Statement on the Loss of Servicemembers

America’s servicemen and women are the guardians of liberty and the very best of our Nation—ordinary citizens who willingly accept extraordinary sacrifice.

This weekend, we mourn the loss of true American heroes who answered their country’s call with courage and honor. We pray for the safe return of missing servicemembers, the full recovery of those wounded, and every military family whose sacrifice is so often borne in quiet.

May we always prove worthy of the brave men and women who selflessly place themselves in harm’s way so that freedom may endure and peace may prevail.


Hoeven Honors Members of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment at Send-Off Ceremony

FARGO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today recognized members of the North Dakota National Guard’s (NDNG) Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment who are mobilizing to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Approximately 30 Guard members and three aircraft will deploy to provide continuous Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) coverage for the installation, delivering emergency point‑of‑injury care and rapid evacuation to the nearest Role 4 medical facility.

“The men and women of the North Dakota National Guard continue to answer the call to serve with professionalism, courage and dedication,” said Hoeven. “Delta Company is taking on a critical mission that will help ensure our servicemembers receive lifesaving medical care when they need it most. We are grateful for these ND Guard members’ willingness to serve and for the sacrifices made by them and their families. We look forward to welcoming them home safely.”

Delta company is currently based at the Fargo Readiness Center and will assume continuous garrison and training-area MEDEVAC coverage previously managed by Charlie Company (MED), 3-82 General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB). This deployment marks Delta Company’s first major mission since 2018, when it supported operations at Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels and Grafenwöhr, Germany.

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Aderholt Supports Sunshine Protection Act While Highlighting Student Safety Concerns

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today voted in favor of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, legislation that would end the twice-yearly clock changes by making Daylight Saving Time permanent. The proposal has enjoyed broad bipartisan support among the American public for years, as many Americans have grown tired of changing their clocks every spring and fall.

"The twice-a-year time change has long been a source of frustration for families, businesses, and workers across the country," said Congressman Aderholt. "I've heard from many constituents who simply want to pick one time and stick with it. The Sunshine Protection Act accomplishes that by providing consistency throughout the year."

While supporting the legislation, Aderholt noted that permanent Daylight Saving Time presents unique challenges for communities in North Alabama, particularly during the winter months.

"One concern I do have is the impact on school children," Aderholt said. "In December and January, permanent Daylight Saving Time would mean the sun would not rise until nearly 8:00 a.m. in much of North Alabama. That means many students would be standing at bus stops or walking to school before sunrise. As a father and soon-to-be grandfather, that's something I take seriously."

Aderholt said he hopes school systems, local communities, and state leaders will work together to minimize those concerns should the legislation become law.

"I believe we can enjoy the benefits of ending the clock changes while also making sure student safety remains a priority," Aderholt continued. "Whether that means reviewing bus schedules, adjusting school start times where practical, or identifying other commonsense solutions, we should make every effort to ensure children are not routinely waiting for the bus in the dark."

Supporters of the Sunshine Protection Act cite the benefits of eliminating the disruptive seasonal clock changes, including greater consistency for families, commerce, and travel, as well as more daylight during evening hours. The legislation has advanced with bipartisan support in Congress and has been the subject of public debate for several years.

"Like many Americans, I believe it's time to end the twice-yearly ritual of changing our clocks," Aderholt said. "As we move forward, we'll continue working to ensure the transition is implemented in a way that best serves families here in Alabama."


ICYMI: Congressman Al Green joined Democracy Now! to discuss the ICE‑involved killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo

Congressman Al Green joined Democracy Now! to discuss the ICE‑involved killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, Congressman Green’s participation in a Houston rally with organizers demanding justice, and the upcoming Homeland Security Committee hearing that will examine the case.

You can access the news segment by clicking the link here.


Arrington Testifies at Rules Committee to Unlock Reconciliation 3.0

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) testified before the House Rules Committee to advocate for the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027, which will unlock reconciliation to support our troops, strengthen our food supply, and secure our elections.

Click HERE to watch.

Opening Remarks as Delivered:

The American people deserve better than what they've gotten for the last year and a half. But what they've gotten is a Democrat Party that I don't recognize in my ten years of service: persistent, habitual, never-ending obstruction to stop the President from succeeding in advancing the policies and the agenda the American people overwhelmingly supported and voted for—unilateral Republican leadership in Congress alongside of this President. That has made it difficult to govern.

What was unprecedented from my Democrat colleagues is now par for the course.

Exhibit A: the first shutdown of the entire federal government over a clean CR. It's the first time it's ever happened from my Democrat colleagues. Both parties have participated in these shutdowns. I will readily concede that. But the first time a clean CR was rejected just to keep the government funding at the last year's funding levels until we could meet out a compromise solution.

What was their reasoning? What was their counteroffer? To repeal the program integrity measures that we put in place in the Big Beautiful Bill to stop waste, fraud, and abuse, to prevent people not eligible, illegal, or people who are able to work and not working, siphoning money off of the safety net programs that are there for our most vulnerable Americans.

It was the longest shutdown in history before the next Democrat shutdown. This time, it was shutting down the Department of Homeland Security after we had agreed, four corners, on funding the government. They shut down Homeland [Security]. They handcuffed our Border Patrol agents from protecting our borders. They basically shut down our Coast Guardsmen from defending our ports, CISA agents from defending our critical infrastructure against being hacked, for over 70 days.

They held the American people's security hostage until we used a reconciliation bill to break the obstruction and fund ICE and CBP because they defunded it.

To be clear, they shut Homeland Security down, and then they defunded ICE and CBP. We had to turn it on unilaterally through reconciliation. We didn't get a single vote from Democrats on that.

But here we are, after riding a long train of Democrat obstruction abuses, to do something before November as the window closes. That is not just meaningful—it is important. It is critical. It is urgent.

Support our troops. Strengthen our food supply. And safeguard the integrity of our elections.

Madam Chair, the obstruction and resistance at all costs and on all fronts goes beyond shutdowns.

For the first time in 65 years, or what is at least 65 years of a tradition of bipartisan support for the NDAA—National Defense Authorization Act—that are the policies that undergird our entire United States national defense, have been held up in the Senate by the Democrats.

Prior to that, based on a temporary personnel decision of the President, they held up FISA 702, a critical security tool for our intelligence community to stop Chinese espionage, to stop terrorism, to stop drug trafficking.

This is this new, shameful era of obstruction. And I presume that the motivation is to placate the left-wing Mamdani socialist base of the party. I have no other answers.

So, Madam Chair and members of the distinguished Rules Committee, I present to you a reconciliation bill that will provide emergency funding for our sons and daughters so they have baseline battlefield readiness; emergency funding to provide resilience and strength to our food supply that we all benefit from; and lastly, again, the consent of the governed and a functioning democracy requires integrity and confidence in elections.

And I will quote former Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2017, after the 2016 election, based on the phony Russia collusion that was debunked later by an independent counsel, and I quote:

‘Our election was hijacked. There is no question. Congress has a duty to protect our democracy.’

Well, here's where I agree with her: we have a duty to protect our democracy, and when half the country has little to no confidence in the outcome of our elections because we don't have basic safeguards like a photo ID, I think it is incumbent upon us to act and act with purpose and with urgency.


House Passes Balderson's AADAPT Act to Improve Early Alzheimer's Detection and Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12) applauded House passage of his Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training Act (AADAPT Act), H.R. 3747.

The legislation, co-led by Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), strengthens and reauthorizes the Project ECHO program to help primary care providers better identify, diagnose, and manage Alzheimer's disease and other dementias—particularly in rural and underserved communities.

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most significant public health challenges facing our country today,” said Balderson. “The sooner we can identify Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, the sooner patients and families can begin treatment, plan for the future, and access the care and support they need. I’m grateful to my House colleagues for joining me in passing the AADAPT Act to help bring high-quality care to more Ohioans.”

“New treatments and new diagnostic tools are transforming what is possible for people living with Alzheimer’s,” said Robert Egge, Alzheimer’s Association chief public policy officer and AIM president. “The AADAPT Act ensures that primary care providers across the country — especially in rural and underserved communities — have the resources they need to bring that progress to their patients. We thank the bipartisan champions of this legislation for helping make that possible.”

More than 7 million Americans—including more than 236,000 Ohioans—are living with Alzheimer's disease, and those numbers are expected to continue rising in the coming years. Because primary care providers are often the first health care professionals patients see when memory loss or cognitive decline begins, expanding access to specialized training can help improve early diagnosis and patient outcomes.

