families have access to safe, affordable places to call home.”

“Congress has begun to build real momentum around addressing America’s housing crisis,” said Michael Ruane, President of National CORE. “The proposed HOPE Act recognizes that we can’t solve that challenge by building alone. We also have to preserve the affordable homes we already have, and this bill gives us an innovative new way to do exactly that.”

“The HOPE Act would provide a critical tool for nonprofit developers like National Church Residences to preserve existing affordable housing by enabling additional private investment and equity partnerships from individual investors,” said Matthew Rule, Senior Vice President, Housing Development and Asset Management for National Church Residences. “We view the HOPE Act as a natural complement to the LIHTC program and an essential component of a comprehensive affordable housing strategy, and we strongly endorse its passage.”

“I applaud Congressman Mike Carey for his leadership in introducing and championing the Housing Opportunities and Preservation Enhancement or HOPE Act,” said Michael Novogradac, Managing Partner of Novogradac & Company. “While Congress’ permanent expansion of the low-income housing tax credit last year is historic and critical for affordable rental housing, especially for new construction, the nation’s need for preservation outstrips these expanded resources. This bill provides nonprofit owners of rental housing a flexible financing tool targeted to individual investors to address the growing national need to preserve the nation’s affordable rental housing stock in a way that would complement, not replace or substitute, the historic Housing Credit expansion.”

Background:

This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to encourage the purchase and major renovation of existing residential rental properties that are at least 15 years old.

To qualify for these new tax incentives, a property must undergo significant rehabilitation of at least $20,000 per unit and be owned by partnerships involving non-profit, government, or tribal entities.

The legislation targets affordable housing by requiring at least 70% of the units to be rent-restricted for families making 80% or less of the local area median income.

It ensures long-term preservation through a 10-year right of first refusal for qualified buyers at below-market prices while cutting IRS red tape by exempting investors from standard passive activity loss and profit-motive restrictions.

###


Case Leads Bipartisan National Gerrymandering Reform Initiative

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (Hawai‘i-First District) today announced that his U.S. House Problem Solvers Caucus has endorsed a comprehensive proposal to reform runaway gerrymandering of Congressional districts and restore trust in the redistricting process, limit partisan interference, advance broader representation and facilitate real solutions in Congress.

The proposal was developed by the Problem Solvers’ Gerrymandering Working Group, co-chaired by Case, a Democrat, and U.S. Representative Jeff Hurd (Colorado-Third District), a Republican.

“The Problem Solvers is about facing and solving our toughest challenges and making our government work,” said Case, who also serves as Vice Chair of the 45-Member caucus. “The worsening redistricting wars are a direct obstacle to a representative, inclusive, functioning and trusted government, and a solution must be a priority.

“Our Caucus’ endorsed framework lays out the guideposts of for real reform and demonstrates that even the toughest and most political issues can be solved on a bipartisan basis.”

Case said the framework establishes five principles for Congressional redistricting:

· Stability and predictability in representation,

· Transparency and public confidence in the map-drawing process,

· Fair and consistent application of standards across states,

· Respect for communities and political subdivisions, and

· Reduction of incentives for partisan manipulation.

The framework also identifies four bipartisan reforms designed to create a more transparent, fair, and consistent process for drawing congressional districts nationwide:

· Once-a-Decade Redistricting: Restrict Congressional redistricting to once every ten years following the decennial Census.

· Nationwide Uniform Standards: Require Congressional districts to be drawn using clear, objective criteria while rejecting partisan advantage and incumbent protection as legitimate goals.

· Reducing Partisan Influence: Support approaches that minimize partisan influence, including independent commissions, algorithmic mapping and other mechanisms that promote public confidence.

· Federal Resolution of Challenges: Establish a consistent federal process for resolving Congressional redistricting disputes.

“Voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around,” said Case.

“These hyperpartisan gerrymandering wars are destructive to democracy because they effectively disenfranchise large segments of our electorate and balkanize our nation into a state of perpetual partisan warfare.

“We need a Washington that truly represents the American people and works together to solve tough issues, not politicians endlessly pulled and beholden to irreconcilable extremes.

“Our Problem Solvers gerrymandering framework focuses on reforms that facilitate fair inclusion of all viewpoints, democratic debate and representative solutions.”

The House Problem Solvers Caucus is an official group of Members in the U.S. House of Representatives, evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. Founded in 2017, its mission is to foster bipartisan cooperation, overcome legislative gridlock and advance consensus-based solutions on major national issues. More information about the Problem Solvers is available at https://problemsolverscaucus.house.gov.

Case said that over the coming months, the Problem Solvers will further develop these principles into specific common-sense legislation and continue to build a coalition of support from across the political spectrum for essential reform.

Read the full framework here.

Gerrymandering statistics here.

###


Rep. Clyde Congratulates Ninth District Student on America 250 Design Challenge Wins

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) congratulated Eden Pethel, an 8th grader from Pendergrass, Georgia, on being selected as a winner of the Bookmark Design Challenge: Celebrating America's 250th, a nationwide competition organized by Second Lady Usha Vance in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. Eden also designed the winning submission in the Georgia Department of Education’s America 250 license plate contest.

“Eden Pethel is proof that Northeast Georgia continues to boast some of the most talented and patriotic young Americans,” said Clyde. “Winning both a state and a nationwide competition for America 250 designs is a remarkable achievement, one that is a testament to Eden’s creativity, artistic skills, and love of country. As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, there is no better reminder of the bright future ahead than the next generation of Americans expressing their patriotism through art. Congratulations, Eden — the entire Ninth District is incredibly proud of you!”

Background

The Bookmark Design Challenge invited students in grades K-8 from across the nation to create hand-drawn bookmarks reflecting what America means to them, exploring themes such as “American history and traditions, symbols of unity and democracy, community, and hopes for the nation’s future.” Students submitted their bookmark designs in three categories by grade level: K-2, 3-5, and 6-8.

The winning designs were announced by Second Lady Usha Vance and recognized at a special event at the Great American State Fair, which is currently taking place on the National Mall through July 10th.

Additionally, Georgia’s America 250 plate was developed to honor this historic national milestone. Middle school students were invited to create designs as part of a statewide civics education initiative undertaken in partnership with the Georgia Department of Education. The program was supported by the Georgia Commission on Civics Education, the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement, the Georgia Historical Society, and other civic and historical organizations.


Comer Announces $24 Million Secured for Frankfort’s Singing Bridge

WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman James Comer (R-Ky.) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a $24 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to replace the Singing Bridge in Frankfort, Kentucky. Prior to the award, Congressman Comer sent a letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy emphasizing that replacement of the Singing Bridge would restore a critical transportation corridor while preserving a vital connection for residents, businesses, and visitors to Kentucky's capital city.

“The Department of Transportation’s award of a $24 million BUILD grant for the Singing Bridge Project in Frankfort is a significant investment in the future of Kentucky’s capital city. I was proud to work with DOT throughout this process to successfully advocate for this project, which will allow the city to replace the Singing Bridge with a modern and more resilient structure. This project will improve a key transportation corridor, enhance safety and reliability, and preserve an important connection for residents, local businesses, and the many visitors who travel to Frankfort. I appreciate the Trump Administration’s commitment to strengthening America’s infrastructure, and I will continue working with our local leaders to advance projects that improve our communities,” said Congressman Comer.

“Today’s announcement of the $24 million BUILD grant award is a welcome boost for completing the Singing Bridge project. it provides the critical foundation needed to move forward with confidence and significantly reduces the financial burden on the Commonwealth. We are grateful to Congressman Comer, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, and everyone who helped secure this investment. This brings us one major step closer to delivering a safer, modern bridge for the people of Frankfort,” saidCity of Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson.

Background:

The Singing Bridge is widely known as an important local transportation link and a unique community feature linking historic downtown to south Frankfort across the river. In 2022, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) lowered the weight limit on the Singing Bridge from nine tons to four tons, highlighting the urgent need for attention to this crucial river crossing. In 2024, KYTC closed the Singing Bridge indefinitely to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic following a routine inspection due to deteriorating structural safety concerns. Funding will be utilized to replace Singing Bridge with a modern, resilient structure designed to provide safe multimodal access for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Reestablishing this connection will improve mobility, strengthen access between neighborhoods, enhance emergency response capabilities, and support public safety by reducing response times for first responders.


Rep. Crane Joins MOU Signing to Counter Lawfare on America’s Farmers and Ranchers

This morning, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) joined U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Headquarters for the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two agencies. The agreement establishes a joint process to intake, investigate, and resolve lawfare complaints from America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers.

The event featured a roundtable discussion, a press conference, and the formal signing of the MOU. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY), John Rich, Special Envoy for American Landowners, and Stevan Pearce, Director of the Bureau of Land Management, also attended the official program.

