Senate Committee Advances Bipartisan Padilla Bill to Support Tribal Land Management

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs advanced U.S. Senator Alex Padilla’s (D-Calif.) bicameral and bipartisan bill to promote Tribal management of over 500 acres of land in California by transferring federal land to the Pit River Tribe. Padilla introduced the legislation with Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) last year to protect Tribal communities and local environment in surrounding regions. The late Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.-01) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“For generations, senseless conflict and bureaucratic barriers have kept California Tribes from managing their ancestral lands,” said Senator Padilla. “The Pit River Land Transfer Act would ensure the Pit River Tribe rightly acquires their sacred ancestral lands to maintain their traditions and history. This is a critical step in protecting the Pit River Tribe’s community and surrounding ecosystems while honoring the Tribe’s claim to the land.”

“I am proud to see our legislation to help the Pit River Tribe restore their ancestral homelands and promote Tribal sovereignty advance out of committee,” said Senator Schiff. “This bill will help the Pit River Tribe manage the Four Corners site as their ancestors did.”

“When Senator Padilla introduced the Pit River Land Transfer Act, we spoke of restoring a sacred connection that has endured despite great hardship and dispossession. Today, thanks to Senator Padilla’s leadership, the bill has passed committee and we are one step closer,” said Yatch Bamford, Chairman of the Pit River Nation. “This is more than a transfer of acreage — it is the return of a place where our ancestors are buried, where our ceremonies were born, and where our children’s children will carry our language and traditions forward. On behalf of the Pit River Tribe, I thank Senator Padilla for his continued leadership and unwavering commitment to our people. I urge the Senate to pass our bill without delay so that this long-overdue act of justice can finally be realized.”

The Tribe has been actively trying to acquire this land through various governmental processes for over a decade. However, they have experienced a series of delays that have added years to the process. The Pit River Land Transfer Act would transfer 557 acres of federal land administered by the U.S. Forest Service to the Secretary of the Interior to be held in trust for the Pit River Tribe.

The Pit River Tribe consist of 11 autonomous bands traditionally inhabiting the area surrounding the Pit River and its tributaries. They are known for their deep spiritual connection to the land, with a rich cultural heritage centered around fishing, hunting, and seasonal gatherings.

The proposed land to be transferred is known as the Four Corners Property, located in Shasta County. The Tribe has strong cultural and historical connections to the Four Corners, and they view it as a central landmark of their ancestral lands. In October 1970, members of the Tribe erected a Quonset hut on the Four Corners, staking a peaceful, yet firm claim. That month, more than 100 sheriff’s deputies, federal marshals, and forest rangers ordered the occupants to evacuate the property, which eventually resulted in violence and the hospitalization of several Tribal members.

Padilla is a strong advocate for restoring Tribal ownership of ancestral lands. Last week, Padilla testified at a Senate Committee on Indian Affairs hearing to advocate for critical water investments for California Tribes. In 2024, the Senate passed Padilla’s Jamul Indian Village Land Transfer Act, which established over 170 acres as trust lands for the benefit of the Jamul Tribe. Under the Biden Administration, a series of Padilla’s bills to restore Tribal stewardship of sacred lands and ensure federal land management laws respected Tribal sovereignty were signed into law. The package included laws to take more than 2,500 acres of land in the San Jacinto Mountains into trust for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and to place roughly 1,000 acres of federal land located in Humboldt and Siskiyou counties into trust for the Karuk Tribe.

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Peters Leads Resolution Designating August 7th as National Lighthouse Day

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) is leading a bipartisan resolution designating August 7, 2026 as “National Lighthouse Day.” The resolution – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Angus King (I-ME) – encourages all Americans to visit and support the preservation of our nation’s historic lighthouses. The resolution also honors the historical significance of Michigan’s lighthouses and recognizes the dedicated workers who protect these landmarks and share their stories in communities across the state.

“The Great Lakes are part of who we are as Michiganders, and our lighthouses are a crucial piece of that heritage,” Peters said. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution that urges folks to appreciate and help protect these historic landmarks for generations to come.”

According to the United States Lighthouse Society, Michigan is home to more than 120 lighthouses along its more than 3,000 miles of coastline, the most of any U.S. state. Today, these lighthouses serve as reminders of the state’s rich maritime history. Michigan lighthouses were integral to helping ships navigate the Great Lakes during the 1800’s and early 1900’s, supporting the robust Great Lakes maritime economy. Many of these lighthouses remain operational in present day, while others now operate as museums and educational centers.

The first lighthouse built in the State in 1825, the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, is still active to this day and is home to a museum. Many Michigan lighthouses, like Big Red in Holland and Big Sable Point in Ludington, are also popular tourist destinations for visitors from across the nation.

This resolution is supported by the United States Lighthouse Society, American Lighthouse Foundation, and the Lighthouse Preservation Society.

You can read the resolution here.

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Ricketts, Slotkin Introduce Legislation to Prevent Offshoring Biotech Industry to Communist China

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced the Biotech Investment National Security Act (BINSA). This bill would ensure American investment in adversary biotechnology is subject to the review requirements of the Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security (COINS) Act.

Specifically, this legislation adds biotechnology, including pharmaceutical development, biologics manufacturing, and clinical research to the list of sectors subject to screening.

“America leads the world in innovation across all sectors,” said Senator Ricketts. “This critical legislation ensures American investment in the biotech industry benefits Americans—not our enemies. We cannot allow Communist China to obtain the resources it needs to threaten our way of life. I will fight every effort that weaponizes American investments to undercut our businesses and reshape supply chains against us. Maintaining America’s innovative leadership and global economic dominance is a matter of national security.”

“Biotech is crucial for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and spurring innovation in science and technologies, like lifesaving medicines,”said Senator Slotkin.“But right now, China is eating our lunch in this field. This bill ensures strong U.S. leadership in biotech and protects U.S. intellectual property and investments. We’ve seen China use this playbook before to dominate other critical sectors, such as the automotive industry and drone market. This bill will stop that.”

This legislation would:

Amend the COINS Act to include biotechnology –specifically pharmaceutical and biological product development—to the list of sectors subject to outbound screening.

Make U.S. pharmaceutical licensing deals, joint ventures, and equity investments with Chinese covered foreign persons subject to review by the U.S. Treasury Department.

Direct the Treasury Department to consult with Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of War (DoW), and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and implement regulations within one year of enactment.

Require the Secretary of Defense to assess within 60 days whether U.S. capital flows into Chinese biotechnology negatively affect national security and military readiness.

Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Reps. John Moolenaar (R-MI-02) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) in June 2026.


Sen. Rick Scott in The Wall Street Journal: “Filibuster Abuse Has Destroyed Senate Debate”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rick Scott published a letter to the editor in The Wall Street Journal titled, “Filibuster Abuse Has Destroyed Senate Debate” In his letter, Senator Scott shows how the Senate filibuster has failed to force debate, compromise, and results—and why it needs to go.

Senator Rick Scott wrote, “Abuse of the filibuster has stifled open debate in the chamber. It prevents, by design, the results that voters expect us to deliver.”

…

“Modern majority leaders file cloture before debate begins. The agenda changes at the threat of debate. The iconic final scene from the film ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington’ rarely occurs.”

…

“In 1964 opponents of the Civil Rights Act attempted to stop the legislation with a filibuster. The bill’s supporters were initially far short of the 67 votes needed to break the filibuster. But by forcing open debate, the Senate finally forced an answer on Jim Crow.”

…

“The filibuster is a muscle we never exercise. It has atrophied. Senators have lost the implicit understanding that a debate needs to happen before it can end. This legislative body needs to deliver results, not fail while adhering to a prohibitive process. We should end the filibuster and pass the SAVE America Act—or require debate until exhaustion or satisfaction.”

Senator Scott wrote in response to an op-ed published by his colleague U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) last week arguing to preserve the filibuster.

Read the full letter HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Leads Fight to Codify President Trump’s America First Trade Agenda

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rick Scott introduced the Trade Deficit Elimination Act to codify President Trump’s efforts to address decades-long trade deficits that have allowed foreign countries to take advantage of working American families while protecting their own domestic markets through unfair trade practices.

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Tim Sheehy cosponsored this legislation.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Previous generations of Americans gave us an economic superpower; it’s our job to preserve what they built and to leave America better than we found it for our children and grandchildren. That means we can’t let other countries rip us off. In recent years, our trading partners have taken advantage of access to American markets while unfairly crowding American products out of their own countries. Decline is a choice, and President Trump is taking action to restore American prosperity. I'm proud to introduce this legislation to give President Trump the tools he needs to level the playing field, protect American workers, and put America First.”

Senator Kevin Cramer said, “Trade should be fair, not one-sided, and it’s refreshing to have a president who isn’t afraid to hold our trading partners accountable. This bill gives President Trump and Ambassador Greer tools to address trade deficits, keep critical supply chains intact, and achieve better trade agreements for American farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and workers.”