The AADAPT Act reauthorizes and strengthens the Project ECHO program, which connects primary care providers with specialists through virtual training, mentorship, and case-based learning. The program helps equip providers with the knowledge and confidence to identify potential cognitive impairment earlier, improve care coordination, and expand access to quality dementia care in communities that may lack specialty providers.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Congressman Balderson speaks on House floor in support of the AADAPT Act.

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Rep. Balint Cosponsors Legislation to Break Up Meatpacking Monopolies, Drive Down Grocery Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-AL), founding member of the Monopoly Busters Caucus and member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, cosponsored legislation introduced by Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), and Pat Ryan (NY-18), co-chairs of the Monopoly Busters Caucus, to break up dominant meatpacking monopolies, rein in foreign-controlled corporate giants, and end unfair pricing practices that raise costs for American families and box out local farmers and ranchers. The legislation, the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act, is bicameral, introduced in the Senate by Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY).

“Families are paying more at the grocery store while giant corporations rake in record profits and squeeze the farmers and ranchers who feed our country,” said Rep. Balint. "A handful of meatpacking giants shouldn’t be able to control our food supply and drive up costs for working people. We need to break up these monopolies, restore competition, and build a food system that works for our families and our independent farmers.”

“Massive corporations are driving up prices, making it unaffordable for working people to put food on the table,” said Rep. Jayapal. “It is a failure of our government to have allowed these corporate interests to swallow up the market, raising costs and putting hundreds of thousands of family farms out of business in the process. This bill is a critical step to level the playing field — to give independent ranchers and farmers a fair shot while ultimately lowering grocery bills for American families.”

“Meatpacking monopolies are crushing hard-working small farmers, ranchers, and business owners—and are jacking up food prices for all of us,” said Congressman Deluzio. “In the richest country in the history of the world that likes our meat, we can’t let it become a luxury good. Let’s pass this bill to break up these monopolies and bring some relief to everyone they’re squeezing at the grocery store right now.”

“Every time we walk into the grocery store, Hudson Valley families are getting squeezed by high prices because a few greedy corporations are raking in record-breaking profits. That’s unacceptable. Instead of taking on the monopolies driving up costs, like the four meatpacking companies that dominate the market, our fundamentally broken system rewards their greed while punishing our family-run grocers, farms, and restaurants,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “As the President’s wars and tariffs hurt our small businesses, we should be focused on lowering costs, strengthening our supply chains, and putting working families ahead of corporate special interests. This bill would break up the monopolies jacking up costs and give our local grocers and farms some extra support. I'll keep fighting to crack down on price gouging, take on greedy monopolies, and make sure every family can afford to put food on the table.”

“Trump keeps driving prices higher and higher. The American people are rightfully fed up,” said Leader Schumer. “Every visit to the grocery store has turned into relentless sticker shock for working families. It’s a consequence of Trump’s failed economic policies and the stranglehold the meatpacking monopoly holds over supply chains and grocery stores. Democrats in the Senate and House are united in bringing down costs for consumers, and I’m proud to champion the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act to tackle the skyrocketing food costs and deliver the relief working families demand and deserve.

Consolidation in the meatpacking industry is rampant. For instance, 85 percent of the U.S. beef market is controlled by just four companies: Cargill, JBS, Tyson, and the National Beef Packing Company. This corporate consolidation allows these giants to unfairly extract value and take home maximum profits at the expense of farmers and consumers.

The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act imposes structural reforms to restore competition to the industry. Specifically, it:

Makes it unlawful for a major meatpacking conglomerate to control more than one major type of meat, i.e., pork, chicken, beef;

Imposes hard caps on the concentration of beef markets at both the regional and national levels and authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to order divestiture from the market if those caps are exceeded;

Prohibits foreign leverage over the domestic meat market, empowering FTC to protect competition and national security;

Directs the FTC to enforce against discriminatory pricing practices in retail and wholesale meat markets that hit independent and neighborhood grocers the hardest;

Authorizes the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide financial assistance, loan guarantees, and technical assistance to farmers’ cooperatives and small business concerns to acquire meatpacking facilities divested under the Act; and

Creates enforceable penalties for corporations that fail to properly divest, enforceable under the FTC Act.

This legislation builds upon a field hearing hosted by the Monopoly Busters Caucus earlier this year in which an independent rancher testified to the harmful effects of consolidation in the meatpacking industry.

"North Dakota has some of the highest quality beef in the nation, and my fellow ranchers deserve a larger share of the profit for their hard work," said Travis Anderson, North Dakota cattle rancher and member of Dakota Resource Council and the National Family Farm Coalition. "Breaking up the dominant meat processing companies while addressing horizontal integration would make the overall industry more fair and competitive, while also providing consumers with more affordable and abundant choices at the grocery store."

“The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act takes on a root cause of the factory farm system that has devastated rural communities, workers, public health, and family farmers – the market power of a handful of giant meatpackers,” said Patty Lovera, policy advisor for the Campaign for Family Farms and the Environment. “It’s time to break up the massive companies that have consolidated livestock production and rigged the market against independent producers.”

"Today, we will lose 63 farmers, and at the same time, Americans struggle to feed their families, and that's no accident,” said Joe Maxwell, president of Farm Action Fund. “It's the predictable result of decades of unchecked consolidation that has allowed a handful of corporations to control our food system. As a fourth-generation family farmer, I have witnessed this takeover firsthand. The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act begins restoring the freedom to farm, the freedom to compete, and the freedom for families to afford the food they need. We applaud Representatives Jayapal, Deluzio, Ryan, and the other sponsors for confronting concentrated corporate power and standing with America's farmers, workers, and consumers."

“For decades, four meatpacking giants have used their monopoly power to drive up grocery bills and squeeze out the farmers and ranchers who feed America,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “Rep. Jayapal’s bill takes direct aim at the root of the problem by breaking up the big four meatpackers and restoring real competition. Americans deserve food markets that reward hard work, not corporate gatekeepers. Congress should seize this opportunity to stand with families, farmers, and independent businesses instead of monopoly power.”

The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act is also sponsored by Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesus G. "Chuy" Garcia (IL-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Henry C. ("Hank") Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), Emily Randall (WA-06), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

It is endorsed by American Economic Liberties Project (AELP), Campaign for Family Farms and the Environment (CFFE), Consumer Federation of America, Demand Progress, Farm Action Fund, Food & Water Watch, Groundwork Action, Montana Cattlemen's Association (MCA), National Family Farm Coalition (NFCC), Open Markets Institute (OMI), and Small Business Majority.

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WATCH: CARTER SPEAKS OUT AGAINST UNNECESSARY ANIMAL TESTING

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today spoke on the House Floor in support of his bill, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0. This bipartisan legislation would bring the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulations into the 21st century by recognizing modern, safe, and effective alternatives to traditional animal testing when possible.

The bill requires the FDA to update outdated regulations to reflect current law, providing researchers with greater flexibility to use innovative nonclinical testing methods without compromising the agency's gold standard for drug safety and effectiveness.

Watch Rep. Carter’s floor remarks here:

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 2821, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, bipartisan legislation that ensures the FDA fully embraces modern science while reducing unnecessary animal testing.

Many of our families would feel incomplete without the pets and animals that bring unconditional love into our lives.

Yet every year, millions of animals, including dogs, man's best friend, are still subjected to testing in the development of new medicines.

As policymakers, we have a responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

That responsibility includes embracing scientific innovation that can reduce unnecessary animal suffering while continuing to deliver safe and effective treatments to patients.

In 2022, Congress took an important first step by passing the FDA Modernization Act 2.0.

I was proud to help lead that effort.

That law gave drug developers the ability to use modern, scientifically validated alternatives to traditional animal testing when appropriate.

Congress made its intent clear.

We wanted to encourage more effective, more humane, and more innovative approaches to drug development.

Unfortunately, the previous administration failed to fully implement the law.

Without clear implementation, too many researchers have lacked the certainty they need, and too many animals continue to be used in testing that modern science can increasingly replace.

H.R. 2821 ensures the FDA finally carries out the will of Congress.

This bill is not about lowering standards. It is about raising them.

Today's researchers have access to technologies that simply did not exist a generation ago.

Advanced human cell models. Organ-on-a-chip technology. Artificial intelligence and computational modeling.

These innovative tools have the potential to better predict how medicines will perform in humans while reducing reliance on animal testing.

Our laws should reflect the science of today, not the science of decades past.

Modernizing drug development doesn't just benefit animals. It benefits patients.

By providing greater clarity and encouraging the use of validated alternative methods, we can help make the drug development process more efficient.

That means fewer unnecessary delays and more innovation.

And ultimately, that means lifesaving treatments can reach patients more quickly without compromising the FDA's rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness.

