Ezell Celebrates Christening of Future USS George M. Neal at Ingalls Shipbuilding

Last weekend, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) joined U.S. Navy leaders, HII executives, the Neal family, and shipbuilders at Ingalls Shipbuilding on Saturday to celebrate the christening of the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer to be built at Ingalls.

The future USS George M. Neal is named in honor of Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class George M. Neal, a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Navy Cross. Neal displayed extraordinary courage during a 1951 rescue mission after surviving a helicopter crash behind enemy lines, evading capture for nine days before becoming a prisoner of war. He was released in 1952 after enduring more than a year in captivity.

“The christening of the future USS George M. Neal is a proud moment for Mississippi and our nation,” Ezell said. “George M. Neal’s courage, sacrifice, and service represent the very best of America, and it is fitting that this warship will carry his legacy for generations to come. I’m grateful to the hardworking men and women of Ingalls Shipbuilding whose craftsmanship strengthens our Navy, supports our Gulf Coast economy, and helps keep our nation safe.”

“The future USS George M. Neal honors a legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice,” Under-Secretary of the Navy William Toti said. “As we christen this ship, we mark another step toward building the Navy our nation needs. Flight III destroyers are critical to our nation’s security, and we are proud to accept each one built by the skilled workforce at Ingalls."

“As a company, HII does a lot of amazing things, but only people — human beings — build ships. They build ships with their hands, their minds and toughness. The people of Ingalls Shipbuilding are among the finest craftsmen and craftswomen on the face of the Earth,” Kastner said. “When she is delivered, DDG 131 will be the most powerful surface combatant in the world. She will be ready. She’ll be ready because the United States of America makes a conscious choice, generation after generation for now 250 years, to invest in U.S. Navy ships, built by Americans, in America.”

“On behalf of my family, I express my deepest gratitude to the United States Navy, to the incredible honor, for this magnificent destroyer after my father, George Milton Neal,” Gray said. “We are forever grateful that his life of service, sacrifice and courage will be remembered through a ship that will one day defend our nation and carry his legacy throughout the world.”

The traditional christening ceremony featured remarks from senior Navy officials, HII leadership, and the ship's sponsor, Kelley Neal Gray, daughter of the ship's namesake, who performed the ceremonial bottle-breaking against the ship's bow.

As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Ezell emphasized the importance of Mississippi's shipbuilding industry to both the nation's defense and the Gulf Coast economy.

DDG 131 is one of several Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers currently under construction at Ingalls Shipbuilding. These next-generation warships feature the advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, significantly enhancing the Navy's ability to counter evolving threats and maintain maritime dominance.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 36 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy and continues to play a critical role in building the future fleet that protects America's interests around the world.


Leger Fernandez Votes to Cut Offensive Military Aid To Israel

WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Leger Fernandez voted for an amendment to the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Act (H.R. 8595) introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) to prohibit funds appropriated by the Act from being used for Israel’s offensive weapons and activities.

“Peace cannot be built with more bombs.

Congress has a responsibility to make sure American taxpayer dollars reflect American laws, American values, and our commitment to human rights. When they do not, we have a duty to change course.

I voted for the amendment because the United States cannot continue writing blank checks for offensive military assistance to Netanyahu’s government as he causes such death and destruction for innocent Palestinian civilians, villagers in the West Bank, and disrupts a world order that values peace and respect.

The Israeli and Palestinian people both deserve to raise their children free from terror, violence, and fear. Israel has the right to exist and to live in security. Both sides deserve to practice their religion and faith. That’s why I continue to support defensive systems that protect civilian lives, which are not affected by this amendment,” said Leger Fernández.

The House passed H.R. 8595 by a vote of 217-209, with Congresswoman Leger Fernández voting against the bill’s final passage. The bill undermines American diplomacy, weakens our national security, and makes significant cuts to lifesaving humanitarian aid.

This bill also advances the Republican voter suppression bill called the SAVE America Act.

“The SAVE America Act will make it harder to register to vote, especially if you’re a woman, live in a rural community, serve in the military, or are a Tribal voter. If you’re wealthy enough to have a passport, you’re fine. But more than 21 million Americans don’t have one. Under the SAVE America Act, a REAL ID driver’s license in most states or other common forms of ID wouldn’t be enough to register. This isn’t about election security. It’s about making it harder for eligible Americans to vote. The only thing this bill is designed to save is Republicans’ electoral butts in November,” said Leger Fernández.

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Figures Introduces Legislation to Support   Alabama Farmers Impacted by the Trump Administration’s Trade Policies

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) introduced the

Tariff Impacted Farmer Support Act of 2026 to provide targeted financial relief and support for farmers who produce cotton, peanuts, soybeans, corn, and poultry.

Farmers across Alabama and the nation continue to face rising production costs, market volatility, and economic uncertainty that have placed extraordinary pressure on family farming operations. These challenges are compounded by retaliatory tariffs resulting from the Trump Administration's trade policies. For farmers operating on thin margins, a single year of substantial losses can threaten the long-term viability of their operations.

“Alabama farmers are the backbone of our economy and of rural communities throughout the state,” said Congressman Figures. “Amid incredibly difficult economic challenges, farmers have repeatedly demonstrated their resilience and grit, but many smaller operations lack the financial reserves necessary to withstand prolonged market disruptions, lost export sales, and the uncertainty created by President Trump’s tariffs. Our farmers deserve our support, and my bill will provide the financial assistance needed to help preserve family farming operations, strengthen rural economies, and ensure that our producers can continue feeding, fueling, and clothing our nation.”

Congressman Figures’ bill comes on the heels of a meeting with farmers in Macon County. During this meeting, farmers consistently warned about the dire circumstances they face due to rising costs, market instability and lower profits. In addition, farmers voiced concerns about receiving minimal assistance from President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” as well as the deployment of roughly $20 billion taxpayer bailout to the Government of Argentina while American agricultural producers are facing measurable financial strain.

The Tariff Impacted Farmer Support Act of 2026 would authorize up to $15 billion through the Commodity Credit Corporation to provide temporary direct assistance to qualifying agricultural producers of soybeans, cotton, corn, peanuts, and poultry.

Eligibility would be limited to agricultural producers of small and mid-sized family farms with total revenues of $500,000 or less, consistent with applicable definitions under the Food Security Act.

Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is an original co-sponsor. The Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association endorsed the bill.


Fong Secures Local Wins in Water Resources Development Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee unanimously passed H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, bipartisan legislation that authorizes critical water resources infrastructure projects across the country. Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) voted in support of the bill, successfully securing several key wins for the Central Valley.

“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, and this legislation delivers critical investments in the water infrastructure our farmers, families, and businesses rely on every day,” said Congressman Fong. “From expanding water storage projects including Pine Flat Lake to protecting our reservoirs from the growing threat of wildfires, I fought to secure needed initiatives and projects that will strengthen our region’s water resilience and safeguard our future. These investments will help ensure that the Central Valley has the resources it needs to thrive for generations to come. I am grateful to Chairman Graves and my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for advancing this important legislation.”

“The Friant Water Authority is grateful for Congressman Vince Fong’s leadership and dedication to ensuring a sustainable water future for our region,” said Johnny Amaral, CEO Friant Water Authority. “His efforts to incorporate the valuable findings from airborne snow observatories will significantly enhance our ability to optimize water resources. Furthermore, providing the Army Corps with additional authorities to proactively mitigate wildfire risks around our Valley’s reservoirs and lakes is a crucial step in safeguarding our communities and natural resources. Thank you, Congressman Fong, for your commitment to advancing our water management strategies through the Water Resources Development Act.”

“As we continue advancing efforts to raise Pine Flat Dam and improve management of the Kings River watershed to reduce flood risk and strengthen long-term drought resilience, we strongly support the important provisions included in the House Committee-passed WRDA bill,” said David Merritt, General Manager of the Kings River Conservation District. “We appreciate Representative Fong's continued leadership and support for these critical water resource projects and look forward to working together to advance durable, long-term solutions that benefit the San Joaquin Valley.”

“As we strive to raise Buchanan Dam and expand Eastman Reservoir as well as effectively manage the Chowchilla River watershed to mitigate flood risks and enhance drought resilience, we wholeheartedly support the provisions included in the House Committee Passed WRDA bill by Congressman Fong,” said Brandon Tomlinson, GM Chowchilla Water District. “We are grateful for Congressman Fong's leadership and Congressman McClintock and Gray’s support of our essential water resource projects and look forward to collaborating on enduring solutions for the San Joaquin Valley."

WRDA is bipartisan legislation that Congress has passed every two years since 2014 to improve the nation's ports, harbors, inland waterways, flood protection, and water resources infrastructure. H.R. 9497 authorizes 133 new feasibility studies and 14 projects ready for construction, while streamlining U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) processes and empowering local stakeholders to deliver projects more efficiently.

Thanks to Congressman Fong's advocacy, H.R. 9497 includes the following wins for local communities:

Pine Flat Dam Raise

Accelerates and expedites the completion of a feasibility study for the Pine Flat Dam Raise located in Fresno County, California, with the goal of advancing ecosystem restoration and bolstering water supply.

