SCHNEIDER, MEMBERS OF THE ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION INTRODUCE RESOLUTION MARKING FOUR YEARS SINCE JULY 4TH SHOOTING IN HIGHLAND PARK

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), together with members of the Illinois delegation, introduced a resolution expressing the condolences of Congress and honoring the memory of the victims of the shooting at the Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois, on July 4, 2022. Senators Durbin and Duckworth introduced a Senate companion last week.

Specifically, the resolution:

Expresses sincere condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of Katherine Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, Kevin McCarthy, Stephen Straus, Jacquelyn Sundheim, Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, and Eduardo Uvaldo, the victims of the devastating shooting along the parade route on July 4, 2022, in Highland Park, Illinois;

Honors the lives and memory of the victims, with gratitude for their selfless dedication to others;

Continues to extend support to the individuals who were injured and subjected to the trauma of the shooting;

Expresses gratitude to the law enforcement officers, medical personnel, and emergency responders who responded to the shooting with professionalism, dedication, and bravery; and,

Stands in solidarity with the victims of senseless gun violence in communities across the United States.

“This July 4th marks four years since Katherine Goldstein, Irina and Kevin McCarthy, Jacquelyn Sundheim, Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, Stephen Straus, and Eduardo Uvaldo were tragically murdered in a senseless act of gun violence,” said Schneider. “What was meant to be a day of celebration turned into a devastating tragedy for both Highland Park and the nation. Our community was forever changed but also is forever strong. This resolution ensures we will never forget the seven souls lost that day—nor the survivors and families who live with trauma and grief. Though they will be forever missed, their memory endures today. I am grateful to Senators Durbin and Duckworth for leading this resolution in the Senate and will continue to work alongside them and other like-minded colleagues to advance commonsense gun violence prevention legislation to keep our communities safe and help end the scourge of gun violence gripping our nation.”

“What happened in 2022, as families in Highland Park gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July, was an atrocity. That gunman, who shot off more than 80 rounds in 60 seconds, destroyed families, paralyzed children, and scarred a community for a lifetime,” Durbin said. “My heart still aches for Highland Park, and we owe it to our communities to pass meaningful legislation to address the scourge of gun violence in our nation.”

“When families gathered in Highland Park to observe the Fourth of July four years ago, they were there to celebrate America at its best—and instead, they saw our country at its worst,” Duckworth said. “Four years later, my thoughts remain with my fellow Illinoisans who experienced unimaginable tragedy at the Highland Park parade, a time-honored tradition. Our resolution would honor the seven lives lost that day, along with the countless people and communities too often affected by gun violence in America. We must implement commonsense gun safety legislation to save lives and ensure senseless tragedies like this never happen again.”

The resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Sean Casten (IL-06), Danny Davis (IL-07), Bill Foster (IL-11), Jesus Chuy Garcia (IL-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), and Lauren Underwood (IL-14).


Congresswoman Scholten Introduces Two Water Resources Bills

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced she has introduced two bills to protect and strengthen water resources in Michigan and across the country. The Water Reservoir Transparency Act–introduced alongside Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13)–would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assess how new commercial and industrial users are impacting water reservoirs. As data centers come online in Michigan and across the country, understanding associated impacts to the nation’s water reservoirs is critical to smart water resources planning.

Congresswoman Scholten also introduced the Clean Ports for Commerce Act, which would require the USACE to engage in advanced planning for dredging in areas with known PFAS contamination. PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are widespread contaminants in drinking water, soil, and food. Congresswoman Scholten developed this bill after the Grand Haven Inner Harbor almost missed a dredging cycle due to a lack of advanced planning, and Congresswoman Scholten advocated for a compromise to ensure that the dredging project safely proceeded on time.

"Water is a way of life in West Michigan; it is crucial that we are proactive in protecting this vital resource,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “As more data centers come online and put new pressure on our reservoirs, and as the lessons from Grand Haven made clear, the Army Corps can't keep operating with outdated planning processes. These bills make sure the Corps is looking ahead and planning operations in places where we know contamination is or will be a factor. We can build a smarter, more transparent system, and these bills get us there."

"As Ohio continues to attract new investment and create jobs, we must also protect the water resources that our communities depend on every day. This legislation will help us better understand how new industrial growth affects our water supply so we can make informed decisions that support both economic opportunity and long-term sustainability,” said Congresswoman Sykes.

These bills reflect Congresswoman Scholten's ongoing work on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to strengthen water resources and advance environmental resilience in communities in Michigan and across the country.

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Congresswoman Scholten’s Statement on the Death of Airman First Class Keon Talik McDaniel of Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) released a statement on the death of Airman First Class Keon Talik McDaniel of Grand Rapids, who died during the influenza outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

The outbreak in Texas has now sickened nearly 300 trainees at Lackland. It followed a decision earlier this year by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to make the flu vaccine optional for U.S. service members rather than required. In light of the outbreak, the Pentagon reversed the policy and reinstated the vaccine requirement last month.

“I am heartbroken by the loss of Airman First Class Keon Talik McDaniel of Grand Rapids,” said Congresswoman Hillary Scholten. “A proud West Michigander, Keon answered the call to serve his country with courage. The brave men and women who wear our nation's uniform risk everything to protect us. We owe Keon, and every service member, our nation’s very best to safeguard their health and well-being. My prayers are with his family, loved ones, and fellow Airmen, especially those who have also been infected by the flu outbreak. I am calling for a full investigation into this outbreak. Keon’s family deserves the truth, and our military deserves leadership that puts their health above politics.”

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Ways and Means Committee Passes Schweikert’s Taxpayer Workforce Modernization Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Ways and Means Committee passed H.R. 7972, the Taxpayer Workforce Modernization Act, legislation introduced by Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) to modernize the IRS workforce and improve tax administration through private-sector data science expertise.

The bill would require the IRS to establish a fellowship program to recruit qualified data scientists to work alongside tax law specialists on complex and emerging tax administration issues. Fellows would help the agency improve data acquisition, data quality, advanced analytics, statistical modeling and core IRS functions related to taxpayer service and enforcement.

“Taxpayers deserve an IRS that uses modern tools to solve modern problems,” said Congressman Schweikert. “This bill brings data scientists into the agency to help identify complex tax issues, improve customer service and make tax administration smarter, faster and more accountable. We have the technology today. The federal government should be using it to better serve taxpayers.”

“There is no doubt that the IRS can benefit from more private-sector know-how to improve its operations,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO). “The Taxpayer Workforce Modernization Act is a forward-looking approach to attracting more top talent to that agency to take a fresh look at how the IRS is using technology to better serve American taxpayers. I applaud Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Schweikert’s unwavering commitment to modernizing not just the technology infrastructure at the IRS but the level of experience and expertise within its workforce.”

The Taxpayer Workforce Modernization Act would:

Establish an IRS fellowship program to recruit qualified data scientists from the private sector.

Create a task force within the IRS and the Office of Chief Counsel to apply advanced analytics, statistical modeling and machine learning to tax administration.

Support data-driven improvements to audit case selection, taxpayer service and improper payment prevention.

Require fellows to help train and mentor IRS employees on the use and limitations of data analytics and emerging technologies.

Require annual reports to Congress on the program’s effectiveness, return on investment, applicant pool and recommended changes.

The bill requires the IRS to establish the fellowship program by Sept. 30, 2026. Fellows would serve terms of two, three or four years, and the IRS would have the authority to permanently hire fellows at the end of their service.

The full text of the bill is available HERE.

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Congresswoman Simon Demands Protections for Workers with Disabilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a letter to the Department of Labor (DOL) Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) demanded answers regarding the DOL’s continued failure to carry out enforcement responsibilities, including ensuring protections for workers with disabilities.

Within the Department of Labor, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is responsible for enforcing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits federal contractors from discriminating against workers with disabilities. In September 2025, Congresswoman Simon expressed concern about OFCCP's suspension of disability discrimination investigations and the agency's diminished capacity to enforce Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act following staff reductions and field office closures. Since that initial letter, additional concerns have emerged regarding whether OFCCP is carrying out its remaining enforcement responsibilities.

This follow-up letter seeks answers regarding OFCCP's current enforcement activities, complaint-processing timelines, and public reporting practices. It also reiterates the Congresswoman’s request for transparency regarding the agency's efforts to protect workers with disabilities.

In the letter to the DOL, Congresswoman Simon wrote:

“These issues add to existing concerns noted in our September 3, 2025, letter. Our letter raised concerns that the agency suspended investigations and complaint processing for nearly six months, abandoned compliance reviews for more than 2,000 federal contractors, and stopped affirmative action plan monitoring via annual certification. We requested a response to our questions about the impact on workers by October 1, 2025, but have yet to receive a reply.”