This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill. It reflects a simple principle.

We can advance medical innovation while improving animal welfare.

Those goals are not in conflict. In fact, they go hand in hand.

Mr. Speaker, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0 fulfills the promise Congress made when we passed FDA Modernization Act 2.0.

It ensures that modern science is fully incorporated into our regulatory process.

It helps reduce unnecessary animal testing and strengthens American medical innovation.

And it helps bring new therapies to patients more efficiently.

I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2821, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0.”


Carter bill reducing unnecessary animal testing passes House

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today celebrated the House passage of the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, a bill directing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fully implement provisions to reduce unnecessary animal testing for drug development.

Each year in the United States, millions of animals – including an estimated 50,000 dogs – are used in laboratory experiments and testing. This bill would require the FDA to fully implement the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, ensuring that safe and effective treatments are developed using advanced, innovative non-animal testing methods when possible.

“The House passage of the FDA Modernization Act 3.0 marks a major step toward a more modern, effective, and humane system for evaluating medicines,” said Rep. Carter. “My bill will help update testing practices to reduce unnecessary animal harm, remove barriers to innovative, safe, and effective non-animal testing methods, and ensure the FDA’s implementation fully reflects both the law and today’s scientific capabilities.”

“Patients deserve access to the most advanced medical technology available. The FDA Modernization Act 3.0 ensures that drug testing reflects today's innovations, helping to bring promising healthcare to families faster without compromising safety through unnecessary reliance on animal testing,” said Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL). “As the Health Subcommittee Chairman of Ways and Means and the champion of the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, I am proud to see my bill's impact be reinforced by this critical piece of legislation.”

"This bill will transform drug development for the 21st century. By requiring full implementation of the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, this legislation ensures that developers use innovative, more effective testing methods throughout drug development, rather than relying on outdated and inhumane animal tests. It’s a win for patients, a win for innovation, and a win for animal welfare. I’m proud to champion this bipartisan measure to accelerate safer, more humane, and more effective medical breakthroughs,” said Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA).

“Today’s floor vote is another important step toward modernizing how we bring safe and effective drugs to market,” said Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN). “The FDA has the authority to move beyond outdated, cruel testing methods, and our bill simply directs the FDA to follow through and update its regulations accordingly. I’m proud to work alongside Congressman Buddy Carter and my colleagues to keep this bipartisan effort moving forward.”

"Four years ago, many people believed eliminating the archaic animal testing mandate in federal law was impossible. Today, Congress is completing that work, thanks in considerable part to the incredible leadership of Congressman Buddy Carter," said Wayne Pacelle, President, Center for a Humane Economy, Animal Wellness Action. "FDA Modernization Act 3.0 will help us fix a broken drug development system and stop putting dogs and primates through needless torment."

Read bill text here.


Congresswoman Kat Cammack Calls for Immediate House Vote on Resolution Requiring Background Checks for All Congressional Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) today called on the House to immediately bring H.Res. 500 to the floor for a vote. The resolution would strengthen security standards for congressional staff by requiring criminal background checks and public disclosure of foreign government payments, contracts, and citizenship.

The renewed push comes as congressional staff security has drawn renewed public attention, underscoring the need for stronger vetting and transparency standards in the House of Representatives.

“Congressional staff handle Americans’ most sensitive personal information every day, from Social Security numbers on casework files to veterans’ records,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “Americans are shocked when they learn that those staffers face no required background check. Federal employees across the executive branch are vetted before they ever get a badge. Not here. That should concern every member of Congress, regardless of party.”

Introduced by Rep. Cammack earlier this Congress, H.Res. 500 would amend the Rules of the House of Representatives to:

Require background checks for House employees;

Require disclosure if a House employee has received payments from, or entered into contracts or agreements with, a foreign government during the three years before beginning House employment;

Require disclosure if a House employee is a citizen or national of a foreign country;

Require those disclosures to be filed with the Clerk of the House and made publicly available; and

Apply these disclosure requirements to both current House employees and new hires.

Rep. Cammack noted that despite introducing the resolution, efforts to move it forward have repeatedly stalled.

"I introduced H.Res. 500 more than a year ago to fix this,” Rep. Cammack continued. “First, I was told it needed 100 cosponsors before it could be considered. Then I was told background checks couldn’t be done. Then I was told that disclosures couldn’t be published. The excuses keep changing, while the security risk stays the same.”

Rep. Cammack also called on Americans to urge their Representatives to support the resolution.

“The solution is already written. Now the House needs to act. The American people have a right to know who is working on their behalf. Call your Representative and tell them to support H.Res. 500.”

The full text of H.Res. 500 is available at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/500/text.

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Congresswoman Kat Cammack proudly represents Florida's 3rd Congressional District. She sits on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and is the lone Florida Representative on the House Committee on Agriculture.


Case Statement On The Death Of First Lieutenant Tyler Feehan Of Hawaii

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01) issued the following statement on the death of 1st Lieutenant Tyler Feehan of Ewa Beach in Jordan.

“I join all of our Hawai’i in mourning the passing in Jordan of United States Army First Lieutenant Tyler Feehan of ‘Ewa Beach. The loss of any of our servicemembers is tragic, but of one of our own ‘ohana is especially deep. I extend my deepest sympathies to Lt Feehan’s family with our Hawaii’s lasting gratitude for his service to our country.”


“Turning medical waste into medical miracles”House passes Smith’s legislation to reauthorize and expand funding for umbilical cord blood stem cell research

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)’s legislation to authorize more than $280 million over five years for two collaborative programs that provide lifesaving treatments and therapies derived from ethically-sourced stem cell lines.

The bipartisan legislation—the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2025 (HR 5160)—was introduced in September with the strong backing of Reps. Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and Claudia Tenney (R-NY).

While speaking on the House floor in favor of his legislation, Smith said, “The bill before us today authorizes $280 million for these programs over 5 years—$115 million for cord blood and $165 million for the bone marrow program—to ensure that thousands of present and future patients benefit from this exciting field of regenerative medicine.”

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) debates on the House floor in support of his Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2025.

HR 5160 reauthorizes the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005 (PL 109-129)—authored and championed by Smith over twenty years ago—which formally established and expanded the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program (CWBYCTP), created the National Cord Blood Inventory (NCBI), and connected patients with genetically-matched and ethically-gleaned stem cells.

“The law created a new nationwide umbilical cord blood stem cell program designed to collect, derive, type, and cryogenically freeze cord blood units for transplantation into patients to mitigate and cure serious disease. Pursuant to the law, it also provided cord blood stem cells for research,” noted Smith.

Since its inception, the NCBI, which provides funding to public cord blood banks to expand the national inventory of cord blood units available for transplanting, has led to an incredible increase of over 121,000 available units. And the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), which lists the number of available cord blood units, has identified more than 43 million potential marrow donors around the world and facilitated over 150,000 transplants.

Smith underscored the medical breakthroughs made possible through umbilical cord blood stem cell treatments, noting that they “have proven to be highly efficacious in treating over 75 diseases, including lymphoma, leukemia, sickle cell disease, and other metabolic and immune deficiencies.”

Dr. Joanne Kurtzberg speaks at a press conference for the introduction of Smith's HR 5160 on September 10, 2025.

Quoting Dr. Joanne Kurtzberg of Duke University School of Medicine—who helped draft the original Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act over 26 years ago—Smith further explained that “‘cord blood is also used as starting material for manufacturing immune effector cells, like CAR-T cells and others, to treat patients with cancer and autoimmune diseases. There is exciting research using cord blood to treat children with cerebral palsy, birth asphyxia, and autism.’”

Ahead of today’s House vote on HR 5160, Dr. Kurtzberg also told Smith that he is “doing so many wonderful things” and that “none of this”—i.e., the growing number of successful umbilical cord blood stem cell transplants and lives subsequently saved—"could have occurred without this legislation and the NCBI.”

“Not only has God, in His infinite wisdom and goodness, created a placenta and an umbilical cord to nurture and protect the precious life of an unborn child—but now, we know that another gift awaits immediately after birth,” concluded Smith. “Something very special is left behind: cord blood that is teeming with lifesaving stem cells.”

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“I’ve been working on Lyme disease since 1992. I introduced my first bill of several—the Lyme Disease Initiative Act of 1998—almost 30 years ago.”House overwhelmingly approves Smith’s legislation to continue and enhance funding for Lyme disease research at CDC

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to provide $150 million over five years in continued funding for Lyme disease research at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

During debate on the Kay Hagan Tick Act reauthorization (HR 4348) on the House floor, Smith quoted U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., saying that “‘Lyme disease remains one of the Nation’s fastest-growing vector-borne health threats. More than 476,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year, and recent data show emergency room visits for tick bites reached their highest springtime level in nearly a decade.’”