Eastman Lake Enlargement — Chowchilla Water Resiliency Project

Places the Buchanan Dam Raise on the USACE's Expedited Projects List, accelerating a project that would increase Eastman Lake's capacity by 50,000 acre-feet and deliver approximately 8,750 additional acre-feet of surface water annually to Central Valley growers facing significant groundwater deficits.

Airborne Snow Observatories (ASO/FIRO)

Directs the USACE to incorporate Airborne Snow Observatory flights into reservoir water control manuals, providing real-time snowpack data to improve water storage decisions and reservoir operations across the Central Valley.

Wildfire Risk Assessments for USACE Dams and Reservoirs

Provides new authorities for the USACE to proactively assess wildfire risk at USACE-owned reservoirs, develop mitigation action plans, and partner with non-federal entities to reduce wildfire-related threats to Central Valley water supply reliability. Local USACE projects include Redbank and Fancher Creek, Success Lake, Pine Flat Lake, Lake Kaweah, and Lake Isabella.

Additionally, H.R. 9497 delivers broader national benefits by:

Authorizing major infrastructure projects approved by the USACE

Reauthorizing the High Hazard Potential Dam safety program through 2031

Strengthening flood risk management and levee maintenance programs

Improving inland waterway navigation to support American commerce

Streamlining USACE processes and reducing federal bureaucracy

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Ranking Member Foushee's Opening Statement at Hearing on Space Commerce's Mission Authorization Proposal

WASHINGTON, DC (July 15, 2026) — Today, the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology is holding a Space Subcommittee hearing titled, “A Review of the Office of Space Commerce’s Mission Authorization Proposal.”

Space Subcommittee Ranking Member Valerie Foushee (D-NC) opening statement as prepared for the record is below:

Good morning, and thank you Chairman Haridopolos for holding today’s hearing to review the Trump Administration’s mission authorization proposal. I want to welcome Director Jordan and thank you for being here to testify before the Subcommittee.

Mission authorization and a regulatory framework for novel space activities may seem far removed from the concerns most Americans face every day. Families are focused on whether they can afford health care, groceries, gas, housing, and education costs, and whether good-paying jobs and economic opportunities will be available in their communities. Those concerns must remain at the center of our work, and I am fighting to ensure that every American has affordable access to the everyday essentials and the resources they need to build a secure and prosperous future.

Space policy is connected to that work. Space-based technology and services support communications, navigation, weather forecasting, environmental monitoring, national security, and other systems that Americans rely on every day. In fact, if you used GPS or checked the weather on your phone this morning, you relied on technology in space. Space is, quite literally, in our pockets.

But space also inspires us to look beyond the everyday and creates opportunities to build the workforce and capabilities that move our country forward—just look at the successful Artemis II mission and the benefits it has already delivered.

The growing commercial space economy can also create jobs and expand economic opportunity, but those benefits must reach communities across the country, not just a select few. Like other emerging technologies, a mission authorization framework must strike the right balance between expanding economic opportunity and ensuring meaningful oversight, accountability and appropriate guardrails.

This is a governing challenge with which I’m deeply familiar through my work on artificial intelligence. As I have made crystal clear, technological progress cannot come at the expense of other important U.S. interests, including national security, scientific advancement, foreign policy, safety, privacy, and the environment. That is why we must consider the implications, impacts, and potential unintended consequences of any mission authorization proposal and process.

Large satellite constellations, for example, can interfere with optical and radio astronomy due to their reflectivity and radio transmission inference. Further, future commercial spacecraft that might land on the surface of Mars, could bring contamination that could affect the search for life, a fundamental scientific pursuit.

We must also carefully consider how new space technologies and mission proposals could affect orbital debris risks or threaten the sustainability of the space environment. Let me be clear. Supporting technological progress and requiring responsible behaviors from commercial companies are not competing goals. We can do both, and any mission authorization framework must reflect that principle.

I look forward to hearing about the Office of Space Commerce’s mission authorization proposal, and looking ahead, I also hope the Subcommittee will seek input from other federal agencies, industry experts, scientists, and additional stakeholders.

Before I close, Mr. Chairman, I want to note my disappointment that the Committee was not provided with advanced notice of the Office of Space Commerce’s release of their mission authorization proposal, a briefing on the proposal, or even a briefing on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s fiscal year 2027 request for the Office of Space Commerce, despite multiple requests. This is not the transparency we expect as the Committee of jurisdiction.

With that, I thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back.


Rep. Foushee Introduces Grad Student Affordable Housing Act to Help Graduate Students Access Safe, Affordable Housing

Data from the Education Data Initiative illustrates the scale of this burden: master’s and doctoral students pay an average of $12,554 and $14,548 for room and board at public universities, and $15,480 and $19,180 at private institutions. These rising costs add financial pressure on students pursuing advanced degrees in fields that serve classrooms, labs, hospitals, and more.

In North Carolina’s Fourth Congressional District, graduate and professional students play an indispensable role at institutions, including the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina Central University, and Duke University. These students contribute to classrooms, laboratories, hospitals, public service programs, and community-based research throughout the Research Triangle, even as many face significant housing cost burdens.

“Graduate and professional students are integral to the mission of higher education. While pursuing advanced degrees, they teach, conduct research, provide patient care, and serve their communities in transformative ways. Yet the rising cost of housing continues to outpace many graduate student stipends and trainee compensation rates, creating barriers that can affect recruitment, retention, and student well-being. Expanding conversations around graduate student housing recognizes that affordable, stable housing is fundamental to educational opportunity and to sustaining the talent that will shape the future of research, healthcare, education, and public service,” said Jaden R. Smith, President of the Graduate and Professional Student Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.


Rep. Foushee Supports Massie Amendment, Rejects GOP Foreign Affairs Funding Bill with Harmful Riders

WASHINGTON, DC (July 15, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) voted in favor of Congressman Thomas Massie’s amendment to restrict U.S. military assistance to Israel, while opposing the underlying Republican National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP/SFOPS) appropriations bill. Congresswoman Foushee released the following statement regarding the vote:

“Congress has a responsibility to ensure that U.S. taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that our foreign policy reflects our values, humanitarian standards, and national security interests. Today, I supported Congressman Massie’s amendment because Congress must exercise its oversight role and ensure accountability in how U.S. military assistance is provided.

“Although I support this amendment, I do not support the broader Republican funding bill. This legislation weakens America’s national security by cutting critical diplomatic, humanitarian, and development programs that help prevent conflict, respond to crises, and strengthen communities around the world. This bill also includes extreme ideological riders, including provisions targeting women, LGBTQI+ communities, and vulnerable people, as well as the Republican-backed SAVE Act, which would make it harder for eligible Americans to exercise their right to vote. The inclusion of the SAVE Act transforms this already harmful bill into a direct attack on our democracy that must be rejected wholeheartedly and without hesitation.”

An Appropriations Committee Democrats factsheet on the standalone National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP/SFOPS) appropriations bill can be found here.


Frankel: Trump and Republicans Are Making America Less Secure

Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), released the following statement after voting against House Republicans' Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs appropriations bill.

"This bill should have been our moment to strengthen America and show the world that American leadership still matters. Done right, it would have made our nation safer, stronger, and more secure—at home and abroad. Instead, it falls painfully short," said Rep. Frankel.

"Rather than making smart investments in the tools that prevent conflict and build peace and prosperity, the Trump Administration has embraced bullying, reckless tariffs, and a war that is costing our nation billions of dollars and countless lives, with no end in sight. Real security requires more than military force. It requires diplomacy. It requires development. It requires humanitarian leadership. It means showing up before a crisis becomes a catastrophe, before instability becomes extremism, and before conflict becomes war. That is how we build strong alliances, create trading partners, stop diseases before they reach our shores, and keep America's sons and daughters out of costly wars.

"Instead of repairing the damage caused by dismantling USAID, this bill doubles down. It slashes humanitarian assistance, weakens our diplomatic corps, undermines development programs that advance American interests, and turns its back on the partnerships that have strengthened our nation for generations. Foreign assistance is not charity—it is a strategic investment in our national security. When America steps back, our adversaries—including China—step in.

"As Ranking Member of the NSRP Subcommittee, I will continue fighting for a foreign policy that reflects our values and protects our security. A strong America requires both hard power and soft power. Our greatest strength has never been our military alone—it is our diplomacy, our alliances, our humanitarian leadership, and our enduring commitment to building a more stable, more prosperous, and more secure world. This bill fails to meet that standard, which is why I voted no."

The FY27 NSRP bill would


Franklin Votes To Advance FY27 National Security Appropriations Bill

Congressman Scott Franklin today issued the following statement after passage of H.R. 8595, the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act:

"The best way to protect the American people is to prevent threats from becoming conflicts. That requires more than the strongest military in the world. It also requires a foreign policy that strengthens our alliances, deters our adversaries and advances America's interests.