Senator Tim Sheehy said, “For too long, America has tolerated massive trade deficits that hollow out our manufacturing base and put American workers at a disadvantage. This bill puts American producers first, strengthens our industrial base, and ensures our trade relationships work for the hardworking men and women of this country - not against them.”

BACKGROUND:

The Trade Deficit Elimination Act creates a congressional framework authorizing tariffs to address bilateral trade imbalances in goods. Each year, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) must identify which trading partners run a trade deficit with the U.S. and publish this list of "trade deficit economies.”

Within 15 days, the USTR may adjust tariffs on these countries' imports as needed to close the gap, in addition to any tariffs already in place.

The legislation allows exemptions for products critical to national security, essential supply chains, and goods that cannot reasonably be produced in the United States.

The bill also authorizes the USTR to negotiate trade agreements with these countries to shrink the imbalance through commitments to reform trade practices, buy more American goods, or limit exports.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

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ICYMI: Sen. Johnson Votes to Hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in Contempt of Congress in Today’s Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Business Meeting

“If these investigations are one-sided, it’s because one side simply doesn’t want to look at the truth.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, voted to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress during a business meeting of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The vote follows Dr. Fauci’s refusal to comply with the committee’s investigation in his role during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as his silence in last Wednesday’s hearing.

Sen. Johnson’s remarks:

“Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First of all, I want to associate myself with and second your opening comments. And I also want to strongly rebut the comments from our Democratic colleagues here, you know, particularly when Ranking Member Peters says this has been ‘one-sided’ and ‘rushed,’ rushed?

“When I was chairman of this committee back in 2020, I started conducting oversight. I held hearings. There was no cooperation in those hearings. As a matter of fact, I remember one when we held a hearing with Dr. Pierre Kory, when he came in with all kinds of evidence on the effectiveness of ivermectin. The ranking member then denigrated him. Back then, Dr. Kory was a Democrat. He was shocked at the treatment he was given by the ranking member.

“How many people died because they lacked early treatment with safe, effective generic drugs? Well, that hearing laid out the truth that this could be something that could help people, and we had a ranking member that did everything that he could to denigrate that truth.

“My current experience is as the chairman of PSI; we’ve been holding hearing after hearing. My ranking member, [Senator] Blumenthal, in those hearings, we had one called ‘Voices of the Vaccine Injured.’ We had parents come in and tell their heart-wrenching stories. We had parents coming in, telling the truth. And the ranking member, a few hours before that hearing, held a press conference and said, ‘hope the press doesn’t cover it, because there’s nothing credible about this hearing.’

“If these investigations are one-sided, it’s because one side simply doesn’t want to look at the truth. They want to bury the truth. They want to memory-hole it. They don’t want to look at the Fauci diaries and take a look at how contradictory what he wrote to himself –how contradictory it was to what he actually told the public.

“I think one of the revelations of those diaries, I think probably the most significant one that’s being overlooked, was early on in the pandemic, he wrote in his diaries he thought COVID would be maybe twice a bad flu season. Now, I’m not downplaying a bad flu season. We have them oftentimes. They overwhelm hospitals, something to take seriously. But a pandemic that’s going to be twice that – is that really worth destroying people’s lives, shutting down businesses, destroying an economy? I argued back then that it wouldn’t be.

“It’s been six years since the pandemic began. We have not had a reckoning of what happened. Last Wednesday’s hearing was an excellent hearing from the standpoint of legitimate questions being raised, legitimate questions the American people want answers to, legitimate questions that some of them, only Anthony Fauci, ‘Saint Fauci,’ ‘Mr. Science’ could answer.

“And even though we have quotes of him saying, ‘I’m not afraid of any oversight committee, I’m happy to talk to any oversight committee, I have nothing to hide.’ That’s not the position he took last Wednesday. What he displayed last Wednesday was contempt for Congress, contempt for this committee, contempt for our investigation, the same contempt that … our ranking members have shown for the diligent oversight and the exposing of the truth that I’ve been undertaking for six years.

“There’s nothing rushed. It’s been one-sided, but not because we haven’t reached out, not because we haven’t involved the other side. The other side, like way too many Americans, have just closed their eyes, covered up their ears, and refused – refused to look at the truth.

“I am definitely going to vote yes on contempt of Congress, and my investigation has just begun.

“We’ve invited Dr. Fauci for a transcribed interview. Okay, he doesn’t want to do it in front of the American public? Come in front of our committee. We’ll go through detail [by] detail. You say you have nothing to hide. Good. We’ll do it behind closed doors. We’ll transcribe it. That’s only one of the interviews we will be conducting … Last week’s hearing just began the accountability. There’s a lot more accountability that’s required.

“Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

Watch the full remarks here.

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Ahead of National Purple Heart Day, Rosen Secures Purple Heart for Iraq Veteran from Las Vegas

A Few Weeks Ago, Senator Rosen Secured A Purple Heart For A Vietnam War Veteran In Northern Nevada

LAS VEGAS, NV – Ahead of National Purple Heart Day, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) awarded retired Sergeant First Class (SFC) Thomas Koehler with the Purple Heart medal during a ceremony in her Las Vegas Office. Senator Rosen secured the medal for Koehler for combat-related line-of-duty injuries sustained in Iraq in 2005. In 2016, he was medically retired from the Army and continued his dedication to the local military and veteran community as a Veteran Service Officer for the Nevada Department of Veteran Services.

“Sergeant First Class Thomas Koehler bravely served our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan, sustaining combat injuries in service to our nation. And his service has continued even after he retired – doing truly admirable work by supporting our veterans here in Southern Nevada,” said Senator Rosen. “Sergeant First Class Koehler reached out to my office to help him secure the Purple Heart he earned through his service, and I’m so proud that my team and I were able to do so in less than two months. Assisting Nevada veterans is one of the most important parts of my job as a United States Senator. If any veteran in our state needs assistance obtaining medals or decorations they believe they are eligible for, dealing with issues with the VA or another federal agency, or obtaining their service records, please reach out to my office at rosen.senate.gov.”

Senator Rosen has been a champion for veterans in Nevada and across the country. In addition to securing Koehler’s Purple Heart, she recently ensured the awarding of a Purple Heart for a Vietnam War Veteran in Northern Nevada. Senator Rosen is also leading the charge in Congress to secure benefits for veterans who served at the Nevada Test and Training Range during the nuclear testing era and were exposed to toxins, but have been denied benefits despite their civilian counterparts receiving support. Earlier this year, she successfully pushed the Trump Administration to reverse a rule that could have decreased benefits for disabled veterans. Senator Rosen has also introduced bipartisan legislation to cut red tape and streamline the process for medical practitioners who work with both the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help eliminate delays in patient care.

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Rounds Introduces Legislation to Boost American Manufacturing of Robotics, Stay Ahead of China

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) today introduced the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act, legislation aimed at boosting American manufacturing of robotics systems. This legislation, which directs the Department of Commerce to collect more data and develop standards for new robotics, would help keep America ahead of China in the robotics industry and keep American manufacturing competitive globally.

“It’s important that the United States continues to stay ahead of China when it comes to development and manufacturing of new technologies,” said Rounds. “The Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act would improve data collection and coordination of the use of robotics in the United States.”

“The robotics revolution is here. To compete with China and keep workers from being left behind, we need better data and coordination to set smart standards,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill positions Colorado’s growing robotics industry and workforce to lead in this new economy.”

Specifically, the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act would:

Directs the Department of Commerce to support American industry by improving data sharing to support the development of the models that power advanced robotics.

Directs the Office of Advanced Manufacturing, a NIST department which works with Manufacturing USA institutes across the country, to promote the use of robotics.

Directs the Department of Commerce to coordinate with the robotics industry for the development of voluntary standards for new and emerging robotics use cases and develop training and apprenticeship programs to upskill American workers.

Directs the Department of Commerce to collaborate with the robotics industry to create solutions in the energy, food and healthcare spaces to drive down costs for American consumers.

Directs the Department of Commerce to coordinate with the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Labor on the development of material to support workforce development and job creation in the robotics industry.

Requires the Department of Commerce to collect data annually (with a 5 year sunset) on the adoption of robotics systems across industry so that we can accurately benchmark US competitiveness relative to China and other leaders in the adoption of robotics.

Pushes NASA, which has developed incredible innovations related to robotics (ex. the Mars Rover) to work with industry to commercialize the research and patents developed by the agency, facilitating private sector entrepreneurship and job creation from federal research.

Supporters of the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act include:

“Prosperous Robotics strongly supports the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act and its vision to strengthen America’s leadership in robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing,” said Michael Bankowski, Co-Founder and CEO of Sioux Falls-based Prosperous Robotics. “We are especially encouraged to see home and elder care recognized as a national priority, where robotics can improve independence, dignity, and quality of life for millions of families.”