Smith further explained, “Vector borne diseases are now endemic in regions of the country where they have not historically been present. Disease-laden ticks are now found in all 48 contiguous U.S. states. The problem is exploding—not abating.

“It is therefore critical that Congress take immediate action to support and sustain ongoing comprehensive efforts to combat these insidious diseases that kill and disable,” continued Smith, the founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Caucus.

HR 4348—which reauthorizes Smith’s TICK Act (PL 116-94)—will allocate federal monies for the CDC’s regional Centers of Excellence and provide funding for states in regions that have an elevated risk of Lyme or other tick-borne disease outbreaks, enabling them to work in tandem with the federal government to quickly identify and address such outbreaks.

“HR 4348 supports this whole-of-government assault on Lyme and other vector-borne diseases and again authorizes $50 million over five years for the regional Centers of Excellence, which coordinate with academia and local public health agencies to conduct research on Lyme in their areas and train public health professionals to identify and treat Lyme,” noted Smith.

“Finally, HR 4348, again, as we did in the original law, authorizes cooperative agreement funding for states and localities—$100 million over five years—to tangibly assist state public health departments and other local entities to support the development and implementation of evidence-based research, interventions, and treatment,” he continued.

Since 1992, Smith has authored numerous amendments and legislation to improve the lives and prognoses of those suffering from Lyme disease by enhancing and expanding federal tick-borne disease research, awareness, and collaboration.

Most recently—in February of this year—Smith authored and introduced the LymeX Authorization Act (HR 7482), legislation to codify and authorize $5 million towards the LymeX Accelerator Program (LymeX), a public-private partnership between the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation, which funds prize competitions to advance innovation in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Lyme disease.

Moreover, in December of last year, Smith’s amendment to probe whether the Cold War-era Department of War bioweapons program ever used ticks as hosts or delivery mechanisms for biological warfare agents was included within the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was later signed into law (PL 119-60) by President Trump.

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Congressman Cohen Announces FEMA Grants to Shelby County and Memphis Shelby County Schools

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing grants to Shelby County and to Memphis Shelby County Schools. Shelby County will receive $190,926 for its warning and alert system, which represents 75 percent of the cost. Memphis Shelby County Schools will receive $224,908 for security camera repairs and replacements, also repenting 75 percent of the total cost.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“Two recent severe storms did serious damage to our safety infrastructure. I’m pleased to see these federal investments being made to shore up our ability to alert the public and critical first responders when a disaster threatens our region.”

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Cole Statement on the Passing of Former Member of Congress Tim Murphy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing of the passing of a former member of Congress from Pennsylvania, Tim Murphy:

“I am incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of my former congressional classmate and friend, Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania. Tim was a man who truly dedicated his life to serving others, leaving behind a legacy defined by his unwavering commitment to our great nation.

“Tim served his state in the Pennsylvania State Senate and then went on to represent his community in the United States House of Representatives. During his time in Washington, he was an active and productive member of our Conference, serving his constituents with dedication and passion.

“In 2009, while representing Pennsylvania’s 18th Congressional District in Congress, he decided to expand his service by joining and earning a commission in the United States military. He was a passionate advocate for those living with PTSD, providing support to countless service members and veterans. All of this proves one thing to be true: Tim Murphy was a long-time public servant. He served our nation through both the legislative branch and the military, touching countless lives along the way, and his service will not be forgotten.

“My thoughts, prayers, and condolences are with his family, his friends, and all of those who had the pleasure of working with and knowing Tim Murphy. May he rest in peace,” said Congressman Cole.

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Davids Secures $34 Million Federal Investment to Grow Kansas City's Biomanufacturing Industry, Create Good-Paying Jobs

Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded $33.5 million to the Kansas City BioSecure Manufacturing Tech Hub (KC BioHub). The major grant will help expand the region's leadership in biomanufacturing, strengthen domestic supply chains for lifesaving medicines, and create good-paying jobs. The Tech Hubs program and this funding was created through the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which Davids voted to pass.

"This is a huge win for Kansas City," said Davids. "Our region has everything it takes to lead the future of medical innovation, and this investment is proof that the rest of the country sees that, too. It will help create good-paying jobs, strengthen our regional economy, and reinforce America's supply chains and national security. I'm proud to have helped make this possible, and I'll keep fighting to bring more opportunities like this home to Kansas."

“This award is a vote of confidence in the strength of our regional assets, the depth of our relationships with our partners, and the promise of our shared vision for the future,” said Melissa Roberts Chapman, President & Regional Innovation Officer, KC BioHub. “Together, we have demonstrated that our region has the talent, infrastructure, partnerships, and innovation necessary to onshore the manufacturing of biologics. As a consortium, we have positioned the Kansas City region to lead in the global race to build the next great biotech ecosystem.”

The award marks the latest milestone for the KC BioHub. In 2023, the Kansas City region was selected as one of only 31 inaugural Tech Hubs nationwide because of its unique strengths in biotechnology and biomanufacturing. In 2024, after narrowly missing out on the first round of implementation funding, the consortium received a $500,000 award to continue developing projects and preparing for future investment. Today's announcement builds on that progress by providing approximately $34 million to help bring the region's vision to life.

Led by BioNexus KC, the KC BioHub brings together businesses, research universities, hospitals, entrepreneurs, workforce partners, and state and local governments to position the region as a global leader in biomanufacturing. The consortium focuses on developing and manufacturing biologic medicines and cancer therapies, strengthening domestic production of critical medical technologies, and helping new biotechnology companies grow and commercialize their discoveries more quickly. The investment is expected to accelerate innovation, attract additional private investment, and support the growth of a highly skilled workforce in the region.

Davids has long championed federal investments that strengthen the Kansas economy and create opportunities for workers. She voted for the bipartisanCHIPS and Science Act, which established the Tech Hub program to ensure that the technologies of the future are developed and manufactured in the United States. Davids urged the administration multiple times to grant this designation and led a discussion with senior Department of Commerce officials, local leaders, manufacturers, and researchers to discuss implementation of the bill, including Kansas City's Tech Hub designation.

Since the Kansas City region was first designated as a Tech Hub, Davids has worked alongside regional partners to advocate for continued federal investment and highlight the area's unique strengths in biotechnology, animal health, and advanced manufacturing.


Davidson Introduces Amendments to Offset Reconciliation Spending by Cutting Waste, Fraud, and Abuse

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, July 20, 2026, U.S. Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) submitted four amendments to the fiscal year 2027 budget resolution that would require Congress to cut waste, fraud, and abuse and achieve substantial deficit reduction as part of a proposed third reconciliation package.

This week, the House is considering H. Con. Res. 113, which would establish the budget framework and reconciliation instructions for legislation addressing national defense, farm assistance, and election integrity. As currently written, the resolution would permit adding up to $95 billion to the deficit without requiring corresponding spending reductions.

“Washington’s deficit spending is out of control,” said Davidson. “Every dollar Congress borrows fuels inflation, erodes Americans’ purchasing power, and saddles future generations with more debt. The federal government wastes hundreds of billions of dollars every year through fraud, improper payments, duplication, and failed programs. Finding $95 billion in savings is easy. My amendments would require Congress to pay for this spending package by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse already identified by DOGE, the Republican Study Committee, and the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. Congress should cut waste before asking taxpayers - or our children - to foot the bill.”

Davidson introduced four alternatives that would require increasingly significant deficit reduction over fiscal years 2027 through 2036:

The first amendment would require at least $950 billion in deficit reduction by directing the House Committee on Ways and Means to reduce the deficit by at least $750 billion and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce to reduce the deficit by at least $200 billion.

The second amendment would require at least $1.25 trillion in deficit reduction by directing the Committee on Ways and Means to reduce the deficit by at least $1 trillion and the Committee on Energy and Commerce to reduce the deficit by at least $250 billion.

The third amendment would require at least $2.6 trillion in deficit reduction by directing the Committee on Agriculture to reduce the deficit by at least $100 billion, the Committee on Ways and Means to reduce the deficit by at least $2 trillion, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce to reduce the deficit by at least $500 billion.

The fourth amendment would require at least $3.95 trillion in deficit reduction by directing the Committee on Agriculture to reduce the deficit by at least $200 billion, the Committee on Energy and Commerce to reduce the deficit by at least $750 billion, and the Committee on Ways and Means to reduce the deficit by at least $3 trillion. The amendment would also dedicate all savings achieved under those reconciliation instructions to the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund to help protect Social Security's long-term solvency.