"This bill reflects that approach. It strengthens support for key allies, reinforces our position in the Indo-Pacific, invests in embassy security, provides additional resources to combat fentanyl trafficking and helps counter the growing influence of the Chinese Communist Party. It also strengthens oversight of foreign assistance to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and focused on advancing America's national security interests."

"America cannot afford to treat diplomacy as an open-ended commitment without accountability or measurable results. Protecting our national security requires making smart investments, setting clear priorities and ensuring every taxpayer dollar serves a strategic purpose. This bill directs resources toward our highest national security priorities, helping protect the American people, support our allies and deter our adversaries.

"As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I was pleased to help advance this legislation through committee and support its passage on the House floor. This marks the third FY27 funding bill the House has passed, and I look forward to continuing that progress as we consider the remaining funding bills.

"I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this bill, along with the first two appropriations bills already passed by the House, so we can complete the appropriations process on time. Returning to regular order brings greater transparency, accountability and certainty to the funding process, and that's how Congress should be doing its work."


Congressman Fuller Introduces the SHIELD Citizens Act, Requiring U.S. Citizenship for Federal Welfare Programs

Washington D.C. - Congressman Fuller introduced the Securing Healthcare and Income Entitlements for Lawfully Domiciled Citizens Act, or the SHIELD Citizens Act, H.R. 9667, to keep federal welfare programs for citizens of the United States only, barring the programs for non-citizens.

The bill amends the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to require citizenship for TANF, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, federal housing assistance, WIC, and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

"Thirty years ago, this would have been a bipartisan issue, but this illustrates how far the radical left has shifted. Welfare programs funded by American tax dollars should not be the incentive, nor should they be available to non-citizens," said Congressman Fuller.


Congressman Fuller Votes to Block Financial Surveillance of Lawful Gun Owners

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Fuller voted to pass the Protecting Privacy in Purchases Act, barring payment card networks from tagging firearms retailers with special merchant codes that would let banks and credit card companies track lawful gun and ammunition purchases. The bill passed the House this evening and now moves to the Senate.

“The government has no business building a list of who buys a firearm and who buys ammunition. That is a backdoor gun registry, and every gun owner in Northwest Georgia should be free of it. As the District Attorney for the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit, I spent my career protecting law-abiding citizens, not tracking them,” said Congressman Fuller.

This legislation is crucial to prevent credit card issuers from singling out firearm retailers, and it directs the Department of Justice to enforce the ban and report to Congress each year on the resulting investigations.


Congressman Gabe Evans Votes to Advance America First Foreign Policy and Strengthen National Security

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Gabe Evans voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, legislation that prioritizes America's security, strengthens our alliances, confronts adversaries like Communist China and Iran, combats the flow of fentanyl into the United States, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.

In addition to supporting the legislation, Congressman Evans successfully secured several of his requested priorities in the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act. These provisions reinforce U.S. leadership by directing the State Department to strengthen efforts to counter the Chinese Communist Party's growing influence in Latin America, expand hemispheric cooperation against cartels, narco-terrorist organizations, and illegal migration through the Shield of the Americas initiative, support Taiwan's long-term energy security, continue promoting democracy and religious freedom programs that advance American interests, and strengthen security at U.S. embassies and consulates throughout the Middle East.

“As a veteran and former police officer, I understand that protecting Americans begins with strong leadership at home and abroad. This legislation puts America's interests first by strengthening our national security, supporting our allies, confronting our adversaries, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly instead of funding wasteful programs that do nothing to keep Americans safe. I was also proud to secure provisions that strengthen our partnerships throughout Latin America, counter Communist China's growing influence, reinforce support for Taiwan, and improve security for Americans serving overseas. These are commonsense priorities that make our nation stronger and safer.” — Congressman Gabe Evans

The Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act will:

Put America First by prioritizing U.S. national security and requiring greater accountability from countries receiving American assistance.

Strengthen efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking, transnational criminal organizations, and illegal migration.

Support key allies including Israel, Taiwan, Jordan, and Egypt while countering Communist China, Iran, Cuba, and other hostile regimes.

Protect taxpayer dollars by reducing unnecessary spending, increasing oversight, and eliminating funding for wasteful programs.

Prevent taxpayer funding for DEI initiatives, radical gender ideology, and other programs unrelated to America's foreign policy priorities.

Strengthen America's leadership by promoting economic growth, stability, and self-sufficiency among trusted partners while ensuring foreign assistance advances U.S. interests.

The legislation reflects House Republicans' commitment to restoring an America First foreign policy that protects the homeland, supports our allies, confronts our adversaries, and ensures every taxpayer dollar advances the security and prosperity of the United States. This bill also continues support for key allies while directing resources toward countering the growing threats posed by Communist China, Iran, international drug cartels, and other foreign adversaries.


Rep. Gillen Statement on Rep. Massie’s Amendment to Eliminate U.S. Aid to Israel

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) released a statement on Rep. Thomas Massie’s (R-KY) amendment that would cut all funding for Israel from the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act:

"The State of Israel is one of our most important allies and the only democracy in the Middle East. I firmly support Israel’s right to exist and defend itself from threats, including Iran and terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. This extremely harmful amendment would threaten our strategic alliance, undermine our national security interests and eliminate funding for important research and diplomacy in the region, including the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act, which supports Israeli-Palestinian people-to-people initiatives. That is why I staunchly opposed it. In Congress, I remain committed to ensuring the U.S.-Israel relationship remains a bipartisan issue and promoting peace, stability and a better future in the region."

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Gluesenkamp Perez Challenges BPA Exit from Columbia River Fisheries Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez sent a letter to the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) to request information on the decision to withdraw funding for the Select Area Fisheries Enhancement (SAFE) program and BPA’s plans to fulfill a statutory mandate to support native fish recovery.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez visits Skamania Hatchery after concerns over its closure in April.

Since its roll out in 1993, the SAFE program has created commercial and sport fishing opportunities in off-stem areas of the Columbia River. By supporting hatchery populations of salmon, it has alleviated harvest pressures on wild salmon populations in the main stem, while supporting regional economies.

“This is a decision with real consequences,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “For decades, hatcheries have made sure there is a healthy population of salmon in the river. This isn’t abstract to people here– commercial and sport fishing is part of our heritage and our way of life. Supporting hatcheries is critical to sustaining the communities whose livelihoods depend on them.”

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez expressed concern that current estimates show BPA’s termination of funding will affect hatchery operations in Washington state. She argues this decision could put 7 million hatchery fish currently in production at risk, and risk jobs across Southwest Washington.


Golden’s bill to extend lobster, right whale moratorium earns green light from Natural Resources Committee

WASHINGTON — The House Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday approved a proposal by Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) to extend until 2035 protections for Maine’s lobstermen from new regulations related to the North Atlantic right whale.

The committee advanced H.R. 9436, the Northeast Lobstermen Protection Act, to the House floor in a bipartisan 22-13 vote. The bill, led by Golden and Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), extends the moratorium on certain new regulations — including potential fishery closures — from 2028 to 2035.

“I’m grateful to Rep. Lawler and my colleagues on the Committee for a strong show of bipartisan support for Maine lobstermen. In 2022, Congress enacted this regulatory pause and funded new efforts to gather information to support a data-driven process establishing rules that made sense for both the fishermen and the whales. But today the rulemaking process is behind schedule for reasons that have nothing to do with Maine fishermen. At the same time, those charged with gathering the necessary data say more time is needed to ensure regulations can incorporate the best available science. Mainers are not asking for much. We just need more time,” Golden said.

“Protecting the North Atlantic right whale and supporting America's fishing communities are goals that can and must go hand in hand. By extending the current regulatory framework through 2035, the Northeast Lobsterman Protection Act provides the time needed to develop durable, science-driven solutions that protect this endangered species without imposing unnecessary burdens on fishermen. I’m grateful to Chairman Bruce Westerman for advancing this legislation through Committee and to Rep. Jared Golden for his partnership on this bipartisan effort,” Lawler said.

The moratorium was originally enacted in 2022 under President Joe Biden, with bipartisan support from the entire Maine delegation and Maine Gov. Janet Mills. Earlier this year President Donald Trump signaled his support for Golden’s proposed extension.

Two parallel but related processes related to crafting new rules for the protection of North Atlantic right whales are both behind schedule: Layoffs at NOAA and government shutdowns have delayed the start of the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team’s regulatory process, reducing the timeline for developing fishery management proposals. Meanwhile, scientists and researchers at Maine’s Department of Marine Resources (DMR) say more time is needed to ensure relevant data is available to inform the rulemaking process.

“We are still gathering various types of data, and we anticipate that several of these data streams will not be able to be incorporated into decision-support tools due to the compressed timeline for rulemaking,” wrote Maine DMR Commissioner Carl Wilson in a Letter of Support for H.R. 9436. “An extension of the pause would ensure that there is time to incorporate this information, and that rulemaking is based on the best available science.”