“Boston Dynamics commends Senators Rounds and Hickenlooper on the introduction of the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act,” said Brendan Schulman, VP of Policy & Government Relations at Boston Dynamics “This legislation would direct NIST to gather key information and metrics on the building blocks of the advanced robotics industry, including workforce training programs, standards for physical AI, emerging use cases, and regular reports on national robot adoption rates. These are important elements for building the national robotics strategy that industry has been calling for.”

“From the assembly line to artificial intelligence, American manufacturing has constantly embraced new technologies,” said Sam Dorn, VP of Policy and Government Affairs, New American Industrial Alliance. “The Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act continues that legacy by creating an all-of-government approach to robotics, from setting key standards and implementation benchmarks to pushing cutting-edge government technology to partner with private sector leaders. We thank Senator Rounds for his leadership on this important piece of legislation.”

“On behalf of Robots For America, I'm proud to endorse the Robotics Supply Chain Improvement Act, introduced by Senators Rounds and Hickenlooper,” said Saman Farid, Founder, Robots For America. “Robots don't replace American workers — they multiply what American workers can do, keeping factories competitive, production onshore, and good jobs in American communities. This bipartisan bill takes practical steps to strengthen our domestic robotics industrial base, from promoting adoption on factory floors to commercializing NASA innovations here at home. We urge Congress to pass it swiftly.”

Click HERE for full bill text.

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Rounds, Thune, Johnson Encourage Trump Administration to Approve Highmore Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) and Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging his support for South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden’s request for a major disaster declaration following storms in central South Dakota, including Highmore. The severe weather, caused by a series of storms between June 28 and July 3, impacted 21,786 households in eight counties and two tribal communities across roughly 8,500 square miles.

“We support the state’s request and urge you to approve a major disaster declaration, as soon as possible so that the necessary federal resources are available to assist the relevant areas of our state,” wrote the delegation. “We also strongly urge you to approve the state’s request for hazard mitigation funding. This will allow the state to mitigate future damages to vulnerable electric infrastructure. Without this funding, preventable damage to utilities from future disasters will only compound existing repair challenges.”

Read the full letter HERE or below.

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Dear President Trump,

We write in strong support of the state of South Dakota’s major disaster declaration request submitted by Governor Larry Rhoden on July 27, 2026. This disaster declaration request would assist in recovery efforts from severe weather that occurred June 28 to July 3, 2026.

From June 28 to July 3, 2026, a single severe weather system brought a series of devastating storms across central South Dakota. This multiday storm system included: a mini-derecho, windstorms, hail, straight line winds, tornadoes and flooding. The system also included peak wind gusts of 131 MPH, making it the strongest recorded thunderstorm wind gust since 1983 and among the strongest recorded in the United States.

This combination of severe weather impacted 21,786 households in eight counties and two tribal communities across nearly an 8,500 square mile area.

In the city of Highmore alone, 80-90% of all structures in the city sustained damage. It also caused significant damage to public infrastructure and led to widespread power outages. In some cases, residents were left without power for over a week while experiencing extremely hot summer temperatures.

The damage to public utility infrastructure is also severe and far reaching. Across South Dakota, electric infrastructure has been repeatedly weakened by year-round extreme weather events including severe storms, ice accumulation, wildfire, high winds, and flooding.

We support the state’s request and urge you to approve a major disaster declaration, as soon as possible so that the necessary federal resources are available to assist the relevant areas of our state. We also strongly urge you to approve the state’s request for hazard mitigation funding. This will allow the state to mitigate future damages to vulnerable electric infrastructure. Without this funding, preventable damage to utilities from future disasters will only compound existing repair challenges.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this request, and please do not hesitate to contact us if we can provide any additional information.

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NEWS: Sanders Introduces Bill to Guarantee Paid Vacation for U.S. Workers

WASHINGTON, Aug. 6 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today reintroduced the Guaranteed Paid Vacation Act — legislation that would guarantee at least two weeks of paid vacation to every full-time worker in America.

Joining Sanders as cosponsors are Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.). Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.) introduced companion legislation along with 86 members of the House of Representatives.

“It is beyond unacceptable that in the year 2026, the United States remains the only major country on Earth not to guarantee paid vacation time to workers. This legislation would put an end to that international embarrassment,” Sanders said. “We hear a lot of talk about family values in America, but let’s be clear: When a husband, wife, and kids, during the course of an entire year, are unable to spend any time together on vacation, that is not a family value. That is an attack on everything that a family is supposed to stand for. It’s not a radical idea to require companies in America to provide at least two weeks of paid vacation to their workers. What’s radical is that millions of Americans are not only working longer hours for lower wages, but that they do not receive a single paid vacation day. That should not be happening in the United States of America, the richest country in the history of the world.”

“Every worker in America deserves the chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with the people they love without worrying about missing a paycheck,” Magaziner said. “I’m grateful to Senator Sanders for leading this fight in the Senate. It is time that we deliver this basic fairness to hardworking Americans.”

While millions of Americans are working longer hours for lower wages, the U.S. remains the only major economy in the world to not guarantee some type of paid vacation time to its people. Today in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Australia and many countries in Europe, workers are guaranteed at least 10 days of paid vacation. In other countries, such as the United Kingdom, Sweden and France, paid vacation benefits are even stronger.

Meanwhile, nearly one in four workers in America — or more than 33 million workers nationwide — receive no paid vacation time at all. At the same time, almost 40% of workers report being on the job at least 45 hours a week and the average full-time worker in the U.S. now reports working 43 hours a week. Moreover, more than nine million Americans work multiple jobs, with more than five million working a second part-time job on top of a full-time job.

If passed, the Guaranteed Paid Vacation Act would ensure that:

Every worker in America has the right to accrue at least one hour of paid annual leave for every 25 hours worked.

Full-time workers will earn at least two weeks of paid annual leave per year, to be used for any reason, at their standard rate of pay.

Workers are protected against discrimination for exercising their right to take annual paid leave.

A recent poll found 79% of Americans support the Guaranteed Paid Vacation Act. The American people’s support for the legal right to paid time off is nearly universal. According to a recent poll conducted by the RAND Corporation, 90% of Americans support legislation that would require employers to offer earned time off.

The Guaranteed Paid Vacation Act is endorsed by United Auto Workers (UAW), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), National Education Association (NEA), National Nurses United (NNU), Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR)-SEIU, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation (SMART) Union, United Electrical, Radio & Machine Workers of America (UE), United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), United Steelworkers (USW), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), A Better Balance, National Partnership for Women & Families, United for Respect, Equal Rights Advocates, Family Values @ Work, MomsRising, National Employment Law Project (NELP), Paid Leave for All, Workplace Fairness, The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) and Indivisible.

Read the text here.


NEWS: Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez, Ramirez Reintroduce the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act

WASHINGTON, Aug. 6 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.) reintroduced the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act, which would rebuild the United States’ public housing stock, address the longstanding capital backlog and create thousands of union jobs. This bill provides a much-needed infusion of federal funding to update every public housing unit through weatherization, electrification, and modernization so that it may serve as a model of efficiency, sustainability and resiliency for the rest of the nation.

Joining Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez and Ramirez as cosponsors of this legislation are Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and 38 members of the House of Representatives.

“In the richest country in the history of the world, it is unacceptable that our nation’s public housing is in a state of chronic disrepair. It is unacceptable that hundreds of millions of Americans are facing the disastrous impacts of climate change while the fossil fuel industry makes huge profits. And it is unacceptable that far too many Americans are working multiple jobs just to keep a roof over their head,” Sanders said. “What the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act does is say that yes, we can create decent and affordable public housing for more than 1.5 million Americans that is based on energy efficiency and sustainable sources of power. And that when we do that, we can also create hundreds of thousands of good-paying, union jobs. That is a win-win-win situation.”

“From record-breaking heat waves to extreme flooding displacing public housing residents, Americans are feeling the parallel impacts of the housing and climate crisis. Now more than ever, it is integral that Congress put forward bold solutions that ensure our nation’s housing stock is both affordable and resilient,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “I am proud to reintroduce the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act alongside Representative Delia Ramirez and Senator Bernie Sanders to deliver a generational rebuild of our nation’s public housing stock, reduce emissions, and create hundreds of thousands of union jobs, including job opportunities for public housing residents. This Congress, we received our first endorsements from building trades unions. We are proud to fight for a bold future for public housing alongside the people who will build it.”