“We are deeply concerned that workers with disabilities working for federal contractors are being left without recourse as OFCCP’s enforcement capacity continues to erode. Workers with disabilities waiting for accountability deserve better.”

Congresswoman Simon requested answers to the following questions by July 31, 2026. You can read the full letter text here.

Please provide a copy of the OFCCP’s reorganization plan.

What are the agency’s plans to increase the percentage of complaints processed in the standard time frame?

Please explain how the OFCCP’s reorganization plan is designed to help ensure that workers with disabilities employed by federal contractors have their rights enforced, including having their complaints processed in the standard time frame.

Please provide the total number of OFCCP investigators as of May 1, 2026.

Please provide a list of open OFCCP field offices as of May 1, 2026.

Please provide copies of the conciliation agreements the agency has entered into since January 2025.

Please explain why the agency has not posted conciliation agreements to its website in more than a year.

How many audits has the agency conducted from January 20, 2025 to May 1, 2026?

Congresswoman Simon is the first congenitally blind member to serve in Congress and a leader in the disability policy space. In October 2025, Representatives Simon, McBath and DeSaulnier led their colleagues in a letter to the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget condemning layoffs in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. Congresswoman Simon has also introduced a number of bills in the disability policy space including: the Disability and Age in Jury Service Nondiscrimination Act, the See the Board Act, and the Same Day Paratransit Innovation Act.

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Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 9535, the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at making key improvements to the accessibility and cost of agricultural labor through the H-2A visa program. This legislation is sponsored by the House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn Thompson.

“Ask any farmer or rancher, especially in the dairy industry, and they will tell you about the labor crisis they face. After years of working to build consensus to address this critical issue, I'm confident that the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act is the legislative fix we need. President Trump has demonstrated the courage to act on this issue and has a proven record of protecting America's farmers while removing violent criminal illegal aliens who have no place in our country. I'm grateful to Chairman Thompson for his leadership and look forward to finally getting this solution across the finish line to bring lasting reform and certainty for our agricultural producers,” said Rep. Simpson, an original cosponsor.

“The Idaho Dairymen’s Association thanks Congressman Mike Simpson for being an original cosponsor of the ‘Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act.’ We are deeply grateful that the Congressman is once again showing that he is willing to lead on securing a workforce for Idaho’s dairy farms. Idaho’s farm families are the backbone of our state and having access to a secure, stable agricultural workforce is key to the economic success of those farms and our rural communities,” said Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association.

“America's farmers and ranchers need a reliable, legal workforce to continue feeding our nation. The Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act is a practical step toward strengthening our agricultural workforce and ensuring the long-term viability of U.S. agriculture,” said Matt Dorsey, President of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation.

“America cannot have food security without a secure agricultural workforce. The Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association strongly supports the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act and thanks Congressman Mike Simpson for his unwavering leadership on this issue. For years, Congressman Simpson has been a relentless champion for agriculture, fighting to ensure farmers have the workforce they need to continue producing food here at home. This legislation is a critical step toward strengthening our nation's food security, supporting family farms, and ensuring American agriculture remains competitive for generations to come,” said Samantha Parrott, Executive Director of the Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association.

“Simplot has operations that touch every aspect of agriculture including seed production, farming and ranching, plant sciences, phosphate mining and fertilizer manufacturing, food processing, commercial product development and distribution. As a true mine-to-plate company we have a unique view of the food and agriculture supply chain that allows us to see what works and what impedes progress. Agricultural labor has presented significant challenges for decades and we are pleased to see bipartisan solutions from the U.S. House of Representatives to address issues long due for updating and modernization. We commend Chairman G.T. Thompson and Congressman Mike Simpson for their strong leadership and hope for the speedy passage of the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act,” said Garrett Lofto, President and CEO, the Simplot Company.

“The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act provides stability and certainty for Idaho onion growers to protect the production of the crop and manage rising costs associated with the current labor program. By streamlining the H-2A program, this common-sense legislation ensures a reliable workforce and keeps our local and rural farms operational,” said Jarom Jemmett, President of the Idaho Onion Growers’ Association.

This bipartisan legislation is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Western Growers Association, the National Milk Producers Federation, and more than 400 other agricultural groups across the entire industry, including 18 Idaho organizations.

Congressman Simpson recently joined Chairman Thompson, other cosponsors, producers, and stakeholder groups at a press conference to discuss the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act. You can view the full press conference here.


Stauber Introduces FRAUD Act to Crack Down on State Leaders Who Fail to Report Taxpayer Theft

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act to strengthen accountability when state officials become aware of significant fraud involving federal funds. This legislation comes on the heels of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform’s bombshell report finding that high-level Minnesota state officials – including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison – knew of widespread fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and repeatedly failed to act.

“Billions of taxpayer dollars were stolen in Minnesota because state leaders like Tim Walz looked the other way and even threatened to retaliate against state whistleblowers who tried to sound the alarm," said Congressman Pete Stauber. "To this day, none of these so-called leaders have been held accountable for this stunning failure of public trust. My FRAUD Act will change that by ensuring any official who knowingly fails to report fraud faces criminal prosecution and is never able to oversee the distribution of federal funds ever again. Turning a blind eye to fraud is just as bad as committing it, and it’s time the consequences reflect that.”

Congressman Stauber was joined by his Minnesota Republican delegation colleagues in introducing this legislation.

“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 Tom 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.”

“In Minnesota, and across the country, a state’s highest elected officials – those responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars – have an obligation to take action against fraud when it’s reported," said Congressman Brad Finstad. "I am committed to bringing accountability to Gov. Walz and Attorney General Ellison for ignoring the rampant fraud that’s robbed our fellow Minnesotans of billions of dollars, and am proud to support the FRAUD Act to restore transparency and accountability in federally funded, state administrated programs.”

"The scale of fraud we saw in Minnesota is flat-out unacceptable, and it’s infuriating that Governor Walz and other state leaders looked the other way while billions were stolen," said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. "They need to be held accountable. We need the FRAUD Act in place so the next Minnesota governor, or any future leader, will never be allowed to let something like this happen again. Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned money is actually being protected."

Specifically, the FRAUD Act will do the following:

Require a Governor, state agency head, or State Inspector General who receives a credible fraud warning involving federal funds to report it to the FBI within 180 days.

Require states to annually certify compliance with these reporting requirements in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding.

Impose criminal penalties on covered officials who knowingly fail to report fraud or obstruct federal, state, or inspector general investigations.

Allow federal agencies to prohibit or debar convicted officials from overseeing the distribution of federal funds.

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Rep. Steube’s Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Unanimously Passes House Ways and Means Committe

WASHINGTON – The House Committee on Ways and Means today unanimously passed H.R. 9498, the Taxpayer Advocate Participation Act (TAPA), bipartisan legislation led by Congressman Greg Steube (R-Fla.) alongside Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.) to authorize the National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA) to file amicus briefs in federal courts in support of fundamental taxpayer rights, particularly those contained in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

Under current law, the National Taxpayer Advocate, often called “the voice of the taxpayer,” is not authorized to submit amicus briefs in federal tax litigation, even in cases that could set precedent affecting the rights of taxpayers nationwide. TAPA closes that gap by amending Section 7803(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code to allow the NTA to present the Advocate’s views in court on issues that may broadly affect the rights described in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

“When a federal court is deciding a case that may affect the rights of many or all taxpayers, it would benefit all for the National Taxpayer Advocate to submit an amicus brief to share her views as the voice of the taxpayer. This bill is a narrow, common-sense fix. This authority is expected to be used sparingly, similar to the authority exercised by the Small Business Administration’s Chief Counsel for Advocacy,” said Rep. Steube. “This is a bipartisan effort, and I am honored to work with Representative DelBene, because protecting taxpayers and improving their right to representation should not be a partisan issue.”

“The National Taxpayer Advocate exists precisely to defend the rights of taxpayers, whether those rights are threatened by legislation, regulation, or litigation,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “An amicus brief is a common occurrence in judicial proceedings to ensure the court has relevant information pertaining to the case before it. Under the Taxpayer Advocate Participation Act, the National Taxpayer Advocate will no longer be denied the opportunity to use this avenue to impart its expertise – particularly when the interests of taxpayers could be impacted. With this legislation, Representative Steube is building on his personal record as a tireless advocate for American taxpayers, and I applaud his leadership.”

“The National Taxpayers Union (NTU) commends Representative Steube’s leadership in crafting the Taxpayer Advocate Participation Act. This practical reform strengthens taxpayer protections by ensuring courts can benefit from the National Taxpayer Advocate’s expertise in legal proceedings that impact core taxpayer rights,” said Alexander Ciccone, Policy and Government Affairs Manager at NTU. “Allowing the Advocate to provide courts with its input isn’t just a question of promoting a more efficient tax system—it’s fundamentally about restoring trust in government by ensuring the American people have an independent voice that advocates for the fair and consistent application of tax laws.”

