Grassley Welcomes Over $7.7 Million in Federal Funding to Support Iowa Communities

BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) welcomed news from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that over $7.7 million in federal funding will be flowing to communities across Iowa. The funding will benefit communities across Iowa, including in Scott, Jasper, Clay, Sioux and Lyon Counties.

“In the face of damaging storms, Iowans have always pushed forward to repair and rebuild. I’m glad to see these federal dollars coming to communities across our state so the people of Iowa can continue building a stronger future,” Grassley said. “In the Senate, I’ll keep working to ensure the Iowans get the support they need.”

Details on the FEMA awards follow:


Q&A: Oversight of U.S. Organ Donation

Q: How’s your bipartisan law working to improve the nation’s organ donation system?

A: Nearly three years ago, Congress enacted a landmark law I wrote with Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon that overhauled the nation’s organ transplant system to better serve patients and donors. My bipartisan legislation was designed to boost competition, improve patient outcomes, maximize access to lifesaving organs, safeguard donors, protect taxpayer dollars and end an inefficient 40-year monopoly of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. Leading up to the law’s enactment, I conducted nearly two decades of congressional oversight and scrutinized the system with a fine-toothed comb, conducting hearings, examining data and leading the charge for reform with grassroots-led patient advocacy groups. My oversight found shortcomings that led to organs going to waste, patient lives cut short, organs allocated out of sequence and dollars being wasted. What’s more, the broken system was even worse for minorities and rural Americans. Our legislation required a review by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to assess implementation of the law. The GAO report released in January found the Department of Health and Human Services hasn’t yet developed detailed plans to fix weaknesses in the system, such as inequitable organ allocation and insufficient oversight of contractors. I’m glad President Trump signed into law another bill I led called the OPTN Fee Collection Authority Act to ensure resources for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the federal agency that oversees the U.S. organ transplant system, to effectively implement reforms called for in my 2023 law.

I’ll keep pushing to fix weaknesses in the nation’s organ transplant system. This is an issue that hits close to home for tens of thousands of families across the country, including more than 600 Iowans who are on the transplant waiting list. Iowa has transplant surgical centers in Des Moines and Iowa City. Teams of professionals who work in this sector of our health care delivery system understand the tremendous anguish of donor families and the profound relief of recipient families whose loved one’s life is saved when the transplant system works as intended. That system includes the safe, timely delivery of an organ. In July, I toured a family-owned business in Sheldon that operates 24/7 organ transport flight services. I was glad to hear my 2023 law is helping break down silos that created barriers to care and is helping to improve more efficient delivery of organ donations to patients on the transplant waiting list.

Q: What prompted your recent oversight on organ transplants for pediatric patients?


Hawley Demands Accountability from Meta for Retaliatory Lawfare Treatment of Whistleblower

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg regarding his company’s vile treatment of whistleblower Sarah Wynn-Williams. Ms. Wynn-Williams testified to Senator Hawley’s subcommittee last year that Meta worked with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to silence CCP critics on Meta’s platforms. In retaliation, Meta has moved to gag Ms. Wynn-Williams through retaliatory arbitration.

Senator Hawley wrote, “I have recently been made aware of deeply troubling allegations regarding Meta’s treatment of the whistleblower Sarah Wynn-Williams, Meta’s former global head of public policy. Meta’s efforts to destroy Ms. Wynn-Williams with lawfare are a matter of grave public concern. As you know, approximately one year ago, at a hearing I chaired titled ‘A Time for Truth: Oversight of Meta’s Foreign Relations and Representations to the United States Congress,’ Ms. Wynn-Williams raised serious questions about Meta’s dealings with the Chinese government, the harms Meta’s platforms pose to users, and Meta’s representations to Congress.”

Hawley continued, “She testified that Meta worked hand in glove with the Chinese Communist Party to construct and test custom-built censorship tools to silence and censor CCP critics. She testified that Meta helped China’s development of its own AI models—models the Chinese military uses and that steal IP from Americans—in an effort to promote Meta’s models. She testified that Meta’s executives knew about the widespread harmful consequences of Meta’s platforms years ago but hid them. And she testified that you and other executives lied to and misled Congress and the American people about these developments.”

“Ms. Wynn-Williams testified notwithstanding extraordinary pressure from Meta to silence her before the hearing. When she made her allegations public, Meta moved aggressively to gag her through a private arbitration. In March 2025, after a rushed hearing without proper notice and in which Ms. Wynn-Williams did not appear, Meta secured an arbitration order that broadly restrains Ms. Wynn-Williams from criticizing Meta and exposes her to severe financial penalties for merely speaking about Meta. To this day, Meta continues to relentlessly pursue her in arbitration, attempting to bankrupt her and subjecting her and her family to constant stress,” he said.

Senator Hawley concluded, “Congress cannot permit giant corporations like Meta to crush good people who blow the whistle on corporate wrongdoing. My Senate Judiciary Subcommittee is investigating the allegations that you, Meta, and Meta executives made false or misleading statements to Congress and whether any person has acted to obstruct the Subcommittee’s inquiry into Meta’s business ventures in China, its dealings with the Chinese Communist Party, and Meta’s knowledge of the grave harms—including child sex abuse, addictiveness, and bullying—that emanate from its products.”

Read Senator Hawley’s full letter here or below.

July 16, 2026

Mark Zuckerberg

Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer

Meta Platforms, Inc.

1 Meta Way

Menlo Park, CA 94025

Mr. Zuckerberg:

I have recently been made aware of deeply troubling allegations regarding Meta’s treatment of the whistleblower Sarah Wynn-Williams, Meta’s former global head of public policy. Meta’s efforts to destroy Ms. Wynn-Williams with lawfare are a matter of grave public concern.

As you know, approximately one year ago, at a hearing I chaired titled ‘A Time for Truth: Oversight of Meta’s Foreign Relations and Representations to the United States Congress,’ Ms. Wynn-Williams raised serious questions about Meta’s dealings with the Chinese government, the harms Meta’s platforms pose to users, and Meta’s representations to Congress.

She testified that Meta worked hand in glove with the Chinese Communist Party to construct and test custom-built censorship tools to silence and censor CCP critics. She testified that Meta helped China’s development of its own AI models—models the Chinese military uses and that steal IP from Americans—in an effort to promote Meta’s models. She testified that Meta’s executives knew about the widespread harmful consequences of Meta’s platforms years ago but hid them. And she testified that you and other executives lied to and misled Congress and the American people about these developments.

Ms. Wynn-Williams testified notwithstanding extraordinary pressure from Meta to silence her before the hearing. When she made her allegations public, Meta moved aggressively to gag her through a private arbitration. In March 2025, after a rushed hearing without proper notice and in which Ms. Wynn-Williams did not appear, Meta secured an arbitration order that broadly restrains Ms. Wynn-Williams from criticizing Meta and exposes her to severe financial penalties for merely speaking about Meta. To this day, Meta continues to relentlessly pursue her in arbitration, attempting to bankrupt her and subjecting her and her family to constant stress.

It is telling what your company has not done. Meta has not obtained any judgment that a single statement Ms. Wynn-Williams made is false. Instead, Meta’s arbitration gag order relies on a contractual restraint without regard to the truth—indeed, the order restrains her from speaking even if what she says is true. Further, your company’s public responses have been decidedly hedged: Ms. Wynn-Williams’ account is “old news” and “Meta does not operate its services in China today.”

The asymmetries here are stark. Meta need not ultimately prevail on the merits of the arbitration to achieve its objective because the process is the punishment; Meta simply needs to make truthful speech so perilous that no whistleblower like Ms. Wynn-Williams can ever afford it. That is lawfare. That is the use of litigation to suppress testimony that Congress has sought and that the public has a right to hear. The American people won’t stand for it.

Congress cannot permit giant corporations like Meta to crush good people who blow the whistle on corporate wrongdoing. My Senate Judiciary Subcommittee is investigating the allegations that you, Meta, and Meta executives made false or misleading statements to Congress and whether any person has acted to obstruct the Subcommittee’s inquiry into Meta’s business ventures in China, its dealings with the Chinese Communist Party, and Meta’s knowledge of the grave harms—including child sex abuse, addictiveness, and bullying—that emanate from its products.

Accordingly, please respond to the following requests by no later than August 14, 2026:

Meta’s attorneys’ fee statements in connection with the arbitration Meta Platforms, Inc., v. Sarah Wynn-Williams, No. 01-25-0001-2843 (Int. Centre for Dispute Resolution) (the “Arbitration”). You may coordinate with Subcommittee staff regarding appropriate redactions for confidentiality.

All documents Meta has submitted in the Arbitration or exchanged with Ms. Wynn-Williams in connection with the Arbitration, including the demand, sanctions motions, or discovery materials.

All documents and communications related to any effort by Meta, including its agents, employees, independent contractors, and the like, to monitor, track, record, or catalog Ms. Wynn-Williams’ or her family members’ public statements, interviews, social media activity, or public or private travel.