“Safe, sustainable, resilient, affordable housing is a HUMAN RIGHT, plain and simple. The policies we advance in Congress must help us realize that truth for EVERYONE. As our nation reckons with both a worsening housing crisis and urgent climate crisis, we must fight for and realize bold policy action and investment,” Ramirez said. “As the current administration attacks affordable housing funding, I am proud to stand with Representative Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Sanders to reintroduce legislation that will secure the future of our public housing, prioritize climate and racial justice, and boost our economy and labor force. The Green New Deal for Public Housing is a bold solution to our national housing problem”

The bill would create seven grant programs under one application process to modernize our public housing stock through:

Deep energy retrofits to increase energy savings in nearly a million public housing units;

Workforce development programs, prioritizing good-paying job opportunities for residents;

Energy efficiency, building electrification, and water quality upgrades;

Community renewable energy generation, the profits of which will be controlled by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) to boost their coffers and increase self-sufficiency;

Community resiliency and sustainability measures;

Climate adaptation and emergency disaster response systems.

This legislation has been endorsed by three building trades unions: the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), and the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).


Schatz Leads Group Of 14 Senators In Introducing New Bill To Restore Press Freedom At Pentagon

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today led a group of 14 senators in introducing the Protecting Pentagon Press Access Act. The new legislation would restore press access at the Department of Defense, reversing attempts by Secretary Pete Hegseth to suppress independent reporting at the Pentagon. In addition to Schatz, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).

“At a time of war, transparency and independent, accurate reporting matter more than ever,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill will reverse the Pentagon's effort to shut out the free press and make sure the public gets the information it deserves.”

Since taking office, Secretary Hegseth imposed a series of unreasonable and retaliatory restrictions on credentialed journalists’ access to the Pentagon and their ability to report. These measures go well beyond reasonable rules of conduct and reverse the Pentagon’s longstanding approach to the press, which has been maintained by officials from both parties.

The Protecting Pentagon Press Access Act would:

Restore press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible prior to the 2025 restrictions, including the “Correspondents’ Corridor”;

Restore unescorted press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible without an escort prior to the 2025 restrictions;

Require the Secretary to ensure the integrity of the process to issue to reporters a Pentagon credential, ensuring the security review process is conducted by career officials in the Pentagon Force Protection Agency without unnecessary delays or political influence; and

Prohibit any changes to press access at the Pentagon, including the designation of press workspaces, access areas, and press credentials, without prior congressional consultation.

As the co-author of the Global Press Freedom Act, Schatz has been leading efforts to protect press freedom around the world, including a resolution recognizing World Press Freedom Day.

The Protecting Pentagon Press Access Act is supported by Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and Reporters Without Borders.

The text of the bill is available here.

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NEWS: Amid Ongoing Human Rights Crises in Venezuela, Sen. Schiff Leads Effort to Force State Department to Report on Abuses

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) is demanding the U.S. Department of State (State) share an assessment detailing Venezuela’s human rights violations under Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who replaced Nicolás Maduro after his removal six months ago, and commit to preventing an increase in human rights abuses committed in Venezuela.

“The Trump administration’s increased support of the same officials who contributed to the Venezuelan government’s lengthy and well-documented record of human rights abuses and violations is alarming, and we urge the State Department to re-commit to its long-standing practice of calling attention to human rights violations committed by the Venezuelan regime and exerting pressure on regime officials to end these abuses,” the Senators wrote in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The Senators are seeking a record of the United States’ actions to address human rights abuses in the country to ensure no United States foreign assistance funding, including security or economic assistance, contributes to the human rights violations committed by the Venezuelan regime.

Senator Schiff is also prepared to introduce a measure in the future that would require State to submit a report on Venezuela’s human rights situation to Congress within 30 days of its passage, or else certain foreign assistance to the Venezuelan government would be automatically suspended.

“Unfortunately, the United States has stood by Rodríguez after her regime ignored its constitutional requirement to hold a presidential election within thirty days of the expiration of her 90-day temporary role as acting president in early April. Administration officials have also reportedly assisted the regime’s efforts to obstruct opposition leader María Corina Machado’s return to Venezuela, despite previously recognizing her party’s 2024 electoral victory. The United States’ continued support for Rodríguez despite her extra-constitutional hold on power is an implicit endorsement of her regime’s violation of Venezuelans’ political rights,” the Senators continued.

“Congress will continue to conduct rigorous oversight of the Administration’s efforts to support the Rodriguez regime. Should the State Department refuse to address the Venezuelan government’s human rights violations by the time the immediate earthquake recovery efforts conclude, we will consider using all available tools to require such a report, including Section 502B of the Foreign Assistance Act,” the Senators concluded.

In addition to Schiff, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.).

The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Secretary Rubio,

We write with concerns regarding the severe human rights abuses in Venezuela. These abuses, which existed during the rule of former President Nicolas Maduro, have not lessened despite significant involvement and control of Venezuelan affairs by the U.S. Government or the replacement of Maduro by Acting President Delcy Rodriguez. The Trump administration’s increased support of the same officials who contributed to the Venezuelan government’s lengthy and well-documented record of human rights abuses and violations is alarming, and we urge the State Department to re-commit to its long-standing practice of calling attention to human rights violations committed by the Venezuelan regime and exerting pressure on regime officials to end these abuses.

The State Department has monitored and documented the Venezuelan government’s long history of committing human rights abuses and violations since its 1999 Country Report on Human Rights Practices during Hugo Chavez’s presidency. In its 2024 Country Report, the most recent official report available, the State Department continued to find abuses, including credible reports of arbitrary or unlawful killings; disappearances; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment; arbitrary arrest or detention; and restrictions on freedom of expression and the press. Likewise, Amnesty International and other international human rights organizations have detailed government attacks on fundamental human rights, finding that, for example, “[h]undreds of people suffered arbitrary detention or enforced disappearance, as well as torture and other human rights violations, for opposing or criticizing the government” last year.

Many of the abuses perpetrated by Maduro and his agents, including repression of political opponents and targeting of civil society activists and independent journalists, have persisted despite Maduro’s capture in Operation Absolute Resolve, Rodríguez’s recognition as the “sole Head of State” by the Trump Administration, and the United States’ outsized role in the country’s day-to-day operations. For example, the Venezuelan government continues to use its security apparatus, including the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM) and the infamous Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN), to carry out arbitrary arrests and disappearances while concealing detainees’ whereabouts from their families and legal representatives. Despite Rodriguez’s promotion of a so-called “amnesty law” at the beginning of the year, human rights organizations report that over three hundred political prisoners still remain detained without access to relief or a fair trial, including several political opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights defenders facing politically motivated prosecutions. Restrictions on the freedoms of peaceful assembly, association, and expression remain significant as well, and independent journalists and media outlets continue to face censorship, restriction, intimidation, and blocking by the Rodríguez government; at least 405 media outlets have closed in the past 20 years, and more than 60 news sites continued to be blocked as of February this year

Importantly, several of the Venezuelan regime’s current officials were implicated in human rights violations and abuses committed under the Maduro regime. Rodríguez, then Maduro’s Executive Vice President, was sanctioned in 2018 under an Executive Order designed to address Venezuela’s “erosion of human rights guarantees, persecution of political opponents, curtailment of press freedoms, use of violence and human rights violations and abuses.” Now recognized as Venezuela’s head of state, the Trump administration has removed Rodriguez’s sanctions without explanation. The White House also pressed this month for her removal as a defendant in a lawsuit against several Venezuelan officials for the detention and alleged torture of three Americans released in a 2023 prisoner swap. Additionally, in 2015 the U.S. government sanctioned Gustavo Enrique González López, the former the head of SEBIN, for his role in “significant acts of violence or conduct that constitutes a serious abuse or violation of human rights.” Today, González López is Venezuela’s Defense Minister.

Furthermore, Venezuelans repeatedly saw their political rights eroded under Maduro, including after he claimed victory in the illegitimate 2018 presidential election. The Trump administration called the election “neither free nor fair,” and as a United States Senator, you emphasized the importance of Venezuelans’ political rights when asserting that Maduro “was not elected under [Venezuela’s] constitution.” Similarly, the Maduro regime brazenly ignored the well-documented opposition victory in the July 2024 Venezuelan election. Unfortunately, the United States has stood by Rodríguez after her regime ignored its constitutional requirement to hold a presidential election within thirty days of the expiration of her 90-day temporary role as acting president in early April. Administration officials have also reportedly assisted the regime’s efforts to obstruct opposition leader María Corina Machado’s return to Venezuela, despite previously recognizing her party’s 2024 electoral victory. The United States’ continued support for Rodríguez despite her extra-constitutional hold on power is an implicit endorsement of her regime’s violation of Venezuelans’ political rights

The next expected human rights report on Venezuela, which was due to Congress on February 25, 2026, will be limited to violations and abuses committed in 2025. In order to provide Congress with a clearer picture of U.S. efforts to disassociate from these abuses and hold perpetrators accountable since the recognition of Rodriguez as the head of state in January 2026, please provide detailed responses to the following questions no later than August 21, 2026:

What is the State Department’s assessment of alleged violations and abuses of internationally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms by the Venezuelan government since Acting President Rodríguez was sworn in?