In addition to the Maine DMR, the extension of the regulatory pause was supported in written testimony by the Maine Lobstermen’s Association, Maine Lobstering Union Local 207, Maine Lobster Advisory Council, New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association, New Hampshire Commercial Fisherman’s Association and Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association. Golden entered their letters into the Congressional Record.

Select portions of letters in support of H.R. 9436:

John Drouin, Vice President, New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association: “H.R. 9436 strikes an appropriate balance between protecting one of the world's most endangered whale species and preserving the economic viability of historic fishing communities throughout the Northeast. It ensures that future management decisions will be informed by more complete scientific information while maintaining protections already in place.”

David M. Tar, Chairman, Maine Lobster Advisory Council: “Maine fishermen want no harm to come to a right whale, from our, or any, fishing practices. We need some stability in management. … We strongly support extending the pause to 2035. It would allow regulators the time to make meaningful changes using the data that is improving every day.”

Virginia Olsen, Director, Maine Lobstering Union Local 207: “A thoughtful extension would allow for the development of effective, enforceable, and economically realistic regulations that protect both the North Atlantic right whale and the people whose lives depend on these waters. We remain committed to being part of the solution and to working collaboratively toward outcomes that ensure a sustainable future for all.”

Patrice McCaron, Executive Director, Maine Lobstermen’s Association: “Recent estimates indicate that the right whale population has increased for four consecutive years as births have exceeded deaths. Mortalities have declined from the levels experienced during the population downturn that began in 2011, when right whales increasingly shifted into Canadian waters where protections were not yet adequate. Canada has since adopted significant measures to reduce right whale deaths and serious injuries. Extending the pause through 2035 would give managers the time needed to formulate decisions based on a meaningful body of data. It would support management measures that protect right whales while avoiding unnecessary harm to Maine lobstermen, their families, and the coastal communities that depend on this fishery.”

Text of the legislation is available here. Video of Congressman Golden’s remarks before the Committee today is here.

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Congressman Vicente Gonzalez Secures Over $1.4 Million for Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport

Contact: Alexis Torres

Brownsville, Texas – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) announced $1,491,504 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to replace critical airfield signage, enhance safety, and improve operational efficiency at Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO). These funds are made possible through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024 that the Congressman fought to pass into law.

“Brownsville’s airport is a vital gateway that fuels economic growth and connects families to communities across the border and throughout our nation,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “Upgrading airfield signage is an investment in the airport’s long-term future and ensures that pilots and passengers alike can travel safely through our airport. I’m proud to deliver this funding and will continue working with our local leadership to build a world-class airport that meets the needs of our region.”

“On behalf of Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, who has consistently been a strong advocate for our airport and the Rio Grande Valley. His continued support has helped secure this important $1.4 million FAA Airport Improvement Program grant. This funding will allow us to replace critical airfield signage, enhancing safety, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring our airport continues to meet the highest FAA standards. This investment strengthens our region's transportation infrastructure and supports the continued growth of South Texas. We are grateful for Congressman Gonzalez's unwavering commitment to our airport and the communities we serve," said Faisal Khalifa, Interim Airport Director, Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport

“Thank you to Congressman Vicente Gonzalez for his continued advocacy and support in securing $1.49 million through the Airport Improvement Program for Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport. This investment to replace aging airfield signage will strengthen airfield safety, improve operational efficiency, and ensure our airport continues to meet the needs of residents, visitors, and the growing South Texas region. We are grateful for Congressman Gonzalez’s partnership in supporting critical infrastructure that benefits our community and promotes continued economic growth,” said City Commissioner District 2 Linda Macias.


Goodlander Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Accelerate Hydropower Production and Lower Energy Costs

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) and Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), alongside Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Rep. Carol Miller (WV-01), introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation today to slash red tape that is slowing down hydropower permitting at Army Corps of Engineers dams.

“The people of New Hampshire are paying some of the highest energy costs in the country, and hydropower is at the heart of lowering energy costs and making America the world’s clean energy superpower,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “Our bipartisan bill is simple: it cuts red tape and makes the rules of the road clear so that we can get reliable hydropower solutions built faster and bring prices down. From day one, I have worked across the aisle to cut energy costs, and I will keep leading the fight to build the affordable, reliable, and clean energy future New Hampshire families deserve.”

“Hydropower is an increasingly important source of electricity in the U.S., and provides Montana’s second-largest source of electricity generation. As we prepare to meet the expected surge in demand for energy in the coming decades, we need to ensure the licensing process is fair and efficient. I’m proud to work with my bipartisan colleagues to increase Made-In-America hydropower and enact much-needed reforms,” said Senator Daines.

“As electricity demand continues to grow, we need to make it easier to bring more affordable, reliable energy online,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help create a more consistent and efficient process for adding hydropower generation at existing dams, support American energy production, and lower costs for families and businesses. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill.”

“I have long advocated for an all-of-the-above approach to energy production. To ensure the United States remains the leading energy producer and we have the ability to meet rising demands, it is essential that our existing infrastructure and federal processes are streamlined and efficient. I am happy to join my colleagues in introducing this common-sense legislation to benefit the Army Corps of Engineers and our hydropower industry,” said Congresswoman Carol Miller.

The bill directs the Army Corps of Engineers to establish standardized guidance for the review of Section 408 licenses — a requirement to add hydropower to existing non-powered Army Corps dams. The bill would help cut through unnecessary red tape and eliminate inconsistent licensing processes, so existing dams can be upgraded to produce reliable, low-cost hydropower. At a time when families are getting squeezed by high utility bills, the bill would help unlock affordable, homegrown power and lower costs for consumers.

“Hydropower represents one of the most enduring and practical pathways to strengthening grid reliability and advancing our clean energy goals,” said Bob King, President of the Granite State Hydropower Association. “Reforming WRDA Section 408 is an essential step toward enabling responsible development at existing federally owned dams in New Hampshire and around the country, where new generation could deliver meaningful benefits to local communities without the need for new impoundments. I am greatly appreciative of Representative Maggie Goodlander’s work on this legislation and look forward to working with her to advance the bill.”

“Section 408 reform is essential to unlocking more reliable, affordable, American hydropower,” said NHA’s Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, Matthew Allen. “For too long, developers seeking to add clean generation to existing U.S. Army Corps infrastructure have faced an unpredictable and duplicative review process that slows projects when we need all the new generation we can get. By bringing greater clarity, consistency, and accountability to Section 408 reviews, this bill will help move responsible hydropower development forward while preserving the Corps’ core mission. NHA thanks the bill’s sponsors, Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Sen. Steve Daines, Sen. Maggie Hassan and Rep. Carol Miller for advancing this commonsense fix and recognizing the role existing federal infrastructure can play in meeting America’s growing energy needs.”

A one-pager on the bill is available here. The full text is here.

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND:

Goodlander has made lowering energy and utility costs a central part of her work in Congress:

Cracking down on runaway utility profiteering: Goodlander helped introduce the Lowering Utility Bills Act, legislation to rein in excessive profits by investor-owned electric utilities, gas utilities, and transmission providers by requiring them to use the lowest return on equity within an established range of reasonableness when setting rates. Goodlander is leading the charge to hold Liberty Utilities accountable after the company refused to serve natural gas customers in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, causing delays and higher costs for new homes in communities already struggling with the housing crisis. She also worked alongside New Hampshire’s Office of the Consumer Advocate to take on Eversource when the utility proposed a 43.4% rate hike, and pressed the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to crack down on utilities’ attempts to overcharge customers on their electric bills.

Lowering energy bills: Goodlander is helping to lead a number of bipartisan bills designed to bring down energy costs, including the bipartisan Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act, to expand support for home energy-efficiency upgrades and help households save money on utility bills while making homes safer and healthier. She has also championed the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a mission-critical program for millions of American families. Goodlander joined the New Hampshire delegation in opposing the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate New Hampshire’s $43.5 million Solar for All grant, which would have supported community energy projects and reduced utility bills for low-income households by 20 percent or more.

Improving our power grid: Goodlander has championed the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act, bipartisan legislation to support upgrades at existing hydroelectric dams, increase clean energy production, improve electric-grid reliability, and strengthen river health.

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RELEASE: Gottheimer Sends Letter to the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement pushing for greater transparency following the deaths of two individuals during ICE operations.

The Honorable Markwayne Mullin

Secretary

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., SE

Washington, DC 20528

The Honorable David Venturella

Acting Director

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

500 12th Street, SW

Washington, DC 20024

Dear Secretary Mullin and Acting Director Venturella:

I am writing regarding two deaths over the past week involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. On July 7, 2026, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a longtime Houston resident, was shot and killed by an ICE agent during an attempted vehicle stop. On July 13, 2026, ICE agents fatally shot Johan Sebastian Guerrero in Biddeford, Maine. These incidents have caused real fear and confusion in the affected communities, and the public deserves a clear, factual account of what happened in each case.

I respectfully urge the Department to support an independent investigation into both deaths, conducted without interference, and to make its findings public to the greatest extent possible. Transparency serves everyone, including the agents who carry out difficult and dangerous work, and it is the surest way to maintain public trust in federal law enforcement.