All documents concerning the calculation and derivation of Meta’s financial demand alleged in the Arbitration, including what portion of Meta’s alleged damages are for actual damages and what portion are intended to serve a punitive or exemplary effect, if any.

All documents and communications between Meta, including its agents, employees, independent contractors, and the like, and any third party concerning Ms. Wynn-Williams. For example, her book, testimony, or public statements, including any demand, threat, or request to suppress, withdraw, edit, retract, or limit the same.

Identify every current or former Meta employee or affiliate against whom Meta has initiated arbitration or litigation to enforce a non-disparagement or confidentiality provision in a contractual agreement since January 1, 2016.

If you dispute any factual assertions in Ms. Wynn-William’s April 9, 2025 testimony before the Subcommittee, please explain in detail the basis for your disagreement.

I look forward to your prompt and complete response.

Sincerely,


Heinrich Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate Committees to Regulate Prediction Markets, Protect Tribal Sovereignty & States’ Rights

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) led U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) in sending a letter urging the leadership of the U.S. Senate Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; and Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to rein in prediction markets offering nationwide sports and event wagering, which abuse federal commodity and derivatives rules — infringing on state regulatory powers and violating Tribal gaming rights and sovereignty.

“We write with urgency regarding the continued lack of proper regulation over prediction markets and the resulting circumvention of state and Tribal gaming regulatory frameworks. The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY Act) and Digital Commodity Intermediaries Act (DCIA), as currently drafted, will only serve to exacerbate these issues by further removing regulatory accountability for decentralized finance (DeFi) betting protocols that deploy unvetted prediction and wagering markets, directly infringing on instances of Tribal gaming exclusivity and state police powers,”the senators wrote to U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Chairman Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.); and U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).

The rapid expansion of sports event contracts through prediction markets and online casino-style gaming poses an existential threat to Tribal sovereignty by undermining the revenue that tribes rely on for government services such as healthcare, public safety, education, housing and social services.

The legal and jurisdictional framework governing all gambling operations, including sports wagers, on Tribal lands is established pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988. Eventually, Tribes also entered the legalized sports betting market in 2018 following the Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Currently, prediction markets claim to derive their operational authority from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which has asserted its exclusive jurisdiction to oversee and regulate all prediction markets and continues to erroneously classify these products as financial swaps or derivatives rather than gambling.

“Any further Congressional grant of exclusive CFTC jurisdiction over digital asset markets without ample guardrails for prediction market contracts will reinforce the CFTC’s claimed exclusive authority over event contracts and permanently circumvent the hard-won regulatory and economic protections established under IGRA and states’ police powers,” the senators underscored.

The senators continued, “Moreover, as currently drafted, the DCIA contains explicit exemptions from CFTC regulatory jurisdiction, and the CLARITY Act contains parallel exemptions from federal securities oversight for platform developers and non-custodial DeFi infrastructure providers that would effectively allow prediction markets to offer online casino-style gaming and sports betting across the United States, entirely bypassing the localized Tribal-state regulatory systems required by IGRA.”

The senators concluded their letter by urging the leadership of both committees to amend both the CLARITY Act and the Digital Commodity Intermediaries Act to include:

An IGRA and Tribal-state compacts savings clause; and

Prohibitions on CFTC-registered entities from listing prediction contracts that resemble sports bets or casino-style gaming products.

This includes an explicit statement that nothing shall preempt, repeal, or limit tribal authority under the IGRA, along with clear assurances that CFTC-regulated prediction or digital commodity markets cannot be used to circumvent existing tribal-state gaming compacts.

This also includes limits to any carve-outs for digital asset platforms by prohibiting online sports wagering or event-based prediction markets in jurisdictions where Tribes hold gaming rights.

The letter is supported by the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Santa Ana Pueblo, Sandia Pueblo, Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, San Felipe Pueblo, Kewa Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo, Acoma Pueblo, Jemez Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, Taos Pueblo, Tesuque Pueblo, Zia Pueblo, Isleta Pueblo, Pojoaque Pueblo, and Mescalero Apache Tribe.

The full text of the letter is here and below:

Dear Chair Scott, Ranking Member Warren, Chair Boozman, and Ranking Member Klobuchar:

We write with urgency regarding the continued lack of proper regulation over prediction markets and the resulting circumvention of state and tribal gaming regulatory frameworks. The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY Act) and Digital Commodity Intermediaries Act (DCIA), as currently drafted, will only serve to exacerbate these issues by further removing regulatory accountability for decentralized finance (DeFi) betting protocols that deploy unvetted prediction and wagering markets, directly infringing on instances of tribal gaming exclusivity and state police powers. As negotiating efforts between the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry continue, we submit that failing to address these concerns through forthcoming legislation would constitute a direct conflict with the basic tenets of tribal sovereignty, dereliction of U.S. trust and treaty obligations to tribes across the country, and a violation of states’ police powers.

The rapid expansion of sports event contracts through prediction markets and online casino-style gaming poses an existential threat to tribal sovereignty by undermining the revenue that tribes rely on for government services. The legal and jurisdictional framework governing all gambling operations, including sports wagers, on tribal lands is established pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). Upon its passage in 1988, IGRA’s stated purpose was "to provide a statutory basis for the operation of gaming by Indian tribes as a means of promoting tribal economic development, self-sufficiency, and strong tribal governments.” The framework established by IGRA created a regulatory environment that helped make tribal gaming revenue one of the largest contributors to tribal government services such as healthcare, public safety, education, housing and social services. For instance, since the 1990 census, the real income of Native people living on a reservation has grown by 63%, and the poverty rate for reservation families with children was down to 27% by 2018, compared to more than 47% in 1989.[3] Following IGRA’s passage, the number of U.S. census tracts with an American Indian Tribal casino operation surged from near zero in 1989 to nearly 600 by 2019, leading to skyrocketing gaming revenues for tribes. Eventually, tribes also entered the legalized sports betting market in 2018 following the Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Currently, prediction markets are misusing federal commodity and derivatives rules to offer nationwide sports and event wagering, completely ignoring state and tribal gaming licenses and regulations. These platforms claim to derive their operational authority from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which has asserted its exclusive jurisdiction to oversee and regulate all prediction markets and continues to erroneously classify these products as financial swaps or derivatives rather than gambling. Any further Congressional grant of exclusive CFTC jurisdiction over digital asset markets without ample guardrails for prediction market contracts will reinforce the CFTC’s claimed exclusive authority over event contracts and permanently circumvent the hard-won regulatory and economic protections established under IGRA and states’ police powers. Moreover, as currently drafted, the DCIA contains explicit exemptions from CFTC regulatory jurisdiction, and the CLARITY Act contains parallel exemptions from federal securities oversight for platform developers and non-custodial DeFi infrastructure providers that would effectively allow prediction markets to offer online casino-style gaming and sports betting across the United States, entirely bypassing the localized tribal-state regulatory systems required by IGRA.

Accordingly, we urge the adoption of two amended protections through any forthcoming legislation: 1) an IGRA and tribal-state compacts savings clause; and 2) prohibitions on CFTC-registered entities from listing prediction contracts that resemble sports bets or casino-style gaming products. This should include an explicit statement that nothing shall preempt, repeal, or limit tribal authority under the IGRA, along with clear assurances that CFTC-regulated prediction or digital commodity markets cannot be used to circumvent existing tribal-state gaming compacts. It should also limit any carve-outs for digital asset platforms by prohibiting online sports wagering or event-based prediction markets in jurisdictions where tribes hold gaming rights. Any exemptions for DeFi must be limited solely to the spot market regulatory provisions added by this bill (e.g., new sections 4k(7), 4u, and 5i) and not extend to existing derivatives regulatory provisions. This will prevent derivatives, event contracts, sports bets or casino style games from evading regulation by migrating onto unregulated DeFi platforms. If Congress fails to address these concerns imminently, prediction markets will continue to violate tribal sovereignty and states’ rights, while the CLARITY Act and DCIA provide for fully unregulated online gaming platforms, further eroding the federal framework intended to guarantee a primary pillar of tribal sovereignty.

Sincerely,

###


Heinrich, Padilla, Schumer, Schatz, King, Lead Investigation Into Trump Administration Efforts to Abandon Offshore Wind Projects

Trump actions will kill more than 30,000 jobs and raise energy costs.

WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), and Angus King (I-Maine) in launching an investigation into the Trump Administration’s efforts to kill offshore wind energy projects and seeking answers from four offshore wind companies about the lease buyout agreements.

“These buyouts have been announced amid a larger effort by the Trump Administration to stall wind and solar projects – the energy sources that are cheap, clean, and fastest to bring online – across the country,” the Senators wrote. “At a time when gas prices have spiked by an average of more than $1 dollar per gallon due to the President’s war in Iran and electricity prices are rising twice as fast as inflation, clean energy offers a critical opportunity to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and relieve costs for people across the country. Dismantling the burgeoning offshore wind industry now and creating broader uncertainty for investment in cheap, clean energy will have consequences for decades to come.”