What is the State Department’s assessment of changes, if any, to the human rights situation in Venezuela since January 3, 2026?

Since January 3, 2026, has the State Department reviewed credible information of Venezuelan security forces or officials committing gross violations of human rights for the potential application of Leahy Law or Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act sanctions?

What is the State Department’s assessment of the likelihood that United States security or economic assistance provided to Venezuela has been used in support of activities related to facilitating civil repression and arbitrary detentions since January 3, 2026?

What actions did the United States government take between January 1, 2025, and January 2, 2026, and has it taken since January 3, 2026, to:

promote respect for and observance of human rights by the Venezuelan government?

penalize individuals who are or were previously suspected of violating or abusing human rights in Venezuela?

disassociate the United States, as well as any assistance provided to Venezuela, from human rights abuses and violations?

It is critical that the State Department ensure no United States foreign assistance funding, including security or economic assistance, contributes to the human rights violations routinely committed by the Venezuelan regime and its long-entrenched officials. It is also crucial the Department continues to report on and work to prevent human rights violations and abuses committed in Venezuela, even as the U.S. government strengthens its ties to the Rodriquez government.

Congress will continue to conduct rigorous oversight of the Administration’s efforts to support the Rodriguez regime. Should the State Department refuse to address the Venezuelan government’s human rights violations by the time the immediate earthquake recovery efforts conclude, we will consider using all available tools to require such a report, including Section 502B of the Foreign Assistance Act.

We look forward to your timely response to these urgent concerns.

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NEWS: Sen. Schiff Introduces Bill Providing Right to Legal Representation for Individuals Facing Deportation, Legal Immigration Proceedings

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced the Fairness to Freedom Act of 2026, legislation to guarantee the right to legal representation for all individuals facing deportation or any legal immigration proceeding if they are unable to afford it.

“President Trump’s cruel immigration agenda has caused unimaginable, long-lasting harm in our communities, leading to unlawful deportations that have torn thousands of families apart. Having access to legal counsel during immigration proceedings is essential to fair outcomes, yet beyond the reach of many. Our nation has been shaped for the better by the extraordinary contributions of immigrants, and I’m leading this bill to ensure that families have a fighting chance to present their cases and achieve fair results in the courts,” said Senator Schiff.

The risks for noncitizens and their families have never been higher as the Trump administration has made it nearly impossible for individuals to receive a fair and just process when encountering immigration officials and proceedings. Currently, individuals facing deportation, bond hearings, or expedited removal do not have the right to legal representation the same way they would in the criminal legal system. Yet the risk of being deported back to a country where individuals may face life-threatening danger remains very real for many individuals and families. Millions of children, families, and adults are currently facing deportation in immigration courts all over the country as this administration chips away at their due process rights to a fair hearing through fast-tracked processes that prioritize detention and deportation over justice, fairness, and protection. The need for legal representation and the safeguarding of due process rights is more urgent than ever.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, this legislation is led by Congresswoman Norma Torres (D-Calif-35), alongside Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Calif-6), Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash-07), and Congressman Robert Garcia (D-Calif-47).

In the Senate, this legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

“For years, I have proudly led the Fairness to Freedom Act in the House because I believe due process should never depend on a person’s ability to afford an attorney. Today, as the Trump Administration escalates attacks on immigrant communities and undermines fundamental legal protections, that mission has never been more urgent,” said Congresswoman Norma Torres. ” I’m grateful to Senator Schiff for introducing this critical legislation in the Senate. Together, we are making it clear that no one should face detention or deportation alone simply because they cannot afford legal representation. Justice should not be reserved for those who can pay for it.”

The Fairness to Freedom Act would specifically:

Require the government to establish the right to legal counsel representation during immigration proceedings for people unable to afford it, including for those facing deportation, during bond hearings and state court proceedings, and in matters before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services such as for special immigrant juvenile status, U-Visas, or temporary protected status applications,

Ensure early, continuous, high-quality, and full-scope representation,

Amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and establish the Office of Immigration Representation,

Ensure coordination with existing state and locally funded removal defense programs to provide universal representation, and

Guarantee representation for people facing expedited removal at the border.

According to recent research, legal representation in immigration court proceedings is at the lowest level since 2010, with only about 34% of people in completed immigration court cases having a counsel so far in fiscal year 2026. Additionally, individuals facing deportation in court without an attorney were ordered removed in 78% of all completed cases from fiscal year 2016 through 2025, compared to just 27% of people with an attorney. According to data as of June 2026, in over half of the more than 3.1 million removal cases in immigration court—that’s at least 1.6 million cases—people are unrepresented, including more than half of people who are in immigration detention and in removal proceedings. Research shows that being represented by an attorney through a legal representation program led to individuals in immigration detention being 4.7 times more likely to be granted relief than those who did not have attorneys.

“Immigrants are being pushed through complex legal proceedings without legal representation, forced to navigate a confusing system alone as they fight for their freedom, their futures, and, for many, the chance to keep their families together,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation helps ensure that no one has to face that system alone by providing the legal support they need to receive a fair hearing.”

“No one should be deprived of the fundamental right to due process, basic fairness, and human dignity in our immigration system. It’s time to make commonsense reforms,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Fairness to Freedom Act would ensure every person subject to immigration proceedings is guaranteed legal representation, leading to a more equitable and transparent system that gives immigrants a fair chance.”

“Everyone deserves access to legal representation during the immigration process, and no one should be denied legal counsel because of their inability to pay,” said Senator Padilla. “As the Trump Administration continues its assault on due process and targets vulnerable communities, we must ensure immigrant communities understand their rights and have access to strong legal counsel. Our bill would help ensure that no one is forced to navigate our complex immigration system alone, protecting the dignity and fundamental fairness at the heart of our justice system.”

This legislation is endorsed by:The Vera Institute of Justice and the National Partnership of New Americans.

“The Fairness to Freedom Act is an urgently needed piece of legislation to establish a right to federally funded legal representation for anyone facing deportation. This is about due process, keeping families together, and ensuring people have their fair day in court at a time when the Trump administration has trampled those rights and values. No one should be denied the opportunity to defend their freedom simply because they cannot afford an attorney. We proudly champion this bill and call on Congress to follow the lead of Senator Adam Schiff and Representative Norma Torres to pass the Fairness to Freedom Act,” said ShaynaKessler, director of the Advancing Universal Representation initiative at the Vera Institute of Justice and co-leader of the Fairness to Freedom campaign.

“Our families and communities are under attack by the federal government, and it’s time we give people facing deportation the most effective support they need: a lawyer by their side. Since day one of his second term, President Trump has widened the dragnet of who is at risk, greased the wheels of the deportation pipeline, and deepened the due process crisis in our immigration courts. In a system that grows more punitive by the day, access to a lawyer is one of the strongest shields against wrongful detention, family separation, and deportation. As the Fairness to Freedom campaign, we are proud to stand with Senator Adam Schiff and Representative Norma Torres to champion the bicameral Fairness to Freedom Act—a bill which will establish the right to universal representation for people facing deportation. We urge every Member of Congress who believes in due process, accountability, and dignity to join us,” said Nicole Melaku, executive director of the National Partnership for New Americans and co-leader of the Fairness to Freedom campaign.

“After years of studying the immigration courts, one thing is absolutely clear in the data: access to legal representation is easily one of the most important factors in whether immigrants facing deportation get a fair hearing. Representation rates are at their lowest point since 2010. Even many children are forced to sit in court alone without an attorney. The Fairness to Freedom Act would ensure that the immigration courts can function efficiently and uphold the rule of law without compromising due process for vulnerable non-citizens going through the process. This is the most evidence based piece of legislation I’ve seen in a long time,” said Dr. Austin Kocher, President of Relevant Research.

The full text of the legislation is available here.

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NEWS: Sen. Schiff’s Bill to Rename Glendale Post Office Honoring Former U.S. Navy Secretary Advances from Senate Committee

Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs advanced U.S. Senator Adam Schiff‘s (D-Calif.) legislation to rename a U.S. Postal Service facility in Glendale, CA after former U.S. Navy Secretary Paul Ignatius to honor his legacy of military service.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed companion legislation introduced by Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30) at the end of June.

Ignatius was the highest-ranking Armenian American in the U.S. government when serving as the 59th U.S. Secretary of the Navy under President Lyndon B. Johnson.

“Former U.S. Navy Secretary Paul Ignatius dedicated a lifetime of service to our country and embodied the American dream as a son of Armenian immigrants who went on to serve at the highest levels of our government. As a young man, he also spent time working in a post office in Glendale, California. I am honored to announce that the legislation I introduced with Representative Friedman to rename a Glendale post office to honor his remarkable career and legacy has advanced out of committee. I look forward to this officially passing the Senate soon,” said Senator Schiff.