Additionally, numerous legal and policy organizations joined the opening roundtable, which gave ranchers and producers from across the country the opportunity to share firsthand accounts of regulatory and legal overreach. Among those in attendance were two Arizona families, Dustin and Becki Ross of Windmill Mountain Ranch, and Casey and Meggan Murph of H Bar and Y Ranch.

The Ross family’s U.S. Forest Service grazing allotment has been stalled for more than two years by unnecessary archaeological-clearance requirements that have blocked even basic stock-tank maintenance. In 2021, drought conditions triggered a 25% cut to their Animal Unit Months (AUMs). Although the Forest Service has since restored their AUMs, the family has been unable to rebuild their herd to full strength due to unrepaired wildfire-damaged fences and cumulative financial strain.

The Murph family has run cattle on Arizona State Land Department grazing leases in Holbrook since before statehood. However, the state is considering reclassifying their grazing land for a solar project proposed by the Danish company Ørsted. Losing the lease would be financially devastating to their operation, and despite raising their concerns publicly, the family has received no clear answers from state land officials.

The Trump administration has made defending America’s producers from bureaucratic overreach, radical environmentalist NGOs, and activist groups a priority, citing a pattern of costly fines, lost land, and drawn-out litigation targeting farmers and ranchers. Over the past two years, the USDA Lawfare Portal has logged more than 400 submissions from 47 states documenting anti-agricultural legal harassment.

Today’s MOU formalizes cooperation between the USDA Lawfare Portal and the SBA’s Office of National Ombudsman, which holds statutory authority to review complaints of unfair federal regulatory enforcement against small businesses. Together, the agencies aim to rebuild a government-wide shield ensuring complaints are routed, investigated, and resolved rather than passed between agencies with no resolution in sight.

Rep. Crane commended the Trump administration’s efforts to defend these vital industries and the hardworking Americans who feed and fuel our nation.


Crow Introduces Legislation to Help Stop Wildfires

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) introduced the Wildfire Response Modernization Act to expand tools to detect, track, and combat wildfires. The legislation allows the FireGuard program—a National Guard-operated program that detects and monitors wildfires—to access commercial and non-profit wildfire satellite data and disseminate it to federal and state agencies. Crow’s proposed update would expand its early detection and continuous monitoring capabilities to help fight fires as they break out in Colorado and across the country.

Congressman Crow introduced this bill alongside Congressmen George Whitesides (D-CA), Lance Gooden (R-TX), John Garamendi (D-CA), and Salud Carbajal (D-CA).

“Colorado is facing a high risk of wildfires after one of the warmest and driest winters in history. By allowing local communities to have fast and accurate data about wildfires, including from space-based satellites, we can better equip local communities to respond to emergencies. We have to do everything we can to keep Coloradans safe this fire season,” said Congressman Crow.

“FireGuard is one of the most important ways the federal government can utilize technology to fight fires quicker and more effectively, and the program should have access to every piece of data available,” said Congressman Whitesides. “Particularly in Southern California, where wildfires have destroyed thousands of lives and livelihoods, the government must meet this challenge head on, using every tool at our disposal. We can make FireGuard, an already successful program, even stronger, by strengthening its partnership with non-profit and commercial sources to improve around-the-clock monitoring, and the potential for even earlier detection.”

“As states like California face increasingly frequent and intense wildfires, tools like FireGuard help us meet that threat. Using space-based commercial data will only make this program more effective. This is one of the many ways that space benefits Americans every day,” said Congressman Carbajal. “We’ve seen how capable this program has been in early detection and this legislation builds on that success. Protecting our communities from wildfires is not a partisan issue — it’s an urgent one, and I’m proud to be co-leading this effort.”

Congressman Crow has a long track record of helping Colorado respond to wildfires and other extreme weather events. Congressman Crow helped enshrine Colorado as part of the FireGuard program, and, along with Senator Michael Bennet, pushed for the declassification of certain satellite imagery so it could be used by FireGuard. He previously introduced the Protect the West Act with Senator Bennet to make critical investments that would mitigate intensifying wildfires, and he is leading the bipartisan Championing Local Efforts to Advance Resilience (CLEAR) Act to empower states nationwide to establish and maintain resiliency offices to combat the worst effects of climate change.

Crow is also standing up to the Trump Administration’s attacks on federal wildland firefighting. He has demanded the Trump Administration reinstate thousands of U.S. Forest Service employees who keep Coloradans safe but were fired last year, and he joined Senator Bennet to press the Administration for answers on its proposed reorganization of the U.S. Forest Service during fire season.


Dingell Leads Resolution Honoring 250th Anniversary of America, Reaffirming Importance of Public Health and Healthcare Access

Ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced a new resolution honoring the historic milestone for our republic, as well as reaffirming the importance of prevention, public health, and access to healthcare.

“America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect not only on where we’ve been, but where we’re going. Building a stronger future means investing in prevention, protecting public health, and ensuring every American has access to the care they need. That’s how we’ll leave the next 250 years even stronger than the last,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

"The next 250 years won't be defined by what we inherited, but by what we chose to protect—our health, our environment, and each other,” said Bill Couzens, founder of Next Generation Choices Foundation.

The resolution can be found HERE and text is below:

Recognizing the 250th Anniversary of the United States and reaffirming the importance of prevention, public health, and access to healthcare.

Whereas the United States celebrates its 250th Anniversary in 2026;

Whereas the Declaration of Independence affirms the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness;

Whereas a healthy Nation is essential to preserving those ideals for future generations;

Whereas General George Washington recognized the importance of disease prevention when he ordered the inoculation of the Continental Army against smallpox; and

Whereas prevention, early detection, and access to healthcare save lives and strengthen communities: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That—

(1) the House of Representatives—

(A) recognizes America’s 250th Anniversary as an opportunity to renew the Nation’s 5 commitment to health and prevention;

(B) affirms that prevention and access to healthcare contribute to a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Nation;

(C) encourages efforts to improve access to preventive healthcare, screenings, health education, clean air, clean water, and healthy communities; and

(D) calls upon all Americans to work together to build a healthier Nation for the next 250 years; and


Congressman Don Davis Calls North Carolina General Assembly's $25 Million Investment to Reopen Martin General Hospital Step in Right Direction, Continues Push for Federal Partnership

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01), a longtime champion for reopening Martin General Hospital, calls the North Carolina General Assembly's approval of a $25 million investment in the state’s budget toward restoring emergency medical services to Martin County a significant step in the right direction.

“No parent, grandparent, or child should have to travel miles during a medical emergency simply because their hometown hospital closed. The investment brings us one step closer to restoring lifesaving emergency care for Martin County and surrounding communities while demonstrating what is possible when leaders come together to strengthen rural health care,” said Congressman Don Davis.

While the state's investment marks an important milestone, Congressman Davis has emphasized that additional support will be necessary to fully restore hospital operations. He recently sent a letter to President Trump urging federal support for an estimated $175 million investment to reopen Martin General Hospital and strengthen rural healthcare infrastructure in eastern North Carolina, including support for expanding inpatient bed capacity at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital.

"In my letter to President Trump, I emphasized that reopening Martin General Hospital is about saving lives, creating jobs, supporting economic development, and ensuring that families are not forced to drive long distances during medical emergencies," Davis said. "Federal and state partnerships are essential to making this vision a reality and strengthening our health care system in eastern North Carolina."

Since Martin General Hospital closed in 2023, Congressman Davis has led federal efforts to restore emergency medical services, working with local officials, state leaders, health care providers, and federal partners to pursue designation as a Rural Emergency Hospital.

To help ensure Martin General Hospital can reopen and remain financially sustainable, Congressman Davis introduced H.R. 4277, the Rural Emergency Hospital Financial Stability Act. The legislation would increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for Rural Emergency Hospitals to match outpatient hospital rates, helping such rural hospitals to remain financially stable and continue delivering care close to home. The National Rural Health Association and America’s Essential Hospitals support the legislation.

"I will continue working with President Trump, Governor Stein, members of our congressional delegation, state lawmakers, local officials, and health care leaders until the doors of Martin General Hospital reopen," Davis said. "The people of Martin County have waited long enough. They deserve reliable emergency care close to home, and I will not stop fighting until that becomes a reality."

Since Martin General Hospital closed in 2023, more than 20,000 residents have been left without local emergency medical care, forcing families to travel significantly farther during life-threatening emergencies.

Congressman Davis also secured $1 million for critical infrastructure upgrades at Washington Regional Medical Center, and he is committed to advocating for additional funding.


Congressman Downing Introduces Informed Investor Access Act to Expand Investment Opportunities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Informed Investor Access Act, legislation to modernize the definition of an “accredited investor” and expand access to private investment opportunities for Americans receiving professional financial advice.

Under current law, accredited investor status is primarily based on income and net worth thresholds. This framework often limits certain investment opportunities to individuals who already have significant wealth, while excluding others who may be financially sophisticated or working with regulated financial professionals.