I have also consistently called for increased training standards to ensure that our immigration enforcement is conducted with the highest levels of professionalism. All officers should receive training in de-escalation, constitutional search and seizure, and conducting operations appropriately in public and protest settings.

Finally, it is deeply concerning that officers in both cases were not wearing body-worn cameras. I want to emphasize the importance of using body-worn cameras, which provide an objective account that benefits investigators, officers, and the public. With the substantial funding Congress has provided ICE and Customs and Border Protection, equipping agents with cameras and ensuring footage is preserved for any review is achievable and would protect officers and the public alike.

To help me and my constituents better understand your Department’s practices, I ask that you respond to the following:

What training do ICE and Customs and Border Protection officers receive on vehicle stops, and specifically on when discharging a weapon at or into a moving vehicle is permitted?

DHS previously announced it would equip officers with body-worn cameras.

What share of ICE and CBP officers conducting field enforcement are currently issued cameras and required to activate them, and what is the timeline and cost estimate to reach full deployment?

In what percentage of use-of-force incidents over the past 12 months was body-worn camera footage actually captured?

What are the Department’s policies on the retention of, and congressional access to, that footage?

How does ICE coordinate with state and local law enforcement before and during enforcement operations, and what steps does it take to ensure those partners are informed and that operations are carried out safely for officers and the public alike?

Of the incidents involving a discharged weapon or serious injury since January 2025, how many have been referred to the DHS Office of Inspector General or the Department of Justice, what is the status of those reviews, and will the findings be shared with Congress?

What additional resources, personnel, training, or statutory authorities does the Department believe it needs to improve both officer safety and public safety during enforcement operations?

Getting the facts right in these two cases, and strengthening ICE’s accountability and use-of-force practices going forward, serves both the public and officers. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.


RELEASE: House Unanimously Passes Gottheimer’s Bipartisan Legislation to Rename Sussex County VA Clinic After Local Veteran Tony Gallopo

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, July 15, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), backed by the entire New Jersey delegation, to rename the Sussex County VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Newton the “Anthony J. ‘Tony’ Gallopo Veterans Affairs Clinic.” The bill was co-led by Air Force veteran Rep. Herb Conaway (NJ-3) and passed by voice vote and now heads to The U.S. Senate, where U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) will introduce a companion bill.

Watch the floor speech here.

“Today, the House passed our bill to enshrine the late Tony Gallopo’s legacy at the clinic he fought so hard to open,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Tony’s memory reminds us that it is our duty as Americans to not only honor all soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen, but also to do everything we can to fight for them when they return. With this bill now heading to the Senate, we are one step closer to reaffirming our enduring promise: to fight for our veterans the same way Tony did.”

Gallopo, a U.S. Navy veteran, was Vice Commander of the New Jersey Department of the American Legion and Commander of American Legion Post 86 in Newton. He was instrumental in getting the Newton clinic opened in 2017 and passed away in 2020.

Gallopo spent most of his early life in Bergen County before moving to Sussex County with his family. He was active in the Saddle Brook Fire Department before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Following his service, Tony worked as a Corrections Officer and was an active member of the Paramus Elks. He is survived by his wife, Betsy, and daughters, Ashley, Sarah, and Ally.

Gottheimer and Gallopo worked side-by-side to expand health care access for veterans across Sussex and Warren Counties, including at the Newton Veterans clinic. Together, they cut through red tape to secure local health care referrals to Bergen New Bridge Medical Center and ImageCare Centers, and helped expand local access to lifesaving, in-person mental health and psychiatric care for veterans. Gottheimer posthumously honored Gallopo as a Fifth District Hometown Hero in 2021.

The bill is endorsed by the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Gottheimer first introduced the bill in November 2025, joined by Gallopo’s wife Betsy and their daughters Ashley Kopec, Sarah Hill, and Ally Thorpe, and former American Legion Post 86 Commander Harry Kaplan, former Commander of the NJ Department of the American Legion Roger Genaro, Vice Commander of the NJ Department of the American Legion David Marciano, American Legion Post 86 Commander Bob Gilesus, and other friends and members of the community.

Today’s passage builds on Gottheimer’s broader push to support veterans, including bills he introduced alongside this legislation to expand access to cutting-edge treatments for veterans with spinal cord injuries, streamline the VA benefits appeals process, improve oversight of state veterans homes, strengthen veteran suicide prevention programs, improve childcare access for veterans and their families, and permanently tie veterans’ benefits to cost-of-living increases.


RELEASE: To Protect Children, Gottheimer Introduces New Bipartisan Bill Requiring Facial Recognition Age Verification for Online Sportsbooks

Above: Gottheimer introduces legislation to protect children.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), joined by Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour and additional supporting Members of Congress, introduced the bipartisan “Facial Recognition to Protect Children Act,” new legislation requiring prediction markets and online sportsbooks to use facial recognition technology to verify a user’s age before they can place a bet or trade.

Watch Gottheimer’s full remarks here.

Last year, American bettors wagered roughly $160 billion on sports, generating about $16 billion in industry revenue — more than Americans spend on movies, books, concerts, and professional sports tickets combined.

Research shows 36 percent of boys ages 11 to 17 have gambled in the past year, a figure that climbs to 40 percent for boys 14 to 17, and more than a quarter of those kids report real consequences, including stress, conflict at home, and problems at school, according to Common Sense Media.

In Iowa, more than 80 reports of underage betting have been sent to the state’s Division of Criminal Investigation.

In Tennessee, sportsbooks flagged more than 400 underage accounts in 2024, up from roughly 100 the year before.

It’s not just betting apps, either. A lot of video games today are designed to feel like gambling and hook kids early. Loot boxes, player packs, cosmetics. They train their brains on that same dopamine loop, priming them to bet with real money.

Kalshi and ParentsRISE support the bill, and Gottheimer has called on every single sportsbook and prediction market in this country to commit to this legislation — no excuses, no exceptions.

The Bipartisan Facial Recognition to Protect Children Act will:

Require prediction markets and online sportsbooks to use facial recognition technology to verify a user’s age, either when they log onto a platform or before they place a wager.

Require technology to read facial structure and patterns to estimate a user’s age — it does not store a user’s identity or personal biometric information.

“We’re asking our kids to self-police their way past a system built entirely on the honor code. A kid can log into a parent’s, an older sibling’s, or a friend’s account and place a bet with no verification at all. Nobody checks. That’s it. That’s the whole system,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “We wouldn’t accept that at a casino in Las Vegas. We shouldn’t accept it on the phone in our kid’s back pocket.”

“Protecting kids should be a no brainer and is a top priority at Kalshi,” said Tarek Mansour, CEO of Kalshi. “Beyond what’s required of us, we already self-regulate and have a suite of measures in place to keep minors off our platform. But this can’t just be one company’s responsibility — it has to be an industry standard. I am grateful to Congressman Gottheimer and Congressman Van Drew for driving it forward.”

“We’re grateful to see action taken to address the harms of predatory betting apps and prediction markets to children. Meta has already struck a partnership integrating Kalshi’s real-money betting markets into Threads,” said ParentsRISE, a national, survivor-parent-led movement turning grief into power and loss into action. “We are glad these members see the threat of this next wave of products engineered for compulsive use.”

The bill is also originally cosponsored by Representatives Jeff Van Drew (NJ-2), Nick LaLota (NY-1), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-8), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Darren Soto (FL-9), Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and Bruce Westerman (AR-4).

“Prediction markets are becoming more popular, and we need to be realistic about the risks that can come with that for our children,” said Congressman Van Drew (NJ-2). “Kids should not be able to get onto these platforms and start placing bets. This bill puts another protection in place to help stop that from happening and gives parents some added peace of mind.”

“Online gambling and prediction markets are expanding rapidly, but our guardrails to protect minors haven’t kept pace. Right now, the honor system is failing our kids, allowing underage users to bypass basic age restrictions with zero accountability,” said Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15). “By implementing proven facial recognition technology, we can safeguard children from the risks of underage gambling while protecting user privacy.”

“As every parent knows, when you tell a kid not to do something, they almost always end up trying to do it. Kids under the age of 18 shouldn’t be making bets, but now it’s just a few taps away on their phones. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will put a stop to it,” said Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-8).

The bill builds on Gottheimer’s broader record on kids’ online safety, including the Parents Decide Act, introduced with Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY), which requires device makers to verify age when a phone or tablet is set up. Gottheimer has also cosponsored Sammy’s Law, the Protecting Young Minds Online Act, the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act, and the Kids Online Safety Act, and is a member of the Children’s Safety Caucus.

Below: Gottheimer introduces legislation to protect children.


Transportation Committee Unanimously Approves Graves' Water Resources Bill

WASHINGTON, DC – The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee today unanimously approved H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, which was introduced by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06). The bipartisan bill addresses improvements for the nation’s ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation system, flood and storm risk management, environment, and other aspects of our water resources infrastructure.

Communities nationwide and the U.S. economy rely on WRDA-authorized investments in water resources infrastructure and projects of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). Since 2014, Congress has enacted a WRDA every two years to help improve water resources infrastructure. WRDA-authorized projects of the Corps are locally-driven projects that deliver regional and national benefits.