Background: The bill would designate the post office at 6444 San Fernando Road as the “Paul Ignatius Post Office.” His family was one of the earliest Armenian families to settle in Glendale in 1911 – the city with the second largest Armenian population in the U.S. only behind Los Angeles. Senator Schiff represented Glendale for over 20 years in the House.

Ignatius worked at the Glendale Post Office as a temporary clerk when he was a college student, and the post office is located on the same street that his grandfather built their house nearly a century ago. Paul Ignatius served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He went on to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Army and Under Secretary of Defense for the late John F. Kennedy, before being promoted to Secretary of the Navy under President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Senator Schiff first introduced this bill in 2022 in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The full text of the legislation is available here.

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NEWS: Senate Committee Advances Bipartisan Schiff, Padilla Bill to Support Tribal Land Management

Washington, D.C. — The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs advanced U.S. Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla’s (both D-Calif.) bicameral and bipartisan bill to promote Tribal management of over 500 acres of land in California by transferring federal land to the Pit River Tribe. The Senators introduced the legislation last year to protect Tribal communities and local environment in surrounding regions. The late Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.-01) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“I am proud to see our legislation to help the Pit River Tribe restore their ancestral homelands and promote Tribal sovereignty advance out of committee,” said Senator Schiff. “This bill will help the Pit River Tribe manage the Four Corners site as their ancestors did.”

“For generations, senseless conflict and bureaucratic barriers have kept California Tribes from managing their ancestral lands,” said Senator Padilla. “The Pit River Land Transfer Act would ensure the Pit River Tribe rightly acquires their sacred ancestral lands to maintain their traditions and history. This is a critical step in protecting the Pit River Tribe’s community and surrounding ecosystems while honoring the Tribe’s claim to the land.”

“When Senator Padilla introduced the Pit River Land Transfer Act, we spoke of restoring a sacred connection that has endured despite great hardship and dispossession. Today, thanks to Senator Padilla’s leadership, the bill has passed committee and we are one step closer,” said Yatch Bamford, Chairman of the Pit River Nation. “This is more than a transfer of acreage — it is the return of a place where our ancestors are buried, where our ceremonies were born, and where our children’s children will carry our language and traditions forward. On behalf of the Pit River Tribe, I thank Senator Padilla for his continued leadership and unwavering commitment to our people. I urge the Senate to pass our bill without delay so that this long-overdue act of justice can finally be realized.”

The Tribe has been actively trying to acquire this land through various governmental processes for over a decade. However, they have experienced a series of delays that have added years to the process. The Pit River Land Transfer Act would transfer 557 acres of federal land administered by the U.S. Forest Service to the Secretary of the Interior to be held in trust for the Pit River Tribe.

The Pit River Tribe consist of 11 autonomous bands traditionally inhabiting the area surrounding the Pit River and its tributaries. They are known for their deep spiritual connection to the land, with a rich cultural heritage centered around fishing, hunting, and seasonal gatherings.

The proposed land to be transferred is known as the Four Corners Property, located in Shasta County. The Tribe has strong cultural and historical connections to the Four Corners, and they view it as a central landmark of their ancestral lands. In October 1970, members of the Tribe erected a Quonset hut on the Four Corners, staking a peaceful, yet firm claim. That month, more than 100 sheriff’s deputies, federal marshals, and forest rangers ordered the occupants to evacuate the property, which eventually resulted in violence and the hospitalization of several Tribal members.

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NEWS: Sens. Schiff, Ernst Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Support for Building Permitting Process Following Natural Disasters

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act, bipartisan legislation to expand the support local governments can receive from the federal government to help with the rebuilding process following natural disasters.

Specifically, the bill would extend the timeline in which local governments can receive support from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) including providing base and overtime wages for additional staff to help with building code enforcement and processing building permits to two years following a natural disaster, which are a critical step to help communities rebuild. The bill also provides recipients the flexibility to decide when the two-year period starts rather than starting the day a disaster declaration is made.

“After disaster strikes, communities should be able to access support from the federal government without delay or bureaucratic red tape. But our current laws are not working as they should. I’m proud to partner with Senator Ernst on this bipartisan bill to change the law and expand the help localities can receive to process rebuilding projects more quickly following disasters,” said Senator Schiff.

“I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects natural disasters can have on our communities in Iowa. What folks who aren’t immediately impacted often forget is that after the initial shock of a devastating storm or flood fades, the road to rebuilding entire homes and towns is a long one. I’m proud to work on a bipartisan solution to proactively reduce these impacts and help communities overcome the red tape to recover from disasters,” said Senator Ernst.

Under current law, FEMA can provide local governments with base and overtime wages support for additional staff to help with building code enforcement including permit processing for 180 days following a major disaster declaration.

However, because at 180 days most fire-impacted communities are still clearing debris, many local governments are unable to access this benefit under current law. The U.S. Army Corps completed the fastest debris removal process in history after the Eaton and Palisades fires, but the process still took 10 months to complete—substantially longer than 180 days, demonstrating the need for a change in federal policy.

Local permitting departments often already face significant backlogs, and permitting and staffing needs can increase more than 100 percent post-disaster with those heightened resource requirements continuing for as long as five years after the event. This bill would extend the timeline within which communities can receive this support from FEMA and create additional flexibility so local governments can access this benefit when it is most needed.

To address this, the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act would:

Extend this support for local governments to access to two years following a natural disaster, instead of the original 180 days.

Provide recipients the flexibility to decide when the two-year period starts rather than starting the day a disaster declaration is made.

The bill is endorsed by: the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Emergency Management Association (NEMA), International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), National Association of Counties (NaCo), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), International Code Council (ICC), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA), California Fire Chiefs, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), BuildStrong America, Mortgage Bankers Association, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), and National Association of Realtors (NAR).

“There are decades of data that demonstrate that up-to-date building and fire codes significantly reduce fatalities, injuries, and property loss. Facilitating their proper implementation through FEMA reimbursement is a cost-effective strategy that mitigates future disaster risk. NFPA thanks Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) for their work to ensure continued FEMA assistance to allow critical work to continue after disasters occur,” said Jim Pauley, the President and CEO of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Counties are on the front lines of disaster recovery, working quickly to rebuild critical infrastructure and ensure our communities return stronger and more resilient. The Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act provides much-needed flexibility by allowing counties to fully utilize skilled workers and resources over a longer timeframe, helping us implement modern building codes and accelerate recovery efforts. This commonsense change will reduce administrative barriers and ensure federal support better aligns with the realities on the ground. Counties thank Senators Schiff and Ernst for their leadership in advancing policies that strengthen county resilience and support local governments in times of need,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase.

“On behalf of the International Code Council’s 60,000 + members, I applaud Senators Ernst and Schiff for introducing the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act. Building safety professionals play a key role in helping our nation recover from disasters and are committed to being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. ICC members recognize that code adoption, enforcement, and building permit issuance must be expedited to ensure communities can recover swiftly and safely after disasters. The Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act bill will ensure that permitting officials have the resources and flexibility to provide these essential services to our neighbors and friends in their time of need,” said Mike Boso, President, Board of Directors, International Code Council.

“Sound, modern building codes save lives, but only if communities have the qualified staff to enforce them. By extending the existing FEMA assistance eligibility window to two years, this bill gives disaster-impacted areas a real shot at rebuilding stronger, more resilient infrastructure — that will withstand the next disaster, not just the last one,” said BuildStrong America Executive Director Natalie Enclade.

“The National Association of Home Builders commends Sens. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) for introducing the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act, bipartisan legislation that will help communities rebuild more quickly after disasters. The bill allows FEMA to cover the cost of additional staff for a longer period of time. For builders, that means fewer delays caused by understaffed local departments, more efficient permitting and inspections, and a faster path to getting housing projects back underway during recovery,” said Bill Owens, Chairman, National Association of Home Builders.

“The rebuilding of communities in the wake of natural disasters is essential to restoring stability and peace of mind for affected families. In far too many circumstances, the road to recovery is too long and layered in bureaucracy. We thank Senators Adam Schiff and Joni Ernst for introducing the Reducing Red Tape for Rebuilding Act, an important bill that aims to address the permitting backlog for communities working to recover from natural disasters,” said Bill Killmer, Senior Vice President, Legislative and Political Affairs, Mortgage Bankers Association.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

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NEWS: Sens. Schiff, Scott Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address U.S. Dependency on China for Pharmaceutical Products

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Rick Scott (F-Fla.), Chair of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, introduced new bipartisan legislation, the American Pharmaceutical Security Act, to direct the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to produce a report to Congress with recommendations on how the agency could use its coverage and reimbursement authorities to reduce U.S. dependency on China and other foreign manufacturers for pharmaceuticals.

“The United States’ overreliance on China for the ingredients in many pharmaceuticals is a dangerous national security threat. The federal government must use all of the tools at our disposal to address this vulnerability to the health and welfare of the American people. This bipartisan legislation will help us strengthen our supply chains, so the lives of our citizens are not dependent on the good graces of nations that don’t have our best interests at heart,” said Senator Schiff.