TAPA is supported by a broad coalition of taxpayer advocacy and business organizations, including the National Taxpayers Union, Small Business & Entrepreneurship (SBE) Council, Intuit, 60 Plus Association, and National Association of Consumer Advocates.

TAPA is modeled on the National Taxpayer Advocate’s 2026 Purple Book, which recommended granting the NTA amicus authority comparable to that already held by the SBA’s Chief Counsel for Advocacy. The bill’s scope is intentionally limited: it does not authorize the National Taxpayer Advocate to represent individual taxpayers or to replace the Department of Justice or IRS Chief Counsel in litigation. Courts would be required to grant the NTA’s application to appear as amicus curiae for the purposes described in the bill.

The Office of the Taxpayer Advocate already assists taxpayers in resolving disputes with the IRS, identifies systemic problems in tax administration, and reports annually to Congress on the ten most litigated tax issues. TAPA would allow the Advocate to bring that same expertise directly before federal courts in cases with broad implications for taxpayer rights.

TAPA now heads to the full House of Representatives for consideration. Rep. Steube urged his colleagues to support the bill.


Rep. Sykes, Scholten Lead Water Reservoir Transparency Act to Improve Water Resource Planning

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Hilary Scholten (MI-03), who serve together on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, have introduced a bill to protect and strengthen water resources in Ohio and across the country. The Water Reservoir Transparency Act would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assess how new commercial and industrial users are impacting water reservoirs. As data centers come online in Ohio and across the country, understanding their impacts on the nation’s water reservoirs is critical to smart water resource planning.

“With the increased concern about data centers’ water usage, this legislation will help us better understand the impact on our clean water supply,” said Rep. Sykes.

“Water is a way of life in West Michigan; it is crucial that we are proactive in protecting this vital resource,” said Rep. Scholten. “As more data centers come online and put new pressure on our reservoirs, the Army Corps can't keep operating with outdated planning processes. We can build a smarter, more transparent system, and this bill gets us there.”

Ohio is home to 217 data centers, the fifth most in the nation, including 12 in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District. Many of these facilities use evaporative cooling systems, in which water absorbs heat from servers and is then released through evaporation. As a result, water demand can increase significantly during peak summer months. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, depending on a facility’s size and design, a single data center may consume between 300,000 and 5 million gallons of water per day, comparable in some cases to the daily water use of a small city.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers already evaluates data centers as part of broader infrastructure planning and environmental compliance efforts, supported by research from its Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). This legislation would formalize a clearer, publicly accessible understanding of how new commercial and industrial water users affect reservoir levels and long-term system capacity.


Rep. Sykes Welcomes $1.5 Million EPA Grant for Stark Economic Development Board

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced a $1.5 million federal grant for the Stark Economic Development Board, which will support the acceleration of training local residents for environmental cleanup jobs while helping bring new life to old, contaminated sites. The funding comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Stark Economic Development Board will conduct 22 environmental site assessments, develop a brownfield site inventory, 10 cleanup plans, and one community involvement plan. The funding will support Northeast Ohio communities’ work to carry out cleanup and redevelopment projects on contaminated brownfield properties.

“This grant is about creating real opportunities for our community,” said Rep. Sykes. “It gives people the skills they need to get good jobs and helps turn old, neglected sites into spaces that benefit everyone. This is a win for workers, neighborhoods, and our local economy. I will continue fighting to bring federal dollars back to Ohio’s 13th Congressional District to ensure my constituents have the skills they need to compete in today’s in-demand fields.”

Once awarded, the program will have provided more than $3 billion in grant funding to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. Over the years, the relatively small federal investment has helped leverage nearly 230,000 public and private jobs. Rep. Sykes said the grant shows how federal investments can make a tangible difference, strengthening communities, growing local economies, and preparing residents for in-demand careers right here at home.


Congressman Taylor Welcomes 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winner to Washington, D.C.

Congressman Dave Taylor and high school artist Emma Spriggs with her winning piece, “Simple Joys”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) recently welcomed Emma Spriggs, the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Ohio’s Second Congressional District, to Washington, D.C. A senior at Northwest High School in Scioto County, Emma was selected for her piece, “Simple Joys,” which depicts a child enjoying an ice cream sundae and is rendered in colored pencil.

“The creativity displayed by students in this year’s Congressional Art Competition is nothing short of remarkable, and Emma’s piece represents the outstanding talent present right here in southern Ohio,” said Congressman Taylor. “I’m pleased to see her represent Ohio’s Second Congressional District this year as a budding young artist, and look forward to seeing where her talent takes her in the years ahead.”

“Simple Joys” will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year, alongside winning pieces from other congressional districts across the country. “Simple Joys” is available to view digitally here.

Established in 1982, the annual Congressional Art Competition highlights the artistic talent of high school artists from around the nation.

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What They Are Saying About Thompson's Bipartisan Agricultural Labor Reform Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) held a press conference with co-sponsors and stakeholders celebrating the introduction of H.R. 9535, the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act of 2026. This legislation is supported by more than 400 stakeholder groups across the entire agricultural supply chain.

Keep reading to see what key groups are saying about this critical legislation and view the full list of all supporters here.

AGRICULTURE WORKFORCE COALTION MEMBERS

“We commend Chairman GT Thompson for his leadership in developing and advancing the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act (SAWA), a critical step toward addressing the labor challenges facing American farmers, ranchers and growers. SAWA is supported by an unprecedented coalition spanning specialty crops, dairy, row crops and other agricultural sectors, reflecting broad agreement that meaningful workforce reform is urgently needed. By modernizing and streamlining the H-2A program, expanding access to legal agricultural workers and providing greater certainty for farmers and their employees, this legislation will strengthen the nation’s farm economy and help ensure our food security.”

Agriculture Workforce Coalition Members include:American Farm Bureau Federation, AmericanHort, Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, International Fresh Produce Association, National Council of Agricultural Employers, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Milk Producers Federation, National Potato Council, Northwest Horticultural Council, U.S. Apple Association, USA Farmers, Western Growers.

U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce thanks the sponsors of the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act (SAWA) for their leadership in advancing a thoughtful, bipartisan approach to modernizing the H-2A visa program. Building on the strong border security achieved during this Administration, the SAWA recognizes that a stable and reliable agricultural workforce is essential to maintaining our nation’s food supply and supporting broader economic and national security. By helping producers meet critical labor needs, SAWA represents an important step toward strengthening America’s resilience and long term growth.”

AMERICAN BUSINESS IMMIGRATION COALITION AGRICULTURAL COUNCIL

"Today, about 70% of workers in the U.S. farm sector are foreign-born, with nearly 40% being undocumented," said Rebecca Shi, American Business Immigration Coalition CEO. "Farmers are struggling to maintain workforce stability in a sector where a single day's delay can ruin a harvest, and where daily, time-sensitive task cannot wait. As Americans face rising grocery bills, the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act finally opens the door to address the urgent needs of farmers by providing workers a path to legal status to keep food on tables across this nation."

U.S. CUSTOM HARVESTERS, INC

“The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act is a significant step toward reforming the H-2A program by reducing costs and improving efficiencies, ensuring that custom harvesters, combiners, and silage cutters can access the workforce needed to support farmers nationwide,” said Raph Jolliffe, president of U.S. Custom Harvesters, Inc.

FARM CREDIT COUNCIL

“As I have traveled across the country to visit Farm Credit teams and customer-owners, it is clear that a dependable and consistent workforce is essential for the farmers and ranchers who feed, fuel, and clothe America,” said Christy Seyfert, Farm Credit Council president and CEO. “A modernized H-2A program will ensure producers can access the dependable workforce needed to maintain operations and support a safe, stable food supply. As a member of the Agriculture Workforce Coalition, Farm Credit Council is encouraged by the introduction of the bipartisan Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, and we look forward to its progress through the legislative process.”

AMERICAN BEEKEEPING FEDERATION

“As the National Association which speaks for all Beekeepers in the U.S., this bill is a must for helping keep our industry alive,” said Debbie Seib, American Beekeeping Federation president. “Many of our Commercial Beekeepers are struggling to stay in business and this bill will go a long way to helping them. We need to do all we can to support this bill."

MEAT INSTITUTE

“Chairman Thompson has worked hard to address a chronic shortage of ag labor, one of the top concerns facing the meat and poultry industry,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We thank him for his leadership and his important recognition that the meat and poultry processing sector must have access to labor for the benefit of the entire value chain from livestock producers to consumers. His bill allows meat and poultry processors to participate in the H-2A visa program. This is a good first step to help packers and processors keep the rural economy moving and to ensure American consumers have access to affordable food.”