The Trump administration has agreed to pay the four companies nearly $2.6 billion in taxpayer funding to abandon projects that could have delivered energy to millions of homes and created tens of thousands of jobs up and down the East and West Coasts.

“These projects were poised not only to advance U.S. leadership in clean energy technology and generation capacity, but also to unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in federal and state investment in research and development, port upgrades, workforce development, and community benefit agreements,” the Senators continued. “The two Invenergy projects in the Gulf of Maine were expected to help power more than 2 million homes and support over 18,000 jobs. The Leading Light Wind project in the New York Bight was projected to generate more than $3.7 billion in economic development benefits and over 7,000 jobs. The Golden State Wind project off California’s Central Coast would have powered 1.1 million homes, created more than 8,000 jobs, and delivered a $30 million commitment to workforce development and supply chain initiatives.”

The Senators called on the companies to turn over internal communications and posed a series of questions: whether the Administration had raised legitimate national security concerns, whether the companies had struck a deal with the Department of the Interior involving a pledge to invest in fossil fuel projects, and whether any conditions were attached to the payouts.

Read the full text of the letters here and below:

Dear [TotalEnergies, Ocean Winds, Duke Energy, Invenergy]:

We write to express deep concern with your company’s voluntary termination of [two] leases to develop offshore wind energy in the United States. Over the last few months, President Trump’s Administration has agreed to pay companies, including [TotalEnergies], a total of nearly $2.6 billion in taxpayer dollars to abandon projects that could have delivered energy to communities spanning from California to North Carolina to Maine. We are concerned that these decisions will harm grid reliability, job opportunities, and economic development in states across the country, and we request your response to several inquiries.

Since March, 2026, the Department of the Interior (DOI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have announced agreements to terminate eight leases for offshore wind projects, including TotalEnergies’ leases for Attentive Energy in the New York Bight and Carolina Long Bay; Ocean Winds’ leases for Bluepoint Wind in the New York Bight and Golden State Wind off Morro Bay in California; and Invenergy’s leases in the New York Bight, Gulf of Maine, and Morro Bay in California’s Central Coast. The Trump Administration agreed to reimburse companies for their leases in exchange for investments in oil, gas, and geothermal projects that, in large part, will be hundreds of miles away from the states that were planning for these offshore wind projects. In total, the Trump Administration’s agreements could result in the loss of more than 15 GW of planned, fixed-price clean energy, which would have helped meet increasing energy demand in regions such as New England and the Mid-Atlantic that are already facing supply constraints.

These projects were poised not only to advance U.S. leadership in clean energy technology and generation capacity, but also to unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in federal and state investment in research and development, port upgrades, workforce development, and community benefit agreements. The two Invenergy projects in the Gulf of Maine were expected to help power more than 2 million homes and support over 18,000 jobs. The Leading Light Wind project in the New York Bight was projected to generate more than $3.7 billion in economic development benefits and over 7,000 jobs. The Golden State Wind project off California’s Central Coast would have powered 1.1 million homes, created more than 8,000 jobs, and delivered a $30 million commitment to workforce development and supply chain initiatives.

Several states have already begun making substantial investments to prepare for offshore wind projects to move forward, including over $100 million in investments by California to modernize ports and support planning. By accepting DOI’s buyout deals, you are stranding these investments, undermining job expectations, and disrupting the yearslong process of electricity capacity planning by states and utilities.

These buyouts have been announced amid a larger effort by the Trump Administration to stall wind and solar projects – the energy sources that are cheap, clean, and fastest to bring online – across the country. In December 2025, the Administration paused the construction of five largescale offshore wind projects, claiming “national security risks.” Secretary Burgum issued a directive requiring his personal review and approval of every wind and solar energy project on public lands, holding up at least 57GW as identified in court documents. The Department of Defense is holding up all new wind projects on private land, a total of more than 30 GW of onshore wind capacity. At a time when gas prices have spiked by an average of more than $1 dollar per gallon due to the President’s war in Iran and electricity prices are rising twice as fast as inflation, clean energy offers a critical opportunity to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and relieve costs for people across the country. Dismantling the burgeoning offshore wind industry now and creating broader uncertainty for investment in cheap, clean energy will have consequences for decades to come.

There is no law that entitles leaseholders to refunds for voluntarily surrendering a lease, and lease cancellations must be executed according to the law. The Trump Administration has asserted that these payments can be made from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Judgment Fund—a position that may not be permissible under statute and that is the subject of ongoing litigation brought by the attorneys general of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Vermont. These buyouts risk setting a dangerous precedent that could encourage further misuse of public funds to terminate clean energy projects in certain states in favor of fossil fuel investments that benefit other states.

In light of these questions and concerns, and to better understand the legal basis for the lease buyout agreements between your company and DOI, we request the following information by August 6, 2026:

1. Please state when initial conversations began between your company and the Administration regarding initiating a lease buyout agreement.

2. Please state if anyone in the Trump Administration communicated to your company, whether verbal or written, that it would suspend your offshore wind projects if the project moved forward. If communication occurred, please provide responses to the following:


Hickenlooper Condemns Shooting At Aurora ICE Detention Center

Shooting comes one day after Hickenlooper staff visited facility to conduct congressional oversight visit

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper released the below statement responding to the shooting of a protester outside the Aurora ICE Detention Center by a GEO Group employee. The shooting came one day after Hickenlooper’s staff conducted a congressional oversight visit at the detention center.

“ICE and their contractors are completely out of control,” said Hickenlooper.“Everyone has the right to protest peacefully without fear of violence. We’re keeping the victim of this shooting in our thoughts, and we will keep fighting to end this lawlessness and instill accountability.”

Hickenlooper has been outspoken in the face of ICE’s lawlessness and demanded a top-to-bottom overhaul of the agency to stop ICE from terrorizing our communities. Hickenlooper also voted against the DHS funding bill because it failed to overhaul ICE. He has consistently pushed for more oversight andtransparency for federal immigration enforcement efforts, and has worked to help families desperately searching for loved ones arrested by ICE. In January, Hickenlooper spoke on the Senate floor to denounce the horrifying killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, condemn the reports that families in Eagle County found “death cards” left in the cars of family members taken by ICE agents, and to demand the overhaul of ICE. He’s shown up at ICE facilities previously to conduct congressional oversight visits and raise concerns about ICE disregarding due process. He helped launch an investigation into ICE’s unlawful obstruction of congressional oversight and introduced bills to ban ICE from wearing masks, prevent immigration enforcement from targeting schools, hospitals, polling locations, and places of worship, and cut back the excessive funding that MAGA Republicans gave them.

###


Husted in Cleveland with manufacturers and innovators, highlights secured funding for manufacturing hub

“Investments like these will help ensure northeast Ohio remains at the forefront of manufacturing and innovation for decades to come.”

CLEVELAND – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) today toured Lubrizol Advanced Materials in Cleveland and joined local manufacturers, business leaders and Case Western Reserve University officials for a roundtable discussion on strengthening northeast Ohio’s manufacturing economy, including funding Husted advocated for the school.

“Ohio is the manufacturing engine that keeps our nation moving forward. Lubrizol’s advanced materials and Case Western Reserve University’s NEO-SMART initiative are driving innovation across northeast Ohio. Investments like these will help ensure northeast Ohio remains at the forefront of manufacturing and innovation for decades to come,” Husted said.

The roundtable focused on Case Western Reserve University’s recent grant award. The U.S. National Science Foundation selected the university’s Northeast Ohio Strengthening Manufacturing for American Resilience through Technology (NEO-SMART) initiative as one of 12 recipients nationwide to receive an NSF Regional Innovation Engines award.

This comes after Husted’s May 22, 2026, letter to Acting NSF Director Brian Stone supporting the NEO-SMART proposal. The NSF Engines program can provide up to $160 million over 10 years to support the initiative.

The NEO-SMART proposal outlines a 10-year plan expected to create an estimated 20,000 jobs across 18 counties in northeast Ohio. The initiative is a partnership of more than 70 organizations spanning industry, academia, workforce development, philanthropy and government.

Husted also supported the Working Families Tax Cuts Act in July, which includes pro-growth policies that support investment in manufacturing states like Ohio:


Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues led by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in introducing legislation negotiated with the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and the White House to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The Sanctioning Russia Act would impose primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. The sanctions target Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, and Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as the Russian Shadow Fleet. The legislation also enables the President to impose tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil, gas, and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to up to 100 percent and to only the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas and to major sanctions evaders.

“This is a pivotal moment in the Ukrainian people’s fight to protect their freedom,” said Kaine. “While Ukraine continues to demonstrate impressive resilience and patriotism and real expertise on the battlefield, Russians are becoming increasingly exhausted by Putin’s war, which his own finance officials are telling him he can’t afford. This is the perfect time for the United States to bring down the full force of comprehensive sanctions on Russia, and I’m proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in putting forward a plan that would do that.”