“Not only does WRDA 2026 help build and maintain safe and reliable waterways, flood protection, and other water infrastructure for our country, it streamlines Army Corps of Engineers’ processes, provides reforms to improve project delivery, and empowers local stakeholders,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO). “For North Missouri in particular, WRDA 2026 advances a comprehensive flood control plan on the Missouri River, ensuring that people and property are the main priority when managing the river. It also expands the ways our levee owners can work with the Corps to build flood risk management infrastructure and provides necessary, streamlined assistance to levee districts facing maintenance challenges. It also strengthens my state’s representation in Missouri River basin management. I want to thank the other chief sponsors of this bill – T&I Ranking Member Rick Larsen, Subcommittee Chairman Mike Collins, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Frederica Wilson – for their work on this bill, and I look forward to moving it through the House of Representatives.”

As approved by the Committee today, WRDA 2026 authorizes 133 new feasibility studies for locally proposed water resources infrastructure projects and 14 projects that have been vetted by the Corps and are ready for construction authorization by Congress.

In addition, WRDA 2026 includes various policy changes to improve infrastructure project delivery. These include strengthening and reauthorizing alternative project delivery programs, emphasizing non-federal interests’ input for feasibility studies, and helping ensure non-federal interests can find the right Corps resources to get projects off the ground.

The bill improves the partnership between the Corps and non-federal interests by establishing offices with expertise on inland navigation, alternative delivery, water supply, and technical assistance. Policies in this bill will improve non-federal interests’ ability to obtain valuable technical assistance and to fund construction more quickly, as well as to encourage the Corps to increase use of multi-year contracts.

WRDA 2026 provisions will better support the Corps’ navigation mission, improve the Corps’ accountability to Congress, strengthen flood and coastal storm risk management, and address dam safety through the reauthorization of the High Hazard Potential Dam program under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) National Dam Safety Program.

Wins for North Missouri:

Streamlines the Corps of Engineers’ process so local partners can more easily make needed improvements to federal water projects.

Protects the Missouri River by ensuring its waters cannot be diverted out of the basin to Western states without the Governor’s approval.

Directs the Corps to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to slow the buildup of sediment in the largest reservoir system in the country, the Missouri River Reservoir System, preserving the storage capacity necessary to protect communities from flooding and support navigation.

Implements a comprehensive flood protection plan on the Lower Missouri River that puts local levee districts and communities in the drivers seat to move new flood control projects forward with help from the Corps.

Ensures members of the Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee (MRRIC) elect their own chair, giving navigators, levee districts, communities, and other stakeholders a stronger voice in the committee.

Ensures Mississippi River communities and levee districts aren’t hit with devastating new bureaucratic requirements until the Corps comes up with a workable plan to protect communities from flooding.

Authorizes a nationwide review of the inland waterways to identify ways to modernize and strengthen them for the future.

Encourages the Corps to clearly communicate what land rights local interests actually need to maintain flood protection projects.

Click here for legislative text and here for a summary of WRDA 2026.

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Guthrie Votes in Favor of Legislation to Bolster U.S. National Security and Foreign Policy Mission

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) issued the following statement following the House passage of H.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027. If enacted, this legislation would allocate $47.32 billion in funding to strengthen America’s standing on the world stage and keep Americans safe.

“I’m proud to support this legislation, which puts America’s national security interests first, supports our allies, takes action to counter our adversaries, and stops the flow of deadly drugs like fentanyl from coming into our country,” said Congressman Guthrie. “This bill rightfully refocuses our nation’s foreign policy to bolster our standing on the world stage and reinforces President Trump’s foreign policy agenda.”

Background:

H.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027:

– Provides $15.15 billion for the operations of the Department of State and several related agencies and commissions.

– Provides $22.45 billion for global health, economic assistance, and humanitarian programs administered by the Department of State and the Department of the Treasury.

– Allocates $1.66 billion for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, which is an increase from the FY26 enacted level to counter the fentanyl crisis.

– Redefines foreign assistance to promote self-sufficiency, bolster economic growth and stability, and protect United States’ national security.

– Enhances stability in the Middle East by providing $3.3 billion in funding for the Foreign Military Financing Program for Israel and supports additional assistance to regional partners such as Egypt and Jordan.

– Combats the Chinese Communist Party’s access to U.S. backed resources.


Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Massie Amendment

“Today, I voted in favor of the Massie Amendment to the FY 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, which would impose a one-year moratorium on funding to Israel. This vote represents a continuation of my commitment to the pursuit of peace between the Israeli and Palestinian people. It is my belief that a shift in tactics is now necessary because of my growing frustration with the right-wing government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and its conduct throughout the region.

Successive U.S. Administrations have tried to rein in the Netanyahu government only to find those interventions obstructed, including negotiating and implementing critically needed ceasefires that would stop the bloodshed.

I remain singularly committed to peace, and it is my belief that the only way peace can be achieved is with a two-state solution where a sovereign Palestinian state exists alongside Israel. I wish the amendment had been more narrowly drafted so that it did not result in cuts to aid that has nothing to do with military actions or territorial expansions. I am especially pained that it would indiscriminately harm funding that fosters cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians. I hope that my vote for the Massie Amendment sends a clear signal that, while Israel, like all states, has a right to defend its borders and people, their actions must remain within the bounds enshrined in international law. U.S. aid should help create the conditions for a secure, prosperous, and peaceful future for Israelis, Palestinians, and the broader Middle East. My vote is especially well-timed to send this message, as it coincides with the looming expiration of the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding outlining U.S. aid to Israel.

I continue to see Israel as a vital American ally in the Middle East and the Israeli people as deserving of support to meet the security challenges they face from Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other malignant actors in the region. In order to secure a lasting peace, the government of Israel must first reassess their current military posture; fully engage as a good-faith partner for peace, including in Lebanon and Gaza; address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region; take immediate steps to end illegal settlements in the West Bank and combat rising settler violence against Palestinian civilians.”


Congressman Hamadeh Supports Permanent Solution to America’s Twice-Yearly Clock Changes

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Washington, D.C. - Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) welcomed the House’s passage of The Sunshine Protection Act, for which he was an original cosponsor.

The Sunshine Protection Act eliminates the practice of daylight savings time, which changes clocks every spring and fall. Currently, Arizona and Hawaii are the only two states to refrain from participating in daylight savings time. This legislation brings Arizonans greater certainty and consistency throughout the year. Sleep experts and medical professionals support this commonsense bill, which institutes permanent daylight savings time.

“I’ve always said that America should be a more like Arizona, which rejected the twice-a-year clock changing scheme that benefitted no one. We need more sunlight here in Washington DC and across the country,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “This bill not only brings real health benefits, it simplifies life for families and businesses across America. No more twice-a-year clock changes, no more confusion, just smoother business, stronger tourism, and easier interstate commerce.”

Congressman Hamadeh joined a large bipartisan group of lawmakers in cosponsoring this legislation, which has gained widespread public support, and is strongly supported by President Trump. The bill modernizes the nation's timekeeping policy by making daylight saving time permanent, ending the disruptive clock changes forever.

The Sunshine Protection Act advanced through the full House of Representatives and is now “springing forward” to be considered by the Senate.

BACKGROUND

Researchers at Stanford Medicine "estimate that permanent standard time would result in some 300,000 fewer people having suffered from a stroke and result in 2.6 million fewer people having obesity. Permanent daylight saving time would achieve about two-thirds of the same effect."

“We found that staying in standard time or staying in daylight saving time is definitely better than switching twice a year,” said Jamie Zeitzer, PhD, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and senior author of the study that published Sept. 15 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.


Congressman Johnson Introduces Historic Bill To Fight Hepatitis C

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01), and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-10) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Cure Hepatitis C Act of 2026 that builds a nationwide, federally coordinated “test-to-treat” elimination program for hepatitis C (HVC). The bill is supported by more than 100 public health and education organizations and is the House companion to the Cure Hepatitis C Act introduced by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA).

“I am asking that we work together to raise awareness about hepatitis C – a silent killer – so that others at risk can get tested and treated,” said Rep. Johnson. After his own diagnosis and treatment for hepatitis C, the Congressman became a national advocate for access to treatment and destigmatization.

“As a physician, I have seen what happens when a curable disease goes untreated simply because a patient couldn't access care,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. "Hepatitis C is beatable. We have the tools to eliminate it, and this bill puts them within reach of the Americans who need them most. This is a commonsense, fiscally responsible effort that will save lives and save taxpayer dollars. I am proud to lead it alongside my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.”

“Thanks to the tireless efforts of biomedical researchers and innovators, Hepatitis C is curable. Yet far too many people remain undiagnosed or unable to access treatment, and dozens die from the disease every day,” said Rep. DeGette. “This is simply unacceptable. We have the tools to stop this epidemic and curb the human and financial costs of this disease going untreated. I am pleased to work with my colleagues on legislation that will have the greatest positive impact to public health this Congress.”