“Communist China has chosen to be our enemy and will do everything in their power to destroy our way of life. They are sending fentanyl to kill our kids and have too much influence over our pharmaceutical supply chain. Meanwhile, Americans are in the dark about what’s actually in Chinese-manufactured generic drugs. That’s why I’m glad to help lead this bipartisan legislation with Sen. Schiff. We should be onshoring production of these medications to protect Americans, create jobs here, and keep Xi and his CCP thugs from leveraging the drug supply our seniors and military rely on,” said Senator Scott.

China currently controls massive swaths of the pharmaceutical supply chain that the United States depends on for the manufacturing of pharmaceutical drugs, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and key starting materials (KSMs). Experts estimate that nearly 700 essential medications approved for use in the U.S. depend on at least one API produced solely in China. The U.S. also relies heavily on Chinese KSMs for access to antibiotics, seizure medications, cancer drugs, and HIV treatment. For example, of the U.S. market, China controls the raw or key starting materials for 94 percent of the antibiotic, amoxicillin.

As a foreign adversary, China’s control over the generic medication market is a serious and mounting threat to U.S. national security. Congress must secure our pharmaceutical supply chain and eliminate the risk that adversaries could use to exploit and weaponize their control over generic medications.

To address this vulnerability, the American Pharmaceutical Security Act, would specifically:

Direct CMS to provide a report to Congress with recommendations on how the agency could use its coverage and reimbursement authorities to reduce U.S. dependency on foreign manufacturers for active pharmaceutical supplies and key starting materials.

As the largest payor of generics medications in the United States, these recommendations will inform how the federal government can use its purchasing power such as incentivizing companies through payment policiesto increase manufacturing in the U.S. to help secure the U.S. supply chain.

The full text of the legislation is available here.

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STATEMENT: Sen. Schiff Statement on Senate 2026 Farm Bill

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, released the following statement on the Farm Bill:

“I appreciate the collaboration of Chairman Boozman, Ranking Member Klobuchar, and stakeholders on this legislation. This Farm Bill includes important provisions I’ve fought for to address challenges farmers are facing. But the bill still falls short of what is needed by farmers, farmworkers, and families in California and around the nation.

”First, the positive: From increased support for specialty crop farmers, including a new emergency assistance framework and an advisory committee to inform specialty crop insurance development, to investments for automation research and policies to expand market opportunities, to a greater investment in addressing pests and disease; this bill has much that I am proud of. It also includes legislation I’ve pushed for to improve health protections for Forest Service firefighters. And it contains reauthorizations and modifications to many initiatives important to California, such as organic, rural development, and trade programs. And it maintains California’s Proposition 12 in its entirety, keeping intact critical public health, food safety, and animal welfare standards.

“Second, what is missing: Unfortunately, the Farm Bill we considered today did not address the deep cuts made to food for hungry families in the SNAP program, by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year, and the harm it is doing in California and across our nation.Millions of families are hungrier, and this Farm Bill does not change that. It not only fails to address a growing hunger crisis, it also proposes to put a heavier burden on states like California, which will only result in more families suffering, along with the farmers who would otherwise provide that food. The bill does not address the lack of disaster assistance for states like California that are hit with fire and flooding, in the same way it provides help for farmers hurt by hurricanes in other states. Furthermore, this Farm Bill cuts nearly $2 billion in funding for widely popular conservation programs and lacks robust investments for farmers and rural America such as more ad hoc assistance for specialty crop farmers and mandatory funding for local food programs.

“California’s farmers, farmworkers and families deserve a Farm Bill that restores and strengthens SNAP, and that provides more meaningful resources to help growers succeed. In the absence of this, I could not vote in support of the bill as written. I will continue to work with both sides of the aisle for a better and stronger Farm Bill in the hope that we might get the job done next month.”

Background: Senator Schiff is the first Senator from California to serve on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry in over 30 years. The Farm Bill considered today included provisions of bills that Senator Schiff introduced and advocated for, including:

The Increasing Insurance Access for Specialty Crops Act to establish a first-time ever Specialty Crop Advisory Committee for Crop Insurance at USDA. This Committee would improve existing policies available to specialty crops, conduct outreach, and facilitate the development of new insurance policies for specialty crops. The majority of U.S. specialty crop growers operate without crop insurance or any other form of a federal safety net. Specialty crop farmers deserve an affordable and effective safety net. The bill text can be viewed here.

The Advancing Automation Research and Development in Agriculture Act to allocate $30 million per year from USDA research funding for the research and development of specialty crop mechanization and automation. Agricultural labor is an ongoing challenge for farmers, and this bill would improve their ability to grow, harvest, and handle what they grow while upskilling farmworkers in their ability to use such technology. The bill text can be viewed here.

The Ensuring Disaster Recovery and Resilience for Specialty Crops Act to establish an emergency assistance framework tailored to specialty crops. USDA and Congress have repeatedly had to provide disaster relief to growers on an ad hoc basis. A framework would allow growers to receive relief on a timely and reliable basis. Farmers and ranchers across the country have long had access toa plethora of disaster programs; specialty crop farmers deserve a dedicated program that works well for them, as well. This bill is co-led by Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) The bill text can be viewed here.

The Expanding Market Access Act to enhance American producers’ access to foreign markets to help meet international demand for California and U.S. products. Specifically, the bill would provide technical assistance for infrastructure in foreign markets for U.S. commodities, mandate a report on the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops, and increase funding for the Market Access Program, which funds overseas marketing and promotional activities of U.S. agricultural products. California farmers feed not just the state and the nation, but the world. We must invest in resources to ensure they can keep doing so. The bill text can be viewed here.

The Fresh Produce for Families Act to increase food banks’ access to fresh produce. This bill seeks to provide nutritious food for American families and support specialty crop farmers. The bill text can be viewed here.

The Opening Programs to Organic Farms Act to direct USDA to conduct a report on barriers to participation in USDA programs faced by certified organic farms and farms that may be interested in transitioning to organic production. The bill text can be viewed here.

The Healthy Lungs for Heroes Act to create the first-ever respiratory protection standards for wildland firefighters. The bill text can be viewed here.

In May, Schiff outlined his priorities for the Farm Bill and to push for a Bill that reflects economic opportunity, health, sustainability, national security, and prosperity. He also published an op-ed with the Bakersfield Californian calling for a Farm Bill that serves California’s farmers.

During the first year and a half of the Senator’s term on the Senate Agriculture Committee, he has visited farms across the entirety of California, learning about the Golden State’s countless agricultural industries, including strawberries, almonds, broccoli, celery, and leafy greens.

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Schmitt Leads Effort to Repeal California’s Vehicle Emission Standards Limiting Consumer Choice, Raising Costs for American Families

Joins Colleagues in Introducing Additional CRAs to Overturn California’s Burdensome Regulations

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to repeal the Environmental Protection Agency’s(EPA) 2009 waiver allowing California to establish its own motor vehicle emissions standards. Senator Schmitt also joined Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Jon Husted (R-OH) in introducing three additional CRA resolutions overturning separate EPA waivers that have allowed the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to impose its climate alarmist regulatory agenda beyond California’s borders. These CRA resolutions would bar EPA from granting substantially similar waivers to California, or any other state, preventing future administrations from re-instating these burdensome regulations.

Together, the four resolutions target California’s Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) mandate, the Advanced Clean Cars I (ACC I) program, the 2022 reinstatement of the ACC I waiver, and the 2009 EPA waiver that first allowed California to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.

“California’s burdensome emissions requirements continue to punish American manufacturers, reduce consumer choice, and raise prices for American families. One state should not have the power to set national policy and dictate what products Americans use far beyond its borders. Overturning these climate alarmist rules will not only restore common sense, but also prevent a future administration from attempting to grant similar waivers. I’m proud to lead the Congressional Review Act resolution to repeal the EPA-California State Motor Vehicle Control Standards Waiver and join Senators Ricketts, Husted, and Lummis in our effort to help make life more affordable for American families,” said Senator Schmitt.

“California’s climate zealots have run roughshod over the rest of the country for too long,” said Senator Lummis. “Under Governor Newsom, Sacramento has decided it can dictate what Wyoming families drive and what equipment our small businesses use. That ends today. I’m proud to lead this fight to reclaim Congress’s authority and stop California from legislating for the entire nation.”

“Ohioans shouldn’t be forced to follow California’s lead when it comes to policies that make everyday life more expensive and less convenient,” said Senator Husted.“These resolutions are part of our work to make life more affordable for working families, restore common sense, cut unnecessary red tape and put consumers back in control. I’m proud to support this effort to lower costs and protect consumer choice.”