AGRICULTURAL RETAILERS ASSOCIATION

"Agricultural retailers cannot serve farmers without a dependable workforce. The Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act (SAWA) provides practical, long-overdue reforms that will strengthen the agricultural supply chain, improve access to labor, and help ensure America's farmers have the products and services they need when they need them," said Hunter Carpenter, ARA senior director of government affairs. "ARA strongly supports this legislation and applauds Chairman Thompson for advancing meaningful agricultural labor reform."

LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION

“The Livestock Marketing Association applauds Chairman Thompson and his team for introducing the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act as a meaningful step to address the longstanding labor shortages facing the agriculture sector and especially the livestock industry,” said Mike VanMaanen, owner Eastern Missouri Commission Company, and Livestock Marketing Association's chairman of the board. “By streamlining the H-2A process, providing greater access to the program including allowing livestock auction markets to participate, removing the seasonality requirement, and improving efficiency and certainty for employers, this bipartisan legislation will help ensure a stable, reliable, and legal workforce to feed and fuel our nation.”


Congressman Tim Moore Helped to Secure Over $4.7 Million in Federal Funding for the Town of Cornelius

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced the Town of Cornelius has been awarded over $4.7 million for the Westmoreland Road and I-77 Interchange Planning Project through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program.

“I'm proud to have helped secure this grant, which will allow Cornelius to move forward with this important infrastructure project,” said Congressman Moore. “The Westmoreland Road and I-77 interchange is critical to improving traffic flow, expanding access to essential services, and supporting continued economic growth throughout the region. This investment will provide local leaders with the tools they need to develop the best long-term solution.”

“Receiving this BUILD Grant is a tremendous step forward towards our town’s much-needed additional highway exit," said Cornelius Mayor Denis Bilodeau. "We are very appreciative of Congressman Moore’s support, which was instrumental in making this happen."

Specifically, this grant will fund the project’s planning and design phase, a critical first step toward delivering meaningful economic benefits for Cornelius and the broader I-77 corridor.

This announcement follows a letter of support from Congressman Moore to the U.S. Department of Transportation recommending the Town of Cornelius for the BUILD Grant.


Rep. Dina Titus Introduces Joint Resolution of Disapproval to Stop Sale of Jet Engines to Turkey

Congresswoman Dina Titus today introduced a Joint Resolution of Disapproval to stop the $700 million sale of F110 jet engines to Turkey. Such a sale would undermine regional stability and pose a threat to U.S. allies while rewarding a repressive, dictatorial, and revengeful government led by Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

“The regime of Turkish President Erdogan has made repeated threats of military action against NATO allies and other partner nations throughout the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean,” Congresswoman Titus said. “Sale of these jet engines to Turkey will embolden it to pursue those threats. Turkey already is destabilizing the region with its continued illegal occupation of Cyprus, antagonism toward Greece, close association with designated terrorist organizations, support of Azerbaijan’s campaigns against Armenia, and threats to invade Israel. We should not be rewarding Erdogan’s bad behavior by expanding Turkey’s military might.”

The Trump administration formally notified Congress of the transaction on June 24, opening a 15-day review period during which lawmakers can move to block the sale. The resolution introduced by Congresswoman Titus provides a platform for Congress to act.

The F110 jet engines are intended for Turkey’s next-generation KAAN combat aircraft, a project Turkey has pursued as part of its broader effort to expand its military capabilities.

The Arms Export Control Act (AECA) gives Congress the statutory authority to review major foreign military sales. Through a Joint Resolution of Disapproval, Congress can officially halt or block an arms transfer during the review period.

Congresswoman Titus expressed concern that the Trump administration is committed to further aiding Turkey with advanced platforms like the F-35 in violation of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. “President Trump saying he has a ‘gift’ for Turkey that will make it ‘very happy’ should alarm all of us. Congress needs to act now to stop the administration from aiding an enemy of our allies.”


Representative Derek Tran Urges President to Sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

Washington, D.C. – Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) is urging President Trump to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a bipartisan package of legislation that will lower housing costs across the country by streamlining construction review, cutting through red tape, and increasing loan availability for families and Veterans. After passing both the House and the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan majorities, President Trump canceled the signing of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.

Southern California families face some of the highest housing costs in the nation. The median home price in Orange County has skyrocketed to nearly $1.4 million, more than three times the national median home price of $429,300. Less than one in five Orange County households earn enough to afford a home in the county. Orange County families devote nearly three-quarters of their monthly income to housing, while experts recommend households spend no more than a third of their income on housing.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will lower housing costs for Southern California residents by:

Increasing construction of properties built for the sole purpose of renting, boosting the supply of rental properties.

Limiting corporations from purchasing single-family homes, promoting homeownership opportunities for American families.

Cutting red tape to empower state, local, and tribal governments to streamline reviews and increase housing development.

Increasing access to low-cost loan options for California’s 18,000 Veterans.

Expanding access to VA housing benefits for disabled Veterans.

“I am strongly urging President Trump to put people before politics and sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. Families want to invest in the American dream and buy a home in their community, but the cost of housing is keeping that dream out of reach,” said Representative Tran. “I was proud to join with my colleagues, Democratic and Republican, to pass this legislation that works for working people and brings down housing costs across the country. There is no question that President Trump should sign this bill.”

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was introduced by Representative Maxine Waters (CA-43) and Representative French Hill (AR-02) in the House of Representatives and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) in the Senate. The bill includes over 50 provisions that remove barriers to home building and buying. The legislation passed the Senate in an 85-5 vote on June 22, 2026, and passed the House of Representatives on June 23, 2026, in a vote of 358-32.

Representative Tran has worked to lower housing costs by building more accessible and affordable housing. Tran secured $250,000 in federal funding to support the construction of 2,700 permanent affordable housing units across Orange County. Tran cosponsored the Saving the American Dream Act to create an interagency task force on the housing crisis and the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to finance the building of more multifamily units.

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Congressman Turner Fights for Delphi Salaried Retirees

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) took a major stand in his ongoing fight to deliver justice for Delphi Salaried Retirees, advocating in the House Rules Committee for an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that would restore the hard-earned pensions of thousands of Ohio workers.

Congressman Turner has led the bipartisan effort to right the wrong caused by the termination of their pensions following General Motors’ bankruptcy.

As Congressman Turner told Jake Tapper on CNN Tuesday night, “This is an injustice. The Delphi Salaried Retirees were the only people in the General Motors bankruptcy that had their pensions taken by the government. Never in history has the government reached in and selected one group to take their pensions. And we think they deserve justice.”

Watch the full clip here.

With strong backing from President Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson, Congressman Turner’s amendment aimed to provide long-overdue relief for thousands of affected Delphi Salaried Retirees in Ohio.

While the amendment faced a procedural hurdle, it represented only a temporary setback in Congressman’s Turner’s longstanding mission to do right by these retirees. Congressman Turner remains committed to leveraging his influence to protect and advance the interest of Ohio’s workers and families.


Rep. Van Epps Introduces the Declaration of Independence Reaffirmation Act

Read the exclusive from Joseph Buff at the Daily Signal here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) introduced the Declaration of Independence Reaffirmation Act of 2026 in honor of its 250th anniversary. This legislation passes a recognition of our nation’s foremost Founding document into law. Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri introduced this legislation in the Senate, and it passed by unanimous consent.

Rep. Van Epps said, “On July 4, 1776, 56 of our Founding Fathers pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor upon signing the Declaration of Independence. They knew that this action would label them as traitors in the eyes of Great Britain, but they believed it was worth the sacrifice. And while many of these brave men did indeed sacrifice their fortunes and lives for this country, I think we can all agree that they not only kept their sacred honor, but greatly added to it. In fact, it is our nation’s privilege to honor them on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.”

He continued, “The Declaration of Independence isn’t just a historical document; it lays out the fundamental liberties and constitutional principles that our nation was built upon. If we are a city on a hill, it's because the principles of the Declaration set us there in the first place. These principles include the idea that our rights and liberties come from God—not government. It was upon this principle that our Founders set out to prove that a government can be created through reason and choice instead of mere accident and force. Upon this foundation, they built a Republic, and it is our great privilege to work to “keep it.” That is why, on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I have chosen, along with my colleagues, to introduce a recognition of this great document into law. This is a fitting way to honor this Great Experiment.”

Senator Schmitt said, “On July 4, 1776, fifty-six men crossed a line from which there was no retreat. These men knew the king they defied. They knew the empire that would come for them…They made a bold declaration to the world that never had been made before. It was in fact—revolutionary. Our Rights come from God. Government rests on consent. Citizens are not subjects. America is a nation. Those truths made America possible. And every generation that inherits America must decide whether those truths still command it. That is why I rise today in support of repassing the Declaration of Independence…”

This bill was cosponsored by Reps. Buddy Carter (GA-01), Barry Moore (AL-01), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Celeste Maloy (UT-02), Clay Fuller (GA-14), and Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Don Bacon (NE-02), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Randy Fine (FL-06), and Morgan Luttrell (TX-08).