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) scored the bill saving $6.6 billion over the next decade.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes liver swelling and inflammation. It can lead to serious liver damage, even death if untreated. It affects millions of Americans each year. More than half of untreated infections progress to chronic hepatitis C, which can cause life-threatening conditions. Hepatitis A and B pose similar risks but have preventative vaccines that considerably decrease their impact. Hepatitis C requires post-diagnostic treatment that can be difficult to attain. People covered under Medicaid were 46 percent less likely to receive treatment than those with private insurance, and only 1 of 3 of those with insurance received timely treatment.

The Cure Hepatitis C Act of 2026 would ensure that every American has timely access to screening, vaccination services, and linkage to care to address hepatitis through the following provisions:

-- Establishing a dedicated HCV Elimination Program and national strategy;

Creating a subscription-based drug procurement program to supply curative antiviral treatments at scale;

-- Expanding access to treatment for underserved, high-risk, uninsured, tribal, correctional, and vulnerable populations;

-- Funding a broad expansion of screening, diagnostics, outreach, public health infrastructure, provider training, and wrap-around services;

-- Removing or reducing financial and administrative barriers (cost-sharing, prior authorization) for patients;


Rep. Haridopolos and Senator Moody Introduce Space Ready 2.0 Act

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, and Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) introduced the Space Ready 2.0 Act to modernize the roads, utilities, and other critical infrastructure that support NASA's missions and America's growing space industry.

As America's commercial space industry continues to grow at a record pace, NASA's aging infrastructure must keep up with increasing demand. The Space Ready 2.0 Act allows NASA to work with private companies to improve the infrastructure that supports launches while protecting taxpayer dollars through transparency and accountability.

“We can't be number one on Earth if we're number two in space,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “The Space Coast has always been at the heart of America's space program. As more missions launch from Florida, we must ensure NASA has the infrastructure needed to support the next generation of exploration and keep America leading the world in space.”

“Florida is leading America’s next great chapter of space exploration, but if we want to remain the world’s leader in space, our infrastructure must keep pace with the incredible growth we’re seeing on the Space Coast,” said Senator Moody. “The Space Ready 2.0 Act is a commonsense solution that empowers NASA and its commercial partners to modernize aging facilities without creating new spending programs, ensuring we remain competitive and mission ready. I’ll continue fighting to strengthen our nation’s space capabilities and keep the Sunshine State the launchpad for American innovation and exploration.”

The Space Ready 2.0 Act would:

Launch a pilot program allowing NASA to partner with public and private entities to improve shared infrastructure at NASA centers.

Modernize critical infrastructure, including roads, utilities, pipelines, and other shared facilities, to support growing government and commercial space operations.

Increase transparency through cost estimates, project timelines, annual reports to Congress, and clear cost-sharing agreements.

Protect taxpayers by ensuring participation is voluntary and requiring unused private contributions to be refunded or redirected to eligible projects.

Provide accountability by establishing congressional oversight and sunsetting the pilot program's contribution authority on December 31, 2031.

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Congressman Pat Harrigan Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Give Parents Better Tools to Manage Children's Screen Time

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joined Congressman George Whitesides (D-CA-27) in introducing the Tracking Online Time And Limits Screen Time (TOTAL Screen Time) Act, bipartisan legislation directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop a voluntary technical standard that would allow parents to set one screen time limit across phones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles, televisions, and other devices while protecting privacy and minimizing unnecessary data sharing.

"Parents know exactly how frustrating this is. You can set limits on your child's phone, but then they move to a tablet, a gaming console, or the TV and you're right back where you started," said Congressman Harrigan. "The technology already exists to help families manage screen time, it just doesn't work together. This bill brings everyone to the table to develop one voluntary standard that gives parents a simple, consistent way to manage screen time across devices without sacrificing privacy or creating another government mandate."

Rather than creating new federal regulations, the TOTAL Screen Time Act brings together technology companies, child safety advocates, medical professionals, privacy experts, and standards organizations to develop a voluntary, cross-platform technical standard. The goal is simple: make it easier for parents to set one screen time limit that works across the devices their children use every day, while protecting cybersecurity and preventing the creation of a centralized database of children's activity.

Congressman Harrigan will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance practical, bipartisan solutions that strengthen families, protect children online, and ensure technology empowers parents instead of making their jobs harder.


Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Support National Security and America First Foreign Policy Priorities

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted in favor of H.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, legislation that funds our nation's diplomatic and national security priorities while restoring accountability to how American taxpayer dollars are spent overseas.

"This is what it looks like when foreign policy is built around a simple question: does this make America safer and stronger? If the answer is no, we shouldn't be paying for it," said Congressman Harrigan. "This legislation directs real resources toward countering China's global influence, stopping the flood of fentanyl killing Americans in every corner of this country, and cutting off funding to biased international bodies that have failed to earn our trust. At the same time, it eliminates wasteful and politicized spending that never should have been funded in the first place."

The legislation includes a number of provisions Congressman Harrigan has consistently pushed for, including:

Countering China's Global Influence: Dedicates no less than $400 million to counter Chinese Communist Party influence worldwide, prohibits funds from supporting the Belt and Road Initiative, and blocks any assistance to the government of the People's Republic of China or the CCP directly.

Fighting the Fentanyl Crisis: Dedicates no less than $175 million specifically to counter the flow of fentanyl and fentanyl precursors into the United States from China, Mexico, and other source countries.

Ending Wasteful and Ideological Spending: Blocks funding for the Green Climate Fund, the Paris Agreement, gain-of-function research, and any programs that promote gender ideology or discriminatory DEI practices, consistent with the President's executive orders.

Putting America's Interests First: Prohibits contributions to the UN Human Rights Council, UNRWA, the International Criminal Court, and the World Health Organization, redirecting those resources toward America's own strategic priorities.

Congressman Harrigan will continue working to ensure these America First priorities are fully funded and enacted as the legislation moves forward.


Harshbarger Supports FY27 Funding to Strengthen National Security and Counter Adversaries

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today voted to advance the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, legislation that delivers on President Trump's America First agenda by cutting waste, countering adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), and ending the Biden-era woke spending spree.

“An America First foreign policy means standing up for our own interests, not writing blank checks to countries and organizations that don't have our back. This bill delivers on that promise by realigning our foreign policy around the safety, strength, and prosperity of the United States, eliminating wasteful spending, ending woke programs that have no business representing American taxpayers abroad, and holding Communist China accountable at every turn. I'm proud to stand with President Trump and deliver on the America First agenda he promised the American people,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger.

KEY PROVISIONS:

Counters the CCP by requiring opposition to multilateral development bank lending for the PRC and prohibiting funds that would help countries repay debt owed to Communist China.

Takes on the fentanyl crisis by supporting the bureau of International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) to counter the flow of illicit drugs into the United States.

Protects life and American values, maintaining long-standing pro-life protections including the Helms and Kemp-Kasten amendments, prohibiting funds for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA), and eliminating spending on DEI, gender ideology, and climate programs in foreign assistance.

Prohibits funding for DEI initiatives, radical gender ideology, climate mandates, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other programs inconsistent with President Trump's America First agenda.

Holds foreign governments and bad actors accountable for persecuting people of faith, including by restricting assistance to Nigeria until measurable actions are taken to protect Christian communities suffering from religious violence.

Continues to require the transition of global health programs toward greater country ownership and supporting the Department of State as they secure co-financing commitments from partner countries.

Importantly, in an effort to force the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act, House Republicans attached the election integrity legislation to this must-pass appropriations bill before sending it to the Senate.

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Comisionado Residente destaca aprobación de fondos para pasaportes y visas temporales.

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July 15, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC — El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, anunció hoy que la Cámara de Representantes aprobó el proyecto de asignaciones para Seguridad Nacional, el Departamento de Estado y Programas Relacionados para el año fiscal 2027, que incluye fondos y disposiciones relevantes para Puerto Rico.

“Esta aprobación representa un paso concreto para reducir los atrasos en pasaportes y visas, facilitar la contratación de trabajadores temporales y fortalecer la seguridad de Puerto Rico y el Caribe. Ahora trabajaremos para que estas disposiciones avancen en el Senado y se conviertan en ley”, expresó el Comisionado Residente.

Entre las disposiciones aprobadas por la Cámara se encuentran:

$533 millones para servicios consulares y de pasaportes, dirigidos a reducir los atrasos en solicitudes, disminuir los tiempos de espera para visas, ampliar la capacidad operacional y modernizar los sistemas y formularios del Departamento de Estado.

$410.5 millones para el Peace Corps, que sostiene oportunidades de servicio internacional y programas de desarrollo comunitario en distintos países.

$92.5 millones para la Iniciativa de Seguridad de la Cuenca del Caribe, destinada a fortalecer la capacidad de países socios para detectar e interceptar cargamentos de drogas y combatir organizaciones criminales

$50 millones para programas de democracia en Venezuela, dirigidos a fortalecer las instituciones democráticas y la sociedad civil, y ayudar al pueblo venezolano a avanzar hacia un gobierno libre y representativo.