In addition to Kaine and Blumenthal, the legislation was announced by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD); U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL); U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus; U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee; U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI); U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE); U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee; U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO); U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), Chair of the Senate Banking Committee; U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME); U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Majority Whip; U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY); U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ); U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC); U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY); U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA); U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV); U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE); U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI); U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX); U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA); U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT); U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN); U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT); U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA); U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK); U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL); U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI); U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-OK); U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO); U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS); U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM); U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN); U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD); U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR); U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD); U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND); U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV); U.S. Senator Jon Husted (R-OH); U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND); U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE); U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-WV); U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD); U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX); U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA); U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY); U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK); U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL); U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-NC); U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS); U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL); U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA); U.S. Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK); and U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT).

Kaine has been an outspoken advocate for legislation to check Russian power. He recently introduced the Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act, a bipartisan bill that would boost Ukraine’s defense by allowing for the more consistent and timely provision of high-volume, low-tech munitions critical to the country’s fight against Russian aggression. He has introduced the bipartisan Seized Assets for Battlefield Equipment and Readiness (SABER) Act, which would amend current law to allow Ukraine to use assets confiscated from the Central Bank of the Russian Federation and other Russian sovereign assets for the purchase of military equipment. Kaine also sponsored the No Oil Profits for Enemies (NOPE) Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen U.S. sanctions against Russia and prevent it from profiting off ongoing hostilities with Iran. Last year, he introduced the Sanctioning Harbors and Dodgers of Western Sanctions (SHADOW) Fleets Act, which would vastly expand U.S. sanctions authorities to target a collection of older, reflagged oil tankers that Russia has weaponized to circumvent existing sanctions on Russian oil and gas revenues. The bill passed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee last January.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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Kaine Statement on Trump's Conspiracy-Laden Speech

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s speech last night:

“Donald Trump spoke to the nation last night for nearly half an hour. Did he share any semblance of a plan to lower Americans’ housing, food, or energy costs? Or to end his deeply unpopular war with Iran that is putting servicemembers at risk and crushing working families at the pump? Of course not. Apparently, he’d rather focus on obsessing over an election he lost six years ago and spinning up previously debunked conspiracies about the fairness of America’s elections. But after 18 months of the Trump-Vance Administration’s lies and blatant corruption, the American people aren’t buying this sham. They will see any attempts by Trump to undermine our upcoming elections for what they are: pathetic moves by an insecure, ineffective President who is desperate to shield himself and his party from accountability at the ballot box.”

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Kelly, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Aviation Safety After Slackline-Helicopter Tragedy

Bill responds to Arizona helicopter crash that claimed four lives in January near Superior, AZ

Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) joined Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Curtis (R-UT), and other lawmakers in introducing the bipartisan and bicameral McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act. The new bipartisan legislation would direct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address urgent aviation safety issues by reviewing and updating existing safeguards for temporary obstructions in the low-altitude airspace, such as slacklines.

The legislation comes in response to an accident on January 2, 2026, when a helicopter crashed into a slackline which was strung approximately 600 feet in the air across Telegraph Canyon, south of Superior, Arizona. All four passengers aboard the helicopter died in the crash.

In April, Kelly led an Arizona congressional delegation letter urging the FAA to take immediate steps to prevent future slackline-related collisions.

“David, Katelyn, Rachel, and Faith lost their lives in an Arizona helicopter crash that never should have happened. I’ve met with their family. No one should have to go through what they’ve been through. This bill makes sure the FAA acts quickly to prevent tragedies like this from happening again,” saidSen.Kelly.

“Strengthening aviation safety is something that both Republicans and Democrats can get behind, especially following the tragic slackline collision that took the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” saidSen.Merkley. “The FAA must do all it can to keep the flying public safe, and our bipartisan McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act directs the agency to prioritize aviation safety. We must move swiftly to reduce the risk of any similar tragedy in the future.”

“High-adventure activities in Utah, like slacklining, should not come at the cost of aviation safety, particularly for helicopter pilots who transport patients, fight wildfires, and support search and rescue missions,” saidSen.Curtis. “Our bipartisan bill takes a practical look at where the FAA can modernize its policies, improve coordination, and reduce unnecessary risks so everyone sharing our airspace can do so more safely.”

“Congress must act with urgency to ensure federal regulators are taking every possible step to prevent low-flying aircraft crashes with slacklines like the tragedy that cost the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” said Sen. Wyden. “This bill would accomplish that goal by setting deadlines for the Federal Aviation Administration to update and improve its policies and regulations for low-altitude airspace safety.”

Representatives Cliff Bentz (R-OR-02) and Val Hoyle (D-OR-04) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“This tragic accident claimed cherished members of two Oregon families far too soon, and our hearts remain with everyone suffering this profound loss. As we look ahead, it is my hope that meaningful changes can be made to ensure a tragedy like this is never repeated,” saidRep.Bentz. “This legislation directs the FAA to review and update low altitude airspace safety regulations to help prevent similar incidents in the future.”

“Last January’s deadly helicopter crash in Arizona exposed a serious safety challenge in low-altitude airspace. I’ve been vocal in the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee that action is needed so this kind of tragedy doesn’t happen again,” saidRep.Hoyle. “Oregonians know the value of both outdoor recreation and aviation, and we all share a responsibility to ensure that pilots, first responders and wildfire crews have the visibility and information they need to operate safely.”

On behalf of the McCarty and Heideman family, “We are very grateful and excited to see the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act be introduced. It is a crucial and urgent step towards making the airspace safer for pilots, passengers, cargo, and anyone using the airspace for work or recreation. We look forward to working on getting this across the finish line!”

The bipartisan and bicameral McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act is supported by key stakeholders and organizations, including the Vertical Aviation International (VAI), National Transportation Aviation Association (NATA), Balloon Federation of America (BFA), United Aerial Firefighters Association (UAFA), Air Medical Operators Association (AMOA), Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), BackcountryPilot.org, American Spray Drone Coalition, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Life Flight Network, National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA), Commercial Drone Alliance, and Southern Utah University (SUU) Aviation.

Background:

The McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act follows a deadly helicopter crash caused by a collision with a slackline in Arizona on January 2, 2026, that tragically claimed the lives of four Americans—David McCarty and his three nieces Rachel McCarty, Faith McCarty, and Katelyn Heideman. The bipartisan bill would instruct the FAA to use its authorities to review existing policies and regulations related to low-altitude airspace safety, including identifying appropriate policy, operational, or technical improvements such as updated requirements related to markings on slacklines.


Kelly, Rosen, Colleagues Demand More Assistance from FEMA for Wildfire Prevention and Response

Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) joined Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and other Democratic colleagues in demanding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that all communities receive the federal resources they need to respond to and prevent wildfires.

States can request financial assistance from FEMA through Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) to help cover costs relating to emergencies, fire-fighting activities, and administrative costs. After an FMAG is declared, states can request assistance to help impacted communities rebuild and mitigate future wildfire disasters through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire. However, many communities are still waiting for HMGP Post Fire funds from previous wildfire disasters, which has left them vulnerable to current and future wildfire disasters.

This letter furthers Kelly’s fight of keeping Americans safe by reducing wildfire risk. Last month, Kelly introduced the bipartisan Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act which helps communities remove highly flammable materials from its forests to reduce the risk of wildfire. This week, Kelly’s Wildfire Prevention and Recovery Act, which directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct periodic wildfire risk assessments and study the impacts of wildfires on Corps-managed lands through a pilot program beginning in Arizona, passed the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee as part of the 2026 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA).

“Wildfires are one of the most frequently recurring disasters that, while once common only to western states, have recently become a major threat to communities across the country,” wrote the senators. “These wildfires can be lethal and destroy critical infrastructure and entire residential communities, negatively affect public health through harmful smoke and air pollutants, and place large economic burdens on urban and rural communities.”

“Unfortunately, over 3.1 million acres have already burned across the country since the beginning of this year, which is the second largest number of acres burned in a January to July period in the past 10 years,” continued the senators. “Given these recent fires, the persistent drought across multiple states, and the expected above normal wildfire activity, it is imperative that FEMA helps communities quickly respond to wildfires and increase their resilience to future wildfire disasters.”

“As we approach the summer months and prepare for above normal wildfire activity, we urge you to ensure FEMA can quickly respond to future wildfires and that FMAG and HMGP Post Fire funds are promptly approved and distributed to communities, including those in rural areas,” the senators concluded.

Kelly and Rosen were joined by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR).


Kelly, Scott Introduce Legislation to Fix Clean Water Federal Funding System

Today, Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Rick Scott (R-FL) introduced the Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2026, legislation that would replace the outdated, fixed percentage formula used to allocate Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) grants. The new system is a transparent, needs-based formula that reflects current clean water infrastructure demands, state populations, and economic burden.