The Informed Investor Access Act would create a new pathway for individuals receiving personalized investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer to qualify as accredited investors for the applicable transaction.

“Building wealth should not be reserved only for those who are already wealthy,” said Congressman Downing. “The current accredited investor framework creates a self-reinforcing barrier. Too often, Americans need wealth to access the investments that can help build wealth. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes this outdated standard by recognizing financial sophistication and professional guidance, not just income and net worth.”

Critically, the legislation expands access without weakening investor protections. Registered investment advisers are subject to fiduciary duties under the Investment Advisers Act. Broker-dealers are held to Regulation Best Interest standards under the Securities Exchange Act. These standards require financial professionals to consider a client’s financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance when making recommendations.

“As Montana’s former securities and insurance regulator, I know investor protection and capital formation go hand in hand,” continued Congressman Downing. “This bill allows hardworking Americans to grow their wealth through new investment opportunities while keeping important guardrails in place.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Statements of Support:

Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14) are original cosponsors of the bill. Supporting organizations include the American Securities Association, Bond Market Association, Financial Services Institute, Financial Technology Association, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives, Investment Advisers Association, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

American Securities Association:

"ASA applauds Rep. Downing for giving every American — not just the wealthy — the opportunity to participate in the American dream. The Informed Investor Access Act broadens investor access while preserving important investor protections that make our markets the strongest in the world." - American Securities Association President and CEO Chris Iacovella

Bond Market Association:

“The Bond Market Association, the Washington, DC-based trade association that exclusively represents securities dealers and banks whose primary focus is the U.S. fixed income markets, fully supports Rep. Downing’s Informed Investor Access Act. By allowing individuals working with registered advisors to qualify as accredited investors, individuals would be able unlock access to more markets and securities closed to those that are unaccredited. We applaud Rep. Downing’s work on this important legislation and call on HFSC Leadership to work to advance the bill in the 119th Congress.”

Investment Advisers Association:

“The IAA applauds Congressman Downing for advancing legislation to modernize and expand the accredited investor definition, including by creating a pathway for clients of fiduciary investment advisers to qualify. Investment advisers’ fiduciary duty provides a critical investor safeguard by requiring that recommendations be made in each client’s best interest. By establishing additional pathways to accredited investor status while preserving strong investor protections, this legislation would broaden access to investment opportunities, support capital formation, and enable more Americans to participate in the growth and innovation of our economy.”

Institute for Portfolio Alternatives:

“Financial sophistication should not be measured by wealth alone. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes the accredited investor framework by creating a responsible pathway for individuals who receive personalized investment advice or recommendations from regulated investment advisers or broker-dealers in connection with a private-market investment. This approach expands access while keeping important investor-protection standards in place. IPA is proud to support this legislation and thanks Congressman Troy Downing for his leadership in expanding investor choice, strengthening capital formation and opening more opportunity to American investors.” - Anya Coverman, President & CEO, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives

Financial Services Institute:

“Financial advisors play a critical role in helping investors evaluate opportunities and build financial plans that reflect their unique goals and risk tolerance," said FSI President & CEO Dale Brown. "The Informed Investor Access Act recognizes the value of that relationship by expanding access to investment opportunities for investors who choose to work with a trusted financial advisor. We commend Rep. Downing for introducing this legislation and remain committed to advancing policies that preserve investor choice, bolster access to financial advice and help more Americans achieve long-term financial security."

Financial Technology Association:

“Financial status shouldn’t determine access to investment opportunities,” said Penny Lee, President and CEO of the Financial Technology Association. “We strongly support Rep. Downing’s Informed Investor Access Act, which will expand the definition of an accredited investor and open up wealth-building avenues for individuals working with registered professionals.”

United States Chamber of Commerce:

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the Informed Investor Access Act, sponsored by Rep. Downing. For too long, the SEC's accredited investor framework has left millions of investors on the sidelines of private capital markets simply because they do not meet arbitrary income or net worth thresholds. This bill will broaden the definition of accredited investors to include individuals who receive investment advice from registered investment advisers and broker-dealers. Doing so would be a commonsense step that expands investor access to private markets and fosters the capital formation that drives American innovation.” – Kristen Malinconico, Executive Director, Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Background:

The current accredited investor framework relies heavily on income and net worth thresholds. This approach can exclude individuals who have financial knowledge or access to professional guidance but do not meet existing wealth-based requirements.

The Informed Investor Access Act addresses this issue by amending Section 2(a)(15) of the Securities Act of 1933 to add a new category of accredited investor for individuals receiving investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.


Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Introduce Legislation to Prevent Fraud

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) in introducing the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act.

The FRAUD Act will ensure that Governors and other state officials take action to stop fraud in their states by requiring them to report credible suspicions of fraud involving federal funds to the Federal Bureau of Investigation within 180 days.

“Fraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud," said Congressman Emmer. “The House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.”

Background

On June 8, 2026, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released the findings of their investigation into the fraud crisis in Minnesota. Their investigation determined that both Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison were aware of the fraud and did nothing to prevent it.

In response to their findings, Congressman Emmer and the Minnesota Republican Delegation sent a letter on June 10, 2026 to Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison demanding their resignation for their complete failure to address fraud within the state’s federally funded programs. The delegation has not received a response.

###


Reps. Finstad, Schmidt Introduce National Fraud Enforcement Division Act to Strengthen Federal Fraud Prosecution Efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) introduced the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026, which would make permanent the newly established National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice (DOJ). The legislation would establish an Assistant Attorney General, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, to lead DOJ efforts to investigate, prosecute, and prevent fraud within federally funded programs.

Specifically, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act:

Requires the division to provide guidance and support to U.S. Attorney Offices on fraud-related matters;

Authorizes the division to develop national fraud enforcement priorities;

Requires the division to recommend legislative and regulatory reforms to address vulnerabilities that enable fraud and abuse, and;

Directs the division to advise the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General on major fraud investigations, prosecutions, and related policy issues.


Gluesenkamp Perez Works to Bring Quilt Show to Nation’s Capital

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last month, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez passed an amendment to elevate the ethic and craftsmanship of quilters in the nation’s capital as part of a Congressional Quilt Show.

As political violence and polarization is on the rise, and the efficacy of congress is at an all time low, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez seeks to elevate the example of quilters across the country who embody a spirit of generosity and skill that is more necessary now than ever. Quilting is more than fabric and thread. It tells the story of American life, passed down through generations of creativity, thrift, and community. By establishing a Congressional Quilt Show, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez invites the influence of to this great American tradition on the legislative climate of the US congress and encourages generations of quilters to persist in the rigor and stewardship of this great american heritage.

In a unanimous vote, the House Appropriations Committee approved her amendment to the Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill to recognize quilters from around the country and display their quilts outside the offices of Members of Congress in the House of Representatives.

Committee debate can be viewed HERE.

“Quilters are stewards of skill and a spirit of generosity that reflect some of the best aspects of American culture,” Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez said. “Since before the nation’s founding, the rigor and joy of quilting and needlework have been passed down generationally predominantly by women and girls, to learn the muscle and union of beauty and function.”

A transcript of the debate in Committee can be viewed HERE.

####


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Ahead of 4th of July and America’s 250th, Gottheimer Announces Summer Safety Plan

Above: Gottheimer announces Summer Safety Plan.

TEANECK, N.J. — Today, Thursday, July 2, 2026, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) unveiled his “Summer Safety Plan” at the Teaneck Community Pool, announcing new federal action on pool safety, sun exposure, and grill safety ahead of the July 4th holiday and America’s 250th anniversary.

“A massive heat wave is coming to Jersey for this Fourth of July weekend. There is nothing partisan about keeping our families safe this summer — whether it’s at the pool, in the sun, or at the grill,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “These are commonsense steps, and I’m going to keep fighting to get them done.”

Watch full remarks here.

On average, 65 people drown in New Jersey each year, including approximately 10 children under 15. Four fatal drownings were reported along the Jersey Shore in the first weeks of this summer alone. Nationally, an estimated 4,000 people die from unintentional drowning every year, and drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4.

1. Pool Safety

Gottheimer is working with local towns, counties, and the State to help them apply for and claw back dollars from the federal Pool Safely Grant Program, which is currently open for applications and closes on July 13.

New Jersey has never been awarded funds from the program, which provides up to $4 million in grants a year to help communities pay for drain covers, shut-off valves, fencing, lifeguard training, inspections, and swim lessons.

Gottheimer is also helping lead the bipartisan Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Reauthorization Act, which he has worked on with Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) to strengthen pool safety standards and prevent drownings nationwide.

2. Sun Safety

Every year, roughly 1,700 men and 840 women in New Jersey are diagnosed with melanoma, and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Yet only about 30 percent of women and 15 percent of men regularly use sunscreen.

To address the problem, Gottheimer announced he is sending a letter to the State of New Jersey calling for expanded public awareness campaigns and clearer guidance for families on proper sunscreen use.