Davidson has identified potential reconciliation offsets within the jurisdiction of these committees, including:

Combating Medicaid and Affordable Care Act fraud and improper payments.

Phasing out Medicaid provider taxes that allow states to shift a greater share of their costs to federal taxpayers.

Strengthening income, identity, citizenship, employer-coverage, and household-eligibility verification for ACA subsidies.

Increasing state SNAP cost-sharing and strengthening work requirements.

Limiting broad-based categorical eligibility for SNAP.

Expanding healthcare price transparency and program-integrity enforcement.

Restoring spending reductions and reforms removed from previous reconciliation legislation.

View Rep. Davidson’s full list of potential offsets HERE.

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Davidson Warns About the Global Expansion of Censorship and Surveillance

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, July 20, 2026, U.S. Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives about the growing use of technology by governments to suppress information, erase inconvenient truths, and control what people are allowed to see and share.

Using the recent censorship surrounding a deadly crash in Beijing as an example, Davidson warned that the Chinese Communist Party’s system of digital surveillance and information control is no longer confined to China. Similar tools and legal frameworks are increasingly being adopted across the world, threatening free speech, privacy, and individual liberty.

To watch Rep. Davidson’s speech, click HERE, or read his remarks as prepared for delivery below:

Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Last month, a plane crashed into one of the tallest buildings in Beijing during Friday rush hour. The pilot was killed and 13 people were injured.

This happened in the center of a city of more than 20 million people. Thousands of people nearby saw the plane strike the building. People on the street heard the impact and recorded the aftermath.

In the United States, an event like this would receive wall-to-wall coverage, and videos would spread across social media within minutes. But in Beijing, the government made it nearly impossible for anyone who was not there to even know it happened.

Posts about the crash vanished from Chinese social media, and searches for the building returned only older results. Police prevented people from taking pictures and ordered witnesses to delete footage. Even though China’s national broadcaster sits across the street from the crash site, state media neglected to inform the public what happened.

Because China’s censorship apparatus links police surveillance with telecommunications networks, search engines, social-media platforms, and state-controlled media, it allows authorities to identify and suppress information that could embarrass the Communist Party or undermine their preferred narrative with frightening efficiency.

China has used these methods before. During the 2022 lockdown protests, videos disappeared from Huawei phones without warning, deleting their pictures and videos from their phones and preventing citizens from preserving or sharing what was happening.

George Orwell warned about this sort of coercive power. Now, this dystopian system is even more efficient and powerful with smartphones, search engines, surveillance cameras, and government-controlled platforms. China has shown how effectively this machinery can erase the truth, and other governments are now creating systems that could be used the same way.

The European Union is building the legal and regulatory framework to control online speech across the West. Through the Digital Services Act, regulators can pressure major platforms to remove or suppress content that conflicts with official narratives on elections, public policy, and other political issues. Companies that resist can face penalties tied to their global revenue, giving governments enormous leverage over what people are allowed to see online.

The United Kingdom has incorporated digital ID and is already jailing thousands of its citizens for disfavored speech.

Here in the United States, this was well underway. When Elon Musk bought Twitter, the Biden Administration was working to build a “Disinformation Governance Board” to coordinate their rapidly expanding censorship operations. Orwell called this the “Ministry of Truth”.

Unfortunately, Musk’s ownership of Twitter only exposed the truth. That and the change of administration have not halted the surveillance state here in America. Under the same guise of protecting kids used by the UK, the USA just passed a digital ID bill. Under the guise of banning Central Bank Digital Currency, the United States effectively set a go-live date for 2030. And under the old ruse of security and public safety, Palantir and Flock have an all-seeing eye network expanding around the country.

These are the same types of tools used in China, and the same tools developed by the same companies, in use across Europe.

As James Madison astutely noted in Federalist 51, “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.” If men were angels, the Patriot Act and Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act would have never been abused, but the abuse was foreseeable because men – even good men – are prone to abuse power. The old maxim: power corrupts but absolute power corrupts absolutely rings true.

Around the world, technology is being turned against the citizens by those in power. A comprehensive system of surveillance, coercion, and control is being built. If you cannot see it, it may already be too late.

Freedom surrendered is rarely reclaimed. With every vote and every dollar, now is the time to insist that good governments defend freedom.

Thank you. I yield back.

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Dingell, Colleagues Express Concern Over Threats to Great Lakes Posed by Invasive Species

Today, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell and four of her House colleagues expressed concerns to the Trump Administration over the growing number of invasive species in the Great Lakes. In a letter sent to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the lawmakers said the agency may be putting the entire Great Lakes ecosystem at risk by exempting existing “Lakers,” a specialized class of large commercial cargo ships or bulk carriers that operate within the Great Lakes, from its rule requiring cargo ships to install ballast water-treatment systems that remove or kill invasive species.

Congresswoman Dingell was joined in the oversight effort by U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13).

A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:

Dear Administrator Zeldin:

This letter expresses concern regarding the growing number of invasive species establishing themselves across the Great Lakes. We are concerned that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be putting the entire Great Lakes ecosystem at risk by exempting existing Lakers from its rule requiring ballast water management systems on cargo vessels.

In April 2026, bloody red shrimp were determined to have officially established themselves in Lake Superior. This was the last Great Lake to be free from invasive shrimp. The bloody red shrimp, native to Europe and Asia, were first introduced to the lower Great Lakes over twenty years ago through ballast water discharge. While the shrimp themselves are small they, like all invasive species, can have an outsize and unpredictable impact on their ecosystem. The Great Lakes region will have to manage the changes resulting from their establishment for generations. Red bloody shrimp are not the first invasive species to spread through ballast water and, with the current EPA rule exemption in place, they will probably not be the last.

EPA’s rule to require ballast water management systems for ocean-going vessels and new Lakers should be lauded and is an important step towards preventing the continued transfer of invasive species. However, the Lakers that are exempted from the rule account for 92% of the U.S. fleet. Ballast water management systems kill living organisms before discharging the ballast water to prevent invasive species spread and Lakers can be retrofitted to support these systems, as Canada has proven with their Laker fleet. Exempting the existing Lakers from the rule leaves the Great Lakes unprotected.

The Great Lakes are the largest surface freshwater system in the world, holding nearly 21 percent of the world’s fresh water supply and 90 percent of the United States’ fresh water supply. They are a key economic engine for the region that generates billions of dollars. Invasive species put all of this at risk, and we ask the EPA to keep this in mind. It is far less expensive to invest in preventative actions than to manage the fall out of continued invasive species establishments, particularly when it is unknown what risk each new invasive species will pose to the Great Lakes.

The Vessel Incidental Discharge Act of 2018 marked a historic step forward in combating invasive species in ballast water. We encourage the EPA to apply their rule equally to all cargo vessels, requiring ballast water treatment systems to be implemented no matter when a ship was built or how long it operates, and to maintain its commitment to safeguarding the Great Lakes from invasive species.


House Passes DeGette’s Bill Boosting Down Syndrome Research

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3491, the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act, which would advance innovative research into Down syndrome. Representative Diana DeGette (CO-01), who led the bill, along with Representatives Richard Hudson (NC-09), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Tom Cole (OK-04), and Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement:

"Today’s passage of the INCLUDE Project Act shows what we can achieve when we make Down syndrome research a true bipartisan priority," said DeGette. "By advancing this critical legislation, we are showing our commitment to improving health outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome. Colorado is already leading the way as home to the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and their affiliate, the Linda Crnic Institute—the largest institute for Down syndrome research in the world. When this bill becomes law, we will be doubling down on our commitment to groundbreaking science and to the Down syndrome community."

“People with Down syndrome enrich our families and communities in so many ways,” said Hudson. “I’m proud the House passed my bill to support research that can help them live longer, healthier lives and reach their full potential without barriers standing in their way.”

“Biomedical research is essential,” said DeLauro. “We must do all we can to strengthen the resources that lead to lifesaving medical breakthroughs and help folks with Down syndrome live long, fulfilling lives. Since 2018, as the Ranking Member of the Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, I am proud to have worked on a bipartisan basis to provide more than $400 million in funding for the more than 200 INCLUDE Project research grant awards at the National Institutes of Health. We must fight to protect that funding, and this legislation is a needed step to ensure there are no barriers to this important research.”

“Advanced medical research has the potential to change lives – and the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act will do just that. Specifically, this legislation will strengthen the collaboration among institutes at the NIH, advance medical breakthroughs, and support Americans with down syndrome,” said Cole. “I’d like to thank Representative DeGette for taking the lead on this legislation, as we must do all we can to improve the lives of those with down syndrome.”