Kelly first introduced the Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act in 2021 when a 2016 Environmental Protection Agency report found that an updated formula would triple the amount of clean water funding available to Arizona. As a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Kelly has championed fixing the formula for years. In 2024, following a request from Kelly, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report recommending Congress update the CWSRF formula. Kelly and Scott’s bill would implement the recommendations of the GAO study to ensure fast-growing, high-need states like Arizona receive their fair share.

“Arizona has grown dramatically, but the allocation system for federal water infrastructure funding hasn’t been updated,” said Kelly. “Our bipartisan bill fixes this so Arizona gets the resources it needs for a secure water future.”

“It’s time to bring the CWSRF into the 21st century. Through the Clean Water Allotment Act, Florida, along with 30 other states, will start receiving the proper funds which reflect our modern population sizes, areas of need, and economically constrained areas. This will help maintain our clean water infrastructure while protecting our beautiful natural lakes, rivers, and wetlands,” said Rick Scott.

Background:

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund, established in 1987, provides low-interest loans for water quality infrastructure projects. As loans are repaid, funds are recycled to support new projects but the formula used to allot funds to each state has never been updated. Based on GAO analysis, the modernized formula would result in 31 states receiving the same or higher allotment.

The Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2026 would:

Replace the Clean Water State Revolving Fund’s outdated 1987 allotment formula with a needs-based formula recommended by a GAO expert panel, distributing funds based on documented infrastructure needs (60%), state population from the most recent census (20%), and share of population at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (20%).

Ensure fast-growing states like Arizona receive funding that reflects their actual needs — not data from nearly four decades ago.

Protect states during the transition by capping annual allotment increases at 200% and decreases at 25% during the first four years.

Maintain dedicated funding for Indian tribes and U.S. territories and leave Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocations untouched.


Senator Kim Talks Hunger, Innovation, and AAPI Empowerment in Camden

CAMDEN, NJ – Today, Senator Kim (D-NJ) met with community leaders in Camden, NJ to discuss addressing hunger and supporting economic growth in South Jersey. He also spent time in Philadelphia meeting with AAPI professionals during the National Association of Asian American Professionals Leadership Convention.

“Today’s conversations reinforced just how much opportunity there is for long-term success in Camden,” said Senator Andy Kim. “The on-the-ground dedication leaves me inspired; I will use what I learned today to help ensure Camden has the resources to support and grow their community for years to come.”

Senator Kim kicked off his visit at Cathedral Kitchen to hear from staff, students, and service leaders about the work they are doing to feed and support those in need. He heard concerns about changes being made to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the crucial support that programs like SNAP provide to community members in need.

“For 50 years, Cathedral Kitchen has remained committed to being a steady source of support for our Camden neighbors, with many people coming to us for meals, groceries, and personal care items. We also help connect them with resources like SNAP, housing assistance, and other supports that can create greater stability as we rising costs and changes to SNAP and Medicaid that are making life even more difficult for so many across Camden,” said Noreen Flewelling, Vice President of Development, Cathedral Kitchen. “Looking ahead, we don’t know what challenges our community will face, but we do know Cathedral Kitchen will continue listening, adapting, and finding new ways to serve our neighbors with respect and dignity.”

Senator Kim then toured Subaru’s American Headquarters, where he was joined by Jeff Walters, President and COO of Subaru of America, and other Subaru executives. They discussed Subaru’s operations in New Jersey and its continued investment in Camden. The Senator also had an opportunity to experience Subaru’s new electric and hybrid vehicle models.

“We were honored to welcome Senator Kim to Subaru of America headquarters in Camden,” said Jeff Walters, President and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. “The visit provided a valuable opportunity to discuss our shared commitment to South Jersey, Subaru’s continued investment in New Jersey, and the Subaru Love Promise values that guide our work in the communities we serve.”

Finally, Senator Kim gave keynote remarks at the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Leadership convention in Philadelphia before hosting a Q&A with attendees to discuss professional development and community advocacy with members of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

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Lankford, Coons Introduce Bill to Help Unemployed Workers Start Small Businesses

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced the New Opportunities for Business Ownership and Self-Sufficiency (NO BOSS)Act recently, legislation that would modernize the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program so that laid off workers can more easily receive their normal allotment of unemployment insurance even while working full-time to start a new business.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely reshape America’s economy and disrupt or displace jobs across many sectors. However, even as AI is expected to contribute to job losses, it will also lower barriers to entrepreneurship, making it easier than ever for workers to start a small business. The NO BOSS Act would ensure that workers experiencing a job transition don’t have to sacrifice their unemployment insurance payments to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Current law allows states to operate Self-Employment Assistance programs, which allow eligible unemployment insurance beneficiaries to continue receiving benefits while working full-time to launch a business rather than searching for traditional employment. However, outdated federal rules unnecessarily limit who can participate, leaving fewer workers with a meaningful opportunity to choose business ownership over traditional employment.

“If you lose your job, the government shouldn’t tell you the only way forward is to go work for somebody else. Some folks have a business idea they’ve been dreaming about for years, and losing a job might be the push to finally chase it. Right now, an outdated federal rule forces people on unemployment to spend their time applying for jobs they don’t want instead of building the business they do want. Our bill fixes that. If you’re willing to put in the work to start a business, hire your neighbors, and build something in your community, we should cheer you on, not stand in your way,” said Lankford.

“Every small business began with someone taking a chance on a new idea, and new AI tools will make it easier than ever to turn those ideas into business plans, sales, and storefronts,” said Coons. “Americans shouldn’t have to choose between the safety net of unemployment benefits that they’ve paid into and the all-American opportunity to chase their entrepreneurial dream. As artificial intelligence reshapes the nature of work, this bill will help support American entrepreneurs, keep food on families’ tables, lift up small businesses, and keep our economy strong.”

Background

The NO BOSS Act would update the SEA program by:

Creating new opportunities for unemployment insurance beneficiaries and encouraging small business formation

Eliminating the requirement that SEA beneficiaries must be “likely to exhaust benefits,” which implies the program can only be used by workers unlikely to find another job

Clarifying that developing a business plan and conducting market feasibility studies count as entrepreneurship work

Making it easier for more states to establish SEA programs modeled on the most successful state programs

The bill is endorsed by the Center for American Entrepreneurship, the Foundation for American Innovation, the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council, the R Street Institute, Shopify, Block, Bipartisan Policy Center Action, and the Coalition to Protect America’s Small Sellers.

You can find the full text of the bill HERE.

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Lankford Joins Darline Graham, Blumenthal and 60+ Senators to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable

Before his death, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) secured an agreement with the White House on new text to bring sweeping sanctions against the enablers of Russia’s war in Ukraine

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Darline Graham (R-SC) and more than 60 members of the Senate in introducing the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

US Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death.

“Putin is a murderous KGB thug, and the countries still buying Russian oil and natural gas know they are funding his war against Ukraine,” said Lankford. “If we cut off Russia’s oil money, we cut off the weapons murdering Ukrainians. Lindsey Graham was an outspoken advocate for the freedom-loving people of Ukraine. Let’s finish what he started and put the pressure on Russia and everyone who bankrolls them.”

“Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk,” said Darline Graham.

“Ukraine is at a critical crossroads — and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” said Blumenthal. “When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.”

Background

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 would impose primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The sanctions target Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, and Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as the Russian Shadow Fleet.

The legislation also directs the President to impose up to 100 percent tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil, gas, and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas.

Joining Lankford, Graham and Blumenthal in cosponsoring the legislation are Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD); Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY); Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus; and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Katie Britt (R-AL); Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee; Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI); Jim Risch (R-ID), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Chris Coons (D-DE); Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Michael Bennet (D-CO); Tom Cotton (R-AR), Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; Tim Scott (R-SC), Chair of the Senate Banking Committee; Angus King (I-ME); Tim Kaine (D-VA); Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Mitch McConnell (R-KY); Mark Kelly (D-AZ); Thom Tillis (R-NC); Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY); Joni Ernst (R-IA); Jacky Rosen (D-NV); Pete Ricketts (R-NE); Brian Schatz (D-HI); John Cornyn (R-TX); Adam Schiff (D-CA); Tim Sheehy (R-MT); Amy Klobuchar (D-MN); John Curtis (R-UT); John Fetterman (D-PA); Dan Sullivan (R-AK); Tammy Duckworth (D-IL); Gary Peters (D-MI); John Hickenlooper (D-CO); Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS); Martin Heinrich (D-NM); Marsha Blackburn (R-TN); Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD); John Boozman (R-AR); Chris Van Hollen (D-MD); Kevin Cramer (R-ND); Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV); Jon Husted (R-OH); John Hoeven (R-ND); Deb Fischer (R-NE); Jim Justice (R-WV); Mike Rounds (R-SD); Ted Cruz (R-TX); John Kennedy (R-LA); Cynthia Lummis (R-WY); Lisa Murkowski (R-AK); Rick Scott (R-FL); Ted Budd (R-NC); Jerry Moran (R-KS); Tommy Tuberville (R-AL); Dave McCormick (R-PA); Alan Armstrong (R-OK); and Steve Daines (R-MT).

You can read the one-pager on the legislation HERE. You can also read the full bill text HERE.