Wear at least SPF 30 and apply at least every two hours — more if you’re swimming.

3. Grill Safety

An average of 21,682 Americans are treated in emergency rooms each year for grill-related injuries, and grills cause an average of 11,421 home fires annually. Just two weeks ago, a grill fire in Paramus, New Jersey, spread to a home, injuring two people and killing two family pets.

Gottheimer is leading the bipartisan Strengthening Awareness and Funding Education for Grilling Act (SAFE Grilling Act) with Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), legislation that would direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to launch a public awareness campaign on grill safety, covering leaks, burns, wire grill brushes, and other hazards.

Gottheimer’s “Summer Safety Plan” builds on his record on these issues, including helping pass the bipartisan CARES Act to streamline FDA review of sunscreen ingredients, cosponsoring the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, and serving as a member of the Congressional Children’s Safety Caucus.

Gottheimer was joined by Teaneck Mayor Mark Schwartz, Senator Gordon Johnson, Christinia D’Aloia of Bergen & Passaic County Consumer Affairs, Ramon Hache of the Ridgewood YMCA, Teaneck EMS Chief Ezra Finkelstein, Teaneck Deputy Fire Chief Paul O’Connor, and Cathy Davis and Dr. Genevieve Matthews of Holy Name Hospital.

Below: Gottheimer announces Summer Safety Plan.


Graves Announces $9 Million BUILD Grant  for Interstate 29/35 Project

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, announced that the Interstate 29 and Interstate 35 Corridor Project has received a $9 million BUILD (Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development) Grant.

The $9,055,200 grant will fund engineering, public outreach, environmental analysis, and the final design of the U.S. Route 169 connection to Interstate 29 and Interstate 35. The project will include preliminary engineering and NEPA clearance for two interchanges at I-29 and U.S. 169 and at I-29 and North Oak.

Graves previously secured a $640,000 BUILD planning grant for a Corridor Study of I-29/I-35 in 2020.

###


Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Violent, Reckless ICE Arrests in Milwaukee

“I am fully aware of ICE’s escalating presence in our community. ICE agents are showing up masked, dressed in police tactical gear, and using excessive force, including shattering car windows to carry out arrests. Their reckless tactics are terrorizing families and inflicting real harm on our residents, especially across the South Side. ICE is operating like a rogue agency, and its abuses make clear that serious reforms are long overdue. This is exactly why I refused to give this out‑of‑control agency one more penny.

My constituents should know they are entitled to due process in our country. Every person has rights, no matter their status. As Wisconsin’s Fourth District representative, I will continue conducting oversight and doing everything in my power to protect my constituents.”


Rep. Hageman Marks One-Year Anniversary of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as America Turns 250

Washington, D.C. – July 4, 2026, marks America’s 250th anniversary of independence, and one year since President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-WY) worked to ensure Wyoming's priorities were reflected in the historic legislation, and one year later, Wyoming families, workers, and small businesses are seeing real results.

"One year ago, we delivered on the mandate the American people gave us in 2024 to cut taxes, unleash American energy, and restore accountability in Washington,” said Rep. Hageman. “Today, the results are undeniable. Wyoming taxpayers are seeing the largest average tax cut in the country, our energy and timber industries finally have avenues to re-develop, and our state is being rewarded for running our programs the right way instead of being punished for Washington's mistakes. Simply put, the Working Families Tax Cuts law is the One Big Beautiful Bill that represents promises made and promises kept."

Background

Wyoming wins in the One Big Beautiful Bill:


What has the One Big Beautiful Bill done for Wyoming this year?  Record tax cuts 💵 Regulatory relief for Wyoming industries ⚡ Overdue support for our ranchers 🐂  @POTUS and @HouseGOP are ushering in a Golden Age for Wyoming!


Congressman Johnson’s Statement on End of SCOTUS 2025-2026 Term

Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts Ranking Member Hank Johnson Released the Following Statement at the Conclusion of the Supreme Court’s Recent Term

WASHINGTON, D.C. — “As America marks 250 years of independence from imperialist governance, with growing alarm we are witnessing the most activist Supreme Court in our nation’s history, as it reshapes our democracy into a plutocracy.

“While this just-ended term brings a temporary pause to the Roberts Court’s continued assault on Congressional authority, there can be no doubt that this Supreme Court will continue its power grab transition into a “super legislature”, as it vests more and more power upon the most corrupt president in world history.

“Mitch McConnell and the Federalist Society have built a Court that has upset the delicate system of checks and balances between the three co-equal branches of government, which has left democracy for all hanging by a thread.

“To ensure the survival of American democracy, we must bring reform to a reckless and hyper-partisan United States Supreme Court. Calls for reforming the court with commonsense policies such as term limits, a binding and enforceable code of conduct and transparency and accountability measures will continue to grow as the 6-3 MAGA majority rush to remake our society and government in their pro-corporate, pro-authoritarian executive dogmatic vision.”


Congressman Harris Announces $1.15 Million for Gateway Corridor Improvements in Cambridge

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), announced that the City of Cambridge has been awarded $1,150,000 through the U.S. Department of Transportation to complete final planning and engineering for the Cedar Street Gateway Corridor Multimodal Safety and Resilience Project.

The funding will support work on the Cedar Street Gateway corridor connecting U.S. Route 50 to downtown Cambridge, including drainage, stormwater, streetscape, and pedestrian and bicycle improvements to reduce flooding and improve safety.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“The Cedar Street Gateway is an important route into downtown Cambridge, and this investment will modernize the corridor while improving drainage and protecting against future flooding. I'm proud to have helped secure this award and move this project forward.”


Congressman Harris Announces $5.3 Million FAA Investment in Ocean City Municipal Airport

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Harris M.D. (MD-01), today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded $5,377,500 to the Town of Ocean City for improvements at Ocean City Municipal Airport.

The funding will complete the final phase of reconstructing Taxiway A, including 1,650 feet of pavement and lighting. The project completes the reconstruction of 3,850 feet of taxiway pavement that has reached the end of its service life.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

"I'm proud to have delivered this funding to complete the reconstruction of Taxiway A at Ocean City Municipal Airport. Completing this project will improve safety and modernize an airport that serves residents, businesses, and visitors across Maryland's Eastern Shore."


Comisionado Residente facilita gestiones federales para la misión médica puertorriqueña de ayuda humanitaria a Venezuela.

Washington, D.C. — El Comisionado Residente, Pablo José Hernández Rivera, informó hoy que su oficina facilitó las gestiones federales y orientación necesarias para que la organización RescatePR que se encuentra en colaboración con la organización Haití Se Pone de Pie en este esfuerzo humanitario, pudiera encaminar el proceso de solicitud de visados requerido para una misión médica de ayuda humanitaria a Venezuela.

Luego de que Rescate PR solicitara el apoyo de la oficina del Comisionado Residente, el equipo de trabajo les brindó información sobre los procesos federales aplicables en casos de emergencia, los requisitos correspondientes y los canales de comunicación con las autoridades consulares pertinentes. Ese apoyo permitió a la organización adelantar pasos importantes en el proceso de solicitud de visados para el equipo médico que participará en la misión.

"La oficina del Comisionado Residente existe para servir de enlace entre Puerto Rico y el gobierno federal. Cuando una organización puertorriqueña enfrenta un proceso federal complejo, nuestra responsabilidad es ayudar a encaminar esas gestiones y facilitar el acceso a las agencias correspondientes. Eso fue precisamente lo que hicimos en este caso para apoyar una misión de ayuda humanitaria al pueblo venezolano,” manifestó Hernández Rivera.

El Director de RescatePR, Pablo Nieves, agradeció la respuesta brindada por la oficina del Comisionado Residente.

"Agradecemos al Comisionado Residente Pablo José Hernández y a su equipo por responder con prontitud a nuestra solicitud. Su oficina nos ayudó a identificar el proceso correcto, los contactos pertinentes y los requisitos necesarios para encaminar la solicitud de los visados de nuestra misión humanitaria,” manifestó el Sr.Nieves

Por su parte, el Doctor Carlos Mellado, cofundador de Haití Se Pone de Pie, destacó el apoyo recibido durante el proceso.

"En una emergencia humanitaria no hay tiempo que perder. Cuando acudimos a la oficina del Comisionado Residente encontramos una respuesta inmediata y el apoyo necesario para encaminar un proceso que es indispensable para que nuestra misión pudiera seguir adelante. Eso nos permitió continuar enfocados en lo verdaderamente importante: llevar ayuda médica al pueblo venezolano," agregó el Dr. Mellado

La misión humanitaria contempla el traslado de un equipo de entre siete y diez médicos y profesionales de la salud, junto con suministros médicos para establecer una clínica de atención a las comunidades afectadas por los recientes terremotos en Venezuela.

Actualmente la organización está a la espera de que el Gobierno de Venezuela les permita la entrada al país para llevar a cabo esta valiosa ayuda.