“Biden’s overregulation and red tape regime cost Nebraskans millions of dollars,” said Senator Ricketts. “They used California policies as a backdoor EV mandate and even tried to control how we cut our grass. I am proud to lead the effort to overturn these restrictions and restore commonsense. I will continue to fight for policies that empower our families, farmers, and ranchers.”

The four Congressional Review Act resolutions would:

Repeal the EPA’s 2009 waiver allowing California to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.

Overturn California’s Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) waiver, preserving consumer access to gas-powered equipment such as chainsaws, lawn mowers, and power washers.

Repeal the Advanced Clean Cars I (ACC I) waiver for passenger vehicle emissions standards.

Reverse the Biden Administration’s 2022 reinstatement of California’s ACC I waiver.

Last year, Congress used the Congressional Review Act to overturn California’s Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks, and Omnibus NOx waivers. These resolutions build on that effort by restoring congressional authority over national emissions policy and preventing California from imposing its regulatory agenda on the rest of the country.

Senator Schmitt’s CRA resolution to overturn the California State Motor Vehicle Control Standards Waiver from 2009 was joined by his colleagues, Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Cythia Lummis (R-WY), Jon Husted (R-OH), Roger Marshall (R-KS), John Barrasso (R-WY), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Bernie Moreno (R-OH).

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Senate Passes Schmitt Resolution Recognizing the Missouri Tiger’s Claim as the 1960 College Football National Champions

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) took to the Senate floor to pass his Resolution recognizing the Missouri Tigers claim as the 1960 College Football National Champions. Missouri finished the season 11-0 after the result of its game against Kansas was reversed because Kansas used an ineligible player. The Tigers defeated Nebraska, Penn State, and Oklahoma before capping off their undefeated season with an Orange Bowl victory over Navy. Senator Schmitt honored the perseverance, integrity, and determination that defined Coach Dan Devine and his players throughout their historic season. The Senate unanimously passed Schmitt’s resolution.

Watch the Senator’s full speechHERE.

Excerpt of remarks as prepared for delivery:

“Mr. President, I rise today to honor one of the greatest teams ever to wear the Black and Gold: the 1960 Missouri Tigers. They finished 11-and-0. They conquered the Big Eight. They defeated the Navy Midshipmen, 21 to 14, in the Orange Bowl down in Florida. But their greatness cannot be measured by the record alone. Their story is about something deeper: perseverance after humiliation, accountability in the face of injustice, and the integrity of men who kept their word.

“But Devine looked at the younger men and made a promise. Two years from that day, Missouri would return to Norman. And Missouri would win. But a promise had been made by Coach Devine. So, for two years, the Tigers went to work.

“The Big Eight ordered Kansas to forfeit the victory and stripped the Jayhawks of the conference championship. Kansas could keep the memory of the final whistle. Missouri kept the title. Missouri finished 11-and-0. Reminding the conference and the American populace that cheaters never truly win.

“Mr. President, every generation needs examples of men who stick to their word. Dan Devine made a promise in the ashes of defeat. His players believed him. Then they spent two years earning the right to fulfill it.

“More than six decades later, the 1960 Tigers still embody the character of Missouri. We are a people who work. We are a people who endure. We are a people who keep our promises.

“Today, I am proud to honor Coach Dan Devine, Norris Stevenson, and every member of the undefeated 1960 Missouri Tigers. Their promise was kept. Their championship was earned. Their record remains perfect. And Kansas still lost.”

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Senator Schmitt Shares White House Endorsement of Bipartisan Protect College Sports Act

U.S. SENATE — Today, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) issued the following statement after the Trump Administration released its Statement of Administration Policy (SAP) in support of the Protect College Sports Act. The SAP follows weeks of intense negotiation in the Senate as Schmitt—alongside Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and the conferences—worked to produce comprehensive legislation to protect athletic opportunities for student-athletes and protect the uniquely American institution of collegiate sports.

“Since the very beginning, I have been working closely with the Trump Administration and my Senate colleagues to get the Protect College Sports Act past the finish line. President Trump understands that financial instability and a messy regulatory patchwork have jeopardized the future of college sports—putting opportunities for tens of thousands of athletes at risk. It’s time to stabilize college sports and ensure women, Olympic, and non-revenue athletes can still compete. For months, I have been working with my colleagues in the Senate and the Trump administration, as well as conference leaders, to save college sports. I am grateful the Trump Administration is supporting the Protect College Sports Act to strengthen this uniquely American institution. Let’s get this done,” said Senator Schmitt.

Senator Schmitt is an original co-sponsor of the Protect College Sports Act.

In June, Schmitt discussed Congress’ role in saving college sports and cheered the bill’s passage out of the Senate Commerce Committee.

Read more about Schmitt’s work to address the issues facing college sports HERE.

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Shaheen Applauds Advancement of Her Bipartisan Bill to Bring Missing Service Members Home

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, and Mike Crapo (R-ID) applauded the advancement of their bipartisan bill to strengthen efforts to bring home missing service members by a unanimous, bipartisan vote in the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The Bring Our Heroes Home Act would eliminate obstacles preventing families from accessing records needed to learn more about the fates of service members and civilian personnel who went missing.

“Military families often wait years, sometimes even decades, to access information about their lost loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m pleased the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee unanimously cleared our legislation to ensure the records of service members are properly collected and shared so that our lost soldiers’ loved ones can get the closure they need to heal.”

“We have a duty to our missing servicemembers and their families to make every effort to bring them home,” said Senator Crapo. “Government bureaucracy cannot stand in the way of fulfilling this promise or providing closure to families who, in some cases, have waited decades for answers about their loved ones. The Committee’s action today is an important step forward, and I will continue working to get this bill signed into law.”

According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, more than 81,500 Americans remain unaccounted for from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars and other conflicts. Shaheen secured a provision based on the Bring Our Heroes Home Act in the Committee-approved Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to eliminate obstacles preventing families and caseworkers from accessing the records needed for recovering America’s POWs and MIA.

Throughout her time in Congress, Shaheen has worked diligently on behalf of Granite State families to return the remains of their loved ones lost in war. In 2016, Shaheen successfully added an amendment to North Korea Sanctions legislation, which was signed into law, to protect efforts to recover the remains of American service members in North Korea. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 government funding legislation that was signed into law, Shaheen supported efforts to increase funding of an additional $30 million for the Defense Personnel Accounting Agency (DPAA), which is the agency responsible for identifying remains of POWs and MIAs from conflicts around the world.

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Shaheen, Cassidy Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Establish Support for Disabled Entrepreneurs

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) are introducing bipartisan legislation that would help reduce barriers and increase support for disabled entrepreneurs starting and expanding their small businesses. The bipartisan Supporting Disabled Entrepreneurs Act would direct the Small Business Administration (SBA) to establish a designated Coordinator for Disabled Small Business Concerns and to collect data, on a voluntary basis, on the disability status of small business owners participating in SBA programs.

“Disabled entrepreneurs face a unique set of obstacles to building and growing their businesses, so it’s critical that these individuals have specialized avenues for support and equal access to resources at the Small Business Administration,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our legislation would do just that, ensuring disabled small business owners can attain financial stability and unlock the kind of innovative, entrepreneurial opportunity that is vital to helping our local economies flourish.”

In the United States, one in four people live with disabilities, and according to a 2022 report by National Disability Institute, approximately 1.8 million individuals with disabilities are business owners. Entrepreneurship offers an alternative path to traditional employment for individuals with disabilities. To achieve economic prosperity and independence, Americans living with a disability turn to self-employment and small business development at a rate that is nearly twice that of people without disabilities. Several barriers persist for this community in starting and growing their own businesses, including a lack of targeted technical and programmatic assistance as well as outdated attitudinal norms.

To address these barriers, the Supporting Disabled Entrepreneurs Act directs the SBA to:

Establish a Coordinator for Disabled Small Business Concerns at the agency;

Collect voluntary demographic data from program applicants on disability status; and

Publish data on the participation of disabled entrepreneurs in SBA programs.

A copy of the bill text can be read HERE.

The Supporting Disabled Entrepreneurs Act is endorsed by the National Disability Institute (NDI), America's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, NH SBDC, 2Gether-International, American Association of People with Disabilities, Disability Rights Center – NH, Melwood, Alliance for Expanding America's Workforce, CEO Commission for Disability Employment, National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and Gallaudet University.

As a senior member and former chair of the U.S. Senate Small Business Committee, Shaheen champions the work to support New Hampshire’s small business community. In Congress, Shaheen leads efforts to mitigate the harmful impacts of President Trump’s tariffs, including with the introduction of the Speedy Tariff Refund Act to ensure full refunds of President Trump’s illegal tariffs that raised costs for American small business owners. Shaheen also directly called out Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for the harm the Administration has inflicted on New Hampshire’s small businesses. Shaheen has traveled across the Granite State to discuss the impact of tariffs on New Hampshire’s tourism industry and to visit businesses impacted by President Trump’s trade war.

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