Read the text of the bill here.

Read Senator Schmitt’s press release here or watch his speech here.

Listen to Rep. Van Epps' audio press release here.


Rep. Van Epps’ Special America 250 Message

Today, Rep. Van Epps released the following special message for the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. Also, in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Rep. Van Epps introduced the Declaration of Independence Reaffirmation Act of 2026. You can read more about that here or here.

Watch the video by clicking below

Read excerpts from the video below:

I was recently asked, “Do you think America lived up to what it set out to do 250 years ago?” My answer is a resounding yes!

Our Founding Fathers set out to found a new nation, one built on the principles of freedom, inalienable God-given rights, self-government, consent of the governed, and the right to make your own way—also known as the American Dream.

Today, the United States isn’t only one of the freest nations in the world, but we have also exported that freedom around the globe. This freedom empowers Americans to build and to innovate, to raise a family and to pursue what you’re passionate about. This freedom allows Americans to speak their minds, to worship without fear, and to keep the fruits of their labor.

Here in the United States, freedom isn’t an abstract idea, it's tangible. We see it when we choose where to send our kids to school, we hear it when we express our faith in public, and we taste it when we see our brave men and women fight for our flag wherever it is threatened.

250 years later, the United States continues to be the land of opportunity. And more people than ever before are achieving the American Dream.

So, Gold bless America and happy America 250th!


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions Bipartisan Solutions to Protect New Mexicans From Fentanyl Crisis

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 2, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) championed two bipartisan bills to protect New Mexicans from the fentanyl crisis, Tyler’s Law (H.R. 2004) and Sammy’s Law (H.R. 2657). Tyler’s Law helps prevent fentanyl overdoses by encouraging hospitals to test for fentanyl more regularly when a patient is experiencing an overdose. Sammy’s Law bolsters youth online safety by giving parents tools to help ensure their children are not using social media platforms to engage in drug deals and other dangerous behaviors.

These bipartisan solutions come on the heels of reports that federal officials knowingly let hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills flood into New Mexico communities.

“Fentanyl is cutting too many lives short, ripping apart New Mexico families. We need to attack this crisis from every angle: stopping traffickers at the border, holding federal officials accountable when they fail our communities, giving parents tools to keep their kids safe online, and helping hospitals identify fentanyl overdoses faster,” said Vasquez. “Tyler’s Law and Sammy’s Law are bipartisan, commonsense solutions that will help protect families, save lives, and keep this poison off our streets.”

Both Tyler’s Law and Sammy’s Law have support from Democratic and Republican lawmakers, with Tyler’s Law having endorsements from a host of community organizations, including the American College of Emergency Physicians, Emergency Nurses Association, AIDS United, National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association, Facing Fentanyl, Voices for Awareness, Project Eli, Song for Charlie, End Overdose, High Truths on Drugs and Addiction, Sun Shine on You Foundation, Drug Awareness Foundation, VOID, Victoria’s Voice, and Stop Drug Homicide.

Sammy’s Law is named after Sammy Chapman, who, at the age of 16, was approached by a drug dealer on Snapchat and was unknowingly a victim of fentanyl poisoning.

New Mexico faces one of the most severe drug abuse crises in the nation, with overdose rates almost double the national average and youth drug use rates 50% higher than the national average. Nationwide, fentanyl overdose is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45.

These two bipartisan bills build on Vasquez’s longstanding record of fighting for solutions to stop illegal drugs from flowing into New Mexico communities and senselessly claiming lives:

On June 25, 2026, Vasquez sent a letter to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) alongside his House colleagues Reps. Stansbury and Leger Fernández demanding answers and accountability following reports that “federal agents and prosecutors knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to reach the streets of Albuquerque and other New Mexico communities in a practice known as ‘walking.’”

Earlier this year, Vasquez cosponsored H.R.1294, the BEST Facilitation Act, and H.R.285, the Advanced Border Coordination Act of 2025 — two bipartisan, commonsense solutions to combat the flow of illegal goods into the country by enhancing U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) cargo scanning capabilities at points of entry and improving coordination between law enforcement agencies at the southern border.

Vasquez also introduced theStop COYOTES Act, which improves public safety by imposing harsher penalties against human smugglers and fentanyl traffickers while also improving information sharing and reporting between DHS and local law enforcement along the border.

Vasquez has cosponsored the Fight Fentanyl Act, which would reform and reauthorize the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program through FY2030 at $333 million per year. It would also create a $14 million grant program for federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies with a HIDTA presence to improve their fentanyl interdiction efforts.

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Walberg Applauds $730,000 EPA Brownfields Grant to Stevensville

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new federal funding for U.S. communities through the Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup grant program. The EPA awarded Stevensville a $733,250 grant to clean up and restore the former Anstey Foundry and support community engagement activities.

Following the EPA grant notice, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) visited the brownfield site in Stevensville and issued the following statement.

"The Brownfields Program has delivered millions of dollars to Michigan communities to help with economic development projects," said Rep. Walberg. "After having ongoing discussions with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin regarding priorities in Michigan, I am pleased to see the Trump administration make this targeted investment in Stevensville, which will make a difference for our environment and encourage local job growth, providing more opportunities for hardworking Michigan families."

Background

The Brownfields Program empowers states, communities, and other stakeholders to work together to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. Brownfield sites are properties whose expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.


Wasserman Schultz Makes Unannounced Miramar ICE Facility Oversight Visit

Miramar, FL – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) made an unannounced oversight inspection of the ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Field Office in Miramar, where advocates recently shared troubling testimony from people released or transferred from the facility about the conditions and treatment taking place there.

Click here for video of the press conference.

The Miramar facility is supposed to be an administrative check-in facility but is now functioning as a short-term detention site, holding detainees in crowded areas for 72 hours or more without the same humane detention standards that other ICE facilities are required to meet. There were approximately 150 detainees held at the facility when Wasserman Schultz inspected the site.

“I’ve been to this facility many times alongside my late colleague Alcee Hastings because of reports of a lack of sun cover, water, and toilets for people waiting to check in. Today, I had to do this surprise inspection to see inside for myself, and what I saw were people packed in like sardines, in conditions I wouldn’t wish upon my worst enemy,” said Wasserman Schultz. “I’ll continue to conduct oversight of South Florida ICE operations and fight to hold them accountable for their brutality.”

While in the facility, Wasserman Schultz saw four “holding tanks,” with two for men and two for women, with a single exposed toilet in the corner of each tank. The men’s area was about 15’x15’, with about 70 men crammed in, shoulder-to-shoulder and wall-to-wall, she said. The women’s area was approximately 7’x14’, with about 40 people in the same tight conditions. Individuals were forced to sleep on a hard floor and made to use the toilet in front of others.

Detainees are allowed one water bottle a day, along with 7.5 oz meals. ICE officers told Wasserman Schultz that detainees are allowed to shower once every other day. There is no space for in-person attorney access or family visitation at the facility.

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Rep. George Whitesides Calls on President to Immediately Sign Bipartisan Housing Bill to Lower Costs, Increase Affordable Housing Supply

The 21st Century Road to Housing Act – which already passed the House and Senate – would increase the housing supply and lower costs for American families.

Yesterday, Rep. George Whitesides called on President Trump to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a substantial bipartisan housing package that will increase housing supply and lower costs for American families. Despite Republicans and Democrats coming together to overwhelmingly pass the bill, President Trump has refused to sign it as Americans see their housing costs skyrocket, calling it “unimportant.”

“I’m here because housing is getting more and more out of reach for our neighbors in the Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope Valley, and San Fernando Valley.” said Rep. Whitesides.“Republicans and Democrats came together to pass a bipartisan bill to lower the cost of rent and mortgages while increasing the supply of affordable housing, but the President refuses to sign it into law. That’s unacceptable, and I’ll keep pushing with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to bring this relief to the hardworking families who need it most.”

The 21st Century Road to Housing Act includes key provisions to broaden access to homeownership, expedite building of manufactured housing, make available small-dollar mortgages, better protect borrowers and families living in public or assisted housing, enhance federal oversight of housing providers, and lay the groundwork for the development of new homes families can afford across America.