“As a father of a son with Down syndrome, I understand the important role research plays in improving the lives of those with disabilities,” said Stauber. “I’m proud to help lead this effort to ensure continued investment in these life-changing discoveries. Every individual deserves a chance to thrive, and this legislation brings us one step closer to that goal.”

“I have known Diana for 30 years, and throughout that time I have witnessed her extraordinary tenacity, bipartisan leadership, and ability to turn ambitious ideas into consequential legislation, and today’s unanimous House passage of the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act adds to her legacy,” said Michelle Sie Whitten, CEO & Co-founder of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. “GLOBAL’s advocacy, along with our allies in Congress, helped catalyze the NIH INCLUDE Project into existence as the first NIH-wide Down syndrome research program, and it is already transforming the field—driving important breakthroughs in inflammation and immune system dysregulation, Alzheimer’s disease, sleep apnea, hearing loss, cancer, and more. We are enormously grateful to Diana and her Republican lead partner, Congressman Richard Hudson, for bringing both sides of the aisle together and moving the bill one step closer to becoming law. Diana’s leadership sends a powerful message: people with Down syndrome matter, their health matters, and their futures are worth fighting for.”

“NDSC strongly supports the INCLUDE Act and applauds the bipartisan leadership behind this important legislation,” said Jim Hudson, National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Executive Director. “Continued investment in Down syndrome research is essential to improving health outcomes, expanding our understanding of co-occurring conditions, and enhancing quality of life for people with Down syndrome across the lifespan.”

The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act formally authorizes the INCLUDE (INvestigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndromE) Project, which was launched in June 2018 at the direction of Congress to conduct research on critical health and quality-of-life needs for individuals with Down syndrome. The project investigates conditions that affect individuals with Down syndrome and the general population, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, autism, cataracts, celiac disease, congenital heart disease, and diabetes.

The bill would expand clinical trials, investigate biomedical mechanisms of trisomy 21, and address the high prevalence of co-occurring conditions like Alzheimer’s and autoimmune diseases in this population.

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DelBene, Sewell, Chu, Khanna Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Wealthy Tax Evaders

Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Terri Sewell (AL-07, Judy Chu (CA-28), and Ro Khanna (CA-17) introduced legislation to provide the IRS with the resources to improve taxpayer services and enhance tax enforcement focused on high-income tax evasion.

The Inflation Reduction Act included funding for the IRS to enhance taxpayer services, improve outdated technology systems, and target high-income tax evaders. This funding drastically improved customer service at the IRS. For example, in 2022, the average time to speak to an IRS customer service representative was 28 minutes. In 2023, it dropped to four minutes and then down to three minutes in 2024. Additionally, in 2024, $1.3 billion was recovered from high-income, high-wealth people under the IRA enforcement initiatives. Congressional Republicans cut this funding, making it harder for the IRS to enforce the tax code and provide services to taxpayers.

The Stop Corporations and High Earners from Avoiding Taxes and Enforce the Rules Strictly (CHEATERS) Act would restore the $83 billion in funding for the IRS, which would go to taxpayer services, enforcement, and modernizing the agency. These enforcement investments would ensure the wealthy and well-connected pay their fair share of taxes and is estimated to generate $998 billion in revenue, according to the Yale Budget Lab.

The $83 billion would be allocated as follows:

$45.6 billion for enforcement efforts

$25.4 billion for technology modernization

$9.6 billion for taxpayer services improvements

$3.1 billion for business systems enhancements

“For too long, wealthy individuals and large corporations have gotten away with not paying their fair share of taxes,” said DelBene. “Instead of addressing this problem, Congressional Republicans continue to cut IRS funding which makes enforcement more difficult. This bill restores the necessary funding so the agency can ensure that the tax code is enforced fairly and ensure wealthy tax evaders pay their fair share.”

“As working families continue to struggle to afford the rising cost of gas and groceries, Donald Trump and Republicans are rigging the economy to benefit themselves and their wealthy friends while dodging accountability. That is why I am proud to support the Stop CHEATERS Act to restore essential IRS funding and shift auditing and enforcement toward high-income individuals and large corporations,” said Sewell.

“When the ultra-wealthy and corporations cheat our system by not paying their fair share of taxes, working-class taxpayers and our economy suffer. Unfortunately, Republicans have only greenlit millionaire and billionaire tax cheats by slashing IRS staffing and funding that Democrats have fought so hard to bolster,” said Chu. “Our bill would restore $83 billion in IRS funding to strengthen taxpayer services while ensuring the ultra-wealthy finally pay their fair share.”

“Too many ultra-wealthy individuals and large corporations have exploited an underfunded IRS to avoid paying what they owe. The Stop CHEATERS Act gives the IRS the funding it needs to stop tax evasion by those at the top and would raise nearly $1 trillion in revenue over the next decade,” said Khanna.

The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Don Beyer (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Andre Carson (IN-07), Danny Davis (IL-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Jesús García (IL-04), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), John Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Sarah McBride (DE-At-Large), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At-Large), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Emily Randall (WA-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20).

The legislation is endorsed by AFL-CIO, AFSCME, American Federation of Teachers, Americans for Financial Reform, Americans for Tax Fairness, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Groundwork Action, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, Main Street Alliance, National Treasury Employees Union, Patriotic Millionaires, Progressive Policy Institute, Public Citizen, P Street, SEIU, Small Business for America’s Future, Small Business Majority, Take on Wall Street, Taxpayers for Common Sense, Tax the Greedy Billionaires, and Third Way.


Trump’s Latest Canada Tariffs Will Hurt WA Workers, Damage Regional Economy

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement on President Trump’s latest 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods.

“Washington state and Canada’s economies are deeply intertwined, and our trading relationship is mutually beneficial. These new taxes will raise prices on American families and likely lead to retaliation against the very industries Trump purportedly wants to protect. The president continues to demonstrate to the American people why he shouldn’t be allowed to put more tariffs in place without Congress’ approval.

“While we may have legitimate issues with the Canadians between our alcohol, dairy, and automotive producers, the right way to handle these concerns is through thoughtful policy and negotiations, not knee-jerk reactions from the White House.”


Congressman DeSaulnier Introduces Bill to Protect Workers from Wrongful Health Claim Denials

WASHINGTON – Today, Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Ranking Member Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), and Committee on Education and Workforce Members Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06), and Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12), introduced a series of bills designed to protect consumers from wrongful health claim denials by health insurers and group health plans.

The legislation follows the Committee Democrats’ recent report, titled Denied: How the Health Care Industry Stacks the Deck Against Working Families, which examined the growing problem of wrongful health claim denials and the consequences for workers and their families.

Health insurance is, fundamentally, a promise between consumers and their health plan,” said Committee on Education and Workforce Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03). “When working people do their part by paying thousands of dollars every year for coverage— they expect their plan to cover the care they need. Too often, insurers break that promise by denying legitimate claims and shifting costs onto families who can least afford it.”

The Consumer Health Claim Assistance Act, Health Claim Denial Transparency Act, Consumer Appeal Rights Enforcement Act, and CLINIC Assistance Act directly respond to the report’s call for stronger transparency, oversight, and accountability to ensure insurance companies and health plans honor the coverage they promise and that families can access and afford the care they need.

The Consumer Health Claim Assistance Act, introduced by HELP Subcommittee Ranking Member DeSaulnier, establishes a program within the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) within the Department of Labor (DOL) to support consumers whose health claims are wrongfully denied. The bill directly addresses budgetary and staffing issues at EBSA by establishing a dedicated funding stream to support the program through an annual fee that will be paid by certain plans.

“Americans’ ability to access quality, affordable healthcare is being undermined by corporate greed and improper denials of legitimate medical claims,” said HELP Ranking Member DeSaulnier. “I am proud to introduce the Consumer Health Claim Assistance Act that would help ensure the agency responsible for overseeing employer-sponsored health insurance is well equipped to assist consumers. It is past time we take decisive action to put the American people above profits.”

To read the bill text of the Consumer Health Claim Assistance Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet for the Consumer Health Claim Assistance Act, click here.

TheHealth Claim Denial Transparency Act, introduced by Rep. McBath, sheds light on claim denial rates by forcing the Trump Administration’s DOL to implement a longstanding requirement of the Affordable Care Act(ACA) and recommendation from the DOL Office of the Inspector General for health plans to disclose how many claims for benefits they deny each year, as well as the number of claims subject to prior authorization and the use of artificial intelligence.