Para organizaciones y ciudadanos que requieran asistencia con agencias federales, pueden comunicarse a la Oficina de Distrito del Comisionado Residente llamando al: 787-230-7959.

###


Comisionado Residente impulsa proyecto para otorgar la Medalla de Honor a Rambo

WASHINGTON, DC — Mientras EEUU se prepara para conmemorar el 250 aniversario de la independencia de Estados Unidos, el Comisionado Residente Pablo José Hernández presentó el "Sergeant First Class Jorge Otero Barreto Medal of Honor Act" para autorizar al Presidente a otorgar póstumamente la Medalla de Honor al Sargento de Primera Clase Jorge Otero Barreto, natural de Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, cuyo valor durante la Guerra de Vietnam salvó la vida de compañeros soldados y dejó un legado duradero de servicio.

Esta legislación autorizaría una excepción a las limitaciones estatutarias de tiempo existentes y permitiría al Presidente otorgar póstumamente la Medalla de Honor a Otero Barreto por su gallardía e intrepidez conspicuas, más allá del cumplimiento del deber, como miembro del Ejército de los Estados Unidos durante la Guerra de Vietnam. La legislación cuenta con el copatrocinio de la congresista Nydia Velázquez (D-NY).

“El Sargento de Primera Clase Jorge Otero Barreto fue un héroe de Puerto Rico que respondió al llamado con un valor extraordinario”, expresó el Comisionado Residente. “Arriesgó su vida para proteger a sus compañeros soldados, sirvió a nuestra Nación con distinción y continuó sirviendo a los veteranos mucho después de regresar a casa. Su legado merece el más alto honor que puede conceder nuestro país.”

“Mientras se acerca el Día de la Independencia de EEUU, esta legislación tiene un significado especial. Las libertades que celebramos fueron aseguradas y defendidas por generaciones de americanos dispuestos a ponerse en peligro por algo más grande que ellos mismos. El legado del Sargento de Primera Clase Jorge Otero Barreto nos recuerda que la valentía, el deber y el amor por la patria siguen siendo pilares perdurables de nuestro carácter nacional,” dijo Jeffrey Rosales, de Vietnam Veterans of America.

Nacido en Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Otero Barreto sirvió en el Army de los Estados Unidos de 1959 a 1970. Se convirtió en el primer puertorriqueño en graduarse de la Escuela de Asalto Aéreo del Ejército de los Estados Unidos y completó cinco giras voluntarias en Vietnam, participando en más de 200 misiones de combate y aéreas con la 101.ª División Aerotransportada y la 82.ª División Aerotransportada. El 1 de mayo de 1968, durante la Operación Carentan II cerca de Huế, su pelotón fue atacado ferozmente por fuerzas norvietnamitas. En medio del asalto, Otero Barreto neutralizó una posición fortificada de ametralladora enemiga y dirigió a su escuadra en la limpieza de tres búnkeres adicionales, ayudando a salvar la vida de sus compañeros soldados.

Otero Barreto recibió 38 condecoraciones militares, incluyendo dos Estrellas de Plata, cinco Medallas Estrella de Bronce con dispositivo “V” por valor, cinco Corazones Púrpura y siete Medallas Aéreas. Después de la guerra, continuó sirviendo como consejero de veteranos, ayudando a compañeros veteranos que enfrentaban estrés postraumático y abuso de sustancias. Falleció el 14 de octubre de 2024, a los 87 años. El proyecto eximiría las limitaciones de tiempo existentes y autorizaría al Presidente a otorgarle póstumamente la Medalla de Honor por su gallardía e intrepidez conspicuas, más allá del llamado del deber, durante la Guerra de Vietnam.

###


MEDIA ADVISORY: REP. HILL TO HOST UNVEILING OF A BUST HONORING AN ARKANSAS HERO AT THE ARKANSAS STATE CAPITOL

LITTLE ROCK, AR – On Tuesday at 10:00 AM CT at the Arkansas State Capitol, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) will host the unveiling of the bust of former Lt. Governor and World War II hero Maurice “Footsie” Britt.

Maurice “Footsie” Britt of Carlisle, Arkansas, was the first American soldier in World War II to receive all of the Army's top decorations for valor in a single war, earning the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and four Purple Hearts while fighting across North Africa, Sicily, and Italy with the 3rd Infantry Division. He later served two terms as Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas alongside Governor Winthrop Rockefeller.

WHO: Rep. French Hill, Arkansas State Representative Joey Carr, Deputy Secretary Dr. Paul Lawrence (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs), Dr. Charles Robinson (Chancellor, University of Arkansas), members of the Britt family, the U.S. Air Force, Arkansas National Guard, 106th Army Band, and the bust's artist, Kevin Kresse, who also created the statue of Arkansas icon Johnny Cash that resides in the U.S. Capitol.

WHAT: Maurice “Footsie” Britt Bust Unveiling

WHEN: 10:00 AM CT, Tuesday, July 7, 2026

WHERE:

Arkansas State Capitol Rotunda, Second Floor

500 Woodlane StLittle Rock, AR 72201

Press:


RELEASE: HILL AWARDS LATEST GOLDEN FLEECE TO USDA

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as the latest recipient of his Golden Fleece Award for failing to stop the rampant theft of SNAP benefits from vulnerable families.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that states replaced more than $320 million in stolen SNAP benefits between October 2022 and December 2024. Criminals used scams like card skimming, card cloning, and phishing to steal SNAP EBT card information and drain SNAP benefits before families could use them to buy groceries. In Arkansas, more than 1,100 families had their SNAP benefits stolen using card skimmers in 2024, totaling more than $550,000. USDA should stop this fraud before criminals can drain benefits from vulnerable Americans.

Rep. Hill said, "SNAP dollars should go to hungry families, not fraudsters. Every dollar stolen is a dollar taken from someone who needs help buying groceries. I appreciate the Trump Administration's work to go after criminals stealing SNAP benefits, and I urge the USDA to bring that same urgency to stopping electronic theft before it happens, not just chasing it after the fact. Families who rely on SNAP need to know the money will be there, and taxpayers in Arkansas and across America deserve to know their hard-earned tax dollars are being protected."

In his letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Rep. Hill writes:

Dear Secretary Rollins,

I write today to inform you that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Administration is this month’s recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. I am awarding this to USDA because of its failure to properly protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from electronic theft and fraud.

SNAP is intended to help low-income families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children put food on the table. That mission matters. In Fiscal Year 2025, SNAP was expected to provide approximately $96 billion in benefits to about 43 million people nationwide. In Arkansas alone, about 240,400 people received SNAP benefits each month in Fiscal Year 2025, representing 7.7 percent of the state’s population.

This is how serious the problem is: the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that states replaced more than $320 million in stolen SNAP benefits between October 2022 and December 2024. Criminals used scams like card skimming, card cloning, and phishing to steal SNAP EBT card information and drain SNAP benefits before families could use them to buy groceries.

Arkansas families have been hit by SNAP fraud. According to the Arkansas Department of Human Services, more than 1,100 Arkansas families had their SNAP benefits stolen using card skimmers in 2024, totaling more than $550,000. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin has warned that scammers are accessing EBT card funds without the recipient’s knowledge and then immediately spending that money outside Arkansas, leaving vulnerable Arkansans without the funds they need to purchase groceries. In addition, USDA has acknowledged that criminals are using electronic schemes such as skimming, cloning, phishing, and other methods to steal SNAP benefits before recipients can use them. This is especially concerning because these stolen benefits are intended for low-income families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children, not criminals exploiting weaknesses in outdated EBT security systems.

Every dollar stolen from SNAP is a dollar taken from a person who needs help buying groceries. It is also a dollar taken from taxpayers who expect the SNAP program to serve the vulnerable. Protecting SNAP from fraud is how we preserve SNAP for Americans who truly need it. That is exactly why fraud in this program is so unacceptable.

I appreciate that the Trump Administration has made SNAP program integrity a priority and that USDA has already taken steps to target criminals stealing SNAP benefits. USDA has stated that fraud will not be tolerated by the Trump Administration, and USDA’s Special Investigations Unit has worked with federal law enforcement partners to target criminals engaged in stealing SNAP benefits. USDA has also stated that the SNAP Fraud Framework supports state efforts to improve and expand fraud prevention, detection, and investigation. That work is welcome. Now USDA should bring that same urgency to stopping electronic SNAP theft before criminals can drain benefits from vulnerable Americans.

Taxpayers deserve to know that USDA is safeguarding their dollars. Families who depend on SNAP deserve to know their benefits will not be stolen before they can buy groceries. I urge USDA to provide Congress with clear, state-by-state data on SNAP theft, including the number of households affected, the dollar amount stolen, and the steps being taken to protect recipients going forward. Should you require additional authority from Congress to accomplish this task and protect SNAP beneficiaries from electronic theft, I ask that you notify me. I look forward to working with you on this important matter.