Reps. George Whitesides, Sean Casten, and Mike Levin Introduce Bill to Provide Climate Finance to Countries in the Global South While Reducing Debt

Today, Reps. George Whitesides, Sean Casten, and Mike Levin introduced the Global Climate Resilience Act, legislation that would create a new debt-for-resilience program to improve the United States’ ability to provide climate finance and debt relief to countries in the Global South. This new program would enhance the United States’ ability to negotiate debt reductions with countries in the Global South that agree to undertake climate resilience initiatives. Rep. Whitesides’ legislation also directs the United States to use its influence with international financial institutions to promote debt reduction for nations at risk of climate damage and advocate for an international climate insurance program. Senators Peter Welch (VT) and Andy Kim (NJ) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

“I’ve seen the extreme financial impact that natural disasters like wildfires have on my community and state, and that problem exists at scale across the globe,” said Rep. Whitesides. “The Global Climate Resilience Act asserts U.S. leadership in combating climate change, while also addressing widespread debt by creating better pathways for countries in the Global South to invest in resilience measures for natural disasters. By making it easier for countries with developing economies to implement climate resilience initiatives, we can help facilitate a global effort to combat climate change with more nations and international organizations.”

“Climate change is a global crisis that demands a global response,” said Rep. Casten. “The United States has a responsibility to help lead the way towards innovative financial solutions. I’m proud to support this legislation that strengthens climate resilience, supports our own national security, and advances a safer, more secure, and more prosperous future for communities across the Global South.”

“The science is clear: disasters are more intense, sea levels are rising, and climate change is accelerating. Combating these global challenges demands global cooperation,” said Rep. Levin. “Our Global Climate Resilience Act helps the world’s most vulnerable communities protect against the worst effects of climate change. By addressing root causes of poverty, disease, and migration around the world, our bill helps keep Americans safer, healthier, and more secure.“

“This House bill and its Senate companion directly respond to calls from the Global South to address two of its most pressing challenges: relieving crushing debt burdens and bolstering life-saving resilience efforts,” said Brenden Guy, Senior Director of International Climate at the Natural Resource Defense Council. “The climate crisis has eliminated 20% of the wealth of the most vulnerable countries in the world over the last two decades. And make no mistake, this is not charity: it’s a strategic investment in building global resilience that will also keep Americans safer and supply chains more secure from climate-fueled disasters that drive up prices. The bill advances much-needed solutions to build greater global resilience and prosperity that Congress should get behind.”

“One of the biggest barriers to enacting climate action on a global scale is resourcing communities that have been extracted from for generations that want to transition to the clean energy economy but have been let down by Countries failing to meet their commitments to help in this transition,” said Aaron McCall, Federal Advocacy Coordinator, California Environmental Voters. “Oil Companies then fill this gap as primary energy suppliers and continue the cycle of extracting and polluting communities. This bill promises to take a step in the right direction to help communities looking to invest in the health and sustainability of their nation, and global health as a whole.”

“If the United States wants to reclaim its leadership role in addressing the myriad global challenges of the climate crisis, we must truly lead from the front,” said Davis Bates, League of Conservation Voters’ Congressional Champions Campaign Director. “We must not simply renew our previous commitments to international agreements. We also need to support and empower countries around the world to adapt to increasingly disastrous extreme weather and build financial and structural climate resiliency for the future — especially for countries least responsible for the pollution fueling climate change but are most impacted.”

“Countries on the frontlines of climate change, including small island states, shouldn’t have to choose between paying down debt and protecting their communities and ecosystems,” saidDan Whittle, Associate Vice President, Resilient Caribbean, Environmental Defense Fund. “The Global Climate Resilience Act points to a smarter path, linking debt relief with investments that build resilience and stability. This is the kind of climate finance the moment demands.”

Just last year, the Global South was devastated by floods and cyclones in South and Southeast Asia, hurricanes in the Caribbean, extreme heat waves in Middle East and Northern Africa, and rising sea levels which are beginning to submerge small Pacific Islands countries. While some nations have the resources necessary to adapt to the effects of climate change, countries with developing economies often lack resources to meet challenges of a warming world. For many countries in the Global South, this creates a vicious cycle where funds from economic growth service debt from a climate event instead of building resilience.

Collective international action to reduce carbon emissions and build resilience are crucial to combatting the growing impacts of climate change. At the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COPs), global leaders recognized the need to provide climate financing to countries in the Global South. The United States must take further action to help at-risk countries reduce their debt.

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Baldwin Slams Trump for Cutting Off Support for Paralyzed Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, slammed the Trump Administration for cutting off funding for the National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) that provides services and support for the more than five million Americans living with paralysis and their families. The Trump Administration let the grant for the NPRC expire on June 30th, forcing the program to halt much of its work helping Americans living with paralysis pursue independent and fulfilling lives.

“President Trump is cutting off a lifeline for Americans who are paralyzed – all while he goes full steam ahead building his luxury ballroom and is begging for more money for a war of choice in Iran. To say his priorities are backwards would be an understatement,” said Senator Baldwin. “We are talking about injured veterans or neighbors who got into car accidents who are not getting the support and care they need – all because President Trump and RFK, Jr. said so. This administration needs to stop putting disability programs on the back burner, ensure these services resume as soon as possible, and apologize to the Americans who have been thrown into chaos from their cruelty.”

On June 30th, the NPRC grant, awarded to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation ended, forcing the services for paralyzed Americans to be significantly reduced.

A new NRPC grant should have been awarded prior to the current one expiring on June 30th. But the Trump administration delayed the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for months and only released the application for funding this week, after the grant funding had already lapsed. This new funding is not slated to be awarded until September 1st, ensuring that the NPRC and resources for paralyzed Americans will remain significantly reduced for at least two months.

This unnecessary delay is a direct result of Trump administration’s actions to politicize the federal grant making process, while simultaneously firing and forcing out federal employees, including more than half the staff that work at the Administration for Community Living that oversees this program and other programs for Americans with disabilities. Delays like this are happening across HHS, from grants supporting lifesaving biomedical research, to substance use prevention and treatment, to Head Start. These delays are troubling foreshadowing of things to come if the Trump administration moves forward with its new federal financial assistance regulation that would ensure every federal grant is a political tool of the Trump administration while delaying funding and services that Americans rely on.

HHS delaying this grant to provide services for Americans with disabilities comes at the same time the Trump administration is transferring special education programs for children with disabilities from the Department of Education to HHS, casting doubt on RFK, Jr.’s ability to manage programs for people with disabilities or special needs.

This lapse comes as Congress, on a bipartisan basis, appropriated funding earlier this year to continue the program. The NPRC was established with bipartisan Congressional support in 2001 to provide free, vital resources, care coordination, peer mentoring, and comprehensive information that help Americans living with paralysis navigate life after injury or diagnosis. Congress established the NPRC as a federally supported national resource because living with paralysis requires specialized expertise and coordination that fragmented state and local systems cannot consistently provide. The NPRC ensures that people living with paralysis, regardless of where they live, have access to trusted information, peer support, and specialized resources that no single state can deliver on its own.

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Blackburn, Schmitt, Colleagues Launch Anti-Fraud Task Force

This week, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), and seven of their Republican colleagues announced the launch of a new Senate Anti-Fraud Task Force that will examine fraud, waste, and abuse across federal programs; identify vulnerabilities in existing systems; and strengthen government accountability to ensure the proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars:

“Over the past year, the Trump administration has done phenomenal work to uncover widespread fraud schemes where criminals have stolen billions of dollars with zero consequences,” said Senator Blackburn. “It is outrageous how long Democrats have looked the other way while fraudsters steal from hardworking American taxpayers. It’s time for oversight and accountability to protect the integrity of federal programs.”


Boozman Celebrates Summer Interns on Service to Arkansas

U.S. Senator John Boozman pictured with his Washington, D.C. interns on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the students who served as interns in his Washington, D.C. office during the first summer session.

“These hardworking students have made valuable contributions in service to the people of Arkansas during their internships,” Boozman said. “I appreciate their commitment to public service and the role they played to help my staff meet the needs of constituents. I am confident this experience provided them with a greater understanding of the legislative process as well as inspired them to continue serving their communities.”

Anna Parker, Eva Dietz, Henry Thompson, Mary Ellis Tedford, Phoebe Harris, Sam Sanders, Sarah Chase Walt and Oliver Liu completed a five-week internship in Boozman’s Capitol Hill office. Their responsibilities included assisting with constituent relations, supporting the legislative and communications teams and contributing to a variety of office projects. Each intern also had the opportunity to shadow the senator for a day, gaining firsthand insight into the work of the U.S. Senate.

Anna Parker is from Jonesboro and graduated from Jonesboro High School in 2023. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying marketing with minors in supply chain management and business analytics. Anna serves as recruitment chair for the Arkansas Networking Club and is a member of Chi Omega Psi. After graduating, she hopes to return to Washington, D.C. to begin her career.

Eva Dietz is from Little Rock and a 2023 graduate of Pulaski Academy. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying entrepreneurship and innovation. On campus, Eva founded The Flow Foundation, a nonprofit organization, and is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue opportunities that combine her passion for entrepreneurship, innovation and impact-driven work.