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Luján Statement on Trump’s Attempt to Undermine Confidence in U.S. Elections

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s attempt to undermine free and fair elections in his address to the nation:

“Donald Trump lost the 2020 election. He’s still selling the same lies that led to a violent insurrection five years ago. He would rather relitigate the 2020 election than address the real challenges facing American families.

“Americans deserve a president focused on lowering costs, strengthening the economy, and solving the problems they face every day. Instead, this administration has only made life harder and more expensive for American families.

“Now, President Trump is ordering Congressional Republicans to rig our election system with the SAVE Act in a desperate attempt to hold onto power. Enough with the lies and the conspiracy theories.

“Every American must stand up and call out these lies for what they are. I will always fight for our rights and our democracy.”

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Markey Makes Unscheduled Oversight Visit to Maine ICE Field Office Following Fatal Shooting, Leaves with More Alarming Questions Than Answers

Boston (July 17, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today released the following statement after conducting an official unscheduled oversight visit at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) field office in Scarborough, Maine, where he demanded answers about the recent, nearby shooting and killing of 26-year-old Johan Sebastián Guerrero by an ICE officer.

“The officer who shot Johan Guerrero works out of this office, and it’s completely unacceptable that ICE has withheld from the public the details surrounding his murder,” said Senator Markey. “I was also informed that the office does not have body cameras for its officers, despite ICE having already received billions of dollars more in funding from Trump and Republicans just this year. There is no excuse for the lack of documentation and accountability around Johan Guerrero’s death despite the extraordinary amount of money that Trump and his Republican allies have given to ICE.”

“ICE is terrorizing people, from children and parents on their way to school drop-off, to workers and small business owners at their places of work. We need to get ICE off our streets and out of our communities. It’s long past time we abolish ICE.”

Yesterday, Senator Markey and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to the ICE Boston Field Office in Burlington, Massachusetts, demanding a full, transparent, and independent accounting of this killing, given the office’s direct jurisdiction over enforcement operations in Maine and New England.

In January 2026, Senator Markey wrote to the ICE Boston Field Office, demanding answers about conditions at the field office in Burlington, Massachusetts, and the conduct of ICE agents in the Commonwealth. This letter followed Senator Markey’s previous December letter, raising concerns about the cruel conditions at the Burlington field office.

Senator Markey and Representative Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) have introduced the Qualified Immunity Abolition Act of 2026, which would grant victims the right to sue federal law enforcement officers—not just state and local officials—for civil rights violations and would abolish the defense of qualified immunity in these suits. The legislation would help deliver accountability for families victimized by law enforcement, including ICE agents.

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Senator Marshall: Every Democrat Wants to Vote Against Voter ID

Senator Marshall Joins Woodward and Whit on KNSS

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Ted Woodward and John Whitmer on KNSS Radio’s Woodward and Whit to discuss the SAVE America Act and voter ID, Senator Marshall’s call for an investigation of Dr. Fauci and the handling of COVID-19, how the Democrats plan to shut the government down again, the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act to lower healthcare costs by $1000 a family, and the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham.

Click HERE to download the full video.

On passing the SAVE America Act:

“Yeah, well, John, it is interesting why we cannot get 10 Democrats to vote for voter ID — to vote for proof of citizenship when you register, and then some type of reasonable guardrails around mail-in ballots. So that’s what the SAVE America Act does. And by the way, Kansas does two out of three of those already — you know, we have voter ID, and then on mail-in ballots, we don’t do the unsolicited ballots. But I think they could be tightened up a little bit more, so thank goodness for Ty Masterson and his team the last several years at our state house. But of course, that doesn’t help us with California or Illinois or New York and these purple states or blue states that have no rules to speak of as well. So, I just want to emphasize how important this is. President Trump and I have both been fighting to get some type of vote on the Senate floor. I think we should just vote on them one at a time — let’s make every Democrat, every Senate Democrat, vote against voter ID. They always have some reason when you show them a big bill, but let’s do just that one piece, and then come back in a week, and let’s vote on proof of citizenship, and then let’s vote on something reasonable for guardrails around in-person ballots. The bill will provide some money for states already doing it, but that’s not going to cut it with me. That’s a nice little thing to say, ‘Oh, we know this is a problem,’ but my voters want voter ID across the country, period, full stop, end of the conversation. And right now we cannot get one Democrat to vote for it. It’ll take 60 votes in the Senate to get this across the finish line for voter ID in every state.”

On Senator Marshall’s call for a special counsel to investigate Dr. Fauci:

“Yeah, John, well, over a million Americans died from COVID, and over 20 million Americans have long COVID — not to mention the other havoc it created in people’s lives. So, as you know, about a month ago, Tulsi Gabbard, on her last week there in the job as intelligence director, released a treasure trove of information that shows how Fauci interacted with the intelligence community to influence the report they gave to Joe Biden. I mean, it was all a farce to start with — they already had a conclusion, and then they just needed to find a couple patsies that would agree with them. But today, both the FBI and CIA agree with everything that I’ve been saying now since 2020: that this virus was made in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Based upon the information from that treasure trove of information, we’re asking for a special counsel — for the Justice Department to look into Dr. Fauci’s funding of COVID research, his involvement, his cover-up, and then how he somehow he was able to suppress whistleblowers within the government as well. And finally, we want them to investigate the auto pen pardon. So, it’s a full plate. Now Fauci is going to be in the Senate next week getting questioned, but I bet he’ll take the fifth on everything. So, we need a full-throated investigation; there needs to be accountability so this doesn’t happen again.”

On the possibility of another Democrat government shutdown:

“John, I would bet a lot of money that it’s going to be another Schumer shutdown. You might as well just put it in the bank and start planning that September 30th will be the last day the government is funded. And they’re not going to let us do anything. I’ll give you an example — we’re trying to get through these appropriations, which leads to funding the government, right? The NDAA, the National Defense Authorization Act, came out of committee with large bipartisan support. Every year, this is passed by us — this is what funds the military. And the Democrats, even the ones that voted for it in committee, were not allowed to vote for it on the Senate floor. I could give you example after example of the same thing, and how they switch their votes when it gets to the floor. So, Chuck Schumer is running for his political life; they’re being pulled; that party is being pulled far, far to the left by these socialists — and they readily admit they’re Marxists as well. These radical Marxist leftists are out there pulling the party to the left. One of the reasons they gave for the NDAA votes being switched is that it supported Israel — there’s funding in there for Israel, as there has been every year. So, it’s a new day in Washington, and all I can tell you is I’m just going to keep fighting, and we’ll try and figure a way out through this. But right now, the Democrats hate Donald Trump so much they’re not going to let anything get done.”

On the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act:

“Ah, something positive, here we go. So, patients deserve price tags, not surprise bills. So, this is a bill that I’ve been working on now since I got to Congress eight or nine years ago and we’ve improved it every year. It forces healthcare providers to show you the costs up front — so when you need that hip replaced, you need an MRI or whatever it is, you can look at the cost difference, and then you can choose. An MRI for your knee at one place may cost $3,000 and that same MRI with the same doctor reading it at another imaging center may be $600. The difference on hip surgeries I’ve seen anywhere from $15,000 at one hospital to $60,000 to $80,000 in another hospital — and by the way, the one with the lower price has better outcomes. So, patients deserve price tags, and we’re going to mark that bill up next week in committee. And I do have a large amount of bipartisan support for it. John Hickenlooper, the Democratic senator from Colorado, is helping me lead that bill. So, we will get it through the committee next week, and then we’ll see if we can find a way to sneak it onto the floor, and Chuck Schumer let people vote positive on it. This can save patients $1,000 a month for a family on their insurance if you have transparency, letting patients become consumers again.”

On whether Senator Marshall will take an appointment in the Trump Administration:

“The answer is no. I mean, the answer to your question is yes, I’m going to address it. But no, I will not accept something from the Trump administration to go work for him. I’d be honored — obviously having run a hospital, a physician overseeing health departments, now a legislator for nine years, I do have a good breadth of knowledge of healthcare. But nobody’s going anywhere — Secretary Kennedy’s doing a great job, he’s right where he is, Dr. Oz is doing a great job as CMS director and I’m very honored to represent the people of Kansas. I have no intention — I am not going to go to President Trump’s administration and would be honored to represent the people of Kansas again for another six years in the United States Senate.”

On the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham:

“Oh gosh, Lindsey was a dear, dear friend. One of my besties up there. Our desks are 10 feet apart, and Lindsey just kept me laughing; every time I saw him he made me laugh — very witty. And the interesting thing about Lindsey Graham is I bet there’s 98 other senators who would say they were one of his best friends as well. He had the gift of hospitality, he made everybody feel welcome, we’re going to miss him dearly. We get really tight — there’s only 53 of us and we have lunch together every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. So, I lost a teammate, a friend. You know, the great thing is Lindsey was a godly man — sometimes he had a little rough mouth — but he had an encyclopedic knowledge of the Bible, and you know we’ll get to see him again someday. So, we will miss him, and it’s just now all starting to sink in.”