Sincerely,

French Hill

Member of Congress

CC: Acting Administrator of the USDA Food and Nutrition Administration, Shiela Corley


Hoyer Statement on June Jobs Report

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement on the June jobs report:

“Last month, President Trump said that ‘it’s raining jobs,’ but the reality is that far too many Americans are seeing their economic opportunities dry up. While our economy saw a modest increase of 57,000 jobs in June, and the unemployment rate ticked down to 4.2%, these numbers obscure the difficult reality that hardworking Americans face. With inflation rising faster than average household earnings for the third consecutive month, families are too often forced to choose between buying gas or buying groceries, between paying a medical bill or paying for electricity. Unsurprisingly, President Trump has no comfort or substance to offer, having recently declared: 'I love the inflation.'

“Rather than fulfilling his promise to lower these costs, the President has instead launched a failed war of choice with Iran and spent hundreds of millions of dollars on vanity projects, such as his White House ballroom, all at the expense of America’s working families. These choices send a clear message: hardworking Americans do not come first in President Trump’s America. Instead, it’s his family and billionaire friends.

“Marylanders and Americans across the country deserve better, and Congress must step up to hold this Administration accountable and step in to deliver real economic stability, opportunity, and lower prices for our people.”


Ranking Member Huffman Releases Report on How Trump Hijacked America's 250th Birthday to Enrich Himself, Sell Access, and Harvest Americans' Data

Whistleblower accounts and internal documents reveal how the White House captured a beloved national charity, deceived donors out of their money, and sold access to the President

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) released a new 55-page report following months of investigative work by Committee Democrats exposing how Donald Trump hijacked what was supposed to be a unifying, non-political celebration of our country's 250th birthday and made it all about him – his vanity projects, his political and religious agenda, his business ventures, and his cronies who gorged on public funds under cover of a shadow corporation shielded from public scrutiny.

The report, "From Vanity to Insanity: How the White House Cheated the American People Out of Their 250th Birthday," traces how the machinery Congress built for a national commemoration that would be above politics was commandeered, over a period of months, into an apparatus for raising and spending money in service of the President's ego, political agenda, and personal financial interests.

Watch Ranking Member Huffman discuss the report's findings.

“Donald Trump’s hijacking of America's 250th birthday will go down as one of the most corrupt, brazen abuses of public trust in presidential history, even by the dubious standards of this administration. As our country prepared to celebrate a milestone that belongs to every American, Trump and his operatives launched a hostile takeover of the bipartisan commission established by Congress to lead the celebration. When that failed, they sidelined the commission, siphoned its resources, and infiltrated a beloved national charity under cover of a shadow corporation that shielded them from public scrutiny. Then they proceeded to deceive donors, solicit foreign money, sell access to the President, award no-bid contracts to Trump loyalists, harvest Americans’ personal data, and push a white-washed, Christian nationalist version of history,” said Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif).

“But they didn’t account for us. Over the past year, our investigation has pursued the truth about the machinations, schemes and abuses of trust they’ve tried to hide. We’ve uncovered extensive evidence of corruption, self-enrichmentand potential crimes. The Republican majority in Congress, which has far more investigative tools and power than we do, could have joined us in conducting serious oversight and demanding answers. Instead, they’ve used their power to shield the individuals and entities involved.

“The American people deserve to know the truth about how the official national celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary was stolen, along with a large – and so far unaccounted for – sum of their taxpayer dollars. So, today – against the obstruction and resistance of our Republican colleagues – we are dragging this fiasco out of the shadows and shining a bright light on the corruption and fraud surrounding Freedom 250. We can’t stop from tarnishing the country’s July 4th celebration, but we can stop it from ever happening again – we can protect the next government program, the next fund, the next thing that's supposed to work for all of us, from being exploited and misused this way. That’s why we must confront this grift and corruption now. From our earliest days, America has stood for government by the people, not powerful tyrants. We will fight to keep it that way.”

When the nonpartisan, congressionally chartered America250 Commission refused to bend to the President's demands, the White House built a replacement - Freedom 250 LLC – and declared it the central platform for the national celebration. The White House lodged this shadow organization inside the National Park Foundation so it could exploit the credibility and donor relationships of a beloved public charity while operating outside the transparency rules Congress wrote into law for the commission.

Key Findings

The President put himself at the center of the nation's birthday. Trump issued an executive order making himself and the Vice President Chair and Vice Chair of a White House task force, then staged his own birthday as a national event twice: the Army's 250th military parade on June 14, 2025, and a UFC fight on the White House South Lawn on June 14, 2026, run under the Freedom 250 banner.

The White House built Freedom 250 on deceit. Musical performers, among others, were misled about programming and connections to Trump’s political machine. Fundraisers may have misled donors who intended to support America250 and handed them Freedom 250's banking information, routing contributions meant for the nonpartisan foundation to the President's substitute entity instead. The report finds that, if true, this could constitute wire fraud and charitable solicitation fraud under federal and District of Columbia law.

Freedom 250 sold access to the President and courted foreign money in America's name. The organization circulated sponsorship packages starting at $500,000 and climbing above $10 million, backed by a "historic photo opportunity" with President Trump. Its CEO solicited foreign governments, corporations, and individuals at the World Economic Forum in Davos to fund the President’s priorities. If foreign funds reach the President's vanity projects, the report finds the conduct would clearly violate the Constitution's Foreign Emoluments Clause.

Trump and his operatives cashed in. Event Strategies, Inc., the firm that helped plan the January 6th rally, has collected tens of millions in federal contracts connected to the anniversary, including a master contract worth up to $100 million. Trump traded in the stock of companies that donated to Freedom 250 and staged a White House UFC fight that shamelessly promoted his own investments and business ventures. Freedom 250's event registration process was run through Campaign Nucleus, the firm founded by Trump campaign operative Brad Parscale, which uses artificial intelligence to score visitors and target "persuadable" voters. Thousands of unwitting fans handed over their personal information at a free FIFA World Cup Fan Zone on the National Mall. Freedom 250’s official merchandise is sold by the Trump campaign’s official merchandise vendor, Ace Specialties, and agencies have purchased the merchandise and required employees to wear it.

The White House imposed a false, Christian nationalist history. Federally funded "Freedom Trucks" carried revisionism and outright falsehoods to schoolchildren, including an AI rendering of George Washington claiming, "our rights are a gift from God," a statement Washington is not documented to have made. The Interior Department also urged employees to wear Freedom 250 pins and threatened discipline against those who refused the pin, which anonymous employees took to calling their "Vichy pin," a reference to World War II-era lapel pins that served as loyalty and propaganda badges.

Freedom 250 created a blueprint for corruption. The report concludes Freedom 250 is "a blueprint, not a one-time abuse," already test-driven at the Department of Agriculture, where the administration steered companies with business before the government to donate through a conservation charity into a fund the Secretary controls.

The investigation drew on confidential disclosures from sources interviewed by Committee Democrats, internal Freedom 250 documents and talking points obtained by the Committee, sworn testimony from two Committee hearings, and written responses from the National Park Foundation and the National Forest Foundation.

Republicans on the Committee refused to conduct any oversight to hold the administration accountable, even when Democrats repeatedly raised evidence of wrongdoing at Republicans’ own hearing entitled, “All in for America250: Public-Private Partnerships Supporting America’s Semiquincentennial on our Public Lands.” Interior Secretary Doug Burgum testified he was "not aware of the final decisionmaker" behind Freedom 250, and the Department has refused to provide that information since.


Huizenga Leads Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen Defense Cooperation with Key Allies Through UNLOCK AUKUS Act

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced the introduction of H.R. 9517, the bipartisan UNLOCK AUKUS Act, to strengthen the AUKUS security partnership by providing the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom greater flexibility to collaborate on advanced defense technologies while preserving critical national security safeguards.

The legislation builds on Huizenga's longstanding efforts to strengthen AUKUS and ensure America's closest allies can work together more effectively to meet evolving security challenges. By removing an outdated statutory restriction that no longer reflects today's strategic environment, the bill strengthens cooperation among trusted partners while maintaining strong protections for America's most sensitive defense technologies.

"As the Chinese Communist Party rapidly expands its military capabilities, the United States must ensure our closest allies can innovate and work alongside us without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “The UNLOCK AUKUS Act strengthens one of the world's most important security partnerships, meets the security challenges of today, and delivers a force multiplier to the AUKUS partnership."

“AUKUS provides a once-in-a-lifetime security enhancement for all three nations. Pillar I is happening in real-time in the Indo-Pacific and in our shipyards, and Pillar II is making exciting new progress with the recent announcement of collaboration between the three nations on payloads for undersea unmanned vessels,” said Congressman Joe Courtney (D-CT). “Through the UNLOCK AUKUS Act, Congress is building on that announcement by streamlining further collaboration on advanced missile capabilities in Pillar II. I’m excited to partner with my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral bill, which reaffirms the clear-eyed and stalwart commitment by both parties in Congress to make AUKUS a success.”