Henry Thompson is from Paragould and graduated from Paragould High School in 2023. He is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying accounting with a minor in finance. On campus, Henry serves as head of law relations for the Arkansas Networking Club and is a member of Sigma Chi. After graduation, he plans to attend law school.

Mary Ellis Tedford is from Little Rock and a 2023 graduate of Mount St. Mary Academy. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying elementary education. Mary Ellis is working toward both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees through the university’s accelerated five-year program. She is an active member of Chi Omega Psi. Mary Ellis hopes to return to Little Rock to begin her teaching career upon graduating.

Phoebe Harris is from Springdale and graduated from Springdale Har-Ber High School in 2023. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying political science with minors in global studies and legal studies. Phoebe serves as chaplain of her sorority, Kappa Delta. After graduation, Phoebe plans to participate in a residency program through Fellowship Bible Church while preparing to begin a career in public service.

Sam Sanders is from Little Rock and a 2023 graduate of Catholic High School for Boys. He is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying finance with a minor in marketing. On campus, Sam serves as head of banking relations for the Arkansas Networking Club and is a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. Following graduation, Sam plans to pursue a career in wealth management.

Sarah Chase Walt is from Little Rock and graduated from Mount St. Mary Academy in 2023. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying hospitality management with a minor in event management. She is a member of Pi Beta Phi and has served on the sorority’s leadership team for the past three years. Sarah hopes to begin her career on Capitol Hill upon graduation.

Oliver Liu is from Katy, Texas, and a 2026 graduate of Baylor University where he studied mathematics and computer science. While at Baylor, he served as the president of Phi Kappa Chi. Oliver will begin his career as a software engineer with Capital One in Dallas, Texas, in August.


Budd Releases Statement After FEMA Announces Over $197M in Federal Aid to Rebuild Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene

TOTAL PROJECT COSTFEMA SHAREFEDERAL COST SHAREGRANT TYPESUMMARY$158,798.76 $158,798.76 100%PANOVANT HEALTH, INC.

Declaration Date: 3/25/2020

This grant will fund costs related to the Management of PA Grants as a result of FEMA-DR-4487-NC (COVID-19 Pandemic). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $135,979,522.47 $135,979,522.47 100%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $135,979,522.47 in federal funding to North Carolina Emergency Management for state management costs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $292,374.46$263,137.0190%PATOWN OF CROSSNORE Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund water pipe repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $392,026.00 $352,823.4090%PAASHEVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund water control facilities repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $3,109,144.56 $2,798,230.11 90%PACITY OF MORGANTON – Boardwalk

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $2,798,230.11 in federal funding to the city of Morganton for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $127,312.72 $114,581.45 90%PAFERN LEAF COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund building exterior and building interior repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $163,981.55 $147,583.40 90%PARUTHERFORD COUNTY SCHOOLS Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund storm water pipe repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $287,679.84 $258,911.86 90%PATOWN OF SPRUCE PINE

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund sewer lift station pipes repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $680,787.11 $612,708.40 90%PATOWN OF SPRUCE PINE

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund pipes, embankment, other repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $407,251.23 $366,526.11 90%PACHRISTMOUNT CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, INC.

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund culvert, wingwalls, guardrails, base, surface repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $285,869.62 $257,282.66 90%PABLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY ACTION, INC.

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund building exterior, other repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $4,732,964.22 $4,259,667.80 90%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Yancey County: Division 13 State Route 1336 Jacks Creek Road Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This award provides $4,259,667.80 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,672,730.52 $1,505,457.47 90%PACITY OF ASHEVILLE – Swannanoa River Greenway

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,505,457.47 in federal funding to the city of Asheville for permanent repairs as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $291,014.39 $261,912.96 90%PAADVENTIST HEALTH SYSTEM SUNBELT HEALTHCARE CORPORATION Declaration Date: 9/28/2024 This grant will fund building exterior and interior, contents repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $2,007,143.17 $1,806,428.86 90%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,806,428.86 in federal funding to the North Carolina Emergency Management for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $16,188,322.06 $14,569,489.86 90%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $14,569,489.86 in federal funding to the North Carolina Emergency Management for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,774,242.24 $1,596,818.02 90%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 09/28/2024

This award provides $1,596,818.02 in federal funding to North Carolina Emergency Management for private property debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,569,390.21 $1,412,451.19 90%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 09/28/2024

This award provides $1,412,451.19 in federal funding to North Carolina Emergency Management for private property debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $7,501,213.30 $6,751,091.97 90%PANORTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $6,751,091.97 in federal funding to the North Carolina Emergency Management for debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.$588,947.52 $588,947.52 100%PATOWN OF BEECH MOUNTAIN

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund costs related to the management of Public Assistance grants as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,205,607.58 $1,085,046.83 90%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – Watauga County: Division 11 State Routes 1641, 1559, 1581, 1599, 1617, 1538, 1607, 1508, 1606, 1638, and 1600

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This award provides $1,085,046.83 in federal funding to the NC Department of Transportation for permanent repairs as a direct result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $350,233.07 $350,233.07 100%PAAPPALACHIAN REGIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM, INC.

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $200,683.68 $200,683.68 100%PACALDWELL COUNTY

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund costs related to the management of Public Assistance grants as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $264,260.80 $264,260.80 100%PAVILLAGE OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN

Declaration Date: 9/28/2024

This grant will fund costs related to the management of Public Assistance grants as a result of FEMA-DR-4827-NC (Tropical Storm Helene). This funding is authorized under Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $633,808.13 $475,356.10 75%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Declaration Date: 9/11/2025

This grant will fund road base, surfaces, culverts, repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4889-NC (Tropical Depression Chantal). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $837,350.36 $628,012.77 75%PANC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Declaration Date: 9/11/2025

This grant will fund base, culvert, shoulder, embankment rip rap, and surface repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4889-NC (Tropical Depression Chantal). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $434,510.30 $325,882.73 75%PATOWN OF YANCEYVILLE

Declaration Date: 9/11/2025

This grant will fund emergency protective measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4889-NC (Tropical Depression Chantal). This funding is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $1,049,213.84 $786,910.38 75%PANORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Declaration Date: 9/11/2025

This grant will fund shoulder, embankment, pipe, other, signage repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4889-NC (Tropical Depression Chantal). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $435,077.15 $326,307.87 75%PACITY OF BURLINGTON

Declaration Date: 9/11/2025

This grant will fund water line repair or replacement as a result of FEMA-DR-4889-NC (Tropical Depression Chantal). This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. $0.00 $466,777.42 75%PAHYDE COUNTY

Declaration Date: 10/4/2019

This grant will fund jurisdiction wide debris removal operations as a result of FEMA-DR-4465-NC (Hurricane Dorian). This funding is authorized under Section 407 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.


Cantwell Statement on I-5 Bridge Replacement Project Clearing Crucial Federal Milestone

EDMONDS, WA – The Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration announced that they have issued an amended Record of Decision for the Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement (IBR) Project, effectively signing off on the environmental review phase and clearing the way for the decadeslong project to move into the construction phase.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement:

“Let’s get building! The signing of the Record of Decision brings the Pacific Northwest one step closer to replacing the aging Interstate Bridge with the modern, resilient crossing our region has needed for decades. This bridge carries one of the Nation's most important freight corridors, with $48 billion in American-made and American-grown goods crossing it each year. With this key federal environmental review complete, it's time to put the $2.1 billion in federal grants to work building a bridge that will serve our region and the Nation for generations."

As the top-ranking Democrat on the Senate committee that oversees transportation and commerce, Sen. Cantwell has been a leading national voice for replacing the I-5 bridge. She created the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program, or Mega program, with the I-5 bridge in mind.

In December 2023, the project was awarded $600 million, the largest-ever grant through the program. In July 2024, the project received $1.5 billion in federal funds from the Bridge Investment Program (BIP), which was funded through the BIL. Federal grants announced so far for the project account for over $2.1 billion in funding.

A one-pager on Sen. Cantwell’s history of leadership establishing the Mega program in the BIL, as well as championing the I-5 bridge replacement project overall, is available HERE.

In January 2025, she secured a commitment from U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy during his Commerce Committee nomination hearing to honor the federal funding allocated by the Biden administration to projects already underway, including the I-5 bridge between Vancouver and Portland.

In August 2024, Sen. Cantwell joined Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt to celebrate the $1.5 billion BIP grant. Video of that press conference is available HERE, audio HERE, photos HERE, and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks HERE.