$35 millones para programas de democracia en Cuba, dirigidos a apoyar la libertad, los derechos humanos y la sociedad civil en el Caribe.

$3.5 millones para combatir la trata humana en América Latina y el Caribe, mediante alianzas entre organizaciones no gubernamentales y la Organización de los Estados Americanos.

No menos de $175 millones para combatir el fentanilo y otras drogas sintéticas, mediante una mayor coordinación entre agencias del orden público, acciones contra organizaciones criminales transnacionales y esfuerzos para interceptar drogas y sus precursores químicos antes de que lleguen a Estados Unidos.

Procesamiento ágil de visas H-2A y H-2B: El proyecto ordena al Departamento de Estado acelerar la tramitación de estas visas y reducir atrasos que afectan a agricultores y otros patronos en Puerto Rico que dependen de trabajadores temporales para atender necesidades de personal.

Tras su aprobación en la Cámara, la medida deberá ser considerada por el Senado y posteriormente firmada por el presidente antes de convertirse en ley.

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Issues: National Security


Comisionado Residente logra abrir la puerta a $75 millones para atender la crisis de agua en Puerto Rico.

WASHINGTON, DC — El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, anunció hoy que once prioridades presentadas por su oficina fueron incluidas en la Ley de Desarrollo de Recursos Hídricos de 2026 (H.R. 9497 - Water Resources Development Act of 2026) y aprobada por el Comité de Transportación e Infraestructura de la Cámara de Representantes federal.

El proyecto autoriza proyectos y estudios del Cuerpo de Ingenieros del Ejército de los Estados Unidos relacionados con infraestructura de agua, control de inundaciones, protección costera y restauración ambiental. Tras su aprobación en comité, el proyecto avanza ahora hacia la consideración del pleno de la Cámara de Representantes.

“Estamos utilizando todas las herramientas disponibles en el Congreso para atender los problemas de agua que afectan a nuestras comunidades. Este aumento permitiría ampliar la inversión en infraestructura de agua y alcantarillado y encaminar proyectos importantes para Puerto Rico. Sin embargo, todavía esperamos que la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados responda nuestras comunicaciones y provea la información solicitada sobre la infraestructura crítica que requiere atención inmediata. Para resolver esta crisis, necesitamos recursos federales, pero también información, coordinación y acción por parte de la corporación pública”, expresó el Comisionado Residente.

Las once prioridades incluidas en WRDA 2026 son:

Más recursos para infraestructura de agua en Puerto Rico: El proyecto aumenta de $35 millones a $75 millones la autorización federal disponible para apoyar proyectos de agua potable y alcantarillado.

Humacao: Incluye el Río Antón Ruiz y sus diques para desarrollar mejoras que reduzcan las inundaciones y protejan a Río Verde Mar, Punta Santiago y comunidades cercanas.

Corozal: Autoriza $10 millones para mejorar los sistemas de agua y alcantarillado, incluidos acueductos comunitarios que sirven a familias con acceso limitado al agua.

Vega Baja: Autoriza un estudio de la Laguna Puerto Nuevo, o Laguna Quintín Valle, para evaluar dragado y otras soluciones contra inundaciones.

Loíza: Autoriza un estudio para combatir la erosión costera, reducir los daños por marejadas y proteger hogares y comunidades cercanas a la costa.

Ceiba: Permite estudiar soluciones para proteger la costa y las comunidades frente a tormentas, inundaciones y erosión.

Yabucoa: Autoriza un estudio para reducir los daños por marejadas y fortalecer la protección de las comunidades costeras.

Río Puerto Nuevo: Incluye lenguaje para realizar nuevos estudios de impacto que atiendan las preocupaciones de las comunidades aledañas.

Naguabo: Autoriza un estudio para proteger la costa, reducir la erosión y disminuir los riesgos para las comunidades durante eventos atmosféricos.

Fajardo: Permite evaluar proyectos para proteger viviendas, infraestructura y recursos naturales frente a la erosión y las tormentas costeras.

Acceso de Puerto Rico a un programa federal de protección de costas y ríos: El proyecto añade expresamente a Puerto Rico al Programa de Protección y Restauración de Costas y Ríos (Shoreline and Riverine Protection Program), permitiendo que la isla sea considerada para futuros estudios y proyectos dirigidos a reducir daños por inundaciones, huracanes y tormentas.

La aprobación en comité representa un paso importante dentro del proceso legislativo. El proyecto autoriza proyectos, estudios y programas federales, pero no asigna fondos de manera inmediata. Para entrar en vigor, aún debe ser aprobada por la Cámara de Representantes y el Senado, y posteriormente convertirse en ley.

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Connecticut Delegation Leads Rail Corridor Lawmakers in Calling for Sustained Federal Railway Improvement Funding

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Jim Himes (CT-04), John Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy led 25+ lawmakers in requesting Congressional Leaders include multi-year federal funding for passenger rail improvement projects in the BUILD America 250 Act, Congress’ upcoming five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill.

“Major rail infrastructure projects often take years to move from conception to completion. Because these investments require long-term planning and sustained commitments, uncertainty in future funding can delay project delivery and increase costs,” wrote the Members of Congress.

“At a time when passenger rail ridership is growing, with Amtrak reporting 34.5 million customer trips in Fiscal Year 2025, and states are making significant investments in rail transportation, Congress should ensure that federal funding mechanisms reflect the realities of how these projects are delivered,” continued the lawmakers.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021—the most recent surface transportation reauthorization passed by Congress—provided $66 billion in advance appropriations for rail programs through 2026. Since the legislation’s enactment, Connecticut has received approximately $2 billion in U.S. Department of Transportation rail grants. As currently drafted, the BUILD America 250 Act does not include multi-year appropriations for rail projects, undermining federal support for long-term rail improvement initiatives.

The Federal Railroad Administration’s 2026 Northeast Corridor Project Inventory identifies 26 Connecticut projects that remain in development, under construction, or awaiting completion, including the WALK Bridge, Devon Bridge, and Connecticut River Bridge replacement projects. Improving the rail infrastructure located within the Northeast Corridor is critical given it is the nation’s busiest passenger corridor, carrying more than 694,000 passengers on weekdays and 367,000 passengers on weekends.

In addition to the Connecticut’s Congressional Delegation, Representatives Matsui (CA-07), Norton (DC-AL), McBride (DE-AL), Wilson (FL-24), Jackson (IL-01), García (IL-04), Davis (IL-07), Neal (MA-01), Moulton (MA-06), Thanedar (MI-13), Ross (NC-02), Foushee (NC-04), McIver (NJ-10), Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Suozzi (NY-03), Velázquez (NY-07), Nadler (NY-12), Evans (PA-03), Amo (RI-01), Magaziner (RI-02), Rep. McClellan (VA-04), Vindman (VA-07), Beyer (VA-08), Randall (WA-06), Jayapal (WA-07), and Moore (WI-04) signed the letter in support of multi-year federal funding for rail improvement projects.


ICYMI: UNI President Joins Hinson to Highlight Bipartisan Bill Supporting Future Teachers

Washington, D.C. — During her weekly press call, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) was joined by University of Northern Iowa President Mark Nook to discuss bipartisan legislation she introduced to modernize the TEACH Grant Program, making it easier for future teachers to afford college while ensuring proper guardrails for grant dollars.

Rep. Hinson has met with President Nook to talk about the challenges facing the TEACH Grant program and ideas for commonsense reforms and solutions. UNI’s teacher preparation program has become a model for success, and President Nook shared his experience with Iowa media alongside Rep. Hinson.

President Nook highlighted UNI's unique role in preparing Iowa's educator workforce:

"Approximately 25% of all educators in the state come from UNI, and many of our students take advantage of the TEACH Grant that's out there.

“...One of the problems that students face is that if they teach for one year, two years, or three years out of the required four but don't complete the fourth year, all of the grant converts into a loan."

On the solution to protecting future teachers:

"So what we've done with this new proposal, the new bill that Representative Hinson has introduced, is prorate that so that a student who graduates and teaches in a high-needs field for two or three years would essentially be working off that grant a year at a time…

“One of the things that is also important in here is bringing accountability to the institutions. If an institution has a large percentage of its students who are converting these into loans instead of keeping them as grants, then we want to hold that institution accountable.

"I think this is probably the most important part of what we've done in this legislation—to bring accountability to the university and say, let's make sure people are helping students understand what these grants really are, how they work, what their obligations are, and then help them find the jobs they need so they can meet those obligations.

"Nothing is more important to us than helping people manage their student loan debt and come out of college with a really high-quality degree that prepares them for the profession they want to choose."

Rep. Hinson said the bill has a simple goal: making it easier for future teachers to pursue their calling while holding colleges accountable.

"Our kids deserve great teachers, and the students who want to answer that call shouldn't have unnecessary barriers standing in their way. As President Nook talked about, we also need to make sure institutions are fulfilling their end of the deal."

Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Jack Reed (D-RI). For more information on the bipartisan bill, click here.