“Although the AUKUS Partnership has improved defense cooperation with our Australian and British allies through the production of advanced technology like the hypersonic weaponry being developed at Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indiana’s Eighth District, we must do better,” said Congressman Mark Messmer (R-IN). “I am proud to support Rep. Huizenga’s UNLOCK AUKUS Act, which will continue these important efforts, while also removing bureaucratic red tape that is preventing America from reaching our highest potential in our national defense strategic game plan.”

"Strengthening the AUKUS pact will keep Americans safe and strengthen our values-based alliances with the UK and Australia," said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). "The bipartisan, bicameral UNLOCK AUKUS Act unleashes the full power of AUKUS for collaboration on 21st century defense systems to protect against our adversaries in the Indo-Pacific, while providing good jobs and supporting American businesses."

"The Chinese Communist Party is working at lightning speed to advance its military apparatus, and it does not play fair,” said Congressman Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX). “The UNLOCK AUKUS Act empowers the United States and its allies to meet that generational challenge head-on by removing burdensome red tape that slows the transfer of critical military technologies. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill that will strengthen crucial partnerships like the AUKUS defense pact and deter the CCP's malign activity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond."

“The strength of our AUKUS partnership is critical to deterring an increasingly aggressive China and countering new, emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific,” said Congressman Pat Ryan (D-NY). “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would streamline collaboration with our partners and ensure we collectively maintain our technological edge. As co-chair of the House Defense Modernization Caucus, this is simple, smart bill to cut through red tape and accelerate innovation.”

Announced in 2021, AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom that is designed to deepen defense cooperation and promote stability throughout the Indo-Pacific. Pillar I focuses on Australia's acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. Congressman Huizenga championed this provision, the AUKUS Submarine Transfer Authorization Act, which was signed into law in December 2023. Pillar II accelerates cooperation on advanced capabilities including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cyber capabilities, electronic warfare, hypersonics, undersea technologies, and other emerging defense systems.

To support that mission, Congress previously established a streamlined export framework that allows many defense technologies to be shared more efficiently among the three nations. However, current law automatically excludes all technologies controlled under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), even if there is intent to transfer such articles under AUKUS. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act removes that blanket statutory prohibition and instead allows the President to determine which technologies should remain excluded based on evolving national security considerations.

Huizenga introduced the legislation alongside Representatives Mark Messmer (R-IN), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Blake Moore (R-UT), and Gabe Amo (D-RI). The Senate companion is led by Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Tim Kaine (D-VA).


Jayapal Introduces Legislation to Help Working Families Afford Fresh Food

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) is introducing the Fresh Bucks for Fresh Produce Act, legislation to help families buy fresh fruits and vegetables modeled on a successful program launched in Jayapal’s district.

“As families struggle to keep food on the table, Congress must prioritize work on efforts to lower costs and help Americans stay afloat,” said Jayapal. “While Republicans in Congress enacted legislation to raise food prices and are hellbent on cutting food assistance, Seattle is once again leading the way with the Fresh Bucks program, which is successfully keeping people fed with nutritious food and reducing hunger. We must pass this legislation to expand the program nationwide and get families in every corner of the country healthy produce they can afford.”

The Fresh Bucks for Fresh Produce Act would establish a pilot program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to give families making 80 percent or less of their area’s median income $60 per month to spend on produce. The program is modeled after a successful program created by the City of Seattle, which has led to a 31 percent higher food security rate and encouraged healthy habits, with participants having at least three servings of fruits and vegetables a day 37 percent more often.

“The International Fresh Produce Association is grateful to Representative Jayapal for introducing the Fresh Bucks for Produce Act to make fruits and vegetables more accessible to income-eligible individuals. This type of intervention empowers consumers to access the fruits and vegetables that are right for their families and in retail locations that work for them. Minimizing barriers to fresh fruit and vegetable consumption means making the healthy choice the easy choice – and this bill would do just that.” Mollie Van Lieu, Vice President, Nutrition and Health, International Fresh Produce Association.

“In White Center and historically underinvested communities across King County, we see every day how rising grocery costs continue to strain working families, seniors, immigrants, and households already navigating increasing housing and living expenses. Access to healthy, culturally relevant food should not be determined by income—it should not be considered a luxury. At WCCDA, we believe thriving communities require systems that make healthy food accessible, affordable, and attainable—and that investments in food access are investments in community health, economic stability, and opportunity. We strongly support Congresswoman Jayapal’s leadership in advancing innovative solutions that respond to the realities families face today while strengthening local food systems and neighborhood businesses that give us our vibrancy. Expanding the proven Seattle Fresh Bucks model through a federal pilot offers an opportunity to increase food security, support local producers and retailers, and help communities across the country build healthier, more resilient futures,” said Aaron Garcia, WCCDA Executive Director.

“Older adults across King County are facing impossible choices as grocery prices continue to rise. Seattle’s Fresh Bucks program has had a substantial impact on our clients’ health and quality of life: we have seen firsthand how a targeted produce benefit can increase health equity, improve food security, and keep food dollars circulating locally. A USDA pilot modeled on that success would be a meaningful step toward healthier households and stronger community food systems nationwide,” said Adam Porter, Director, Meals on Wheels, Sound Generations.

“We are excited for Representative Jayapal’s proposed pilot to bring more fresh produce to our neighbors. Fruits and vegetables remain the most shopped for and most requested items at our three pantries. This pilot will help our customer families find more healthy produce options that meet their specific needs and also, importantly, expand support for our local food system. Small local farms are a critical partner in our work and in our food supply. This pilot will help our community increase the investment in local food and in building a stronger local food system while nourishing our neighbors,” said Joe Gruber, Executive Director, University District Food Bank.

“Food insecurity is driven not only by a lack of food, but by the rising cost of healthy food,” said Food Lifeline CEO Stephen Davis.“This proposal builds on a proven model by helping families afford fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers and food businesses. We applaud Congresswoman Jayapal for advancing an evidence-based approach that helps families put nutritious food on the table while strengthening local food systems.”

The legislation is sponsored by Alma Adams (NC-12), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Adam Smith (WA-09), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13).

It is also endorsed by Alimentando al Pueblo; Anti-Hunger & Nutrition Coalition; Ballard Food Bank; Center for Biological Diversity; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Coalition for Organic and Regenerative Agriculture; Farm Action Fund; Food & Water Watch; Food Lifeline; International Fresh Produce Association; Lifelong Health for All; National Education Association; Northwest Harvest; Organically Grown Company; Pacific Islander Community Association of WA; Sound Generations; Southwest Youth & Family Services; The Southern Poverty Law Center; Tilth Alliance; United Way of King County; University District Food Bank; Washington State Community Action Partnership; White Center Community Development Association; White Center Food Bank.


LEADER JEFFRIES IN PHILADELPHIA: “WE ARE A COUNTRY OF CITIZENS, NOT SUBJECTS”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, alongside Members of Congress and other leaders, delivered remarks at Independence National Historical Park to mark the birth of the United States as part of America250, the bipartisan national celebration of our nation’s Semiquincentennial.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Governor Shapiro, Members of Congress, all those assembled.

It is a high honor and a distinct privilege to be marked present today at the birthplace of our democracy, where 250 years ago, the Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, decreeing that all men are created equally and entitled to certain unalienable rights, such as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The Declaration of Independence formally severed us from the tyrannical reign of King George III, who the signatories accuse of obstructing the administration of justice, cutting off trade with the rest of the world, sending officers to harass the people, obstructing efforts to naturalize citizens and trying to render the military superior to civilian authority.

Independence Hall, right across the way, is the birthplace of the Constitution, where the Framers decided that the Congress would be separate and coequal, never subservient or coopted. So let us never forget that we don’t work for any other branch of government. There are no kings in the United States of America. We work exclusively for the American people.

Indeed, the House was set up to be the institution that the Framers envisioned to be the closest to the people—to reflect the hopes, the dreams, the aspirations, the fears, the concerns, the anxieties, the life experiences and the passions of the people. James Madison once observed that the House should be in intimate sympathy with the people that we are privileged to represent. Intimate sympathy.

Let us use this moment to reflect on these principles and recommit to bringing them to life not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans. We’re not a perfect nation, and America has indeed struggled at times, beginning with the horrors of chattel slavery and the oppression of Native Americans, to live up to our highest ideals, but the high-minded principles upon which this great country was born have served as an eternal lamppost for us to continue to strive and march toward a more perfect union.

America is an exceptional nation, and to this day, as President Lincoln once observed, we remain the last best hope on Earth. We are a country of citizens, not subjects. A nation of patriots, not patsies. And a republic whose fate will be determined by voters, not victims.