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Senator Marshall Introduces Bill Requiring Insurers to Cover Restorative Care Following Harmful Gender Transition Procedures

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) introduced the Treatment and Restoration Uniformity and Transparency in Health Coverage (TRUTH in Coverage) Act, legislation requiring private health insurance plans that cover gender transition procedures to also cover medically necessary care for patients experiencing complications or seeking restorative treatment following those procedures. The bill establishes a federal standard ensuring insurance companies cannot cover transition procedures while denying coverage for treatment needed to address resulting harm or restore healthy human function.

“As physicians, we take an oath to first do no harm. Unfortunately, too many Americans have undergone irreversible gender transition procedures only to be left with life-changing complications and nowhere to turn,” said Senator Marshall. “Insurance companies have been more than willing to profit by covering these procedures, but when patients need care to treat complications and restore healthy human function, they’re often left on their own. That’s wrong. Patients deserve transparency before making life-altering medical decisions, and insurance companies should be consistent in their coverage when those decisions result in lifelong complications.”

This bill is co-sponsored by Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming.)

“For years, the medical establishment pushed dangerous and irreversible procedures on vulnerable patients while covering up the devastating harm they caused,” said Senator Lummis.“Now, when those patients are left damaged and desperate for healing, insurance companies slam the door in their face. This bill ends that double standard. If a health insurance company pays to mutilate, it should also pay to help heal what it broke.

Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) introduced the House companion of this bill.

“It’s outrageous that a health plan can cover sex-rejecting procedures but refuse to cover the restorative care patients need to address the harm they cause. That’s not a fair deal for patients who want to restore healthy bodily function,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Patients should never be abandoned after undergoing life-altering, harmful medical interventions once reality sets in. As a pharmacist, I’ve seen insurance companies find every excuse in the book to avoid paying for the care patients actually need. My TRUTH in Coverage Act restores fairness, promotes transparency, and ensures patients aren’t left paying the price for care their insurance should cover.”

What the bill does:

Requires private health plans that cover gender transition procedures to also cover restorative care and treatment for resulting complications.

Prohibits insurers from imposing more restrictive deductibles, copayments, prior authorization requirements, or other coverage limitations on restorative care than those applied to other covered medical services.

Applies regardless of when the original procedure occurred or whether it was covered by the patient’s current insurance plan.

Establishes a nationwide standard across the individual insurance market, employer-sponsored health plans, and other private group health plans beginning with plan years starting January 1, 2027.

Background:

The TRUTH in Coverage Act builds on Senator Marshall’s broader efforts to protect patients, promote medical transparency, and ensure federal policies are rooted in biological reality. Related legislation includes:

STOP Act

Defining Male and Female Act

No Subsidies for Gender Transition Procedures Act

End Taxpayer Funding of Gender Experimentation Act

This bill has earned support from a coalition of organizations dedicated to protecting patients and holding insurers accountable for providing medically necessary restorative care. Supporters include Family Policy Alliance, the American Principles Project, and others.

“For years, Family Policy Alliance has fought to protect children from irreversible surgeries and dangerous drugs, including drafting the first Help Not Harm bill in the nation. That effort has now become law in 27 states protecting more than 34 million children across the country. The TRUTH in Coverage Act affirms that every family needs fairness and transparency in the consequential health care coverage decisions for gender dysphoria. We applaud Sen. Marshall and Rep. Harshbarger for championing informed consent and true patient choice in health care.”– Craig DeRoche, President and CEO of Family Policy Alliance

“Our medical elites incentivized the growth of the manipulative $4.5 billion transgender industry by abandoning children to the predatory practices of manipulative doctors. The TRUTH in Coverage Act will take vital steps to safeguard vulnerable patients and ensure that detransitions are able to get the care they need. Rep. Harshbarger and Sen. Marshall are delivering long overdue justice to the victims of medical and political malpractice.” – Terry Schilling, President of American Principles Project

Click HERE to read the full text of the legislation.

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Senator Marshall Joins Colleagues in Calling for Senate Vote on Comprehensive Anti-Fraud Package

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Senate Republican colleagues in calling on the Senate to take up the Protecting American Taxpayers Act, a comprehensive package of anti-fraud reforms that would recover taxpayer dollars, prevent future fraud, and strengthen accountability across the federal government.

The package includes Senator Marshall’s WALZ Act, legislation that would help prevent fraud by requiring payments to be made as reimbursements only after services have been provided —closing loopholes that have allowed billions in taxpayer dollars to be stolen.

“Fraudsters are always looking for the next weak spot, and for years Washington has made their job far too easy,” said Senator Marshall. “President Trump has brought a renewed focus to rooting out fraud, waste, and abuse, and Congress should seize this opportunity to make those reforms permanent. I’m proud to work with Senator Ernst on this legislation and pleased that my WALZ Act is included in the package. Together, these reforms close the loopholes that have cost taxpayers billions and better protect the hard-earned dollars of Kansas families.”

The Protecting American Taxpayers Act is projected to save taxpayers $240 billion by preventing fraud before it occurs, recovering stolen funds, and holding criminals accountable. The legislation bundles together 16 bipartisan anti-fraud initiatives aimed at strengthening oversight of federal spending and protecting taxpayer resources.

The package includes provisions to:

Recover wasteful federal funds:

Require federal payments to be made as reimbursements only after services have been provided through Senator Marshall’s WALZ Act, helping prevent fraudulent upfront payments.

Prevent individuals convicted of defrauding the Small Business Administration from receiving future federal assistance.

Claw back more than $65 billion in unused COVID-19 funds.

Incentivize Inspectors General to identify and recover taxpayer dollars lost to fraud.

Increase transparency by requiring detailed reporting on improper payments in the President’s annual budget.

Protect taxpayer dollars:

Strengthen accountability for employment outcomes in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

Prohibit federal funds from going to countries subject to U.S. travel bans or arms embargoes.

Increase transparency around U.S. cash assistance in Afghanistan to help prevent taxpayer dollars from reaching terrorist organizations.

Stop fraudsters and hold them accountable:

Establish a federal task force to combat AI-generated deepfake scams.

Extend the statute of limitations for investigating and prosecuting COVID-era fraud.

Strengthen Treasury payment verification and fraud detection systems.

Require individuals conducting international wire transfers to certify they are not receiving public assistance.

Strengthen scam prevention protections for America’s veterans.

Close loopholes in federal whistleblower protections to encourage reporting of fraud and abuse.

Click here to read the full text of the legislation.

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Merkley, Whitehouse, Doggett Celebrate Plastic Pollution Action Month

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Rhode Island’s U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, and U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) introduced their resolution marking July 2026 as “Plastic Pollution Action Month.” The bicameral resolution spotlights the dangers of the plastic pollution crisis and calls on Americans to protect our health and environment by taking steps to reduce plastic pollution, this month and every month.

“Most of us have been taught the three Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle; but too often the reality with plastics is the three Bs—buried, burned, and borne out to sea,” said Merkley. “During Plastic Pollution Action Month, we renew our commitment to tackling the plastic pollution crisis—which disproportionately harms communities of color and low-income communities—and demand bold action to ensure a future free of plastic pollution for all.”

“Plastic pollution fills our oceans, and microplastics seep into the human food chain,” said Whitehouse, the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and the co-founder of the bipartisan Senate Oceans Caucus. “Plastic Pollution Action Month is a chance for us to renew our commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and human health, and to cleaning up the plastic trash that clogs the nets of Rhode Island fishermen.”

“From the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink to our greenspaces and waterways, plastic waste and pollution affect us in so many ways,” said Doggett. “With so much misleading propaganda from plastic makers, this resolution serves as a reminder of the many dangers posed by plastics. Until we overcome industry opposition to take meaningful action, these health and environmental dangers will only intensify.”

The Plastic Pollution Action Month resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen, and Peter Welch (D-VT).

Merkley has been a longtime leader in Congress fighting to take on our plastic pollution crisis. As former Chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) subcommittee overseeing environmental justice, chemical safety, and waste management, he held a first-of-its-kind series of hearings investigating plastic production and pollution. His hearings examined: environmental and climate damage from plastics, impacts of plastics on environmental justice communities, reuse and refill systems, beverage container waste, and consumer challenges to recycling.

Merkley also leads the Break Free from Plastic Pollution Act—the most comprehensive plan ever introduced in Congress to address the harms of plastic pollution on our air, water, and soil—and two bipartisan plastics-related pieces of legislation: the Microplastics Safety Act and REUSE Act.

Full text of the bicameral resolution can be found by clicking here.

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VIDEO: The Juice Was Worth the Squeeze—Senator Moody Declares Victory in Fight to Modernize OJ Standards and Save Florida’s Citrus Industry

LAKELAND, Fla.—Senator Ashley Moody today took a victory lap with Florida’s citrus growers after a years-long battle to modernize orange juice standards. Shortly after taking the oath to become Florida’s newest U.S. Senator, Moody sponsored the Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act to update a sugar regulation known as the Brix Standard. Senator Moody also petitioned the White House to get it done. Today, at a citrus exhibit in Polk County, administration officials joined Senator Moody to declare mission accomplished.