“For too long, insurance companies have been able to deny claims behind closed doors. They have had no obligation to tell patients or regulators how often it happens or why,” said Rep. McBath. “The Health Claim Denial Transparency Act requires health plans to finally disclose their rates and explain more of their reasoning. The Affordable Care Act has required this kind of disclosure for years, but the Department of Labor has never enforced it. Families deserve to know that the health insurance that they pay into is actually working on their behalf.”

To read the bill text for the Health Claim Denial Transparency Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet for the Health Claim Denial Transparency Act, click here.

The Consumer Appeal Rights Enforcement Act, introduced by Rep. Lee, gives DOL the ability to impose civil monetary penalties to hold insurance companies, plans, and other actors accountable for violations of the full and fair review and internal appeal requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and the ACA’s external review requirement.

“Families pay thousands of dollars every year for health insurance with the expectation that it will be there when they need it. But instead, too many people are forced to fight through confusing appeals, endless paperwork, and corporate bureaucracy while they are sick, injured, or caring for someone they love,” said Rep. Lee. “Insurance companies should not be able to wrongfully deny care and then face no consequences for violating patients’ rights. This legislation gives the Department of Labor the power to hold bad actors accountable and makes clear that denying working people a fair appeal is not simply the cost of doing business.”

To read the bill text for the Consumer Appeal Rights Enforcement Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet for the Consumer Appeal Rights Enforcement Act, click here.

The CLINIC Assistance Act, introduced by Rep. Courtney, will supplement the DOL’s work and help rebuild access to consumer assistance by establishing a grant program through which the Secretary of Labor can provide funding to law schools to create programs to assist consumers whose benefits have been denied by health insurers and employee welfare benefit plans, directly helping working people and training a new generation of consumer advocates.

“One of the disturbing trends in health care is the rising number of claim denials that patients seeking urgently needed medically necessary treatment are left with,” said Rep. Courtney. “By establishing a federal grant program through the Department of Labor to support law clinics that specialize in navigating the complex insurance appeals process, we can provide American patients, at no expense, with the expertise – and people – on their side when they’re wrongfully denied coverage.”

To read the full bill text of the CLINIC Assistance Act, click here.

To read the fact sheet for the CLINIC Assistance Act, click here.

Background

On June 18, 2024, HELP Subcommittee Ranking Member DeSaulnier and Full Committee Ranking Member Scott urged the Department of Labor to improve transparency for consumers after alarming reports of widespread denials of benefits by employment-based health plans. These plans cover more than 130 million Americans and are subject to important consumer protections under ERISA.

On November 18, 2025, Ranking Members DeSaulnier and Scott led House health leaders in urging the Trump Administration to tackle wrongful claim denials by group health plans and insurance companies and secure coverage for working people under ERISA—the largest source of health insurance in the U.S.

On April 8, 2026, Education and Workforce Committee Democrats released a Committee report titled “Denied: How the Health Care Industry Stacks the Deck Against Working Families,” examining the growing problem of wrongful health claim denials and the consequences for workers and their families.


Donalds Introduces the Protecting Ratepayers Act

WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has introduced the "Protecting Ratepayers Act" to ensure that private developers, rather than American taxpayers, bear the investment costs of data center developments that advance our country's technological dominance.

Introduced as the 27th piece of legislation by Congressman Donalds in the 119th Congress, this measure mandates that entities that build, own, or operate data centers derive all of their energy and water from alternative sources. This ensures these facilities do not interfere with the electric grid or the public water system.

This piece of legislation aims to protect American households from rising utility costs by requiring AI data centers to independently source water and power, bypassing public infrastructure. Additionally, this initiative codifies President Trump's Ratepayer Protection Pledge into law, ensuring corporate expansion does not strain public infrastructure.

"The next wave of technology and innovation shouldn’t come at the expense of hardworking Americans. Our outdated energy grid is already in desperate need of modernization and is not prepared to take on the power demands of data centers without impacting the wallets of our citizens," said Congressman Byron Donalds. "That is why I’m proud to introduce the Protecting Ratepayers Act, which requires all new and existing data centers to generate and use their own power and water. This common-sense approach will ease the burden on individuals and households everywhere without stifling our economic growth."

BACKGROUND:


Congresswoman Escobar Introduces Legislation to Prohibit Eminent Domain of Mt. Cristo Rey

Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) introduced the Mount Cristo Rey Protection Act, legislation to prohibit the federal government from exercising eminent domain at Mount Cristo Rey, a sacred religious site that has served the El Paso and Southern New Mexico area since 1939.

This legislation follows the Trump Administration’s announcement that it intends to seize approximately 14 acres of land surrounding the base of Mount Cristo Rey to extend the southern border wall. Owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces, Mount Cristo Rey is a significant religious and cultural landmark, welcoming more than 40,000 pilgrims and visitors each year for Good Friday and other religious observances.

“Mount Cristo Rey is a religious and cultural landmark that has been central to our community for generations," said Congresswoman Escobar. "Rather than working with border communities to advance effective border security, the Trump Administration continues to disregard the people, history, and culture that make our region special. I will continue to fight for its preservation.”

“For almost 100 years Mount Cristo Rey has been an iconic sacred site in our borderland region," said El Paso Bishop Mark J. Seitz. "The mountain, with its 29-foot statue of Christ, is visible for many miles and stands at the border of two countries and three states. It has become for people in our region a holy site marking the unity of humanity and of faith that transcends borders. For the federal government to forcefully take this holy ground to build a tall barrier topped with razor wire would represent an overreach on the part of the government and create a sign that speaks, not of mutual respect and love, but of separation and rejection. As the Bishop of El Paso I support this Bill which would call the federal government to set aside a heavy-handed abuse of power against this sacred place. I am confident that through negotiation with the rightful owners of the property, the Church of Las Cruces, solutions can be found to provide for the deterrence of unauthorized entry into this country while at the same time preserving the integrity of Mount Cristo Rey."

"For generations, the faithful from the cities, farms and villages of the borderland have climbed Mount Cristo Rey and united as a single community for prayer and celebration at the feet of Christ the King," said Las Cruces Bishop Peter Baldacchino. "In a world fractured by political, racial and economic divisions, Mount Cristo Rey stands out as both a powerful symbol of hope and peace and a literal pathway to unity. We are grateful for the actions of Rep. Escobar and other legislators in helping to preserve this important site for generations to come."

The Mount Cristo Rey Protection Act builds on Congresswoman Escobar’s ongoing efforts to protect Mount Cristo Rey. During the House Appropriations Committee consideration of the Fiscal Year 2027 Homeland Security Appropriations bill, Rep. Escobar offered an amendment to prohibit the use of federal funds to construct a border wall at Mount Cristo Rey. This amendment was rejected by House Republicans.

Specifically, the Mount Cristo Rey Protection Act would:


Fleischmann Awarded ‘Hero of Main Street’

WASHINGTON–– The National Retail Federation has named Representative Chuck Fleischmann as a “Hero of Main Street” for his support of the retail industry through legislation and his leadership in Congress.

“The Volunteer State is proud to support millions of retail jobs that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for families across Tennessee. I have always been committed to advancing this vital industry by investing in workforce development and training programs. These efforts have helped Tennesseans secure good jobs, build rewarding careers, and provide for their loved ones. As the retail sector continues to evolve, I will remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that help our workforce thrive and keep Tennessee moving forward,” Fleischmann said.

The National Retail Federation stands as the world’s largest retail trade association, championing the people, brands, policies, and ideas that keep retail strong. Most retailers are small businesses, over 98 percent employ fewer than 50 people, making them the backbone of our communities and economy.


Alim Garipov Released From Detention Following Community Advocacy

Today, Alim Garipov, a Bellaire High School student, was released from ICE detention following a community-wide advocacy effort. Immigration lawyer Olsa Alikaj-Cano of Cano Immigration PLLC, Congresswoman Fletcher (TX-07), and Alim’s family released the following joint statement:

“We are relieved and grateful that Alim has finally been released from detention and reunited with his family.

“This outcome came after a tireless, expeditious effort over the weekend, working in partnership to secure Alim’s release.

“So many people across our city—his friends, teachers, coaches, and so many others—rallied behind Alim in support, and those who know him know it’s easy to understand why. He is an extraordinary young man with a bright future ahead of him. He loves his family and this country, and he has done everything the right way, legally, throughout this process.

“Too many immigrant families in our community and across the country are facing similar uncertainty and separation, and we are actively working to help many others facing the same fear.

“We will continue working to help members of our community in these challenging times, and we will continue to advocate for an end to the unfair and unjust policies that led to this heartbreaking situation in the first place. We hope that everyone who expressed concern for Alim will continue to do so for him and for others—it matters.”