In January 2024, Sen. Cantwell held a roundtable discussion with local leaders, stakeholders, and other federal officials. The group toured the I-5 bridge and discussed future funding opportunities for completion of the replacement project. [PRESS RELEASE | PHOTOS]


Cantwell Statement on Stagnant June Jobs & Wages Report

EDMONDS, WA – Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released new data showing American wages are not keeping up with inflation. Average hourly earnings growth for workers was 3.5% over June of last year, falling short of annual inflation, which is approximately 4%.

The new BLS data also showed nonfarm payroll employment holding relatively steady between May and June 2026, and that the unemployment rate ticked down slightly -- from 4.3% to 4.2%.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement:


Crucial Infrastructure Projects in Bellingham, Tacoma & Spokane Funded With $51.9M From Cantwell-Championed Grant Program

Funds will upgrade the Port of Bellingham, reconstruct a crucial Spokane Valley interchange, & rebuild a bridge connecting Tacoma & Fife

EDMONDS, WA – Today, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) announced $59.1 million for three vital infrastructure projects in Washington state funded by the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program, which provides grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact.

Recipients in Washington state included:

The Port of Bellingham received $23.5 million for its Bellingham Shipping Terminal Rehabilitation Phase II: North Pier Rehabilitation. This project will rebuild pier infrastructure, strengthen deck loading capacity, and upgrade mooring systems at a public coastal port. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, wrote a letter of support for the project to the DOT.

"The Port of Bellingham plays a vital role in Washington's maritime economy, and this investment will upgrade critical infrastructure needed to move cargo safely and efficiently for decades to come. The upgraded North Pier will reinforce Northwest Washington's role as a gateway for trade by doubling vessel capacity, reducing vessel time in port by 50 percent, and generating an estimated $11.8 million in annual economic impact for Whatcom County,” Sen. Cantwell said today.

The City of Spokane Valley received $20.8 million for the Sullivan and Trent Interchange Project. The project will reconstruct the Sullivan Road and Trent Avenue (State Route 290) interchange. Work includes replacing the Sullivan Road bridge over Trent Avenue and extending the bridge over BNSF Railway’s tracks, replacing signalized intersections with two roundabouts, widening Sullivan Road to five lanes at the northerly connection of the Bigelow Gulch Corridor at Wellesley Avenue, adding a shared use pathway on one side, installing improved multi-modal lighting, and reconstructing all ADA facilities. Sullivan Road is home to over 9,000 jobs, 85% of which are directly related to freight. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter of support for the project.

"This investment will modernize one of eastern Washington's most important freight corridors by reducing congestion, improving safety, and keeping goods moving through Spokane Valley more efficiently. Upgrading the Sullivan and Trent interchange will improve travel for 30,000 daily commuters, facilitate the movement of 10 million tons of freight each year, support thousands of jobs, strengthen our regional economy, and help businesses move products faster and more reliably,” Sen. Cantwell said today.

The City of Tacoma received $7.6 million to replace the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge. The project will fund environmental analysis and design to replace four closed bridges with one bridge that re-connects the City of Tacoma with the City of Fife. Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter of support for the project.

"Replacing the Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge is essential to restoring a critical freight and commuter connection that supports the Port of Tacoma, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Tribal communities, and thousands of Washington jobs. Before its closure in 2023, more than 15,000 vehicles used the bridge each day. This federal investment will help Tacoma complete the planning needed to reopen the corridor and replace the bridge with a safer, stronger crossing that improves mobility, strengthens our supply chains, and keeps our economy moving,” Sen. Cantwell said.

As chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation at the time, Sen. Cantwell helped secure $7.5 billion for the BUILD program, at the time called the RAISE program – a 50% annual increase – in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021. Now, as ranking member, she continues to champion the program and support surface transportation projects across the Pacific Northwest.


VIDEO: Capito Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday

Click here or the image above to watch the video.

*Click here to download the video.*

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued a video statement celebrating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence ahead of the Fourth of July.

Full video transcript included below:

“Wow!

“250 years of America, what an extraordinary milestone in our nation’s history.

“On July 4th, 1776, our Founding Fathers laid the cornerstone of freedom, prosperity, and justice for the United States of America.

“The Declaration of Independence cemented that we are all endowed by our creator with inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, we honor the patriots and pioneers who fought to preserve and protect the freedoms we hold dear.

“We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our founders and countless generations before us, who have carried forward the American promise.

“On this especially significant anniversary of our nation, my hope is that every American takes a moment to reflect with pride and gratitude for the incredible story we share, and for the extraordinary nation we call home.

“Happy Birthday, America!”

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Senator Collins Announces Nearly $20 Million for Eastport Breakwater and Fish Pier Upgrades

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that the Eastport Port Authority will receive $19.7 million through the federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program to support the modernization of the city’s breakwater and fish pier.

Specifically, the funding will be used to rehabilitate and upgrade Eastport’s 45-year-old fish pier, which has deteriorated to a critical condition and is at risk of structural failure, and to complete a 97-foot extension of Eastport’s breakwater, improving wave attenuation, protecting the inner harbor, and helping ensure safe and reliable operations for all users.

“This significant investment will strengthen Eastport’s working waterfront, further protect the harbor from storm damage, and support the individuals and businesses who depend on this critical infrastructure,” said Senator Collins. “I strongly advocated for this project because these upgrades to the fish pier and breakwater will make Eastport’s harbor safer, more resilient, and better able to support the local economy for years to come.”

In March, Senator Collins sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy in support of the Eastport Port Authority’s BUILD grant application. In her letter, she stressed that the fish pier and breakwater upgrades are needed to meet the safety and economic needs of eastern Maine.

As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins included $145 million for BUILD grants in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill. The BUILD program provides federal assistance for important road, rail, transit, and port projects across the country.

Since 2009, when Senator Collins became a member of the Appropriations Committee, she has helped secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.

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Cortez Masto Visits Sierra Nevada Job Corps, Discusses Impact on the State and Region

Cortez Masto Worked Across the Aisle to Keep Sierra Nevada Job Corps Open After Trump Administration Threatened to Defund Program Last Summer

FTPs for TV stations is available here.

Reno, Nev. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) visited Sierra Nevada Job Corps (SNJC) and joined SNJC Center Director Rocky Flanary and Deputy Center Director Sheilah Hernandez to discuss the importance of the program to Northern Nevada and its impact on tens of thousands of unprivileged students, staff, and employers from throughout the state.

Last year, Senator Cortez Masto led Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Governor Joe Lombardo (R-Nev.), and Representatives Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-04), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03) in demanding that the Department of Labor (DOL) reverse course on its decision to defund and close Nevada’s Job Corps Program. Following their letter to then Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez DeRemer, the Department made the decision to continue funding SNJC.

“Sierra Nevada Job Corps is a lifeline for thousands of young Nevadans across our state, providing them with the education and training they need to land a job and keep it,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud that our state came together to save this program after the Trump Administration threatened its funding. I will continue fighting to provide government support for the programs that serve both our young Nevadans and the employers looking to hire them.”

Senator Cortez Masto has been consistent in her fights against harmful gutting of support to students and families in need throughout Nevada, including cuts to mental health grant funding and food and nutrition programs. She has also delivered critical support to at-risk youth across Nevada. She helped secure nearly $12 million in funding for the Communities in Schools (CIS) program, which works with local partner organizations to provide eligible students and their families with essential services, including mental health care and access to high-quality afterschool and leadership programs. Cortez Masto’s provision to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law.

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BREAKING: Cramer Announces MQ-9 Flyover for Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

MEDORA, N.D. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced today the North Dakota Air National Guard 119th Wing, known as the Happy Hooligans, will be doing a flyover at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. The Happy Hooligans, based in Fargo, will fly an MQ-9 Reaper, which Air Force Chief of Staff General Kenneth Wilsbach recently referred to as the MVP of Operation Epic Fury.

While the original flyover plan was scuttled by the military due to “real-life circumstances,” and with very little time to authorize an alternative, Cramer, who chairs the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Airland Subcommittee, contacted Air Combat Command Commander General Adrian Spain and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

“You don’t often get to see an MQ-9 Reaper doing a flyover,” said Cramer. “In fact, this might be the first one. But thanks to the leadership of the Department of War, the Air Force, and Air Combat Command, North Dakota’s own Happy Hooligans from the 119th Wing in Fargo will fly one over the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library on the Fourth of July. It’s a fitting tribute to the men and women who serve with excellence and exemplifies their ability to turn on a dime and shift gears and do something never done before. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we weren’t going to take ‘no’ for an answer.”

It’s unknown whether an MQ-9 Reaper has ever performed a ceremonial flyover, making this a truly historic tribute to the adaptability and tenacity of the Happy Hooligans and the North Dakota National Guard. For decades, the 119th Wing has proudly carried Theodore Roosevelt’s silhouette on the tails of its aircraft, including the F-16s that helped protect the skies over the U.S. Capitol in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.