“When I heard an outdated FDA rule was threatening the survival of Florida’s great citrus growers, I immediately went to work—filing the Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act and meeting with the White House to expedite a solution. Today is proof that the juice was worth the squeeze. Florida’s citrus farmers are an integral part of Florida’s culture, and I will always fight to ensure they have the support they need to continue growing and making a living,” said Senator Ashley Moody. “Thank you to everyone who worked so cohesively to make this happen, including Sec. Kennedy, Sec. Rollins, Rep. Franklin, Rep. Lee, Rep. Cammack, and our industry partners. This is a major win for our state.”

“President Trump is ending an outdated regulation that forced American orange juice producers to rely on foreign imports and an obsolete sugar standard,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We are cutting red tape, saving the industry more than $50 million each year, strengthening American supply chains, and creating a level playing field for U.S. citrus growers — all while maintaining the safety, quality, and taste Americans expect. That is America First policy, guided by gold-standard science.”

“This final rule is a critical victory for Florida citrus and the growers working tirelessly to keep this iconic industry alive,” said Representative Scott Franklin. “For years, our producers have battled citrus greening, hurricanes, freezes and rising production costs while operating under a federal regulation written for a different era. This rule finally brings federal policy in line with today’s agricultural realities by cutting unnecessary red tape, helping American growers get more value from the fruit they produce and reducing our reliance on imported orange juice. I’m grateful to Secretary Kennedy, Senator Moody, our Florida delegation and our citrus industry leaders for helping deliver this long overdue win for Florida agriculture.”

“When Congressman Scott Franklin and I first started working on this issue, Florida growers kept asking us one simple question: Why are we being forced to blend imported juice into a product made from perfectly good Florida oranges? The answer was an outdated Washington regulation that had not kept pace with citrus greening, hurricanes, freezes, and the realities in Florida’s groves,” said Representative Kat Cammack. “For years, we have worked with Florida Citrus Mutual, the Florida Citrus Processors Association, the Florida Farm Bureau, FDA, and our colleagues in Congress to fix it. We introduced legislation, took the case directly to the agency, and kept pushing until Washington listened. I’m grateful to Secretary Kennedy and Acting Commissioner Diamantas for delivering a commonsense, science-based solution. Now, more Florida oranges can go into Florida orange juice, and one of our state’s proudest industries has a stronger path forward.”

“Secretary Kennedy understands that supporting American agriculture and promoting access to wholesome, American-grown foods go hand in hand,” said Representative Laurel Lee. “The FDA’s proposed update to the Brix standard preserves the quality consumers expect while creating new opportunities for Florida’s citrus growers. I appreciate his leadership and look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen American agriculture and reduce unnecessary barriers for our producers.”

BACKGROUND:

To view the recorded press conference, click here.

Last year, Senator Moody introduced the Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act to modernize the Brix standard. Rep. Scott Franklin introduced the measure in the House.

The newly approved FDA rule mirrors Senator Moody’s legislation to modernize the arbitrary standard of sugar levels for pasteurized orange juice from 10.5% to 10% while not making a discernible difference in taste and nutritional value.

By updating this sugar standard, Florida citrus growers will be able to more easily respond to greening and recover from severe weather, while also regain their ability to compete in the marketplace and reduce reliance on importing foreign-grown citrus.

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Sens. Moran, Shaheen Lead Bipartisan Congressional Delegation to Farnborough International Airshow

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a senior member of the Senate Commerce and Appropriations Committees – and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) – a senior member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees – are leading a bipartisan congressional delegation to the Farnborough International Airshow, which will take place this month and feature aerospace and defense manufacturers from Kansas, New Hampshire and across the United States. Since 2023, Sens. Moran and Shaheen have led bipartisan congressional delegations to the international airshows to highlight U.S. capabilities and strengthen international partnerships.

“The United States continues to lead the world in the aerospace and defense industries, and Kansas’ innovation and manufacturing capabilities play an important role in that leadership,” said Sen. Moran. “Last year’s airshow included the largest delegation of Kansans yet, and I look forward to seeing that record surpassed. This forum provides a valuable avenue to showcase American innovation, highlight the capabilities of our talented workforce and strengthen partnerships with allies and industry leaders from across the world. As our adversaries continue to exert pressure in the Middle East, Europe and Asia, opportunities like this are critical to strengthening our national security and expanding economic partnerships with our allies.”

“The Farnborough Air Show is an opportunity to showcase American manufacturing and innovation on the world stage. As NATO allies commit to increased defense spending to ward off growing threats from Russia and China, it’s in our national interest to deepen trade partnerships with our allies while strengthening national readiness,” said Sen. Shaheen. “I’m grateful to once again, and for the final time as a member of the Senate, co-lead a bipartisan group of lawmakers to London to meet with foreign and U.S. aerospace leaders. Additionally, I’m looking forward to meeting with New Hampshire’s robust trade mission; our aerospace sector plays a pivotal role in both national defense and civilian aviation, and the United Kingdom is one of our largest trading partners.”

Joining Sens. Moran and Shaheen are U.S. Sens. John Boozman (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.).

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Murkowski, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Boost Health Care Workforce

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, introduced the Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act, legislation to address health care workforce shortages in Virginia and across the country. The bill would help internationally educated health care professionals overcome common barriers to entering the health care workforce in the United States.

“Many of our rural communities face significant obstacles to providing quality health care because of workforce shortages. This legislation would create opportunities for qualified health care professionals to help meet the needs of Alaskans,” said Senator Murkowski. “These health care professionals have found a home in Alaska and are ready and willing to answer the call to serve their communities. It is a win for everyone when we recognize their value and welcome their expertise into our nation's health care workforce.”

“Everywhere I go in Virginia—especially in rural communities—I hear about health care workforce shortages. We should think creatively to address those shortages and ensure we’re tapping into all of the resources and talents of those in the United States,” said Senator Kaine. “One way we can do this is by making it easier for people who were trained internationally and have significant experience to enter the health care workforce. I’m proud to introduce this bill that would help these professionals serve their communities.”

According to the Migration Policy Institute (MPI), over two million college-educated immigrants in the U.S. are either unemployed or underemployed, and approximately 270,000 of these individuals hold health-related degrees but are working below their level of training or are not working in health care. The Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act would help tap the talents of these individuals—who are living in the U.S. and legally able to work—and make it easier for them to enter the health care workforce at a level commensurate with their education, skills, and experiences.

Specifically, the Welcome Back to the Health Care Workforce Act would create a grant program administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration to:

Support communities in developing local- and state-level partnerships between health care organizations, community-based organizations, higher education, and state and local governments to help connect internationally educated health care professionals with the resources they need to enter the health care workforce.

Address barriers internationally educated health care professionals trying to enter the health care workforce face by –

Assisting with obtaining overseas academic or training records and providing support throughout the U.S. licensing and credentialing process.

Developing work-readiness, peer support, mentoring, and culturally competent career counseling opportunities.

Establishing opportunities to complete necessary prerequisite courses, continuing education training, and English-language learning.

Supporting growth opportunities to address classroom and clinical instructor shortages.

Give priority to partnerships focused on supporting health care workers serving rural communities or filling a workforce shortage within a community.

The legislation is supported by: Advocates for Community Health, Afghan Cultural Society, American Geriatrics Society, American Health Care Association, American Public Health Association, American Seniors Housing Association, Americas Essential Hospitals, Arkansas United, Association of Clinicians for the Underserved, Association of Dental Support Organizations, Ballad Health, California Immigrants Resources Center, Chemeketa Community College, Federation of American Hospitals, Gerontological Society of America, Global Cleveland, IMPRINT Coalition, Intealth, International Institute of Buffalo, Jewish Family Service of San Diego, LeadingAge, Lifepoint Health, Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains, Medicos Unidos Venezuela, National AHEC Organization, National Association for Geriatric Education, National Association of Community Health Centers, National Association of Hispanic Nurses, National Association of Indian Nurses of America, National Association of Rural Health Clinics, National Black Nurses Association, National Center for Assisted Living, National Immigration Forum, National League for Nursing, National Rural Health Association, National Skills Coalition, Pars Equality Center, Los Angeles, Philippine Nurses Association of America, Portland Refugee Support Group, Providence Public School, Restore Education, RUSA LGBTQ, Spring Institute for Intercultural Learning, Synergy Texas, Talent Beyond Boundaries, The International Medical Graduates Academy (TIMGA), The Welcoming Center, Tiyya Foundation, TruMerit, UnidosUS, Upwardly Global, US Together, Virginia Center for Assisted Living, Virginia Health Care Association, Virginia Rural Health Association, Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association, Welcome Back Initiative, Welcoming City, and World Education Services.

Full text of the legislation is available here.

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