Congressman Maxwell Frost Seeks Answers Over Alleged Wage Violations Affecting Workers at EPCOT Restaurants

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), sent a letter to the executive leadership of Delaware North requesting answers about allegations that employees at Patina Group restaurants inside Disney's EPCOT Italy Pavilion were not paid for all of the hours they worked over several years.

Following concerns raised by Central Florida constituents, Rep. Frost is seeking information about the company's timekeeping, payroll, overtime, and wage-and-hour practices as part of his congressional oversight responsibilities.

In the letter, Rep. Frost says:

“I am writing regarding wage and hour practices at the Delaware North subsidiary Patina Group restaurants located inside Disney’s Epcot Italy Pavilion.

“My office has been contacted by constituents regarding allegations made by four employees who claim that they were not compensated for all the hours they worked over several years. As a member of the Congressional Labor Caucus, who helps advance policies covering these matters, I am seeking additional information to better understand both the circumstances and the policies currently in place.

“I am requesting answers to the following questions no later than August 3, 2026.

1. What are your company policies for tracking employee work hours?

2. What processes are in place to ensure employees are compensated for all hours worked, including work performed before or after their scheduled shifts?

3. Are employees ever expected to perform work before or after their scheduled shifts?

a. If no, how is that policy communicated?

4. How are overtime hours approved and compensated?

5. What training do managers or supervisors receive regarding wage and hour practices?

6. What procedures are in place for employees to report concerns about pay? How are those concerns addressed?

7. Can you provide my office with any documentation regarding the payroll and timekeeping systems used at Patina Group restaurants located inside Disney’s Epcot Italy Pavilion?

Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue.”

Click here for the full letter.

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Gillen Questions Former FEMA Chief on Nonprofit Security Grant Deadlines and Flood Resiliency in Coastal Communities

A video of the full remarks is available HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) questioned former Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate in a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing on the agency's abbreviated application timeline for the FY2026 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). The application period gave New York houses of worship just ten days—including the Fourth of July holiday weekend—to apply for critical security funding.

Fugate said he would not oppose extending the application deadline and urged Congress to also consider legislation allowing NSGP funding to remain available into the next fiscal year, warning that otherwise the funds could expire before grants are awarded.

Gillen also questioned Fugate about strengthening flood resilience along critical roadways in coastal communities like Long Island, where flooding can impede emergency response and evacuation efforts. Fugate emphasized that resilient transportation infrastructure is essential for public safety and that roads should be built to withstand future climate risks so that taxpayers are not funding repairs after increasingly severe storms.

On questioning about extending the NSGP deadline:

Rep. Gillen: “I'm concerned that FEMA still has not awarded fiscal year 2025 nonprofit security grants on a timely basis, leaving vulnerable communities waiting. And second, while FEMA recently announced the fiscal year 2026 process, it gave states less than 30 days to review and submit all their applications.

And as a result, New York State opened its portal on July 1st and then closed it on July 10th. So it gave houses of worship just ten days to apply over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Mr. Fugate, do you agree that FEMA should extend the deadline for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program and do everything possible to give houses of worship a fair chance to apply for this funding?”

Administrator Fugate: “I wouldn't oppose it. As FEMA Administrator, I try to make it happen, but you got to remember we had Secretary [Noem] that shut down anything over $100,000, and they've got a tremendous backlog to cover. And also, these grants have to be spent within the fiscal year. So in addition to telling FEMA to extend it, [Congress] also needs to consider legislation to extend the funding into the next fiscal year so they don't die at the end of this calendar year.”

On questioning about the importance of federal investment in flood resilience:

Rep Gillen: “Mr. Fugate, as a former first responder and former administrator of FEMA, how important is it to the safety and well-being of Americans, particularly those in coastal communities like in my district, that the federal government invest in flood resiliency along our major travel corridors?”

Administrator Fugate: “Well, it's like asking, should the lights be on? You got to have it. If I can't get there, I can't respond to it. Roads are critical infrastructure, just like power.

Rep. Gillen has consistently fought for greater investments in flood resilience for Long Island. She previously fought to include an amendment in the FEMA Act that would require the FEMA Administrator to report to Congress on the national need for major flood resiliency investments to safeguard key travel corridors. It would also require FEMA to issue recommendations to Congress on ways to reduce flooding and secure our roadways.

Rep. Gillen recently co-led a bipartisan letter calling for FEMA to extend the NPSG deadline, which would allow New York nonprofits and houses of worship the appropriate amount of time to apply for this critical funding.

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Rep. Gillen Questions Director of Space Commerce on the Office's Mission Authorization Proposal

A video of the full remarks is available HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) questioned the Director of the Office of Space Commerce (OSC), Taylor Jordan, in a House Science, Space, and Technology Committee hearing on how the federal government can better support U.S. companies seeking to deploy technology in space and protect them against hostile foreign governments. Rep. Gillen questioned Director Jordan on how the Office’s new Space Commerce Certification to streamline the deployment of new space technologies would benefit American companies, including those on Long Island.

Rep. Gillen also examined what national security guardrails are in place to ensure that these companies are fully vetted so foreign companies and governments are not permitted to take advantage of the U.S. space commerce industry. Director Jordan responded that there will be an interagency effort to vet applications with input from the Department of War, NASA, and the Department of State. These agencies will be consulted for their expertise to certify that the companies that apply meet the necessary certifications.

On questioning what the incentive is for companies to participate in the Space Commerce Certification process:

Rep. Gillen: “I share [Chairman Babin's] concerns about this just being another regulatory burden for companies to have to overcome, and you mentioned that the process is voluntary. What is the real incentive for companies to get this certification?”

Director Jordan: “Thank you for the question, and that's a great one. That is at the core of why we did this. So there are gaps in regulations right now. Why we did this is because an industry, a company who has a novel mission, can put a license into the federal government, either through us, FAA, FCC, and it's no guarantee that they'll get an answer.

So what we're trying to do is to actually first get an answer, and that's step one for us. Step one is closing the regulatory gaps. Now, the second part of that is the voluntary nature. We want to provide incentive for companies to use this new system, and the incentive that we've come up with is if we can provide a streamlining of the different regulations where a company would put in one application to us, it could help satisfy portions of the FAA and the FCC's obligations for their own work.”

On questioning what national security guardrails have been established:

Rep. Gillen: “And as you're vetting the companies that are putting in for the certification, what kind of guardrails have you put in there to protect national security?”

Director Jordan: “Through the interagency, we will have the Department of War and NASA, FAA, FCC, State Department, all with the core U.S. government equities. And that's in addition to national security. There are international obligations, space safety.

We need their expertise to be able to have those conversations and ask the right questions with us. When there is a dispute over something through the interagency, we feel like we have built in a dispute resolution elevation process that we've modeled after our CRSRA license as well. So we feel like we will have the ability to seek resolution, but national security is extremely important, and the Department of War will absolutely be in the interagency process.”

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Rep. Gillen Tours New Malverne Police Headquarters, Joins Ride-Along, Meets with Leadership

MALVERNE, NY — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) met with Village of Malverne Chief of Police Thomas Martini, PBA President Sergeant Castellano and joined Officer McCoy on a tour of the new headquarters and a ride-along in the Village. The officers briefed Rep. Gillen on the challenges facing the department and discussed ways the federal government and Congress can provide stronger support.

“Thank you to Police Chief Tom Martini, Officer McCoy and the Malverne PBA for their dedication and service to our community,” said Rep. Gillen. “It was valuable to hear directly about the challenges they face and discuss how I can continue advocating for them in Washington. Whether it’s supporting critical COPS Hiring grant funding or helping secure the resources our officers need to keep themselves and our communities safe, I will continue working for our law enforcement and the families they protect.”

"On behalf of the members of the Malverne Police Department, I would like to thank Congresswoman Gillen for taking the time to visit our department and meet with us," said Chief Thomas Martini, Malverne Police Department. "We truly appreciate her willingness to learn more about our operations and the needs of our department. We value her support and commitment to understanding the issues affecting local law enforcement and look forward to working together in the future.”

This visit follows Rep. Gillen’s meetings and ride-alongs with the Hempstead, Freeport and Lynbrook Police Departments and continues her efforts to meet directly with first responders across New York’s Fourth Congressional District.

Since taking office, Rep. Gillen has been a strong advocate for law enforcement, bringing millions in new federal public safety funding to Nassau County. As a member of the bipartisan Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus, Gillen introduced the Officer Wellness and Peer Support Act and has cosponsored the Protect and Serve Act, Invest to Protect Act and the HERO Act, which aims to improve the detection, prevention, and treatment of mental health issues among public safety officers.

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