We must never abandon the principles that have brought us this far—liberty and justice for all, equal protection under the law, free and fair elections, government of the people by the people and for the people, the land of the free and the home of the brave. These are the values that define the best of who we are as a nation. Let us all recommit to them today so we can ensure that the next 250 years are even better than the first.

God bless all of you, God bless the Congress and may God continue to bless the United States of America.

Full event can be watched here.

###


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 1, 2026

CONTACT:

Press.Jackson.IL01@mail.house.gov

Representative Jackson and Senator Duckworth Reintroduce Legislation to Help Reduce Gun Violence and Honor Slain Chicago Student Blair Holt

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) reintroduced bicameral legislation to help reduce gun violence in Illinois and across the country. The Blair Holt Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act would prohibit the unlicensed ownership and transfer of firearms and direct the U.S. Attorney General to establish and maintain a federal record of sale system and conduct fingerprint-based nationwide criminal background checks. The legislation is named after Blair Holt, a Chicago Julian High School honor student who was gunned down protecting his friend when a gunman opened fire while they were riding home from school on a crowded public transit bus.

“No child should ever be put in a situation where they lose their life protecting a friend from gunfire,” said Duckworth. “This is commonsense legislation that would establish universal background checks and other safety reforms to help prevent dangerous firearms from falling into the wrong hands. For Blair Holt and the countless other victims of gun violence in our country, Congress must put partisanship aside and work together to make our communities safer for our children and prevent these tragedies from ever happening again.”

“We cannot accept a nation where a teenager’s bus ride home becomes a battleground, and where families are left to mourn preventable tragedies,” said Representative Jackson. “Blair Holt’s death is a painful reminder that young people, families, and communities continue to bear the cost of Congress’s failure to act. I am honored to reintroduce this legislation with Senator Duckworth because it reflects our commitment to choose courage over complacency and finally enact the commonsense safeguards our communities have demanded for far too long.”

The Blair Holt Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act is modeled, in part, after the Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card (FOID) statute and specifically would:

Protect the public against the unreasonable risk of injury and death associated with the unrecorded sale or transfer of qualifying firearms to unlicensed individuals.

Make sure that owners of qualifying firearms are knowledgeable in the safe use, handling and storage of those firearms.

Restrict the availability of qualifying firearms to criminals, children and other persons prohibited by federal law from receiving firearms.

Require universal background checks for all purchases or transfers of firearms.

Facilitate the tracing of qualifying firearms used in crime by federal and state law enforcement agencies.

Bill Text Available Here

###


Kaptur Announces Another Major Investment Of Over $7.18 Million for Northwest Ohio Regional Airports

Port Clinton, OH — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that three Northwest Ohio airports will be receiving awards from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). A total of $7,189,092 will be awarded to the Erie-Ottawa International Airport, the Toledo Executive Airport, and the Fulton County Airport through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to improve passenger and crew safety and to update facilities. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Kaptur prioritizes bringing essential funds back home where they are needed most. In recent years, she has worked to secure funds for airports across Northwest Ohio.

“It is a privilege to support airports across our region, and deliver funds they need to make transit, commerce, and medical transportation safer and more efficient for us all,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “While these airports may not be well-known nationally, they are true lifelines for our local economies. Many aspiring pilots have fallen in love with flight while training at one of these airports, and businesses both near and far use them as hubs for transporting people and products. I am proud of Ohio’s strong aviation history, and I work tirelessly with our local airports as they seek to build upon that history with their own innovations and expansions. The future is shining bright for aviators and airports across our Northwest Ohio region.”

The Erie-Ottawa International Airport in Port Clinton will receive $5,555,597 to complete renovations of a paved runway. Known as a gateway to Ohio’s shores and lakes, Port Clinton’s airport serves many passengers and pilots looking to vacation or conduct business on Lake Erie’s coast and islands. Since 2016, the airport has operated Customs and Border Patrol services to international visitors, expanding tourism and economic opportunities for the region.

The Toledo Executive Airport (TDZ) will receive $1,253,495 to support another phase of construction on an airplane hangar and taxiing runway pavements. In combination with their earlier award, Toledo’s corporate, training, and law enforcement airport will receive a total of $2,094,631 as a result of Congresswoman Kaptur’s collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration.

The Fulton County Airport, located in Wauseon, will receive $380,000 to modernize their facilities with a new taxiing runway connecting the airfield with a storage hangar. The airport currently houses Mercy Health Life Flight and the Buckeye Flight Academy, as well as an Experimental Aircraft Association chapter of passionate local pilots.

These new federal investments build on previous awards to airports across our Northwest Ohio region in recent years. This award announcement is the second of the week for Northwest Ohio airports, with Congresswoman Kaptur already havingsecured over $3.67 Million for Toledo-area airports.On May 18th, Congresswoman Kaptur announced a $1.4 Million Award for Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport. On May 12th, 2026, Congresswoman Kaptur announced over $1 Million in federal investment for infrastructure improvements at Williams County Regional Airport, Defiance Memorial Airport, and Sandusky County Regional Airport.In April 2026 Congresswoman Kaptur announced $536,616 awarded to rehabilitate Defiance County Airport Infrastructure. In June 2025 Congresswoman Kaptur delivered over $1.4 Million in FAA funding for four Northwest Ohio airports to modernize infrastructure and bolster safety. In July 2025, she announced $342,000 for Fulton County Airport to improve runway conditions. In August 2025, Congresswoman Kaptur announced $300,000 in FAA Funds to Fulton and Williams County Airports. In 2024 she also brought home $400,000 in FAA funds to strengthen aviation upgrades across multiple airports in the district


Kelly highlights Working Families Tax Cuts success as the law's one-year anniversary nears

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, ahead of the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump signing the Working Families Tax Cuts into law, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, highlighted the benefits tens of millions of Americans received during the first tax season under the law.

"In its first year, the Working Families Tax Cuts put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Pennsylvania families, made historic investments in our nation's children, gave a boost to our seniors, and strengthened Main Street businesses for years to come," said Rep. Kelly. "Thanks to these incredible new policies, including No Tax on Tips and No Tax on Overtime, this law leverages the tax code to work for Americans, not against them. From employers to employees, from children to seniors, the Working Families Tax Cuts are a game changer for Pennsylvanians."

President Trump signed the Working Families Tax Cuts into law on July 4, 2025.

By The Numbers

The latest U.S. Treasury data, released in June, revealed:

96% of filers receiving a tax cut earned less than $200,000.

Nearly 70% of filers receiving a tax cut earned less than $100,000.

No Tax on Tips: Over 7.5 million filers have claimed No Tax on Tips, with an average deduction of over $7,000.

No Tax on Overtime: Over 29 million filers have claimed No Tax on Overtime, with an average deduction of over $3,100.

Enhanced Senior Deduction: Over 35 million seniors have claimed the Enhanced Deduction for Seniors, with an average deduction of over $7,500.

No Tax on Car Loan Interest: Over 1.4 million filers have claimed No Tax on Car Loan Interest on their new American vehicles, with an average deduction of over $1,800.

Trump Accounts: Over 5.5 million Trump Accounts have been opened, with 1.4 million eligible for the $1,000 pilot program contribution.

Enhanced Child Tax Credit: Nearly 40 million families have claimed the enhanced Child Tax Credit, which is permanently doubled and expanded by the Working Families Tax Cuts.

Doubled Standard Deduction: Over 127 million filers (90% of all tax filers) have claimed the permanently doubled standard deduction, simplifying tax filing for millions across America.

Opportunity Zones Success

The Working Families Tax Cuts also expanded and made permanent Rep. Kelly's Opportunity Zones legislation, which encourages private investment in low-income and rural communities. Since its enactment, Opportunity Zones have attracted more than $100 billion in private investment across thousands of communities nationwide.

The City of Erie, Pennsylvania has become a national model for OZ implementation. With more than $115 million in private investment into downtown Erie, OZs have led to 108 new fully occupied residences, revitalized and created more than 100,000 square feet of new commercial space, and established space for 25 new businesses. Overall, $400 million of long-term capital investment is at work, breathing new life into Downtown Erie.


Congressman Krishnamoorthi Responds to Report that FBI Diverted Hundreds of Personnel to 2020 Georgia Election Investigation

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today issued the following statement after a report from MS NOW that the FBI directed hundreds of intelligence analysts and other personnel to support an investigation related to the 2020 election in Georgia:

“The FBI exists to protect the American people and uphold the rule of law, not to serve as a taxpayer-funded opposition research firm for the President's political grievances. Diverting hundreds of FBI personnel to relitigate conspiracy theories about the 2020 election, despite its results having long been settled, is a profound misuse of the Bureau's resources for partisan purposes. Director Patel owes Congress and the American people an immediate explanation of the legal basis for this investigation, the resources being devoted to it, and what urgent public safety priorities are being pushed aside as a result. The American people should be deeply concerned that the Trump Administration appears to be using law enforcement to justify greater federal control over our elections.”